Barbie-pink houses, plush beachside condos and glossy corporate buildings – stroll through capital George Town and you might see a hint of the Cayman Islands’ rep as a financial hub. But look beyond the glass and you’ll see the archipelago is just as rich in natural charms, with extraordinary wildlife, dramatic cave formations and world-class dive sites scattered among curaçao-colored waters and snow-white sands.
You could easily spend a week lazing on the beach at any one of its three very distinct isles – Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman – but linger on the sand too long at your peril. From kayaking in bioluminescent waters to spotting cerulean iguanas, you’ll find a string of unique experiences spread across these rather one-of-a-kind siblings. We’ve rounded up some of the best for anyone wanting an alternative Caribbean escape.
1. Kayak in bioluminescence
Picture paddling through a sea of iridescent, blue-green stars glittering in the pitch-black water, and you have a glimpse into the rather magical phenomena that awaits at Grand Cayman’s Bioluminescent Bay.
Come nightfall, millions of light-emitting organisms illuminate the waters like fireflies, and the spectacle is impressively bright thanks to barely any light pollution. Cayman Kayaks take you out on nighttime paddling trips from Rum Point to experience the best of it – think clouds of whitish green darting around like spirits beneath your boat, and total silence except your paddles swishing gently through the ripples.
2. Explore the Crystal Caves
Peeping out from the lush, tropical rainforest is this cluster of 105 limestone caves, filled with glittering stalactites and stalagmites that prod out like icicles from marble-swirled ceilings and damp, dewy floors. Guided tours take you round three of its most impressive chambers, including the aptly named bat cave (not for the faint-hearted) and the lake cave, where a still, jade-colored patch of water shimmers like a perfect mirror.
So named for their striking color (which gets even brighter during mating season) blue iguanas are Grand Cayman’s largest endemic species. They’re also seriously endangered; for the best chances of spotting them head to the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, where they’ve been bred since 2001 as part of a recovery program. You can take tours to see them at the habitat area or, if you’re lucky, glimpse them roaming freely among the soaring palms, wild banana orchids and other exotic plant species that populate this tropical oasis.
Gliding through the sea on the back of a horse, water splashing up as you plod peacefully along, is the stuff of childhood dreams. Spirit of the West make it a reality, with guides taking you wading through the crystalline, turquoise waves beneath a pink-orange sunset. They also offer beach tours for those who’d rather admire the water from afar, with private or group options available (and pickups direct from your hotel).
5. Go on a submarine
Cayman has earned itself quite the rep in the diving world thanks to its ancient shipwrecks, dramatic drop-offs and vibrant coral formations, but if you want to experience its treasures without getting wet, try Atlantis Submarines’ underwater excursion from Seven Mile Beach or George Town. You’ll descend 100 feet in a glass-enclosed, 48-passenger boat, glimpsing the likes of barracudas, turtles, jelly fish and plenty more.
6. Dive one of the Caribbean’s most renowned drop-offs
If the submarine excursion doesn’t satisfy your undersea cravings, there’s only one thing for it – Bloody Bay Wall, a sheer, vertical drop-off on Little Cayman. One of the most sought-after dive spots in the Caribbean, it’s a mesmerizing display – all mustard-yellow tube sponges, deep red corals and mini, purple-veined trees swaying in the water – which falls off to reveal one huge, deep void that’s drastic enough to give you vertigo.
Southern Cross Club, made up of a few bungalows scattered across the beach, makes an excellent base for exploring the reef, with daily dive trips taking you out to the best spots. They include Mixing Bowl, where groupers, turtles, lobsters and a myriad of rainbow-colored fish glide around an undersea forest that looks like something from another planet.
Dive here and you’ll understand why Philippe Cousteau reputedly named it one of the three best dive sites in the world – it’s not one you’ll forget, a little like Cayman as a whole.
Laura French traveled to the Cayman Islands with support from the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism (www.caymanislands.ky). Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in return for positive coverage.
When writer Rosemary McCabe took a vacation to visit family in the USA, she had no idea how much her life was about to change.
There was a lot I didn’t know when I stepped on that plane in May 2019 to visit my sister and her family in Indiana.
I couldn’t have known that I would meet a man from Fort Wayne on a dating app. That we would embark on what was initially a long-distance relationship. That I would go through the process of getting a visa to live and work in the USA. That we would get engaged, then married. That just three years later, I would have a house with that man, and a family in the form of two stepsons and a baby born in October 2021.
Not only could I not have known what was coming. I would never have believed it.
For starters, I had never – not once, not ever in my entire life – given any serious thought to the idea of emigrating. I have always been a homebody – and I also felt as though my career tethered me to Dublin just as much as my love for the city itself.
I’ve never wanted to live anywhere else, I’d tell people when they asked – and they did. I graduated in the midst of a recession, with many of my friends moving abroad after college. I love vacationing, I would say. But I always love coming home.
The 2019 trip that started all of this was meant to be a vacation. I would fly to Fort Wayne, stay with my sister and her family for three weeks, then return home to my Dublin life.
I had only been in town a week when my sister suggested to me that I might look into moving over. “Why not?” she asked. “You can work from anywhere as a writer; why not work from here for a year or two?” It was a suggestion she’d made before – first when she was in New York, then in Dallas – but not one to which I had previously given much serious thought. Until now.
You’d think that I might have started researching visas, for starters, or arranged a consultation call with an immigration lawyer, and looked into options for freelance journalists looking to live and work in the US.
Instead, I joined Tinder – and immediately began looking for men to date in Fort Wayne.
Brandin was the second man I met. In his profile, he wore a kilt and described himself as a 6″6′ nerd. In my profile, I said I liked chicken wings and was looking for a man with all of his own teeth. “I fit the bill!” he told me, then asked me to lunch – to eat (you guessed it) chicken wings.
It was the first, um, taste of just how literal Midwesterners are, something that would eventually stop surprising me. (“You like chicken wings? I’ll take you for chicken wings!” It makes sense.)
The venue was Buffalo Wings & Ribs, which Brandin had told me had the city’s best wings. He was incredibly tall – and handsome – but also struck me as being very…American. His big smile showed straight, white teeth, and he had a booming voice that was friendly but also just a little bit…too loud.
We dug into the wings – which, I remembered too late, are terrible first-date food (the mess!) – and I drank my first ever Mountain Dew. He was friendly and funny and asked me questions, and seemed genuinely interested in the answers. And I loved his chocolate-brown eyes, expressive brows and dark hair that fell over his ears.
On our second date, he walked me around downtown and told about Fort Wayne’s history. On our third, I went to his house and we watched a movie and kissed on his couch like teenagers.
Yet too soon, I was headed home to Ireland, with a lot of research to do and plans to get the ball rolling on the small matter of a visa application.
I would come back to the US twice that year – in October, for six weeks, and again over Christmas – to get a better feel for Fort Wayne, to spend time with my sister and her kids and (of course) to see Brandin. Over that summer, we had made our relationship official.
I was in love – not just with Brandin, but with the idea of this move: with the idea of being in the same place as my sister for the first time in over a decade, with the possibility of getting to really know my nephews and witness them growing up, and with Indiana itself.
When it came to the question of moving abroad, one of my greatest fears was the difference, even among two countries without a language barrier. I had found New York chaotic and unfriendly; even the pace of life in London, a mere hour’s flight from Dublin, was much faster than what I knew.
In Fort Wayne, I found a certain familiarity that I hadn’t been expecting. Lush, green fields reminded me a lot of the Irish landscape, and the warmth and friendliness of Midwesterners felt like a hug. Fort Wayne is about the same physical size as Dublin, but with far fewer people – which means little to no traffic (except on those unfortunate occasions when you get stuck waiting for a freight train to cross in front of you).
Of course, the traffic isn’t the only differentiator – and some differences aren’t so welcome. The Midwestern winter, with heavy snowfall that doesn’t melt for weeks, has taken me a while to get used to. Rarely does an Irish snowman last the night; in Indiana, I could create an ice sculpture in my backyard in November that would watch over me until spring.
Nobody walks anywhere in Fort Wayne. I miss how you can stroll for hours around Dublin, from a residential area into the shops, passing by a theater and a gaggle of restaurants and myriad indie coffee shops along the way. Since there’s nowhere to walk in Fort Wayne that doesn’t meet a road too busy to cross or a path that disappears, we drive everywhere. Sometimes, it feels like I haven’t seen another human in days – at least not outside of a car, or a supermarket.
And those supermarkets! I didn’t know so many cereal varieties existed; I still don’t understand why they’re all necessary. Store sizes are just one symbol of all the space America has. In Ireland, I have learned, there are 186 people per square mile; in the US, it’s 90.
When my visa was finally granted, in February 2020, I felt fully committed to the move. I packed my things up in boxes, ready to be shipped. I said goodbye to friends and family – or rather “see you soon,” since I was planning a short return for a wedding that spring.
In a way, the pandemic made the move simpler for me. Without the choice of that quick visit back to Dublin – had I returned to Ireland, I would not have been allowed readmission to the US, thanks to Covid travel restrictions – I was forced to accept Fort Wayne as home.
And the longer I spent with my sister, the boys and Brandin, the more it began to feel like it.
In July 2020, I moved in with Brandin. Six months later, while I did a puzzle at our dining-room table, he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. It took me a few moments to register what was happening, because I thought he had found a missing puzzle piece that had been causing me great frustration. I said yes – but not without his having to push me for an answer.
Two weeks later, I found out that I was pregnant.
Weirdly, it wasn’t until we bought a house together – a $250,000, 2000-sq-ft, four-bedroom one 15 minutes from downtown, with a two-car garage and a back garden overlooking a big pond – that I realized I likely would never go back to Ireland. The marriage and the baby should have been enough of a hint, yet it took becoming a homeowner for it to truly sink in.
We know that none of it – life, love, friendship – is ever really predictable. And yet we trick ourselves into thinking we know what we’re getting ourselves into. We make plans as if we have some control over what the future will bring. We make definite statements; mine was, I’ll never move away from Ireland.
But every time we walk out our front doors – or drive out our garage doors – we offer the universe a chance to meddle, to throw a spanner in the works, to offer up a suggestion for an alternative future we hadn’t ever considered.
When I got on that plane in May 2019, I thought I knew where I was going. But I had no idea where I’d end up.
A Menmoir: This Is Not About You, by Rosemary McCabe is out now.
