Maldives vs. Bora Bora: Which destination should you visit?

September 2, 2024

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora in French Polynesia

When it comes to bucket list destinations, some of the first things that come to mind are fancy bungalows perched above idyllic waters. Two very comparable options are Bora Bora (part of French Polynesia) in the South Pacific, and the Maldives in the Indian Ocean. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to take the trip of a lifetime, many people find themselves tuck choosing between these two beautiful destinations. How can you decide which one is the better choice?

Within the last two years, I’ve been fortunate enough to visit both, and I’m here to help you decide. Now bear in mind that these are the types of destinations in which the experience relies very heavily on the resort you choose. Except for the occasional excursions you might take, you’ll rarely leave the resort. For Bora Bora, I stayed at the Four Seasons and in the Maldives, I stayed at the Conrad on Rangali Island.

Thanksgiving Buffet, Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

Maldives vs. Bora Bora: The Food

I would say the food at Conrad Maldives wins hands down. Every meal I had there was absolutely amazing and not only that, but there were so many restaurants with amazing settings. An underwater restaurant, a restaurant with panoramic views of the azure waters, a restaurant that offers spectacular sunset views…and so on. While the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora had great food as well, there wasn’t anything that stood out to me in particular, and the restaurant ambiance wasn’t nearly as impressive. But let’s talk pricing. While both were expensive, the Conrad Maldives was just crazy expensive. We skipped meals, hardly drank alcohol, and still managed to spend about $2,500 in food in just five days.

Maldives vs. Bora Bora: The Activities

The Conrad Maldives seemed to offer a lot more variety in terms of off-island excursions, including unique activities like whale shark snorkeling. The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, however, seemed to offer a lot more complimentary activities on-site, such as stand-up paddleboarding. Regarding the Conrad’s neat activities, buyer beware: Joe and I booked the whale shark snorkeling excursion for a whopping $200 per person with the false promise that we would definitely be seeing whale sharks. We did not. It wasn’t until after we returned (and wasted a lot of time and money) that we were told that the whale sharks haven’t even been spotted for a long time. Say what!? I wish someone told us this before we left and while we still had a chance to cancel. But they didn’t, which brings me to my next point…

Maldives vs. Bora Bora: The Properties

The actual properties themselves are stunning. It took me a while to come to this conclusion, but I finally decided that the Conrad Maldives beats out the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora. However, the people running the Conrad Maldives kind of put a damper on the experience. The service, for the most part, is not good. Restaurant service was extremely slow at most places. I felt that all they cared about was getting you to spend money (as if you’re not spending a lot already), and we were constantly getting bombarded with phone calls (and even approached in person often) with requests to make extremely expensive dinner and activity reservations, and when we’d say no thanks, they’d keep pushing. It was really annoying — not to mention that the whale shark experience left us feeling bamboozled. The staff at the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, however, was very nice and hospitable, without being overbearing.

Maldives vs. Bora Bora: The Rooms

We stayed at the least expensive overwater bungalows at both the Four Seasons in Bora Bora and the Conrad in Maldives. Without a doubt, the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora wins by a landslide. In fact, the room at the Conrad Maldives wasn’t that nice in general, and the only thing going for it was that it was an overwater bungalow. And the base rooms at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora are a lot cheaper, too. My advice if you’re going to stay the Conrad Maldives: Either spring for the fanciest overwater bungalows, or opt for the beach suites.

Maldives vs. Bora Bora: Freebies

Aside from non-motorized water sports, both resorts offered other free things that I thought were nice and worth mentioning. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora provides free shuttle by boat to the main island, which is great if you want to explore the local area a bit more. And the Conrad Maldives has a free happy hour each day, which includes complimentary alcohol and canapés, with a lovely view of the beach.

Maldives vs. Bora Bora: Surroundings and Natural Beauty

This was another tough one, and it’s kind of a tie. The water color at both is spectacular, but, it is definitely better at the Maldives–the most gorgeous water I’ve seen so far in my travels. However, the Maldives is missing something that French Polynesia isn’t–those amazing mountains. Because of this, I’d say that Bora Bora is much prettier.

Maldives vs. Bora Bora: Getting There

Getting to Bora Bora and the Maldives from the United States is a pain in the ass, but I felt that the Maldives was slightly more stressful. We flew direct from New York to Qatar, switched planes and then flew to Sri Lanka (approximately $1100 per person r/t). We then flew to the Maldives from Sri Lanka (approximately $200 per person r/t) and then had to take a 30-minute seaplane to the Maldives (a shocking $500 per person), which I hated. The plane was tiny, cramped, and on the way there, the flight wasn’t even direct! Nobody mentioned that, and for the price you’re paying and the mere 30-minute flight time, you’d think everyone on this teeny plane would be going to the same resort. Nope.

When it was time to leave the Conrad Maldives, we were instructed to wait at the resort’s “lounge” by the dock (a small, cramped area with no restrooms), about an hour before our departure time! Um, what? This isn’t a real airport we’re talking about here. There was no security. Our bags were already waiting for us. To be blunt, it’s pretty stupid that they make you do this. When you leave Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, you can just arrive at the dock a few minutes prior to departure.

Getting to Bora Bora involved a direct flight from New York to Los Angeles, and then from Los Angeles to Tahiti (approximately $2500 per person r/t), a separate flight to Bora Bora (direct and not on a seaplane, $400 per person r/t) and then a very short boat ride to the resort (approximately ($150 per person r/t). You can fly direct from LAX through a couple different airlines, including Air Tahiti and Air France.

