So you’ve picked which Hawaiian Island you’re going to visit on your next vacation, and this time you’ve picked Kauai. Many of the lush images of Hawaii that we hold in our minds can be found on Kauai, so figuring out where to stay and what to do on your trip will be easy, right?

Indeed it is hard to go wrong, but there’s a lot of vacation punch on this geographically diverse and laid back little island. Knowing something about the terrain ahead of time will help make your planning decisions easier.

Where to Stay on Kauai and a Little Geography

As with all the Islands there is the question of “which side of the island is the best to stay on?” South Shore accommodations are concentrated in and around Poipu Beach. On the North Shore most accommodations are found in Hanalei Bay and Princeville. Most Hawaii holiday packages offer well priced options all around. No matter which side of the island you choose, both Kauai’s north and south shores can easily be explored during your stay.

Kauai’s diverse weather stems from its geography. Being the northernmost of the four major islands means that the island’s North shore, which includes the famed Napali Coast, experiences the state’s first impact of tropical Pacific weather systems. In the center of the island, Mount Wai’ale ‘ale is one of the rainiest places on earth, receiving an average of 452” of rain a year. The South Shore is the most arid and generally the sunniest. Even though each shore has its own distinct microclimate, weather ruining your trip is unlikely.

Kauai Is All About the Beach, So Be Ready

Kauai has some of the most golden and idyllic beaches in the world. Sandy shores lined with coconut palms and guava trees seem to be located around almost every corner. For the most part you can take your pick based on convenience, but there are two important things we suggest bearing in mind:

1. If you plan to go in the water, perhaps rent boogie boards and high quality snorkeling gear for the week and take them with you wherever you go. Why? Because at some point, even the most non-water sports types will probably be inspired to take a better look underwater from the safety of a crystal clear, protected tidal pool.

2. Please check water conditions ahead of time, and remember that how the ocean looks can be deceiving. Most beaches are not staffed by lifeguards and as with the weather, surf conditions can change frequently and rapidly. If you do find yourself on a quiet beach with calm waters, enjoy, but just be aware of exactly where any protected reefs begin and end. You do not want to find yourself on the wrong side of them.

A Few of the Major Beaches on Kauai

On the South shore, Poipu Beach is probably the most well known and with good reason. It is sunny, sandy with a large grass option for those who don’t care for the sand, and patrolled by vigilant lifeguards. With food and shave ice footsteps away, it is many people’s definition of a perfect beach. A less frequented, but no less attractive beach is located at Salt Pond Beach Park, location of the state’s only natural salt ponds. The protected swimming cove is great for families with young children and beginning snorkelers, while the waters beyond are some of the best on the island for windsurfing.

North Shore beach options are abundant and surprisingly unpopulated. At 1.6 miles long, Lumahai Beach with its crescent shaped shoreline is one of the largest and just right for a beach walk; but without reef protection it is only a swimming choice for the most advanced surfer. A little further down the road is Ke’e Beach. Located at the end of Kuhio Highway at the start of the Napali Coast, the cove-like beach is both stunning and well visited. It is also a prime example of a beach where swimming in certain spots close to shore is generally safe, but beyond the reef most definitely is not. This also marks the start of the 11 mile long Kalalau Trail, the challenging hiking trail that ascends its way up into the heights of the Napali Coast.

Boat Excursions

Boat excursion choices on Kauai vary by season. There are options year round, but here are a couple of things to remember: Boat tours of the North Shore in and around the Napali Coast only run in the summer months. South Shore based whale watching excursions only run during the winter and spring months (December until May), when the humpback whale migrates to the warm Hawaiian waters to breed and give birth. If you happen to be visiting in the fall, no problem! There are plenty of boat tours available including naturalist-led snorkeling trips and fine-dining and sunset cruising.

Add to the list of ‘only in Kauai’: Located on Kauai’s east side, the Wailua River is the only navigable river in Hawaii.