Sunseekers and beach hoppers have made Aruba one of the Caribbean’s most popular destinations. The island is ideal for a fun escape with friends, or for a soothing getaway to relax and recharge your batteries.
Beyond its stunning, picture-perfect, white-sand beaches, the island has much to offer – including the natural appeal of Arikok National Park, the vibrant murals of San Nicolas and some of the best scuba diving in the western hemisphere.
Intrigued yet? Read on as you plan your first trip to Aruba. It surely won’t be your last one.
Carnival festivities enliven Aruba’s streets every February or early March. Shutterstock
When should I go to Aruba?
Aruba’s weather is pleasant and warm to hot year-round, and there simply isn’t a bad-weather season. For unlike other Caribbean islands, Aruba (along with neighboring Bonaire and Curaçao) lies outside the hurricane belt, minimizing the risk of storms. Since it’s a tropical island, rain does fall in Aruba, and the wind can pick up – but the weather overall is enjoyable and sunny just about all the time.
December and January are the peak of the high season, and prices for hotels and rental cars skyrocket. If you do wish to spend the holidays on Aruba, then book everything as far ahead as possible, traveling before Christmas Eve and after New Year’s Day. February through April is also the high season, though with enough planning you can score deals on accommodation. If a colorful Caribbean carnival celebration is on your wish list, head to Aruba in February or early March. (The dates vary each year; Carnival Monday 2025 falls on March 3.)
Low(er) season usually starts after Easter and lasts through November. One of my favorite times to visit the island is in fact November: the weather isn’t as hot as in summer, and there are fewer people – allowing more freedom for spontaneous trips.
How much time should I spend in Aruba?
While you could just fly in for a weekend and have a great time on the beaches, I highly recommend staying longer. Cruise ships call on Aruba, with passengers cruises disembarking for half-day trips to the island; think about the adverse impact such visitors have on the environment and the local economy.
A week-long stay in Aruba is ideal. While 10 days or more will give you time to explore, wind down, hike and maybe even try out a new sport like scuba diving or windsurfing. If you’d like to take a PADI certification course, make sure to devote three to four days to just that – ideally more – so you can gain more experience.
Renting your own car will allow you to explore all of Aruba on your own schedule. Shutterstock
Is it easy to get to and around Aruba?
Several international airlines connect Aruba’s Queen Beatrix International Airport with cities in the USA, Canada, the Dominican Republic and a handful of countries in Latin America, as well London and Amsterdam. Frequent short flights also depart for fellow Dutch Caribbean islands, Bonaire, Curaçao and Sint Maarten.
If you have enough time, it is possible to visit all three ABC islands on one trip. But I’d recommend devoting your time to just one, for a deeper visit (and less travel time).
Once you are on Aruba’s shores, you can rent a car directly at the airport and explore from there. Public transportation does reach much of the island, yet for the freedom and flexibility to get to those more challenging-to-reach places, a rental car is the way to go. Taxis can get very expensive, very fast.
Top things to do in Aruba
Many shipwrecks lie underwater off Aruba’s shores, waiting to be explored by scuba divers. Vito Palmisano/Getty Images
Scuba dive through a shipwrecks
Aruba is a fairly easy scuba destination, both for first-timers and seasoned divers. What its waters lack in spectacular coral reefs, Aruba makes up for with wrecks. Check out the SS Antilla, one of the Caribbean’s biggest sunken vessels, or the airplanes that were sunk to create an artificial reef.
Marvel at the sunset at California Lighthouse
As the day draws to a close, hop in your car and make your way to the north of the island to this lighthouse – and be sure to bring a beach chair so you can settle in to catch every last beam of light fade in the distance. Add a bit of sparkle by toasting to the spectacle with a cocktail or fresh coconut smoothie from the food truck in the parking lot.
The rugged landscapes and cacti at Arikok National Park are perhaps not what you’d expect on a tropical Caribbean island. iStock
Spend a day hiking and exploring Arikok National Park
Occupying almost a fifth of Aruba’s square mileage on the island’s eastern half, Arikok National Park is a great place to get active and your step count up. In Arikok’s rugged landscapes (bring sturdy shoes), you’ll see giant cactus and other scrubby vegetation – very different from typical visions of an idyllic Caribbean island.
Discover the island’s foodie side
Thanks to its proximity to South America and influences from the Netherlands, Africa, India, Venezuela and even China, Aruba’s cuisine is a unique – and uniquely tasty – mix. To get a full introduction to the island’s food, we recommend trying patacon (fried, crispy plantains), bolita di keshi (fried cheese balls), funchi (side dish similar to polenta) and kesio (Aruban-style flan). A hop across Oranjestad on the Aruba Food Tour will give you cultural context as you snack away.
Relax and wind down on Eagle Beach
If there’s one beach not to miss in Aruba, it’s this one – a truly magical part of the island. Besides its white sand, it’s particularly famous for the gnarled Fofoti trees that grow close to the water’s edge; they’re great for photo opps. If you get to Eagle Beach early, you might score one of the public palapas – and spend the whole day.
In the town of San Nicolas, many buildings are covered in vivid, large-scale murals. Yingna Cai/Shutterstock
My favorite thing to do in Aruba
No matter where I go in the world, my research begins by googling “street art in…” And while I enjoy all different types of public creativity, murals hold a special place in my heart. Lucky for me, the town of San Nicolas (just a half-hour from Oranjestad) is filled with gorgeous and color-drenched murals, in various styles. My favorite is one by Dutch artist Dopie.dsk: a surreal, giant lionfish in neon colors that stares down those walking by.
How much money do I need for Aruba?
Aruba presents more budget-friendly options than some other Caribbean destinations. If you are on a tighter budget, book flights well ahead, stay in a dorm or a simple accommodation, eat out only occasionally, take the public bus to get around and travel during low season.
Aruba offers many lovely apartments and smaller-scale hotels, such as Kamerlingh Villa, Pauline’s Apartments, Gray Door Apartments (for adults only) and Walt’s Aruba. While the beach never disappoints, why not stay inland and live more as Arubans do?
Although Aruba has ties to the Netherlands, bringing euros doesn’t really help much; the local currency is the Aruba Florin (Afl). US dollars are accepted throughout the island, so bring a few.
Hostel room: Afl 63 ($35) per person (10–20% more during high season)
Basic room or self-catering apartment for two: Afl 140 ($75) per night (up to 200% more during high season)
Public transport ticket: Afl 4.50 ($2.60) for a single trip, Afl 8.75 ($5) for a round trip or Afl 17.50 ($10) for a day pass
Coffee: Afl 7 ($4)
Mojito on the beach: Afl 25 ($14)
Beer: Afl 7 ($4)
Sandwich: Afl 20 ($11)
Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant: Afl 240 ($135) for one starter, two mains and drinks including 15% tip
Rental of two chairs or sun beds and a parasol: $35–50
Rental car: $670 per week with full-coverage insurance; $330 per week without insurance
Sustainability fee: $20 (payable upon obtaining the mandatory ED card before your trip)
Do I need a visa for Aruba?
Technically speaking, the Embarkation and Disembarkation (ED) card is not a visa. Yet all visitors must apply for the ED card by filling out an online form 7 days before their arrival in Aruba. In 2024, a sustainability fee of $20 took effect, payable when applying for the ED card. If you miss your flight or have to reschedule your plans, you’ll have to apply for the ED card and pay the fee again.
Which language(s) do I need to know in Aruba?
The official languages in Aruba are Papiamento (a creole language derived from Portuguese) and Dutch. Because of the island’s location and influences, most locals speak Spanish and English as well. You’ll find it easy to get around in English, but may find it helpful to learn a few key words in Papiamento, as well.
Danki: Thank you
Por fabor: Please
Bon dia: Good morning
Bon tardi: Good afternoon
Bon nochi: Good evening
Pasa un bon dia: Have a good day
Can I drink the tap water on Aruba?
Yes. Aruba is a BYOWB (bring your own water bottle) kind of island. Tap water is safe to drink, and it’s absolutely unnecessary to buy bottled water in a store. You might want to bring a bigger thermos and get some ice to keep your drink cool during long days on the beach.
How much should I tip in Aruba?
Though tipping is not mandatory in Aruba, staff at most restaurants, bars, cafes, hotels and taxi companies will appreciate your tip. Some eat-in places add a service charge of 15% to the bill. Such charges don’t substitute for a tip: the service charge goes to everyone on the restaurant team, with your waiter usually getting the smallest share. If you were happy with your meal and the service, a tip of 10–15% is greatly appreciated.
Be sure to pack reef-safe sunscreen – and reapply it many times per day. Getty Images
Bring reef-safe sunscreen to Aruba
The sun is blazing hot on Aruba. Yet because of the constant and oh-so-refreshing winds, you might not notice how strong those rays truly are – so remember to reapply sunscreen throughout the day. Research a good reef-safe sunscreen and bring plenty of it for your trip – preferably cream or lotion sunscreen as the winds blow sprays away. Also pack a hat with straps, so it doesn’t go flying, and a rash guard or Lycra shirt. Your skin will thank you.
Pack cotton and linen for Aruba
To beat the humidity on the island, pack smart and bring comfortable, loose-fitting clothes, preferably in cotton or linen. You’ll notice that you’ll sweat a lot less and feel refreshed when the wind blows through them. Such garments are also a great way to protect your skin from the sun.
The wide open spaces of Montana are famous for their bucolic beauty and classic “Old West” charm. As you make your way around the state to see and experience it all, you might have difficulty figuring out where exactly to go and spend some quality time (along with your hard-earned money).
From festive community events during the summer season to exhilarating places to get out and the great outdoors, here are 16 of the best places to visit in Montana.
The incredible views from the hiking trails in Glacier National Park are unmissable. Stefan Wille / Shutterstock
1. Glacier National Park
Best place to hit a hiking trail
The Crown of the Continent in northwest Montana, Glacier National Park, is a true choose-your-own-adventure for hiking trails. First established as a national park in 1910, Glacier National Park has the most extensive network of glaciers in the continental US, a total of 25 within park boundaries. You can also drive Going-to-the-Sun Road to catch stunning views of Jackson Glacier. If you’re up for a challenge, try hiking the Many Glacier trails to get marvelous views of Grinnell Glacier.