The journey to French Polynesia was about double the cost than to the Maldives when I went, but everything in Bora Bora seemed to be a lot cheaper than the Maldives. Overall, the Maldives seems to be more suited for someone who is Oprah-rich, whereas Bora Bora is much more affordable.

Maldives vs. Bora Bora: The Winner

It’s a toss up, but Joe and I both agreed that Bora Bora definitely wins. I would love to return to Maldives one of these days, but if I did, I’ll be checking out a different property.

Essential Travel Planning Information

Flights: A few different airlines will fly to Tahiti. If you’re flying from (or connecting in) Paris or Los Angeles, you can fly directly to Tahiti through Air France. You can also compare routes from various airlines with one of my favorite booking tools, Cheapflights.com, which helps you to find the best and lowest airfare available for your travel dates.

Hotels: I personally to prefer to book my hotels directly through Expedia and you can book both the Conrad Maldives on Expedia and the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora on Expedia. I like to stick with one program so that I can rack up points for free and discounted travel. You can also compare prices from major booking engines (Expedia, Travelocity, etc.) by doing a search through HotelsCombined.com

If you’ve been to both Bora Bora and Maldives, which did you prefer and why? Where did you stay at both locations?

Visiting Tahiti and French Polynesia on a budget

September 1, 2024

If you’re looking for a beautiful place with a tropical setting, you have have thought about visiting Tahiti in French Polynesia. This location just may win hands down (currently it’s tied with Thailand as one of the prettiest places I’ve visited, ever) but it can also be one of the most expensive places to visit.

A lot of honeymooners settle on visiting Tahiti or Bora Bora in French Polynesia, and while it makes a fabulous pick, it can definitely put a financial strain on any newlywed couple’s budget. Now if money isn’t a problem for you, then visiting Tahiti and Bora Bora in the most luxurious way possible will ensure you’ll have an absolutely amazing time. But for those who cannot afford $20,000 or more for a vacation, here’s how you can drastically cut down and easily afford a wonderful French Polynesia trip as if it were any other international destination.

Visiting Tahiti and/or Moorea

Most people only think about Bora Bora when it comes to visiting French Polynesia, but Moorea is very comparable to Bora Bora, and it can give you a similar experience for a fraction of the cost. Tahiti also offers a fun experience as well.

I personally spent double the time in Moorea than I did in Bora Bora for this very reason. Now while I do believe Bora Bora wins as the better island, my husband and I both agreed that any travelers on a budget would still be pretty satisfied with visiting Moorea and skipping Bora Bora altogether.

First of all, the flight from Tahiti to Moorea is only about five minutes and is a fraction of the cost of the flight from Tahiti to Bora Bora. It doesn’t matter when you check and for what dates you check, but without fail, roundtrip airfare from Tahiti to Bora Bora is always in the mid 400’s. There is no other way to get to Bora Bora (nope, no boat) so this is your only option. So in the end, you’re talking over $800 more in airfare on top of the international airfare you spent to get to French Polynesia to begin with. Yikes.

On the other hand, that five minute flight to Moorea is only about $100. While still pricey for such a short distance, you’re still talking only a quarter of the cost that a plane ticket for Bora Bora runs for. Alternatively, you can take a boat to Moorea for even less. I went the airfare route because since I was going to Bora Bora, I bought an airpass. My itinerary included flying from Tahiti to Moorea, Moorea to Bora Bora, and Bora Bora back to Tahiti. With the airpass, I was practically getting my flight to Moorea for free. But if I was skipping Bora Bora, I would’ve definitely taken the boat.

Once you’re in Moorea, everything is cheaper. The resort rates, the food, the activities offered by hotels, and so on. I found all of these things to be about half the cost that it was to be in Bora Bora.

And when you’re visiting Tahiti, don’t be so quick to leave! This island is more than just flight connections and can provides its own unique experience.

Moorea, to me, also has one thing on Bora Bora: the snorkeling. By far, it wins here. The water near some of the resorts is much more shallow and there is so much coral reef. I never got bored of the snorkeling here because I kept seeing so many different things. It’s also pretty amazing to be able to do this right off your overwater bungalow.

Don’t Visit During the Peak Season

This one is also super important. Do you want to pay top dollar and be in an overly packed resort, fighting for activity availability or even struggling to get a chair by the pool every morning? No, you say? Skip peak season.

A lot of travelers are scared of French Polynesia and visiting Tahiti during the so-called “wet season” and will only visit during the dry season. Depending on where you look or who you ask, the wet season is either from November or December, and lasts until about April. Now, there are some places in the world that pretty much guarantee torrential downpours every day during their rainy season. French Polynesia, however, isn’t one of them. While I do suggest that you avoid visiting Tahiti and French Polynesia right in the heart of their off-season (say around January or February), you’ll probably be just fine booking a trip at the very end or the very beginning of the off-season.

I have read several trip reports from people saying how they visited in the dry season, yet they saw rain every single day like clockwork and then I also read reports from people that didn’t see a drop of rain during the wet season. Yet a lot of people also said that even when did it rain, a lot of the time, it didn’t last very long.

My advice is to check websites like Wunderground for the time that you plan on going, and check the weather’s history from the past few years (do this for any destination). This is what I did and it seemed fine to me, so I went ahead and booked during off-season, which saved me a ton of money.

My trip lasted from November 23rd through December 3rd. During that time, I only saw rain for about 10 minutes. It was a bit cloudy for an hour or so after that, and then the sun came back out for the remainder of the day. Other than that, we had nothing but blue skies and sunshine. Oh, and we practically had the resorts to ourselves. There were some areas that were completely empty at times! It was great.