70% of Kauai is Inaccessible by Car

Packed with its extreme microclimates and landscapes, also of note is the fact that over 70% of Kauai is inaccessible by car. This is the main reason why helicopter tours are so popular here.

Unless you are visiting in the summer when a boat tour of the Napali Coast is available or you are a serious hiker, helicopter is the only way to experience the full splendor of this famous slice of coastline. If weather permits, most helicopter tours even fly down into the crater at Mount Wai’ale’ale where you may find yourself surrounded by waterfalls and multiple rainbows. But even if you don’t get to do that, don’t worry. On Kauai, odds are, no matter where you find yourself, rainbows and all kinds of beauty will become a very familiar site.

All photos public domain except “boat excursions” photo by author.

I had no idea that there was more than one Vancouver until I moved to Seattle. And honestly, I still didn’t know about it until meeting more friends down in Portland. Now, I regularly visit with friends who live in Vancouver, or VanWA as we call it.

Vancouver, Washington is just across the river from Portland, Oregon; it’s the “original” Vancouver because it’s nearly 75 years older than the perhaps better-known Vancouver, Canada.

Vancouver is known for its quality of life, but as far as vacations are concerned, Vancouver can be a nice daytrip from Portland or a great place to base yourself if you’re planning on exploring southern Washington, the Columbia River Gorge, or the Oregon coast. Here are some tips on a few fun things to do in Vancouver, WA.

Vancouver, Washington – Outdoors

If you’re lucky, you’ll get a nice clear day for your Vancouver adventures. That’s because Vancouver is a great place to stretch your legs, in places like Fort Vancouver. This was the 19th century trading headquarters of the Hudson’s Bay Company, which is still around – it’s one of the oldest commercial companies in the world.

The fort is now a historic attraction introducing you to the lifestyle of a fur trader. Consider taking the walk along the Renaissance Trail as a scenic route into the fort. Aviation geeks should also stop by nearby Pearson Air Museum, which sits on the oldest continually-operating airfield in the U.S.

Another suggestion is Esther Short Park, a pretty downtown park; it’s a great place to sit under the clock tower and just relax.

Washington supplies over half of the Apples grown in America, and Vancouver is home to the state’s oldest apple tree, planted in 1826!

Vancouver, Washington – Indoors

Ok, so I’m being realistic – the weather can be miserable here in the Pacific Northwest. But Vancouver has you covered – a few fun things to do if it rains:

• Visit the Vancouver Library: Pictured above, I love this place – I suppose I’m admitting to be a bit of a geek, but with a top notch onsite cafe, lots of reading rooms, and a viewing deck upstairs should the skies clear for a moment, this is a wonderful place to kick back.
• Get a Buzz: There are lots of other buzz-worthy opportunities around, regardless if they are the caffeinated variety or not. Try Dripster or Mon Ami (pictured below). If you’d rather splurge on alcohol, By the Bottle is a local downtown beer shop with a tasting room. For wine, Gouger Cellars – run by a former pharmacist! – just north of downtown offers some great wines.

There are also lots of shops around downtown with antiques and other odds and ends. Go exploring and see what you find!

Food and Drink

You won’t go hungry in Vancouver, Washington – here are some killer restaurants:

• Tommy O’s: Wow, this “Pacific Rim Bistro” surpassed all of my expectations, which were high to begin with. You have to try their kalua pork – SO SO SO good!
• The Grant House: Their porch is actually the lead photo up top; I love this place because of the historic significance – the building is one of the old officer’s quarters just across from the Fort. Great food too, wonderful ambiance – reservations strongly recommended.

And if you need to cure sweet tooth cravings? Head for Treat, Vancouver’s downtown cupcake joint.

Where to Stay

You might want to stay in a hotel in Vancouver, Washington if you are considering checking out some of the wineries in the region or exploring the Columbia River Gorge; it also offers quick access to the Portland airport. Although prices aren’t drastically different than downtown Portland, two choices stand out:

• Red Lion Hotel – Inn at the Quay: You can’t get closer to Oregon than this, as the hotel sits just minutes from the Interstate bridge. Red Lion hotels are known for being friendly and comfy, and you’re still close to all the Vancouver attractions.
• Vancouver Hilton: Right in downtown Vancouver, this is a great spot where you can walk to several attractions, food, and drink.