For those just getting introduced to Montana hiking trails, head for the Hidden Lake Trail departing from the Logan Pass Visitor Center. Clements Mountain provides a scenic guidepost along this approximately 5-mile round-trip hike. It’s visible above the wildflower meadows of Hanging Gardens. For those ready for a bigger challenge, the park’s signature hiking trail, the Highline Trail, also departs from Logan Pass. While you’re here, don’t miss the chance to see the park’s largest lake and densest stretch of temperate rainforest at Lake McDonald Valley.
Planning tip: Finding parking can be the most challenging aspect of visiting the famous Logan Pass – the highest point along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. The park’s free summer shuttle system ensures you’ll never be turned away because of parking capacity.
Detour: About 26 miles (or 42km) from Glacier National Park Headquarters, one of the park’s main visitor centers, lies the gorgeous town of Whitefish. Located along the shores of Whitefish Lake, this town is excellent for hiking, biking, fishing and boating during the summer months, and it’s a fantastic spot for winter skiing and snowboarding. And if you want a good place to stay while exploring Glacier National Park, The Lodge at Whitefish Lake provides patrician decor and high levels of comfort.
2. Butte
Best place for Western history
Wild West history is on full display in Butte, Montana, near the western slopes of the Continental Divide. This mining town experienced its boom in the late 1800s with vast copper lodes contributing to its moniker: “the Richest Hill on Earth.”
Mining operations have ceased in Butte, leaving behind the infamous Berkeley Pit and over 6000 historic properties now part of the Butte-Anaconda Historic District, one of the largest in the country. This landmark status plunges visitors into the history that once made Butte the largest city between San Francisco and Chicago.
Copper King mansions, underground mines and sealed-away speakeasies are a few guided tour opportunities diving deeper into Butte’s history. The Pekin Noodle Parlor is also a current attraction of historical interest as one of the oldest family-run Chinese restaurants in the country.
Bridger Bowl is a top snow sports destination just a short drive from Bozeman. CharlieTurchetta / Getty Images
3. Bozeman
Best basecamp for a variety of activities
Depending on the specific itinerary you build for your Montana trip, you may land at Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, the state’s busiest airport. As much as you might feel the urge to start driving to Yellowstone National Park, don’t ignore the numerous hidden gems of this lovely city.
Yes, Bozeman makes a centrally located base camp for exploring Yellowstone, Hyalite Canyon, and a treasure trove of regional hot springs such as Bozeman Hot Springs and Chico Hot Springs. But while you’re there, you’ll also want to explore Bozeman’s downtown area, peruse some local art at the Emerson Center, enjoy a night out at Opera Montana, visit the Gallatin History Museum or see what’s available at the farmers’ market.
The university city of Bozeman draws winter sports enthusiasts throughout its long, powdery winter season. From November to April, residents and visitors flock toward the cold smoke of two of Montana’s best ski and snowboard destinations, Bridger Bowl Ski Area and Big Sky Resort.
Bridger Bowl is at the backdoor of Bozeman, accessible with a 30-minute drive or a free shuttle ride. Its 2000 skiable acres attract a moderate crowd of students, community members, and tourists, though it only gets busy by Montana standards, with rarely more than a 20-minute chairlift wait. Lift tickets are cheaper if you buy online through Bridger Bowl’s website.
Planning tip: If you’re headed to Montana with your partner, Bozeman is ideal for a romantic trip. Chico Hot Springs is great for a relaxing date and when the weather permits, Palisade Falls in Hyalite Canyon is a beautiful place to hike. The Kimpton Armory Hotel is a perfect place to snuggle up.
4. Big Sky
Best spot for skiing
A scenic hour’s drive south of Bozeman, Big Sky offers over 300 ski runs across a series of connected mountains, including the summit at Lone Peak, which rises over 11,000ft above sea level. With over 5,850 acres of skiable terrain, Big Sky does have some runs that cater to beginners, but 60% of them are designed with advanced and expert skiers in mind.
While Big Sky is best known for skiing, it’s become a year-round destination. Not only is it about an hour’s drive (57mi, or 92km) from Yellowstone National Park (West Entrance), but Big Sky is also great to visit in the warmer months, with 18-hole Big Sky Golf Course, whitewater rafting, and a network of local hiking and mountain biking trails.
Planning tip: For a bargain, stay in Bozeman at Cinnamon Lodge, which has cabins right by the Gallatin River.
5. Yellowstone National Park
Best place for natural wonders
No trip to Montana feels complete without a visit to Yellowstone National Park. Visitors come from around the world to witness the park’s natural geysers, hot springs and wildlife like bison, bighorn sheep, grizzly bears and gray wolves.
If this is your first time visiting Montana, give yourself ample time to savor Yellowstone’s incredible landscapes. And while you’ll probably want to see the world-renowned Old Faithful geyser (on the Wyoming side of the park), also make sure to catch the others in the Upper Geyser Basin, as well as hot springs like Grand Prismatic Spring and Mammoth Hot Springs.
Planning tip: For warm weather, visit during Montana’s summer (June-August). Note, however, that summertime is peak season and the most expensive time to visit Yellowstone. For chilly fun and rock-bottom prices, aim for a winter visit (December-March) trip, though it’s important to note that most park roads will be closed and some planning (dress in layers, prepare for sub-zero temps) is necessary. For an affordable Yellowstone trip in comfortable weather, September is a good time to avoid crowds and catch the last days of summer warmth.
6. West Yellowstone
Best place for spotting wildlife
West Yellowstone is a gateway community for Yellowstone National Park, with the park’s entrance less than a mile from the center of this small tourist town. Wildlife abounds in the nation’s first national park, alongside hot springs, fumaroles, and geysers, with frequent sightings of American bison along the roadside.
Head to the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone for guaranteed sightings of Greater Yellowstone wildlife. This non-profit, AZA-accredited wildlife park maintains a stimulating habitat for animals unfit to live in the wild.
Planning tip: Budget extra time to hang out in the Naturalist Cabin, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the resident wolf packs.
Montana is a popular destination for fly-fishers. Nature is Magical / Getty Images
7. Missoula
Best place to fly-fish blue-ribbon waterways
Missoula is a fly-fishing paradise at the junction of great trout rivers in western Montana. Local author Norman Maclean captured this ethos in his iconic 1976 collection of stories, A River Runs Through It, and Brad Pitt and Robert Redford revamped enthusiasm with the 1992 blockbuster movie.
Missoula has wonderful views year-round. During the summer season, you can hang around Caras Park on the Clark Fork River, and you might catch live music on Wednesday afternoons or Thursday evenings as part of the Out to Lunch or Downtown ToNight series. This beautiful community space is also home to the Saturday Farmers’ Market and ground central for First Friday celebrations every month.
The Clark Fork, Bitterroot, and Blackfoot are world-class rivers within bicycling distance of Missoula, including tributaries like Rock Creek. Outfitters, such as Missoulian Angler, offer guided fly-fishing trips for first-timers and experienced anglers alike. Fishing spots and hatch dates are often discussed at local fly stores like Grizzly Hackle Fly Shop.
During autumn, the Blue Mountain Recreation Area and the University of Montana campus are prime spots for colorful fall foliage. In winter, Missoula places you within easy reach of several ski resorts, including Discovery Ski Area, Blacktail Mountain and Lost Trail Powder Mountain. In spring, Blue Mountain is also great for spotting wildflowers.
Planning tip: A valid fishing license is required to cast a line in a Montana waterway. Many guiding companies require you to purchase your fishing license before a trip, which can be done online.
8. Flathead Lake
Best place for summer traditions
Flathead Lake is hard to miss when visiting northwest Montana. It’s the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River in the contiguous United States, requiring at least a 40-mile drive from end to end. And with state parks, campgrounds, boat ramps, and small towns lining the route, it’s often a central base for summer road trip traditions.
Looking for an adventure? Rent a kayak or book a charter to Wild Horse Island near the lake’s western shore, and keep your eyes peeled for the feral residents.
Planning tip: Flathead cherries are one summer tradition not to miss. Cherry season is short and sweet in the Flathead Valley, with farm stands popping up near the shoreline in July through early August. Plan a visit to coincide with the Flathead Cherry Festival, typically the last weekend of July, for the full taste of these regional treats.
Detour: Just 7 miles (or 11km) north of Flathead Lake lies the charming mountain town of Kalispell. During the summer, you’ll find several trails (including the Foy’s to Blacktail Trails and the Parkline Trail) suited for hiking, biking and horseback riding. During winter, Whitefish Mountain Resort and Blacktail Mountain Ski Area offer prime slopes for skiing and snowboarding.
Drive the Beartooth Highway to the tourist-friendly town of Red Lodge, among the peaks of the Beartooth and Absaroka Mountains. Daniel J. Rao / Shutterstock
9. Red Lodge
Best spot for a scenic drive
The Beartooth and Absaroka Mountains set the tone for the tourist-friendly town of Red Lodge in southern Montana, near the Wyoming border. These picturesque peaks, some of the tallest in the state, have unlimited outdoor recreation opportunities. And the seasonal 68-mile Beartooth Highway offers parking lot access to all the wild terrain spanning from Red Lodge to Yellowstone National Park.
The Beartooth Highway is one of Montana’s best road trips between late May and October 15. This All-American road tops out at nearly 11,000ft with prominent views of the glacier-caked Beartooth Mountains and tree-lined valleys. Hiking trails, viewpoints and summer skiing opportunities line the route, eventually connecting to the hydrothermal wonders of Yellowstone National Park via Cooke City.
10. Philipsburg
Best place to uncover gems of the Treasure State
Philipsburg is a picturesque mountain town on the Pintler Veterans’ Memorial Scenic Byway, approximately halfway between Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks. Silver and other underground resources built this early Montana town in the 1860s, and that era still resonates down Broadway St with antique storefronts housing modern shops and restaurants.
Montana Sapphires are still mined in Philipsburg, and visitors sift for their own at places like Gem Mountain and Montana Gems of Philipsburg. Here, buy a bag of gravel sourced from nearby sapphire mines and head to the washing station to uncover personal treasures. Shops will cut and polish anything you find, though nothing is guaranteed in sapphire mining.
You can also find a sweeter type of treasure in Philipsburg within hundreds of glass jars lining the walls of the Sweet Palace. This nostalgic candy store sells homemade confections like fudge and saltwater taffy – you’ll get a sugar high from the aroma alone.
11. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
Best spot for history buffs
If you’re interested in American history, then you need to add Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument to your Montana itinerary. In June 1876, US Army General George Custer infamously made his “last stand” against the combined forces of the Lakota, Northern Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes. Ultimately, Custer and some 267 additional US troops died, along with at least 31 Native American fighters. The Native American tribes claimed victory in this battle, though US forces ultimately annexed all their tribal lands spanning from Montana to Nebraska the following year.