Points and Miles

This can really apply to any trip pretty much, but I thought it was worth mentioning. Using points and miles (whether you accumulated them through other trips or by using a credit card with these benefits) can help you to get a trip like this for free, or close to it.

Consider the Length

A lot of people seem to think that going to such a far away destination only becomes “worth it” if they are spending, at a minimum, two weeks or even more. But you could save an extra $5,000 to $10,000 by cutting that duration in half when visiting Tahiti. That’s enough money for another trip! With the exception of when I was on my world trip a few years ago, my across-the-globe international destinations usually never exceed ten days (including travel time, so about eight or nine full days total). This is always enough. For French Polynesia, we spent eight full days (four in Moorea, three in Bora Bora, and one in Tahiti) and as absolutely amazing as it was, I was still completely satisfied with this amount of time and ready to go home by the end of it.

Food

While it’s nice to have a fancy meal here and there during your trip, especially if you’re celebrating something special, try to dine outside of the resort as much as possible and you will save A LOT of money. This is especially easy if you’re on Moorea or if you’re visiting Tahiti (in Bora Bora, all the resorts are located on motus, or little islands. To get to the main island, you need to take a boat).

Excursions and Activities

Do not book these through your hotel unless you want to pay a lot more. For example, I did an ATV tour in Moorea. I went with ATV Tours Moorea, but I found them myself on the Internet and made a booking with them directly. The resort I stayed at also offered ATV tours of the island for substantially more money. The funny thing is that the tour would have been exactly the same, and very likely would have used the same company. You are not any “safer” or more “protected” by booking through the resort. They just use the same outside vendors that you could’ve found on your own. (By the way, I highly, highly recommend doing this with cruises, also.)

What Not to Skimp On

If you’re going to French Polynesia or visiting Tahiti, stay in an overwater bungalow! It will usually cost more money than a normal room, but it is so worth it. It’s one of the main reasons to visit French Polynesia. If you just want a beautiful beach with crystal clear waters, there are a lot of amazing places around the world that you can visit for a lot of cheaper. With that being said…

Is French Polynesia Really What You Want?

If you haven’t traveled much (or at all) and you’re thinking about French Polynesia for your honeymoon or anniversary, ask yourself why. If you’ve settled on a tropical destination, you may have come to the conclusion that French Polynesia is the best choice, but it may not be the ideal choice for you and your partner. What do you two like to do? How much do you want to spend? Does the idea of spending all (or a great deal) of your time at the resort appeal to you, or do you want a trip that gives you a ton of places to see? Bear in mind that as beautiful as French Polynesia is, it’s not really a “beachy” destination. It is mostly coral, lagoons, and volcanic ash, so with the exception of the sandy white beach areas that your resort will have and the black sand beaches of Tahiti, there aren’t very many beaches in French Polynesia, at all.

If you still find that a French Polynesia trip is too expensive, even with the tips I’ve offered, and/or you want something a little…different and with more beaches, there are alternatives that are not only cheaper, but may be places that you and your partner would genuinely have a better time at.

Hawaii is one of these places. They don’t have overwater bungalows and the water isn’t nearly as beautiful, but no passport is needed and there are so many different beaches to visit and activities to do. The room costs, activities, and airfare? All cheaper. A lot cheaper. My personal favorite is Kauai, hands down. But you can’t really go wrong with Hawaii.

My other recommendation would be Thailand. The initial airfare is expensive, but once you get over there, everything is very cheap. And it has some of the most beautiful beaches you will ever visit!

Essential Travel Information

Flights to Tahiti: If you’re planning a budget trip to French Polynesia, you’ll fly to PPT Airport in Tahiti. From there, you’ll fly on a regional plane (or take a ferry) to nearby islands, such as Moorea. Use FlightHub or other similar airfare search engines to find the best price possible, as these tools will quickly compare the different options available for your travel dates/departure airport.

Hotel booking: In Moorea, we stayed at the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort And Spa. With an average nightly rate of around $400, it’s certainly a lot cheaper than Bora Bora lodging, and you get a very similar experience.

Cinque Terre vs. Amalfi Coast in Italy

August 25, 2024

There is arguably nothing better than summer in Italy, and more specifically, by one of the country’s fabulous coastal areas. Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast do share a lot of similarities, but there are a ton of differences, too. If you don’t have time to visit both (if you do, consider it), the following can help you make your selection.

Cinque Terre vs. Amalfi Coast: Food

A lot of travelers are surprised to learn that food throughout Italy is very different, and specific regions of the country will mean a very different culinary experience. So, what kind of food are you really looking to indulge in during your visit?

If you like seafood just as much as you like Italian food, visit the Amalfi Coast where the two deliciously come together and indulge in some of the best Italian seafood in the country. And although not technically in the Amalfi Coast, the nearby city of Naples—which is where you’ll likely end up at some point if you’re traveling to the Amalfi Coast—might arguably have some of the best pizza in Italy.

Cinque Terre is Italy’s pesto capital, and although you can get obviously get pesto pretty much anywhere, there’s something extra delicious about the pesto in Cinque Terre. From pasta to pizza to toasted flatbread, spread this yummy stuff on just about anything you can think of.

Cinque Terre vs. Amalfi Coast: Alcohol and Wine

If you’re a wine lover—more particularly, you like white wine, you’ll want to head to Cinque Terre for premium selections. Red wine isn’t produced much in Cinque Terre, so while you might still be able to find a delicious glass of Pinot Noir somewhere, you’ll be better off with the whites if you want to stick something that’s produced locally.