When my friend and I were planning our trip to Angkor Wat, we had a bit of a logistical challenge, because I was in Amsterdam and she was in Hong Kong, so we couldn’t sit down side-by-side and plan our itinerary.

Despite all that and coordinating flights, etc., our trip went really, really well. I think we’d both love to go back – we were blown away with the size of the Angkor Wat complex itself (we mistook a moat for a river!), and some of the ruins, despite being in bad shape in some cases, were so impactful I expected a marching army to appear from around the bend at any moment. That or Angelina Jolie with some secret clue to the inner workings of the universe.

We learned a lot about traveling in the Siem Reap area, and I’d like to share some of our tips, because in many cases our expectations were way off base.

How to Get to Angkor Wat: Fly

The Angkor Wat Temple Complex is located in Siem Reap, one of the two major tourist hubs of Cambodia. Siem Reap is located the northwest of the country, and the easiest way to get to Siem Reap is by plane – direct flights run from several airports, including Bangkok Thailand as well as the only domestic flight, to Phnom Penh. The airport in Siem Reap is a gorgeous, modern terminal, perhaps surprisingly so until you learn that the terminal was only built in 2006.

Flying in Cambodia is an interesting experience – most Cambodian’s don’t have the funds to fly, so it’s mostly a tourist experience. There are other ways to get to Siem Reap – boat, bus, private car – but honestly, flying is much faster and very easy and simple, especially if you want to combine both Phnom Penh and Siem Reap in one trip.

How To Get Around the Temple Complex: Private Tour Van

The temples that you see in the photos are about a 20 minute drive from Siem Reap – though new hotel resorts seem to keep popping up all along the route.

There are many ways to get out to the temples – bike, tuk tuk, drive – but my overwhelming recommendation is to hire a private van and tour guide. It’s very, very inexpensive and takes away a lot of the hassle. I saw beet-red sunburnt backpackers sweating away on their bikes, and folks getting blasted with dust. Given the intensity of the heat here, and how hot and sweaty it can be climbing around the temples, I just don’t see the appeal of this option.

The vans pick you up from your hotel, and a English-speaking guide will take care of the permits for the park, and drive you around – remember, the archeological park of Angkor Wat spans 250 square miles. While most of the popular sites are clustered together near the Siem Reap side, it still can be a lot of mileage to cover in one day.

One interesting thing for my friend and I is that were worried we’d not have enough time to see everything, but with the guide it make things go really quickly. Our guide also helped us plan our days – we often left really early to beat crowds and get sunrise shots, then head back to the hotel for lunch and a cooling dip in the pool, then more temples at sunset. With a car at your disposal, you can see all the best temples in about three days. My fave temples were Angkor Wat, Bayon (oh, those faces!), Phnom Bakheng (at sunset), Ta Prohm (made famous by Angelina Jolie), and make the drive out to Banteay Strey to see its amazing carvings.

We used Chirstinair Tours in both Siem Reap and Cambodia (they handled everything for us), but if you’re planning any other SE Asia countries during your trip, I suggest you talk to our travel concierge to get an overall better deal.

Tip: If your guide has a recommendation, say yes. Ours suggested we stop by the road for something we didn’t understand. Turns out it was one of his favorite makers of palm sugar, one of our favorite candies around the world.

Other Siem Reap Tips

Just so you know, Siem Reap is very small and these days feels like mostly hotels! You can easily walk around town, though your tour guides will offer to drive you, but we felt it was almost faster to walk.

I highly suggest touring some of the markets, especially the night market, and sampling the many lovely restaurants in the area. While Siem Reap is far more touristy than anywhere else in Cambodia, you’ll still find some traditional dishes (try a Cambodian curry) and will have the opportunity to get some great souvenirs in the shops.