At the monument, which is about 62 miles (or 100km) southeast of Billings, you can learn more of the real history behind the lore that’s come to define the battle fought on this land, and you can learn more about the Indigenous communities who continue to call this region their home.
12. Big Hole National Battlefield
Best place for learning about Native American culture
Little Bighorn may be the better known battle site, but Big Hole National Battlefield is another key place in Montana to learn about Native American history and culture. On August 9, 1877, a group of sleeping Nez Perce (or Nimíipuu) campers awoke to gunshots. Though these Native Americans had already fled their ancestral land in Idaho, US troops proceeded to attack their Montana encampment and kill at least 70 nimíipuu people. Though nimíipuu fighters mounted a fierce defense as they attempted a full escape into Canada, they ultimately surrendered to US forces in October of that year.
Detour: To learn even more about the nimíipuu people, their history, and their enduring cultural heritage, the Nez Perce National Historical Park has additional sites worth visiting across the traditional homeland of the nimíipuu people, spanning from Montana to Oregon.
13. Helena
Best place for a quick stop
Offering a convenient mid-point between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, the state capital of Helena is a worthy destination to spend some time exploring. As a Continental Divide Trail Gateway Community, you’re sure to find plenty of hike and bike trails to traverse: Highlights include Mount Helena City Park (which climbs up to 5,468ft above sea level) and the nearly 6-mile-long Mount Helena Ridge Trail.
If you prefer exploring in town, you’ll probably want to make time to tour the ornate and historic Montana State Capitol, the elegant Queen Anne-style Original Governor’s Mansion, catch a show at the Grandstreet Theatre and The Myrna Loy (which once served as the county jail), and hunt for vintage treasures at the Golden Girls Antiques Mall.
14. White Sulphur Springs
Best spot for relaxation
If you want a place for a relaxing getaway, it’s hard to beat the laid-back charm of White Sulphur Springs. From town, you can embark on the Meagher County Arts & Cultural Trail to discover loads of barn quilts, sculptures, murals, and views of five mountain ranges. The driving time of the trail loop is 1 hour and 35 minutes.
If you want to stay somewhere with easy access to the hot springs, Spa Hot Springs Motel has multiple spring-fed pools on the property. (Even if you’re not an overnight guest, day passes to use the pools start at just US$14 for adults.) If you want a place with more bells and whistles (and lovely mountain views), The Edith Hotel at Showdown Montana is wonderfully cozy.
Local tip: During the winter season, White Sulphur Springs is a great place for some solid skiing. Not only is Showdown Montana the state’s oldest and only woman-owned ski resort, but it also has 39 runs on 640 skiable acres and a full-service lodge and rental shop.
15. Garnet Ghost Town
Best place for ghost-hunting
About 40 miles (or 64km) east of Missoula, you’ll find one of Montana’s best-preserved ghost towns. At Garnet Ghost Town, you will encounter a mining town that sprang to life during the region’s 1890s gold rush. These days, you probably won’t find any gold in these hills, but you will find over 30 structures that have survived Garnet’s boom and bust. In addition, you can hike and bike the local trails. Hunting and fishing are allowed in the area.
While Garnet Ghost Town is open year-round, the area is often only accessible via snowmobiles, snowshoes and cross-country skis during winter. If you want to extend your stay in Garnet, the US Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has two rental cabins available December-April. Camping is allowed for up to 14 days on designated public lands outside Garnet.
16. Medicine Rocks State Park
Best park for geology nerds
Usually, visitors flock to Western Montana to explore the state’s most famous national parks and ski resorts. Yet in Eastern Montana, you’ll find some of the state’s most illustrious big skies and wide open spaces. Such is the case at Medicine Rocks State Park, located roughly between Devils Tower National Monument (in Wyoming) and Theodore Roosevelt National Park (in North Dakota).
The park’s namesake medicine rocks refer to the soft sandstone rock formations that rise about 60 to 80ft from the ground. Many have holes and undulations, and some even have natural tunnels. This park has fossils dating as far back as 63 million years, and this land has long been held sacred by many of the region’s Native American tribes, including the Cheyenne and Crow peoples. If you’re hoping to extend your stay at Medicine Rocks, the park does have RV and tent campsites available for reservation.
Isabella is one of the writers on the new Canary Islands guidebook. After spending weeks of research on the road, she shares the top experiences for your next trip.
Anyone who loves the Canaries can attest that the most challenging (and exciting) part of visiting these bewitching volcanic islands is where to start.
Indeed, it’s this astounding variety – of landscapes, cultures, activities – that makes the beloved Atlantic archipelago such a thrill to discover. Beach lovers will of course be particularly drawn to the Canaries – yet many of the islands are also great bases for adventurous types, perhaps a surprise for first-time visitors. Of Spain’s 16 national parks, four are in the Canary Islands, while a network of other nature reserves protects everything from coastal cliffs to age-old laurisilva (laurel forests).
Keep in mind that each island lends itself to distinct experiences. The three smaller western Canaries, for example, are top spots for hiking, while the three easternmost islands have the loveliest sandy beaches. Tenerife, the largest of the Canaries, genuinely brings a bit of everything.
Here’s our roundup of the many top experiences you can look forward to on the Canary Islands.
Whether you admire if from afar or climb to its summit, El Teide is a magnificent sight. Santiago Urquijo/Getty Images
1. Glimpse – or even summit – El Teide
Visible from all over Tenerife and often even from other islands, El Teide – Spain’s tallest peak – has an undeniable magnetic pull. Known as Echeyde by the indigenous Guanches, the mountain towers 3718m (12,198ft) high, surrounded by the extraordinary stark expanses of the 190-sq-km (73-sq-mile) Parque Nacional del Teide. Whether glimpsed when dusted with snow in winter or surrounded by spring blooms, El Teide is an unmissable Canarian experience, and hiking to its sky-high summit is a temptation few walkers can resist.
The UNESCO-listed national park is understandably popular (almost 4.6 million people visited in 2023) – and it’s also strictly protected. A cable car zips up El Teide’s southern flank to viewing platforms at 3555m (11,663ft), but since there are tight regulations for hiking onwards to the peak, you need to book a (free) pass well ahead. Visit first thing or in the late afternoon to sidestep some of the national park’s crowds. Time permitting, we recommend taking advantage of the many other trails weaving across the lunar landscape.
Detour: Tenerife has plenty of other spectacular hiking paths, especially around the Parque Rural de Anaga and the Parque Rural de Teno.
2. Marvel at ultraclear constellations in La Palma
A quick glimpse up at the inky night sky in La Palma instantly reveals why this lushly green island has been designated the world’s first Starlight Reserve. And you don’t need any prior experience to dive into contemplating the constellations (though you will want to layer up, as nights can be cool at higher altitudes). A crop of local operators, such as AstroLaPalma (which chooses locations each day depending on conditions), will set you up on an expert-guided stargazing experience with professional telescopes. They also organize tours of the renowned Observatorio Roque de Los Muchachos, perched 2396m (7861ft) at the top of the island.
Planning tip: The Parque Nacional del Teide in Tenerife is another great spot for enriching stargazing experiences.
César Manrique’s ultra-stylish home is built into the lava formations, and filled with his vibrant artworks. James McDowall/Shutterstock
3. Soak up the creativity of César Manrique
The world of Canarian art is intimately linked to the 20th-century Lanzarote-born artist César Manrique, who campaigned against overdevelopment decades ago when the local tourism industry was just beginning to blossom. Manrique is best known for his abstract paintings – often inspired by the landscapes of Lanzarote – as well as his ingenious “interventions,” which reimagined natural spaces into dazzling works of architecture and art.
If you only visit one Manrique creation, make it Lanzarote’s wonderful Fundación César Manrique – the artist’s former home turned museum, built into lava flows in the center of the island. But you’ll probably also be tempted to add on the Casa-Museo César Manrique, in the palm-filled Haría valley, where Manrique lived in his final years.
Planning tip: If the master’s residences pique your interest in his work, Manrique left works all over the Canaries, including the soaring Mirador de la Peña in El Hierro and the Parque Marítimo César Manrique pool complex in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
4. Spot whales, dolphins and other marine creatures
The deep-blue Atlantic waters between western Tenerife and neighboring La Gomera make up one of the best places in Europe to spot whales in the wild. Now a protected Whale Heritage Area, this 2000-sq-km (772-sq-mile) expanse is especially known for its populations of resident pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins. On a whale-watching excursion with a local expert, you might also see orcas, sperm whales and many other species of dolphins. Do your homework before you set off to find a responsible, low-impact operator, such as Tenerife-based Biosean, which was founded by a marine biologist.
Fabulous beaches like Lanzarote’s Playa de Papagayo are perhaps the Canaries’ best-known calling card. Zu Sanchez Photography/Getty Images
5. Lie out for hours on golden sands
Relaxing on the powdery beaches is one of the Canaries’ biggest draws. Fuerteventura has grown into the beach star of the archipelago, with a swirl of gorgeous gold-sand strands, including the protected Corralejo dunes in the north and secluded, miles-long Cofete in the south. Neighboring Lanzarote is a close second: its fabulous beaches range from the sheltered coves dotted around the Punta del Papagayo promontory to wild, surf-loving Famara.
Southern Gran Canaria is another beach hotspot, especially Maspalomas, whose rolling dunes make up a protected 400-hectare (162-acre) nature reserve opening onto a 3km-long (2-mile-long) swath of honey-colored, family-friendly sand. Follow marked paths through the dunes to discover palm-studded oases, and spot herons, ospreys and other birds at La Charca lagoon.
6. Take in Tenerife’s art scene
The Canaries’ top contemporary-art gallery looms just south of the historic center in Tenerife’s Carnaval-loving capital of Santa Cruz. Designed by prize-winning Swiss architects Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron alongside Canarian architect Virgilio Gutiérrez, Tenerife Espacio de las Artes (TEA) is marked by its bold fusion of angular architecture and cutting-edge exhibitions. Check online for current shows; the space itself – with its light-flooded library – is worth visiting at any time.
Santa Cruz also has the archipelago’s liveliest street-art scene, with particularly vibrant works adorning the Puente Serrador near the TEA and old-town streets like Calle Castillo and Calle Pi y Margall.