Looking for something a bit different? The Amalfi Coast—and more specifically, the town of Sorrento—is famous for its tangy and memorable limoncello. There are so many lemons and limoncello throughout the Amalfi Coast, that it’s impossible not to smell it everywhere you go. It’s pretty nice and refreshing—that is, unless you hate lemon, in which case you might want to stick to Cinque Terre.

Cinque Terre vs. Amalfi Coast: Things to Do

If you love to be active, Cinque Terre is where its at. Cinque Terre, which means five lands, links the five different villages by its famed hiking path. Travel from one town to another entirely on foot, or just set out for a mini-hike if you aren’t looking for anything too strenuous.

All in all, Cinque Terre is much smaller and low-key compared to Amalfi Coast. As such, there is no wonder that there is a lot less to do in Cinque Terre. But if you don’t care about having tons on your to-do list and like the idea of simplicity and small villages, Cinque Terre might be the perfect choice.

On the other hand, you might want more activities to choose from and perhaps you get bored easily. The Amalfi Coast has a lot more to do and see—from the picturesque Positano to the beautiful island of Capri. Getting around is easy, but not quite as simple as short train rides or hikes, like in Cinque Terre. You’ll need to drive or take a ferry/train if you plan on visiting other parts of the Amalfi Coast (and we highly recommend you do). But sightseers will certainly have their work cut out from them, from historic cathedrals to museums and castles.

Cinque Terre vs. Amalfi Coast: Beaches

If you’re traveling to a seaside town in Italy, especially during the warmer months, you’ll probably want to know more about the beaches. So, which has the better beaches—Cinque Terre or Amalfi Coast?

It’s really a matter of what you consider a great beach. If you’re looking for long stretches of powder white sand and warm water, you won’t find that in Italy. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find some lovely swimming spots to cool off on a sizzling hot day.

In Cinque Terre, you really won’t find many beaches, per se, but you’ll find lots of little swimming spots, places for cliff jumping, and areas where you can lay out on the rocks. The “proper” and best beaches are found in Monterosso.

Now if beaching is an absolute must for your trip, Amalfi Coast wins, hands down. From the beaches of Positano to the beaches of Nerano, there are tons to choose from—whether you want stretches of beach or tiny little coves. Be warned, though, that these beaches are rocky, so do bring your water shoes!

Essential Travel Information

Trains: Getting around Europe is easy and fun when you take the train. Whether you’re just traveling throughout Italy, or you’re traveling throughout Europe, Rail Europe is the way to go and the easiest way to plan your train travel.

Flights: Prefer to just fly from city to city, or need to book your flights to Europe? You’ll have plenty of options, depending on your departure city and destination. Major European air carriers, that also fly to and from the US, include Air France and Swiss International Airlines. Use an airline search engine like CheapOAir to compare different options.

Lodging: Want to stay in a five-star luxury resort, or perhaps just looking for a hostel? We love Expedia for its wide range of accommodations options, and we’re sure you’ll find what you need for your Italy trip. Feel free to reach out to us if you need help or suggestions!
We want to hear from you! If you’ve been to both: Do you prefer Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast? Why?

You’ll want to rent a car in these 5 destinations

August 14, 2024

Avoiding a rental car might be one of your top priorities, especially if you want a stress-free vacation and don’t want to have to worry about driving around. While tours, taxis, and public transportation might be your best, safest, and possibly most cost-efficient option for many destinations, there are also plenty of places where you’ll want to rent a car. Not only could it save you money and actually simplify your travel plans overall, but they’ll make for some pretty great road trip memories:

Hawaii

Being in Hawaii can certainly feel like you’re on an international vacation, and if you’re from the US, there are no new driving rules to learn or fears to get over (i.e. driving on the other side of the road). This offers the perfect opportunity to explore parts of the island you’re on that are off the beaten path: think secluded beaches, scenic hikes, secret waterfalls, and the list goes on. Don’t miss the opportunity to rent a car the next time you’re in Hawaii—preferably, a convertible.

Tuscany, Italy

The Tuscan Countryside is one of those places where getting there isn’t just half the fun—but the fun is in the journey itself. A road trip through the Tuscan Countryside is an absolute must, and what better way than to enjoy it than from the comfort of your own car? Crammed in a tour bus is no fun, and with a rental car, you can stop where you want and stay as long as you want—say, for a glass of wine or that afternoon picnic.

Alaska

Alaska is another one of those amazing destinations that is sure to awe as you travel from one city to another—seriously, you won’t want to snooze during this road trip. From glaciers to waterfalls to animal watching (it’s Alaska, you honestly never know when you could randomly spot an eagle/bear/wolf etc.), renting a car gives you the opportunity to see it all, whereas you might miss out on some amazing things by tour bussing it.

Puerto Rico

The island of Puerto Rico is a pretty big one, but small enough to see it all if you’ve got a few days. Renting a car makes it a whole lot easier, though, as other methods of transportation through the island would be a lot costlier. Not only is driving a cinch in Puerto Rico, but there is a ton of beautiful scenery along the way!

Iceland

In much of Iceland, taxis and public transportation are pretty much non-existent, making your trip around the country a difficult one—unless you rent a car or join a tour group. While a tour group may be the way to go (especially if you visit during the winter, when conditions can be hazardous) you might end up missing a lot of different sights on the road and throughout your journey. And as long as the weather is nice, which it is much of the year, driving in Iceland is pretty easy-peasy.