Otherwise, try to relax and enjoy. You’re in the home of one of the ancient wonders of the world!

When most people think Mexico and beaches, they think of the well known ones – like Cancun. But one question I always get asked is, where are some quiet places?

You have to remember that despite swine flu and the threat of kidnapping, Mexico is by far one of the most travel popular international destinations for Americans.

So the value luxury answer to this dilemma is not where to find a beach, but which destinations provide you the best opportunity to get some peace and quiet and soak up a little bit of the real Mexico, while still enjoying the amenities that the nice resorts can provide.

Here are 3 suggestions that do just that. None of these are “best kept secrets” or “totally unknown” destinations because frankly, Mexico is pretty well discovered. You will, however, find great value and a bit of serenity. Topped off with a margarita, what else do you need?

Isla Mujeres

Why stop at Mexican beaches, when you can spend your vacation on a beach island? That’s exactly what Isla Mujeres is. It may be near Cancun geographically, but it’s worlds apart in terms of the experience, which starts from the moment your ferry leaves the mainland, pictured above.

The islands name, translated from Spanish, means ‘Island of Women’ and before this beach island paradise was a holiday spot for locals and international visitors, it was a Mayan sanctuary, dedicated to the goddess Ixchel.

Aside from the beaches, which include Playa Norte (North Beach) and Punta Sur (where you will find the ruins of a temple to Ixchel), there’s also a government run turtle sanctuary to visit – as well as the unique opportunity to swim with whale sharks if you visit between May and September. Water sports from snorkelling to diving are also on offer, but you won’t find a chain bar, restaurant or club on the island.

Where to Stay?: The Privilege Aluxes Hotel is five stars but great value for money. Rooms have fab balconies with views of that turqouise shore. The hard part is deciding which you’ll love more, the pools or the beach, both right out your door.

Troncones

Another great city to visit if you’re looking for the best Mexican beaches, without too much hustle and bustle, and with plenty of other attractions, is Troncones. It’s located close enough to the far more popular Ixtapa that you can enjoy some of the attractions there, but then retreat to this little hideaway.

There’s plenty of opportunities for surf lessons – a great place to be a beginner. And how about ecotours, yoga, or meditation classes. Or just lay on the beach and listen to the waves.

Where to Stay? The Inn at Manzanillo Bay gets rave review for the great swimming at the bay, spacious rooms, and the hospitality of the staff. (One downside – wifi is only in the common areas, but is free. Shouldn’t you be offline anyway?)

Tulum

Back over to the Yucutan Peninsula and heading south of Cancun, we run into Tulum, well known by daytrippers from Cancun for its Mayan ruins and other historic attractions. But quiet beaches? Well, a lot of people don’t stick around in Tulum, they just come in for the day. And Tulum has recently build a number of hotels and infrastructure, but has done so at a gentle pace, with a bit of breathing room, so it isn’t wall-to-wall hotels.

The beach in Tulum is sandy-white, and prices are very reasonable – backpackers often swear by Tulum, but if you spend just a little bit more you get a heck of a lot of luxury.

Where to stay? Be Tulum is charming in its own way, with various styles of rooms and plenty of on site amenities including full breakfast. Review all the room options carefully, but the ocean view suites are certainly worth the extra dollars.

Finding the best mexico beaches for your trip requires a bit of sleuthing and an appreciation for what you’re looking for – do you want to do watersports? Day excursions? Do you even want to leave the hotel room?

If you’re struggling with planning your Mexico trip, talk to our travel concierge, who can walk you through the options and make sure you stay safe and sane.

Photo Credits via Flickr CC: Andy Hayes, Afternoon, Esparta

My first trip to Puerto Rico was for a friend’s wedding.  While us wedding-goers had plenty of decadent experiences, like champagne receptions on the beach, what was nice is that many of the thing we got to enjoy were some insights into part of everyday life in Puerto Rico.  While it’s similar in culture to the US, it’s also similar to its Caribbean neighbors, and also unique in its own way.