Lanzarote is famous for its grape-growing technique, which involves planting circular vines in volcanic-ash pits. Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images
7. Taste a world of volcanic wines
The Canary Islands escaped the 19th-century phylloxera that swept through other European vineyards, which means the powerful, Atlantic-influenced wines here are largely produced from grape varieties that are both local and ancient. Vines were first planted in Tenerife back in the 15th century – and today the island rivals Lanzarote as the archipelago’s top wine-making island. In recent years, El Hierro has started making a name for itself on Spain’s wine map, too.
Many local vineyards now offer tours, tastings and a raft of other experiences, during which you’ll learn all about the unique growing techniques adapted to the extreme landscapes. These include the cordón trenzado (plaited cord) in mountainous northern Tenerife, and Lanzarote’s famous circular vines planted in volcanic-ash pits.
Planning tip: While many large-scale wineries have drop-in tours and tasting sessions, it’s always best to book ahead for smaller vineyards. Wine Tours Lanzarote and Tenerife Wine Experience run superb bodega-hopping tours.
If you crave some city time during your Canary Islands visit, head to vibrant Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Andrea Comi/Getty Images
8. Feel Las Palmas de Gran Canaria’s urban buzz
Spain’s lively ninth-largest city is a destination in its own right, especially during February when it hosts one of the country’s most raucous carnivals. Any visit to Gran Canaria’s capital of Las Palmas should start with a stroll around Vegueta, the oldest part of the city, centered on the monumental volcanic-stone Catedral de Santa Ana, begun back in the 1490s. (Climb the towers for knockout views.)
Then there’s the blossoming food scene, packed with innovative flavors and local produce, anywhere from plaza-view tapas bars to Michelin Green Star kitchen Muxgo. Playa de las Canteras, meanwhile, is up there with Spain’s loveliest urban beaches, with 3km (2 miles) of golden sand, lagoon-like waters and a buzzy promenade.
9. Be dazzled by La Gomera’s Parque Nacional de Garajonay
If you only have time for one thing in low-key La Gomera, head straight to the ethereal national park that crowns the island. The 40-sq-km (15.5-sq-mile), UNESCO-listed Parque Nacional de Garajonay protects around half of the Canaries’s ancient laurisilva, and is often cloaked in mist. Hiking is the thing to do here, whether you choose to tackle a short but wonderfully scenic walk to the Alto de Garajonay (the island’s highest point at 1484m / 4869ft) or descend through verdant canyons to colorful villages like Hermigua.
Just outside the national park’s southern boundary, Casa Efigenia is one of the best places in the Canary Islands to sample traditional cuisine.
Planning tip: While it’s perfectly possible to visit La Gomera on a day trip from Los Cristianos in Tenerife (the ferry across takes 50 minutes), this charmingly slow-going island rewards longer stays.
Those interested in historic architecture will love exploring La Laguna’s narrow, charming streets. Ana del Castillo/Shutterstock
10. Admire the spectacular Canarian architecture of La Laguna
Tenerife’s former capital La Laguna wows with its collection of more than 600 protected historical buildings. Wander through the pedestrian-friendly old town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), which retains much of its original 16th-century layout, admiring the ornate mansions and palaces dating mostly from the 16th to 18th centuries as you go. Grand Calle San Agustín is the place to start, but to see inside most of these splendid buildings – many of them are privately owned – it’s best to join a guided tour with La Laguna’s tourist office.
Detour: Further west, Santa Cruz de la Palma (La Palma’s laid-back capital) also counts among the Canaries’ most beautiful and architecture-rich cities, bursting with flower-filled wooden balconies and cobbled squares.
11. Hike across El Hierro
The smallest, westernmost and least-visited of the seven main Canary Islands combines rural charm, an offbeat bohemian energy and an entrancing lava-shaped landscape. All of which makes El Hierro one of the most rewarding places for quiet hikes anywhere in the Canaries. Even better: most of its trails can be walked within a day.
The best way to soak it all up is by tackling the 27km-long (17-mile-long) Camino de la Virgen (or at least part of it): the trail tracks across the entire island, from the windswept La Dehesa region to the capital Valverde via eerie cloud forests, juniper woodlands and agricultural fields. The trail (allow eight hours) follows the route of El Hierro’s most-loved fiesta, the Bajada de la Virgen pilgrimage, which has been held every five years since the mid 18th century.
Planning tip: The best months for hiking in El Hierro are October to December and March to May.
Surfers will find some of Europe’s most exciting waves off the coast of Fuerteventura and other Canaries. Getty Images
12. Catch some major Atlantic waves
Sometimes called the “Hawaii of Europe,” the Canary Islands rank among the continent’s top spots for surfing. Easily the most-loved surf destinations are El Cotillo and Corralejo in northern Fuerteventura, Famara in northern Lanzarote and Playa de las Américas in southern Tenerife, all of which have a fun year-round scene. Kitesurfing and windsurfing are big on all three islands, too, and even La Palma is becoming popular for water sports.
Many of the famous surf hubs in the Canaries are best suited to those with some experience, but there are also plenty of beginner-friendly courses and camps (often with accommodation included). Local surfers recommend winter (November to March) as the best season to ride the waves.
Planning tip: If you don’t fancy surfing, try kayaking and paddle boarding along the craggy coast on any island.
Learn about the Canaries’ Indigenous heritage at Cueva Pintada and other sites throughout the islands. David Herraez Calzada/Shutterstock
13. Learn about the archipelago’s Indigenous communities
A series of important archaeological sites scattered across the islands sheds light on the cultures of their Indigenous pre-conquest communities. For many experts, Gran Canaria’s Cueva Pintada, in Gáldar, is the main event. Join a guided tour to see the original, colorful geometric paintings that decorate the cave’s walls. It is believed that these complex shapes crafted from natural dyes could possibly be connected to lunar and solar calendars of some kind.
Much more off the beaten track are the superbly preserved petroglyphs etched into lava flows by the Bimbaches at remote El Julan, on El Hierro’s south-facing coast, which can only be reached by pre-booked guided hike or 4WD tour.
14. Get creative with Canarian crafts
Since the islands’ remote location made self-sufficiency essential, all the Canaries have a long, rich heritage of local crafts. Today, a wave of modern-day artisans are sharing their skills with anyone keen to learn the secrets behind the archipelago’s most curious traditions, from pottery-making to embroidery to basketry.
In Lanzarote, you can pick up original Canaries-inspired ceramics and meet their makers in the tiny northern village of Teseguite, or join a ceramics-making class at Tinajo-based Timijota Studio, which also has a second outpost in Tenerife. Over in La Gomera, discover how Canarian palm-leaf baskets are crafted with Gomera Corazón Verde.
The verdant, cloud-draped Caldera de Taburiente has some of the best hiking in all of the Canaries. Alberto Gonzalez/Shutterstock
15. Get lost in La Palma’s lush Caldera de Taburiente
The magical national park at the heart of “La Isla Bonita” is a gorgeously green and raw haven of Canarian-pine forests, jagged peaks, rushing waterfalls and plunging ravines. Best of all, weaving through its 50-sq-km (19-sq-mile) expanse, the Parque Nacional de la Caldera de Taburiente has some of the most spectacular hiking paths in all of the Canaries. The whole place revolves around a miles-wide caldera you can ogle at both from lofty lookout points and out on the trails.
Routes around the park range from short scenic loops to strenuous full-day hikes taking in the Roque de los Muchachos. Our favorite time to hit the hiking trails is spring, when wildflowers burst into bloom.
16. Sail over to Isla Graciosa
Flung off the northern tip of Lanzarote, the tiniest of the Canaries only became the official eighth island in 2018. So it is no surprise that secluded Isla Graciosa is still one of the archipelago’s most magical places for refreshingly go-slow beach escapes. The entire island is part of the Chinijo Archipelago and sits within a wider nature reserve. Simply catching the half-hour ferry across from Órzola in Lanzarote (the only way to get here) is a thrill, with views of Lanzarote’s cascading 600m-high (1969ft-high) Famara cliffs dazzling as the journey trundles on.
A day trip to Isla Graciosa is best enjoyed by hiking or cycling out from the sandy-floored “capital” of Caleta de Sebo to untouched golden beaches backed by stark volcanic cones. We love peaceful Playa de La Francesa (with great snorkeling) and wild Playas de Las Conchas (where swimming isn’t advised).
Known for its beaches, the Canary Islands are also dotted with fabulous tidal pools. Marco Gallo/Shutterstock
17. Swim in sparkling Atlantic pools
Sure, the Canary Islands burst with fabulous beaches. Yet some of the region’s most memorable attractions are its glittery natural pools. Scattered along the coastlines, these rocky visions of turquoise and cobalt were created largely by past eruptions, and now fill up with water from the swirling Atlantic Ocean according to the tides. Some feel almost like calm little lagoons; others have been lightly developed as sprawling swimming pools, where you’ll often be joining a local crowd doing laps.
Punta Mujeres in Lanzarote, La Maceta in El Hierro, Bajamar in Tenerife, and anywhere along Gran Canaria’s north coast are all blissful places to jump in.
Planning tip: Always check the tides before heading to a natural pool, as it can be dangerous to swim at high tide.
18. Stock up on fresh produce at farmers markets
Most Canarian towns have a weekly fresh-produce market, which is as much a lively local event as a place to stock up on ingredients. Stalls are typically crammed with goodies sourced from the immediate region, often from small-scale producers on the island itself. Drop in to soak up the atmosphere and pick up beloved Canarian ingredients like palm honey, goat’s cheese, almogrote and locally grown bananas.
In the bigger cities, you’ll find fun permanent markets open most days. Don’t miss Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s wonderful, 1940s Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África, a sensation of sounds, colors and scents, with whimsical Moorish-inspired architecture.
Planning tip: They say the Canary Islands consume more cheese per person each year than anywhere else in Spain. You can meet cheese-makers on visits to queserías like Montesdeoca in Tenerife and La Casa del Queso Cabrera Pérez in Fuerteventura.
Roque Nublo on Gran Canaria is mysterious and oh-so photogenic. Ana Flasker/Shutterstock
19. Road-trip to Gran Canaria’s lofty Roques
As you twist and turn into the elevated, peak-studded center of the island around the Caldera de Tejeda, you’ll discover the immense beauty of Gran Canaria’s green interior. Expect to pass some of the Canaries’ most scenic villages, including whitewashed Tejada, perched 1000m (3281ft) above sea level, and pretty Artenara, known for its cave buildings. But the real stars up here among the astonishing inland volcano-scapes are two much-photographed sky-reaching monoliths, Roque Nublo and Roque Bentayga.