Essential Travel Information

Car rentals: You have a lot of choices when it comes to renting a car. Fox Rent A Car offers a large selection around the world. If you’re unable to find a car rental company in the destination you’re traveling to, contact us and we’ll be happy to help!

Flights: Even if you’ll be renting a car once you arrive, you’ll probably need a car to get there. There are several tools we like for airfare comparisons, such as CheapOAir, which compares several websites and airlines. (Tip: Use promo code WORLD to save even more.)

Hotels: Whether you’re looking for a base hotel or you need to book several hotels because you’ll be going on a long road trip that requires a lot of stops, use Otel.com to find what you need.

We’d love to know—what’s your favorite road trip memory? And just for fun, tell us about a place that you rented a car and you totally would NOT recommend for whatever reason. Hey, you can look back on it now and laugh, right? Maybe?

Top 5 Locations to Purchase a Winter Vacation Home

August 7, 2024

If you are interested in purchasing a winter home this year, then there are several astonishing destinations in the U.S to consider. You can enjoy and find your escape and enjoy these five destinations we have selected as top winter vacation spots.

Jackson Hole, WY

Jackson Real Estate Associates suggests that Wyoming is ideal for people looking to relocate as it is one of the friendliest U.S states. The state’s trust and overall asset protection is not the only bonus of Jackson Hole, but the beauty of its land makes this place even more special. The median home value as in Jackson Hole as of June 2021 is approximately $2.1 million. Additionally, the location provides magnificent views of the Tetons, making it worth the price.

Anna Maria Island, FL

Located just seven miles from the coast of Florida, this barrier island is known to be the perfect spot for escaping the hustle and bustle of busy, everyday life. The island depicts the vibe of “Old Florida” with its tallest palm trees and sand to rest our toes in. The average price of homes on Anna Maria Island ranges between $200,000 to $650,000, depending on your preference of size and location of the home. Construction ordinances don’t allow buildings to exceed a certain height, ensuring unobstructed views.

Phoenix, AZ

With plenty of sunshine year-round, the Phoenix area of Paradise Valley, Mesa, and Scottsdale is the perfect destination to buy a winter vacation home. There are various recreational activities and places to visit, and you can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities all winter.

The housing market of Phoenix was hit hard during the housing crisis, which made the housing prices lower than the average. However, the market has now fully recovered, and the average median home cost is approximately $455,000.

Beaufort, SC

If you prefer a temperate climate during the winter, Beaufort, located in South Carolina, is the perfect destination for buying a winter vacation home. In this area, outdoor recreation trips like inshore fishing are popular due to the mild winter weather. The median home cost of Beaufort has estimated to be $265,000, ideal for people looking to buy a winter vacation home and enjoy amazing beaches, canals, bike paths, and fishing.

Lake Tahoe, CA

With both ski areas and beach areas, Lake Tahoe is a 71 mile area that is well-known for its natural beauty. In the south end, winters are comparatively mild than the other eastern part of the U.S.

If you are searching for a perfect destination to enjoy the winter or for an investment property, there are many places in the U.S to buy a winter vacation home. Additionally, ensure the evaluation of climate, price, and activities to relish your decision before purchasing a winter vacation home. You can also finance your purchase for a winter vacation home by applying for a mortgage.

Best places in the United States to go glamping

July 25, 2024

If you like the idea of camping, but hate the actual camping part, you’re certainly not alone. Enter glamping, the perfect compromise for those who want to get in touch with nature for their next vacation, but in the most upscale way possible (read: no sleeping on the ground). Glamping (aka glamorous camping) resorts have begun increasing in popularity, so we’ve gathered some of the best places throughout the country to visit, which can potentially be just a short road trip away:

Lakedale Resort at Three Lakes

Friday Harbor, WA

Only accessible by seaplane or ferry, the San Juan Islands are the home to the perfect Northwest retreat—Lakedale. From luxurious cabins to traditional camping, Lakedale offers just about every summer camping option you can think of, but what really caught our attention is their neat glamping accommodations. Although the tents don’t have electricity or restrooms (unless you upgrade), they offer a few pieces of necessary furniture (such as a small eating table and a bed), and every glamping site comes with its own private fire pit. Don’t worry about bringing your campfire essentials along, either—their onsite store sells s’more kits, making it easy to whip up that camping classic.

The Resort at Paws Up

Greenough, Montana

The Resort at Paws Up doesn’t just offer some serious luxury when it comes to their accommodations, but their glamping options are also great for families that want separate sleeping areas. With capacity ranging from 2-5 guests and luxury rents available that are as big as 1,030 square feet, you definitely won’t be sacrificing comfort- in fact, you might even have more space than you do at home!

El Capitan Canyon

Santa Barbara, CA

If you’re trying to decide between a camping trip or a beach vacation for your next getaway, get the best of both worlds at El Capitan Canyon. The luxury safari tents are located in the beautiful Santa Barbara and not only do you get the true camping experience, but the beach is just a few minutes away!

Dunton River Camp

Cresto Ranch, CO

If you want glamping that offers all the comforts of home in pretty much every way you can think (i.e. soaker tubs, stoves, and Wi-Fi) then you might find exactly what you want at Dunton River Camp in Colorado. The stunning canvas cabins (you can choose a mountainside or riverside tent) are only open seasonally, so plan accordingly.