20. Take the plunge into the Atlantic
The Canaries’ volcanic coasts burst with dimly lit caves, otherworldly rock formations and a wealth of curious marine life, which makes exploring beneath the waves here an unforgettable experience. Rays, turtles and over 300 species of fish roam off the shores in Atlantic waters, where you might also spot wrecks offshore. Most of the islands have a wide range of diving courses and excursions, as well as snorkeling trips. Widely considered the leader of the Canary Islands’ dive scene, El Hierro dazzles with its sun-washed Mar de las Calmas marine reserve, soon slated to become Spain’s 17th national park.
Planning tip: Most experts rank October as the best month for diving in the Canary Islands.
It’s easy to assume that a holiday to Mauritius comes with a hefty price tag. And while that’s true at its legion of upscale resorts, it’s possible to enjoy this island paradise on a budget. Here are our top tips.
When to go
It pays to be flexible. You’ll get the best prices during the low season (May to September, when temperatures are lower but still tropical), with the exception being European school holidays. In general, high season runs from around December to February, with prices soaring over Christmas and New Year. A compromise could be shoulder season (March, April, October and November). Accommodation prices are slightly lower than high season, and there are fewer visitors but temperatures are still high.
Where to stay
Mauritius is synonymous with top-end, opulent hotels and resorts. But skip these and go for a mid-range yet still lovely option like Veranda Resorts, whose properties such as those in Grand Baie and Tamarin offer contemporary rooms, friendly staff and beautiful grounds in gorgeous beachfront settings. Cheaper still is renting a holiday apartment or villa, especially if there are several people in your group. As well as the likes of AirBnb, a few of the larger agencies include CG Villas, Ropsen and Grand Bay Travel & Tours. Another characterful option is Mauritius’ guesthouses, managed by locals with genuine hospitality; there are several in Pointe d’Esny.
Mauritius’ markets are the place for fresh local produce and cheap eats. Phuong D. Nguyen / Shutterstock
What to eat
You needn’t spend a fortune on dining in Mauritius, as street food and cheap eats are in plentiful supply. As well as delicious local fare, you can also pick up Indian, French and Chinese treats. Roadside stalls serve biryani and faratas (unleavened flaky flour pancakes), while inexpensive snacks such as gâteaux piments (chilli cakes), rotis, samosas, bhajas (fried balls of besan dough with herbs or onion), dhal puris (lentil pancakes) and boulettes (tiny steamed Chinese dumplings) are dished up at markets, public beaches and in the capital, Port Louis. If you’re in Port Louis, consider a street food tour with Taste Buddies, where an in-the-know guide will show you round the city’s most salivating spots.
Chamarel is the western gateway to the beautiful Black River Gorges National Park. Fabienne Sypowski / 500px
Activities
There’s a plethora of land and water-based activities available in Mauritius, with options ranging from catamaran cruises, diving and surfing to golf and mountain-biking. Happily, two of Mauritius’ finest activities are completely free. There are stunning beaches throughout the island, particularly along the east coast with long, absurdly photogenic, often deserted stretches. Wonderful hiking spots also abound: Black River Gorges National Park has the island’s most beautiful scenery and well-maintained, clearly signposted trails through forests, waterfalls and gorges, while climbing dramatic outcrop Le Morne brings extraordinary views. Bear in mind though that you’re probably best off hiring a guide for any major hikes.
Festivals are a wonderful way to jazz up a visit to Mauritius and soak up some island culture. The biggest, in February or March, is the 500,000-strong Hindu pilgrimage to the sacred lake of Grand Bassin. March coincides with Holi celebrations, October is time for Divali, and Teemeedee in December or January sees Hindus fire-walking.
While diving is one of Mauritius’ big draws, it’s also expensive. Consider snorkelling instead: it’s a great way to explore underwater with minimal equipment and without the big price tag. Even the shallowest reefs off Mauritius are home to fascinating marine life. Rental gear is easily available from dive centres, boat operators and hotels, or catamaran cruises will often include snorkelling in the deal.
Getting there and around
Numerous carriers fly direct to Mauritius. Air Mauritius is the excellent national carrier; they have a decent international network and are currently upgrading their economy cabins.
Save money by travelling by bus, which is cheap, fun and usually an easy and reliable way to get around. There is no countrywide service; instead there are several bus companies and individual operators. Be sure to speak to locals, who are the best and most accurate source of information, as bus services don’t publish timetables.
You might also like these:
Beyond the beaches: exploring Mauritius A taste of Mauritius: the food lover’s guide Which of East Africa’s Indian Ocean islands is for you?
Tom travelled to Mauritius with assistance from Veranda Resorts and Air Mauritius. Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.
The combination of champagne powder, endless blue skies, mammoth mountains and a live-to-ski ethos makes skiing in Colorado the stuff of legend. From cruisers and tree runs to back bowls and terrain parks, Colorado is one of the country’s best and most varied places to ski.
With more than 30 resorts to choose from, this state really does have a mountain – and ski town – for everyone.
1. Aspen
Vibes: Aspen is a historic mining town turned posh go-to with a heady, artsy vibe. Mountain chic boutiques and galleries line the quiet streets, while Aspen Mountain overlooks it all.
What to do when you’re not on the slopes: Snowshoe through the sublime White River National Forest with a guide from Aspen Center of Environmental Studies. Or meander through the edgy Aspen Art Museum, with ever-changing exhibits and a spectacular rooftop cafe.
Where to rent equipment: Ski Butler delivers high-end equipment directly to you. Boots uncomfortable? Rentals are switched out within 45-minutes, even mountainside.
Where to eat: No place does après better than Ajax Tavern with its sunny mountainside patio and elevated pub grub. Pair a Wagyu double cheeseburger and truffle fries with some bubbly. BYO fur blanket.
Where to stay: Superb service and relaxed Western elegance are trademarks of the Hotel Jerome, an 1889 landmark built during Colorado’s silver heyday. Rooms are modern and plush while the common areas burst with period antiques and cowboy art.
Pass and tickets: Aspen’s four sister resorts are on the Ikon Pass. Lift tickets also allow unlimited access to each ($174–254 per day, depending on the month).
How to get there: Aspen’s small airport offers direct flights to a few US cities. Alternatively, it’s 190 miles to Denver; Roaring Fork Express and Colorado Airport Express provide shuttle services from Denver International Airport, which is around a four-hour drive.
With so much to do on and off the slopes, upbeat Breckenridge is a great ski area for a multi-generational trip. Getty Images
2. Breckenridge
Vibes: Upbeat and down-to-earth, Breckenridge is nestled in a gorgeous mountain valley. Its jewel-box historic district is dotted with picturesque shops and eateries in a range of budgets.
What to do when you’re not on the slopes: Lean into Breckenridge’s Arts District, Breck Create: catch a show or tour the public art, including a giant troll in the forest. Then meet some sweet huskies and learn all about mushing on a dog sledding tour.
Where to rent equipment: Family-run Blue River Sports provides friendly and knowledgeable service. Gear is high quality and well-priced, with breakage insurance included.
Where to eat: Indulge in the tasting menu at Rootstalk, a seven-course experience in elevated comfort food, the brain-child of James Beard Award-winning chef Matt Vawter.
Where to stay: The Bivvi is an unexpectedly upscale hostel in a big log cabin. Bright and cozy common spaces invite socializing; a firepit and a 10-person hot tub help. The homemade breakfast and free bus service to the resort are cherries on top.
Pass and tickets: Breckenridge is on the Epic Pass. For limited ski days, consider the Epic Day Pass ($116–135) instead of the vastly more expensive lift ticket ($269).
How to get there: Breckenridge is 80 miles from Denver, about a 1½-hour drive. Epic Mountain Express and Peak 1 Express provide shuttle services or take Snowstang, a seasonal public bus.
Vail is not only the most stylish of the ski areas, its ease of use makes it ideal. Getty Images
3. Vail
Vibes: Vail oozes mountain luxury with a 1960s-built Bavarian-themed village complete with twinkling lights and cobblestone streets. Spend some time exploring the chichi restaurants, bars and boutiques.
What to do when you’re not on the slopes: Enjoy a day of pampering at the luxe Spa at the Four Seasons, offering all manner of body treatments and massages. Want more time outdoors? Try winter fly fishing with Vail Valley Anglers.
Where to rent equipment: Known for high-end, nearly-new equipment Black Tie Ski Rentals brings your rentals (and a van full of alternatives) directly to you.
Where to eat: Nab a seat at the bar at Sweet Basil, a longtime local fave serving innovative American fare focused on locally sourced products. For a table, reserve a month ahead (no joke!).
Where to stay: Swanky hotels dot the village, but for a true ski-in ski-out stay, opt for the upscale Lodge at Vail or the Grand Hyatt Vail, at the base of Gondola One and Cascade lift, respectively.
Pass and tickets: Vail is on the Epic Pass. Only skiing a few days? Opt for the Epic Day Pass ($116–135) instead of the hefty lift ticket ($295).
How to get there: Eagle County Regional Airport is 35 miles west of Vail, with several domestic flights. Alternatively, Vail is a 2-hour drive from Denver. Bustang provides bus services, while Epic Mountain Express and Peak 1 Express offer shuttles from Denver International Airport.
Quaint, colorful and endlessly charming, Crested Butte is a hidden-away gem. Getty Images
4. Crested Butte
Vibes: Quirky and laid-back, Crested Butte is an end-of-road little town with one of Colorado’s largest historic districts. Colorful Victorian-era buildings line the main drag, home to breweries, boutiques and bike shops.
What to do when you’re not on the slopes: Do like the locals do and hit CB’s winter biking trails in the gorgeous Gunnison Valley; fat tire rentals are available at Big Al’s Bicycle Heaven. Alternatively, give your legs a break and take a cozy sleigh ride with your boo, mitten-hand in mitten-hand.
Where to rent equipment: Locally owned Crested Butte Sports is the go-to for high-quality gear, good prices and top-notch service.
Where to eat: The Secret Stash is one of the hottest tickets in town; an award-winning pizzeria with a boho vibe and teahouse seating, including prayer flags.
Where to stay: CB is dotted in B&Bs and vacation rentals, many in historic buildings like Scarp Ridge Lodge. (There are also loads of vacation rentals at the resort). Search VRBO or AirBnB for the widest net.
Pass and tickets: CB is on the Epic Pass. For short ski trips, buy the Epic Day Pass ($89–104); lift tickets are $169.
How to get there: Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport is 30 miles south of CB, with flights (mostly) to Denver. Otherwise, it’s about a 4½-hour drive to Denver; Bustang runs bus services between the two or hire Colorado Mountain Transportation from Denver International Airport.
Things to know before you ski in Colorado
Skiing at altitude is no joke, especially in Colorado, where most resorts sit between 9000 and 13,000ft. If possible, give yourself a day or two to acclimate before hitting the slopes – take it slow and drink lots of water! If you experience severe nausea, headache or dizziness, consult a doctor or simply head to a lower altitude.
For the best ski conditions, head to the hills between January and March, when the snow is fresh, grippy and deep, and the mountains are fully open.
If you’re on a budget, skiing early or late in the season (before December 15 and after April 1) often means deals on day passes and lodging but also potentially patchy snow and a limited number of skiable trails.
On the mountain, skiers below you have the right of way – remember, they can’t see you, so give them space. Exception: if you’re merging onto a run, look uphill to avoid cutting someone off.
Don’t duck ropes! They’re there to keep skiers safe from avalanche risk, exposed or dangerous terrain and to prevent people from being stranded with no way of getting back to a lift.
Sure, cannabis is legal in Colorado, but don’t partake on the slopes – public use is illegal and potentially dangerous to yourself and others.
Traffic on the I-70 can be bumper-to-bumper, especially on winter weekends. Leave early to make the best time; check COtrip for real-time road conditions.
With such an incredible variety of landscapes, California is the perfect place to reconnect with nature. But what if you just don’t like to tough out chilly nights in a sleeping bag on the ground? We’ve rounded up five of the best glamping sites for the perfect combination of the great outdoors and a good night’s sleep.
The hip little oasis of Ojai, just two hours’ drive from Los Angeles and nestled amongst lush, green hills has a fittingly cool, chilled out glampsite. The 11 vintage airstreams at Caravan Outpost sit in a lovely garden space and are fully decked out – they even include their own record players. A community fire-pit beckons friendly gatherings where you can exchange stories of your favorite cycle-track or surf spot and enjoy the famous pink-hour where the sunset adds a magical pink hue to the atmosphere.
The family-friendly Costanoa resort in Pescadero has everything from luxury suites to camp sites for your own tent. However, glamping in the tent bungalows provide the perfect combination of outdoorsy and comfort. The fire pits are the perfect place to roast marshmallows after a day of hiking, sea kayaking, biking or horseback riding and the lush beds are exactly what your body needs to rest up for the next day’s adventures.
The epitome of luxury camping is a kitted out safari tent nestled on the forest floor beneath towering redwoods – this is glamping at its finest. The babbling stream and gently rustling leaves lull you to relaxation as you dose under your heated blanket. The tents have hot and cold running water, which is amazing while camping, but there is also a tap that spits out perfect tea-ready water, perfect to brew a cup to wrap your hands around while you sit back in your Adirondack around a fire. The rest of the Ventana resort has a luxury spa, swimming pools and a fabulous restaurant to enjoy up on the cliff overlooking Big Sur’s stunning coast line.
While this isn’t a tent, we think a tiny wood dome in the desert counts as glamping and if stargazing in Joshua Tree isn’t on your bucket-list yet, it should be. Staying in this bohemian geo-dome just a short drive from town takes contemplating the cosmos to a whole new level. The dome is equipped with personal telescopes to get up close and personal with the solar system from the comfort of your two-room abode – there’s even a glass panel in the roof. Go in the spring when the wildflowers carpet the area in brilliant violet and yellow. Pro-tip: do the 20-minute drive to Joshua Tree National Park at sunset for the best views and to avoid the crowds.
It’s unlikely you will find a view to wake up to that is more spectacular than being greeted with Yosemite’s impossibly huge sheets of rock face. It’s nothing short of life changing. While these tents are a bit more rustic than the others, there is just a simple camp bed inside, but the jaw dropping location more than makes up for the lack of creature comforts. These well-appointed tents in Half-Dome Village, right at the heart of Yosemite National Park, are the perfect landing spot for exploring the many wonders of the park.
Most travelers get a taste of Slovakia on a city break in the capital, Bratislava, or by hiking in the famous Tatras.
Yet well beyond its numerous castles and cobbled old towns, the Central European country offers much more. Nowadays, many of Slovakia’s historic buildings are incubators for contemporary art and cuisine. And while the High Tatras are indeed (and should be) a prime draw, Slovakia’s other national parks abound with forests, meadows and alpine lakes, plus cycling and hiking trails galore.
Many countries can boast such a range of attractions – but few have it all such a modestly sized, easy-to-travel package. Trains connect Slovakia to capitals across services Europe, bus services are abundant and driving yourself is easy. Won over yet?
Here’s our rundown of Slovakia’s best places to visit.
Slovakia is one of the best countries to visit next year. See our full list of Best in Travel 2025 winners.
The UFO atop Most SNP bridge is an icon of Bratislava’s weird and wonderful architecture. Walter Bibikow/Getty Images
1. Bratislava
Best for merrymaking and monumental architecture
It’s not hard to find thirsty tourists stumbling across Bratislava’s cobblestones in search of their next Lánius beer (or, more bravely, their next round of Slivovitz plum brandy). Yet while the Slovak capital has a well-earned reputation as a party town, even devoted revelers take in some culture along the way.
Expect a showcase of architecture from across the centuries. Michael’s Tower, the city’s original gate, dates from the Middle Ages, as does the city’s crowning castle. The art-nouveau Blue Church is a gem of early-20th-century design, while at the Slovak National Gallery, art is exhibited in an award-winning gallery space. And all around, the brutish beauty of the socialist era is still present in oddities like the UFO (home to a rotating restaurant) and the defiantly upside-down Slovak Radio Building.
Bratislava is also an ideal base for day trips. Within 90 minutes by road you can storm Červený Kameň Castle, take a spa day in Piešťany, drink in the views from Devínska Kobyla Observation Tower or climb Trenčín’s clock tower for a bird’s-eye view.
Planning tip: Summer festivals help you see the city at its regal best. Plan around Middle Ages in the Park in June or the later summer Coronation Days.
Hiking the High Tatras never disappoints. Shutterstock
2. The High Tatras
Best for mountain thrills
With peaks that reach as high as 2655m (8710ft), northern Slovakia’s mountains have acquired near-mythic status. These fearsome mountains and valleys were carved by glaciers during the Ice Age; today the High Tatras, particularly the crooked peak of Kriváň (2495m / 8285ft), are symbols of national pride. Mixed-ability groups head straight for idyllic strolls at glacial Popradské Pleso lake, while tougher day-long treks like the Furkotská Valley Loop and the Kôprovsky Śtit Ascent appeal to hardier hikers. It’s easy to travel green, too: the Tatra Electric Railway travels between Štrbské Pleso (a lakeside resort town with lovely walking trails) right up to the lofty mountain resort Tatranská Lomnica.
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Skiers also have plenty of reasons to head to the High Tatras. Jasná Nízke Tatry is the biggest ski area with more than 46km (29 miles) of trails, while the highest resort, Tatranská Lomnica, tops out at 2190m (7185ft).
Planning tip: The highest hikes don’t open until mid-June, so go in midsummer if you’re scaling lofty peaks like Kriváň or Rysy (2501m / 8205ft). Otherwise, September’s mellow sunshine is ideal for hitting the trails.
Hrnčiarska in Košice’s Old Town is packed with galleries and cafes. Shutterstock
3. Košice
Best for modern art and medieval finery
Second cities have an appealing vibe: all the size and sophistication of a capital, only with fewer tourists and a scrappy attitude. This describes Košice through and through. For those who like their beauty with a bit of an edge, it’s irresistible. The forbiddingly Gothic St Elizabeth’s Cathedral anchors a plaza graced by a plague column, grand town hall and 14th-century chapel. These layers of history are best peeled back along art studio– and cafe-lined Hrnčiarska, long the abode of the city’s artisans. Meanwhile, Tabačka Kulturfabrik has transformed into a coworking space–performance space–anything-goes bar-slash-venue. It’s creative, messy – and quintessentially Košice.
Planning tip: There are no fewer than 18 UNESCO World Heritage sights within a couple of hours by road from Košice, with the most enchanting along the Wooden Churches Trail. Hire a driver or rent a car to do a loop taking in Ladomirová, Hervatov and Kežmarok; summoning a church custodian to unlock these art-filled churches is part of the fun.
With its walkways and ladders, Slovenský Raj is more like an adventure playground than national park. Shutterstock
4. Slovenský Raj National Park
Best for waterfalls and rivers
Of the nine national parks within Slovakia’s borders, this might just be our favorite. “Slovak Paradise” is more akin to an adventure playground than a wilderness. Streams wind through this landscape of forests and karst cliffs, forcing visitors to climb ladders and balance along wooden walkways to navigate trails like the ever-popular Suchá Belá Gorge and Kláštorská Gorge, with its three waterfalls.
Cycling is a delightful way to explore, too: there are 65km (40 miles) of bike trails within the park, and more in the surrounding countryside. (Rent wheels in the gateway town of Spišská Nová Ves or in Podlesok, within the park.) Though winter is much quieter, you can cross-country ski on marked walking trails, or head to the small ski area at Mlynky.
Planning tip: A worthwhile detour just outside the park is Dobšinská Ice Cave, which is open to tours of its frosty stalagmites between mid-May and late August.
Nestled in the mountains, Banská Štiavnica is a beautifully preserved gem of a town. Shutterstock
5. Banská Štiavnica
Best for culture, both above and below ground
Is Banská Štiavnica the prettiest town in Central Europe? We think it’s a strong contender: Gothic and Renaissance churches and houses make it a veritable jewel box of architecture, and it’s huddled inside an extinct volcanic caldera.
This medieval settlement in the midst of the Štiavnica Mountains garnered a UNESCO World Heritage listing not for its beauty but its remarkable engineering history: it’s Slovakia’s oldest gold- and silver-mining town. Strolling around the historic village – from elegant Trinity Square to the not-so-new New Castle (16th century) – is more than eye candy: it’s a glimpse into an industry that transformed the whole region. The Slovak Mining Museum takes you deep down into the heart of the town’s mining past. Up above, Kalvária, a unique complex of Baroque churches and chapels, overlooks Banská Štiavnica from a hilltop east of town.