Conestoga Wagon Camping

The Rock Ranch, GA

Well here’s something you certainly don’t see everyday—camping in a wagon! (Wamping?) Not only do you get a pretty unique lodging experience, but you can also book some add-ons to make your trip really interesting—for instance, you can hire a storyteller for $65. For an hour of entertainment around the campfire, it’s definitely a small price to pay.

If you’ve gone glamping before, did you love it, or do you prefer traditional camping? We’d also love to know if you’ve been to any of the places on our list (or another awesome location that we missed) and how your experience was!

8 surreal landscapes that look out of this world

July 10, 2024

These eight unbelievable landscapes are so unique that they look like they are from another planet.

#8 “The Wave” is on the slopesof the Coyote Buttes in Arizona

The Wave is part of Marble Canyon, located in northern Arizona near the Utah border.

#7 “Pink Lake” Lake Hillier in Western Australia

Lake Hillier (aka Pink Lake) is located on Middle Island, just off the south western coast of Australia. High contents of the organism Dunaliella salina are responsible for its unique and vibrant color, and yet despite the high levels of salt, the lake is currently safe to swim in.

#6 Giant’s Causeway in Ireland

Located in Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway is one of the most scenic road trips you’ll ever take.

#5 Moss-covered rocks in Reykjavík, Iceland

Visiting the Blue Lagoon during your trip to Iceland? (Of course you are.) Be sure to add the moss-covered rocks to your to-do list, which are located just a short distance away from the Blue Lagoon.

#4 Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park was inspiration for the film “Avatar” and it’s easy to see why. This unique forest is located in Hunan, and is a must-visit during your next trip to China.

#3 Fairy Chimneys in Cappadocia, Turkey

The Fairy Chimneys are located in the breathtaking town of Cappadocia — a personal favorite of ours. Cappadocia was easily one of the highlights of our trip to Turkey!

#2 Pamukkale, Turkey

Pamukkale, which translates to “Cotton Castle,” truly is just that. If you’ll be in Izmir during your Turkey travels, be sure to plan a trip out to Pamukkale.

#1 Rainbow Mountains near Zhangye, China

They may look like something out of a painting or dream, but the Rainbow Mountains in China’s Danxia Landform Geological Park actually exist in real life.

What’s your favorite? What locations should have been included?

Seychelles Travel Guide: Islands, Luxury Resorts, and More

June 20, 2024

If you’re planning a special trip and looking for that perfect exotic tropical getaway, the Seychelles (pronounced say-shells, not suh-chell-ies, the silly mistake we made for quite a while) are probably high up on your list, and you’re already in the trip planning stages and looking up Seychelles vacation packages. Or maybe you’ve never heard of the Seychelles before. What (and where) the heck are the Seychelles, anyway?

Choosing Amongst Seychelles Vacation Packages

The Seychelles is a cluster of islands (about 115) in the middle of the Indian Ocean, located off the eastern coast of Africa. The Maldives are a comparable island chain in the region as well, but they offer very separate experiences, so it’s really just a matter of what you’re looking for—or what’s available, especially if you’re looking at different Seychelles vacation packages last minute.

Picking which island(s) to visit during your trip to the Seychelles can be a bit daunting, so we’ve rounded up some of our favorites, which can help you narrow down those options for the different Seychelles vacation packages you may be considering.

Mahe Island, Seychelles

Mahe is the main island in Seychelles, and for many travelers to the region, this is their final destination. It’s easy to see why, as there’s plenty to do on Mahe and tons of beautiful beaches. However, if you don’t have a lot of time in the Seychelles, we don’t recommend spending too much of it here.

Praslin, Seychelles

The second largest islands in the Seychelles, Praslin offers those iconic, picturesque beaches that you automatically think of when you think of the Seychelles. If you can only stay on one island during your trip to the Seychelles, we’d recommend Praslin. You can reach Praslin from Mahe with a short plane ride (about 15 minutes) or take a ferry. Top beaches include Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette.

La Digue

La Digue is the third largest inhabited island in the Seychelles, although it does offer some resort options if you’re looking to stay on the island. With a close proximity to Praslin, it makes for an easy day trip or excursion, so that may be your better option if you’re already staying on Praslin. Don’t miss the beautiful Anse Coco Beach, Anse Source D’Argent, and Grand Anse—definitely worth the trip!

Silhouette Island

This island is easily accessible from Mahe, and what makes this island special is its exclusivity. It’s home to just a single resort—the breathtaking Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa, a five-star luxury experience that makes this island worth the trip. Although the beaches somewhat pale in comparison to those offered on Praslin and La Digue, they’re certainly nothing to sneeze at, either. Silhouette Island is also home to an abundance of wildlife, so if you’re looking for some more adventure and beyond lounging on the beach all day, Silhouette Island can be a great choice.

Best Time to Visit Seychelles

Is there ever a bad time to go to the amazing Seychelles? Well, yes. After all, you want the weather to be cooperative, and constant thunderstorms won’t make for an enjoyable trip. While it’s difficult to know for sure, your best bet at beautiful weather is visiting from April-May, and again from October-November.

Flights to Seychelles

Even though the Seychelles are seemingly disconnected from much of the world, they are easily accessible from just about anywhere by plane. Depending on where you’re flying from, you’ll likely connect somewhere in Kenya or Ethiopia, with the final leg of your flight likely being on Air Seychelles. Travel search engines like FlightHub make it easy to compare your different options.