Traditionally designed buildings grace the mountain village of Ždiar. Peter Vrabel/Shutterstock
6. Ždiar
Best for authentic mountain culture
The village of Ždiar’s setting is simply lovely: in the Belianske Tatras, right by the border with Poland, surrounded by glorious hiking and biking trails, as well as caves you can visit nearby. What makes it even more special is the distinct flavor of Goral culture in everything from its food to its ornately painted houses.
Goral people have lived in northern Slovakia and southern Poland ever since the 14th century, when Wallachian shepherds migrated north to these rugged lands. Today, Goral identity remains an unmistakable feature of the town, noticeable in Ždiar’s log houses, which are traditionally decorated with geometric patterns in blue and red paint. The old ways are carefully preserved in the Ždiarsky Dom folk museum – and served up at the adjoining traditional restaurant. Expect sheep’s cheese galore.
7. Tokaj Region
Best for idyllic wine country
Hungary has hogged the acclaim for sweet white Tokaj wine, a so-called “liquid gold” once served to royals and still gracing the dessert menus of many fine-dining restaurants. Yet much of the Tokaj wine region, formerly entirely within the Kingdom of Hungary, landed within the borders of modern-day Slovakia at the end of the First World War.
Today, southeastern Slovakia boasts more than a dozen wineries. Hand-dug underground cellars provide deliciously rustic settings to sample Tokaj wine, usually with cheeses and cold meats to cleanse your palate in between each sweet sip. The Jaroslav Ostrožovič and Tokaj Macik wineres, both long-standing and family-run, offer the full experience. Reserve tastings ahead.
Planning tip: Wine villages like Veľká Tŕňa are only an hour by road from Košice – but it’s much more sensible (not to mention enjoyable) to stay overnight. Many wineries have on-site rooms; another appealing option is a stay in a tree house at Camping Malá Bara.
Among the countless castles in Slovakia, Spiš might be the most evocative. Getty Images
8. Spišské Podhradie
Best castle and hilltop views
In a country with more than 120 castles to visit, choosing a favorite is tough. But if we had to hide from a trebuchet attack anywhere in Slovakia, we’d pick Spiš. Standing imperiously on a 634m(2080ft)-high hilltop, Spiš Castle has withstood centuries of battles thanks to its stocky towers and defensive walls. It’s one of Central Europe’s biggest strongholds. And thanks to a Gothic makeover of its palace, it’s as attractive as it is imposing. On clear days, you can see all the way to the Tatras.
Spišské Podhradie is no one-trick town: just west lies the Spišská Kapitula, whose architecture – a mix of Romanesque turrets and splashy Baroque finery – has earned it the nickname “Slovakia’s Vatican.” The village has a small but excellent array of guesthouses and restaurants, too; we recommend the farmhouse fare at merry Spišsky Salaš.
Planning tip: Just 12km (7.5 miles) west is the town of Levoča, with a fine town hall and a small cluster of art and medieval museums. The highlight is the dreamy view of Levoča’s church spires and defensive walls from the hilltop Basilica of the Virgin Mary – a view guaranteed to inspire dreams of your next trip.
Weddings are supposed to be the happiest day of a couple’s life. After months of dedicated planning, a lifetime of saving, and the bulk-booking of flights, hotels and restaurants, finally saying “I do” at a location that means everything to the couple, destination weddings seem even more special. So what happened when COVID-19 hit?
Here, three couples discuss what happened when their destination weddings were upended by the coronavirus pandemic.
Four hours. That’s how late Gulmira Myrzakmat was for her first date with Stephen Lioy.
The pair, who met in Kyrgyzstan, had found themselves passing through Istanbul for work at the same time, so Stephen, who had previously led tours around the city, planned a romantic stroll for their first date.
“I arranged this whole, beautiful walking tour,” he remembers laughing, “but I had to compress it into a rushed two to three hours.” Still, it had a storybook ending: dinner at a restaurant on Istiklal Ave that had just one candlelit table on a tiny balcony. “It was really, really romantic,” says Stephen. “I couldn’t have planned it any better.”
Fast forward to 2020 and the couple were planning to return to Istanbul for their wedding, getting married on a boat as it cruised along the Bosphorus.
It had taken some effort to pull together. Stephen knows Istanbul well, but friends had helped organise the celebration too: they’d planned to fly some Kyrgyz students in to play traditional music, and a friend of Gulmira had organised several Kyrgyz wedding games to play.
Their immediate families would be staying in the city for the week, and their friends for the weekend. Stephen, who is from the USA originally, had prearranged some sightseeing and bar-hopping. Many of his family members got their first-ever passports issued.
Then around 10 days before the ceremony was due to take place, their officiant, a friend called Bill, got in touch to say he didn’t think he’d be able to attend. He had underlying respiratory issues and was worried about travelling over from California. One of Gulmira’s friends emailed too. She didn’t think in good conscience that she could attend either.
With Stephen already in Turkey and Gulmira in Bishkek, the couple deliberated over their options on WhatsApp. Overnight, the WHO declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic, and the couple cancelled their wedding.
“I was really sad because I was really looking forward to this big day,” says Gulmira. “But when I found out that the WHO declared it as a pandemic I thought it best for the wellbeing of everyone to cancel the gathering.” Stephen, sat by himself in a hotel room in an Istanbul suburb, said he just felt dazed.
At the very moment their ceremony was due to take place – Stephen waiting nervously under an arch of flowers as Gulmira walked down the aisle to the Wedding March – the couple weren’t actually together at all.
“We were messaging each other saying, ‘we’d actually be on the Bosporus at this moment,’” says Gulmira, speaking about the wedding cruise. But as it was, Stephen had been quarantined in an abandoned US military base near Bishkek’s airport whilst making his way home and Gulmira was in their apartment for Nooruz, a national holiday in Kyrgyzstan.
Fortunately, they had already taken their honeymoon.
“We had our honeymoon before our wedding,” says Gulmira, laughing. In Kyrgyzstan, the first week in January is a national holiday, so the couple went away for three weeks to Zanzibar, Seychelles and Qatar. “The Seychelles became our favourite place – we didn’t have enough time to explore, so we’d like to go back,” she adds.
At the time of our interview, Stephen had made it back to their flat but was self-isolating. They still haven’t decided whether or not to replan the wedding. Though, as the pair know from their first date, late is better than never.
For Alba Díaz and Daniel Camino, a couple from A Coruña in northwest Spain, their destiny was written in the dates.
“Our first date was 14 March 2009,” says Alba, “Dani asked me to marry in May 2019, so we were clear that the [wedding] date would be 14 March 2020 because it is our anniversary and it was Saturday.”
So even as the Spanish government imposed a nationwide lockdown, the couple were still determined to proclaim their love to the world – even if it meant getting married from the window of their apartment.
Naturally their spontaneous celebration was captured on Instagram: Alba clutching a bouquet of red flowers, the pair leaning out the window. She’s wearing a white double-breasted gown she’d bought to have her wedding make-up done in; Daniel is in a charcoal-coloured suit. Their neighbour officiated the ceremony from the next window along.
It was a stark change to their original plans. They were due to get married in front of 190 guests in Daniel’s home village, two hours from A Coruña. They had friends flying in from all across Europe, including England and Iceland.
“Our wedding was [due to take place] in an alternative space,” says Alba. “The ceremony [itself] in the town’s food market and the rest of the celebration in a ship that had been closed for 10 years.”
The couple had already put in a lot of hard work. “We had to prepare the walls, the floor, the bathrooms, the electrical installation, etc,” says Alba. “We had everything ready already: the decoration was already done, the flowers placed and the kitchen and food already inside the ship.”
Then, on Friday 13 March, a day before the wedding, they realised it would have to be cancelled.
“On Saturday we woke up with a feeling of terrible sadness,” Alba adds. It was Daniel who suggested they get married through the window. Alba was only convinced when their friends started sending photos of themselves in the clothes they were planning to wear to the wedding with well wishes written on cards.
The couple have rescheduled their wedding for 14 November – they couldn’t hold it any sooner as Alba runs Frida Kiwi, a wedding planning company, and she has another 30 upcoming events to sort and reschedule before that.
They were due to honeymoon in Italy, but now find themselves in self-isolation. How’s married life? “We are well,” says Alba “[Daniel and I are] at home with our dog, eager for all this to happen soon.”
The pews are full: 112 chocolate rabbits, all dressed in identical golden foil outfits, watch on as a veiled bunny bride and blue-collared bunny groom go through their wedding vows with a long-eared celebrant.
It wasn’t exactly the celebration that Frankie Lewis and Mark Burton had in mind when they flew to Wales from Thailand to tie the knot, but it was the best use of the Lindt chocolate wedding favours they could think of.
They had bought 115 chocolate bunnies for their marriage at De Courceys Manor in Pentyrch on 4 April, a homecoming destination wedding. However, they are now self-isolating at Frankie’s mum’s house with the UK on lockdown due to COVID-19.
The couple, who met in London but now live in Bangkok, started to think their wedding plans might change at the end of January. “We thought we might be in trouble because we knew coronavirus was spreading and everyone in Bangkok was wearing masks,” says Frankie.
“There was a lot of awareness of its impact as we were so close to China,” adds Mark.
So they moved the dates of their UK flights, still hoping that the wedding would go ahead, as they were expecting guests from Canada, Germany, Spain, Switzerland and Italy. Frankie’s mum had also made the wedding cake and the wine delivery was expected soon. However, the coronavirus situation had changed when they got to Wales with restrictions being put into place.
“We spent three or four days worrying: are we going to have to go ahead with just five people there?” says Mark. “It was a relief when the venue postponed [the ceremony].” Their wedding has now been pushed back until March 2021.
But the chocolate rabbits won’t last until then, so the couple decided to have some fun.
“We happened to say [to our friends] that we’ve got all these Easter bunnies and that their life [expectancy] had been dramatically increased,” said Frankie, so they started giving the bunnies something to live for, including a rabbit wedding.
They set up the wedding scene, using their own marriage bands as rings, and the photos went viral. “It just exploded,” says Mark. The chocolate bunnies have also been on boats and taken part in a bunny Olympics. Eating them is the next logical step.
“It’s easy in these situations to be all doom and gloom,” says Frankie speaking about their wedding, “but we’re still incredibly lucky, so why not have some fun with some chocolate bunnies?”
The coronavirus (COVID-19) is now a global pandemic. Find out what this means for travelers.