Seychelles Resorts

A big part of your Seychelles experience is the resort you pick, so while you’ll want to choose wisely, it’s difficult to go wrong with all of the beautiful hotel options. The Seychelles is known for nothing but luxury accommodations, including all-inclusive options that make it easy to stay on the property for the entire duration of your stay, if that’s what you prefer. Some of the most luxurious resort options include the Constance Lémuria Seychelles, Raffles Seychelles, Banyan Tree Seychelles, and The Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa.

Have you been to the Seychelles before? What tips do you have for those visiting for the first time?

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is paradise

June 1, 2024

Four Seasons Bora Bora Overwater Bungalows

Nestled on a beautiful motu in the South Pacific is the Four Seasons Bora Bora. If you’re looking for an absolute paradise, look no further. This is the resort to visit and is the ultimate choice for romance and relaxation.

Getting There

Getting there isn’t exactly the easiest thing, but it’s well worth the journey. Assuming you are flying from the United States, you will likely make a connection in Dallas or in Los Angeles. The Los Angeles flights go directly to PPT (Tahiti, the main island) whereas the Dallas flights will have a layover in Honolulu, Hawaii before you hop on another plane to Tahiti. This could be a good option for those who have some extra time and want to visit Hawaii first, as the layovers are often quite long and will give you a day on Oahu.

Once you get to Tahiti, you will need to take another flight (about 45 minutes) to Bora Bora. This will run approximately $430 USD roundtrip.

The Bora Bora airport is located on its own motu and you’ll need to take a speedboat to get the resort. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes and was just lovely– it was an experience in itself.

First Impressions

Bora Bora wasn’t my first stop on my French Polynesia trip– Moorea was. As wonderful as Moorea was, I knew Bora Bora was going to be even better. Before arriving in FP, I was a bit worried that perhaps it was overhyped. I’ve seen and done a lot, and occasionally I am underwhelmed when I visit a particular destination. But Bora Bora definitely lived up to all the hype. I fell in love as soon as I saw it from the airplane window.

The water is the most gorgeous color I’ve ever seen, even more vibrant than in Thailand’s Phi Phi islands. From the moment I stepped onto the speedboat, arrived at the Four Seasons, and was escorted to our bungalow, I was blown away.

The Room

Any room you stay in here will make your jaw hit the floor the moment you walk in. Even the “smallest” rooms are quite large and decorated beautifully. A smaller overwater bungalow is usually the least expensive available room, and if you’re here on a romantic trip, I highly recommend just staying in one of these (for the ultimate luxurious experience, you can stay in an oversized bungalow with your own plunge pool). You will NOT be disappointed.

The beach suites are larger and more ideal for larger parties, and would probably be better suited if you’re traveling with your family and you don’t want to worry about small children falling in the lagoon. I did notice a lot of families at this resort, in addition to couples, of course.

The Food

I often don’t like ordering room service while on trips because I like to get out of the room. But when you have a room that’s so incredibly amazing, you’ll want to spend a lot of your time there. The room service menu is extensive and portions are generous. My husband and I ordered the chicken tenders a couple times for lunch and it was a huge meal that we were able to share. And they were delicious

They have buffets and depending on when you go, you might have the opportunity to enjoy a themed meal. I was there on Thanksgiving day and they actually had a Thanksgiving buffet, which consisted of some of the holiday’s favorites (with a French Polynesian flair, of course).

For breakfast, I ate at the buffet each morning. The breakfast buffet has a wide range of choices and some options vary from day to day. You have a great view of the beach and the water from the dining area.

For an upscale, sit-down dinner, I visited the Arii Moana, where I had some delicious spiny lobster.

Free Activities

In addition to the tours that the resort provides, such as jet ski tours, the resort also offers a wide range of free activities.

My favorite was standup paddleboarding. I’ve wanted to try this for such a long time and it’s amazingly easy and so much fun. I did try it in Moorea, but it was so windy and there was way too much coral reef– NOT something you want to fall on.

You can paddleboard near the bungalows for a picturesque view of the mountain, or you can make your way over to the resort’s calm lagoon. This is also where you’ll do your snorkeling.

Speaking of snorkeling, the Four Seasons also provides free snorkeling equipment (you’ll have some in your room, but you can also borrow some from the activities desk) so there is no need to bring your own. Additionally, they provide life jackets in all rooms. The water around the bungalow area can be quite deep, so use one.

You can also visit the main island of Bora Bora through the daily complimentary ferry that the resort offers. I didn’t do this because I had already spent a few days on Moorea and was going to Tahiti next, so all I wanted to do was relax at the resort. But if Bora Bora is the only island you’re visiting, you should definitely go to the main island for one afternoon. Book an ATV tour, go shopping for black pearls, and have some lunch at a local eatery. This can also be a great way to spend the day if the weather isn’t cooperating.

The Beach Area

There were several beach areas for guests around the property, but my favorite was one of the tranquil beach areas near the lagoon. It was so peaceful and secluded over there.

The Pool

I’d say the pool was the one area that got a bit packed during my stay, so if you plan to go there, find a spot early on. It’s an amazing infinity pool with a view of the beach area, mountains, and overwater bungalows. It’s the perfect, refreshing place to cool off on a sunny day.

Overall Thoughts

The property itself was mind blowing; not just the natural beauty surrounding the resort, but the grounds were so nicely kept and stunning. Joe said this resort “exceeded his expectations tremendously” and I have to agree. The service and hospitality was top-notch. I had high hopes for this place and it surely did not disappoint.

All photos in this post were taken by Joe Butch.

Essential Travel Information

Getting to Bora Bora: I’m not gonna sugarcoat it: getting to Bora Bora is a pain. You’ve gotta take a flight to Tahiti (which is going to be far, unless you’re coming from Hawaii). From there, you have to take another flight (about 1-2 hours) to Bora Bora. Finally, from that point, you take a boat. It’s totally worth the journey, though.

The boat ride you’d arrange with your resort. But to book your flights to Tahiti and Bora Bora, you can use CheapOAir to find the best available option.

Hotel information: Learn more about the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora and book your stay. This might just be my favorite resort, ever. You won’t be disappointed!

24 hours in Portland, Maine

January 11, 2020

Whether you’re planning a quick trip to Portland, Maine or you’re just passing through, you may be struggling to squeeze in all of your activities into a single day. After all, there is a ton to see and do in Portland, Maine. Things to do and see can include sightseeing and hitting up some of the city’s best restaurants.

If you’re having some trouble deciding how to spend your 24 hours in Portland, we’re here to offer you an easy guide to visiting some of the city’s top attractions in just a single day.

Eastern Promenade

If you’re looking for one of the best views in Portland, you’ll find it at the Eastern Promenade, one of the most peaceful spots in the city. It’s an excellent place for picnics, walks, bike riding, or just taking in the beautiful scenery. What better way to start off your day in Portland?

Portland Observatory

After spending the morning in Eastern Promenade, head over to the Portland Observatory. Get one of the most spectacular views of the city from this spot. Here, you can see it all from a bird’s eye view. Definitely worth a visit if you’ll be in town! Admission: Adults $10, Seniors/Students/AAA $8, Children ages 6-16 $5. Portland residents: Adults $5, Children ages 6-16 $3; Family rate: $30, under 6 and members free. Tours are offered daily from 10am to 4:30pm, with sunset tours also offered every Thursday (5pm-8pm).

Have Lunch at Duckfat

By now, you’ll probably be working up a bit of an appetite, so it’s time for lunch. One of Portland’s iconic dining experiences, no visit to Portland is complete without a visit to Duckfat, located in the downtown area. The menu consists of creamy milkshakes and crisp salads, but their staple menu items is their Belgian fries, which are deep-fried in—you guessed it—duck fat.

Old Port

The downtown area is near Old Port, which is next on your itinerary. It’s quaint, charming, and it’s Portland’s heart. Whether you just want to browse through the various shops on Commercial Street, look at the boats parked at DiMillo’s Old Port Marina, or dine in one of the area’s many delicious seafood restaurants, Old Port is undeniably a fun place to visit.

Have Dinner at Street & Co.

After a fun-filled afternoon in the Old Port area, it’s time for a delicious seafood dinner before returning back to your hotel for the evening. One of our top choices is Street and Co., which is located in the heart of Old Port. The menu features an array of choices for seafood lovers, including buttery lobster linguine, yellowfin tuna, and swordfish.

Return to Your Hotel

You’ve had a busy day sightseeing throughout Portland, and now it’s time to return back to your hotel to just kick back, unwind, and relax. There are a lot of amazing hotels in Portland to choose from, and some of our top picks include the Chadwick Bed & Breakfast, Hilton Garden Inn, and the Pomegranate Inn.

Have you ever visited Portland, Maine? We’d love to hear your thoughts for must-visit spots. If you had to recommend a one-day itinerary to a visitor, what would you suggest they do – and also avoid?

Maldives vs. Bora Bora: The Food

Maldives vs. Bora Bora: The Activities

Maldives vs. Bora Bora: The Properties

Maldives vs. Bora Bora: The Rooms

Maldives vs. Bora Bora: Freebies

Maldives vs. Bora Bora: Surroundings and Natural Beauty

Maldives vs. Bora Bora: Getting There

Maldives vs. Bora Bora: The Winner

Essential Travel Planning Information

Visiting Tahiti and/or Moorea

Don’t Visit During the Peak Season

Points and Miles

Consider the Length

Food

Excursions and Activities

What Not to Skimp On

Is French Polynesia Really What You Want?

Essential Travel Information

Cinque Terre vs. Amalfi Coast: Food

Cinque Terre vs. Amalfi Coast: Alcohol and Wine

Cinque Terre vs. Amalfi Coast: Things to Do

Cinque Terre vs. Amalfi Coast: Beaches

Essential Travel Information

Hawaii

Tuscany, Italy

Alaska

Puerto Rico

Iceland

Essential Travel Information

Jackson Hole, WY

Anna Maria Island, FL

Phoenix, AZ

Beaufort, SC

Lake Tahoe, CA

Lakedale Resort at Three Lakes

The Resort at Paws Up

El Capitan Canyon

Dunton River Camp

Conestoga Wagon Camping

#8 “The Wave” is on the slopesof the Coyote Buttes in Arizona

#7 “Pink Lake” Lake Hillier in Western Australia

#6 Giant’s Causeway in Ireland

#5 Moss-covered rocks in Reykjavík, Iceland

#4 Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China

#3 Fairy Chimneys in Cappadocia, Turkey

#2 Pamukkale, Turkey

#1 Rainbow Mountains near Zhangye, China

Choosing Amongst Seychelles Vacation Packages

Mahe Island, Seychelles

Praslin, Seychelles

La Digue

Silhouette Island

Best Time to Visit Seychelles

Flights to Seychelles

Seychelles Resorts

Getting There

First Impressions

The Room

The Food

Free Activities

The Beach Area

The Pool

Overall Thoughts

Essential Travel Information

Eastern Promenade

Portland Observatory

Have Lunch at Duckfat

Old Port

Have Dinner at Street & Co.

Return to Your Hotel

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