Puerto Rico makes for the perfect winter getaway. Here’s a bit of insight into my recommendations for Puerto Rico – things to do, places to relax, and more.

Understanding Puerto Rico’s History

One common question I get is asking for an explanation of what Puerto Rico is – because it is a “US Territory“, which means that you don’t need any paperwork to go there, but also some would say this means it really doesn’t offer any unique culture, which is not true.

Puerto Rico was one of Christopher Columbus’s first land grabs, and the islands that make up the nation were part of Spain until 1898 when as part of the Spanish-American war, Spain gave the island to the US.

Today, Puerto Rico is a commonwealth and “unincoporated territory of the United States” which means the American government rules over many parts of day to day life, the commonwealth has it own governor, but despite being US Citizens, Puerto Ricans cannot vote in presidential elections.

As one can imagine, this is a frequent topic of conversation with Puerto Ricans. (Tip: try not to bring this up at a wedding!)

Outdoor Attractions

I often hear that Puerto Rico isn’t that culturally distinct from the US, and I wonder if these people ever left their hotel.  It is true, the airport and many of the busier city streets, particularly in San Juan, look very similar to their mainland counterparts. But you don’t have to go that far to experience peace and local culture. Some top Puerto Rico things to do:

• El Yunque: being the only rainforest in the United States (pictured above), this is a superb place for a day of hiking and outdoors, even if you’re not wanting too strenuous.  Don’t miss La Mina and La Coca, two waterfall stops.
• Rio De Camuy Caves: One of the largest cave systems in the Western Hemisphere, these caves look like massive wedding cakes piled high with tiers of stalactites and stalagmites.
• Glow Bays: The bioluminescent bays (“bio bays” or “glow bays”) are another must-experience adventure in Puerto Rico. There are glow bays around the world, but these in Puerto Rico are considered some of the best – you feel like you’ve stepped into a scene in the matrix, with every splash and swirl of the water glowing a bright blue hue. Puerto Mosquito off of Vieques is probably the most well known, and for good reason, as it’s the best. Another bright bay is La Laguna Grande in the southwest.

What’s the most undiscovered place in Puerto Rico? The interior. While it used to be that islands like Viques and Culebra were undiscovered (and they’re still highly recommended), if you truly want a slice of Puerto Rico to yourself, head inland.

Resort/Beach Scene – Where to Stay?

Regardless if you spend your day sipping rum or off hiking into the wilderness, you’ll need a comfy place to sleep and ideally a beachside spot to relax alongside it.  Some of the best places to stay in Puerto Rico are what they call a parador.  These are small, privately run hotels – I use the word hotel loosely – and while they meet all of the quality standards of the tourism board, they are very relaxed in feel.  Your room might be a cabana beach shack, but you’ll have a coffee maker and free wifi. Regardless, I think you can get some great places at a great price.

A few areas and recommendations to get you started.

• Guanica: in Southwest Puerto Rico lies this tiny town (pictured above), nearby the dry forest reserve and one of the luminescent bays.  This is definitely the relaxed, peaceful option for Puerto Rico.  A parador recommended here is the Hotel Parador Guanica 1929.  There’s also a great resort here, the Copamarina.
• Vieques: Mentioned above, this is one of the more popular islands to the east of the main island, and a great place to come and relax. You can find a lot of good value luxury properties here, such as the Inn On The Blue Horizon – I don’t think it’s technically a parador but it has that old fashioned accommodation feel with an smooth, modern edge.
• Fajardo: This is where you’ll catch ferries to the islands, but you can just stay here, considering there is a great beach, lots of outdoor attractions nearby, and it makes it easy to daytrip to the islands. One large resort here that consistently gets top reviews is the El Conquistador – and it’s hard to disagree, given the property was recentlly refurbished and sits on a massive cliff looking out at sea. If you’re wanting something more private, the Las Casitas Village might be a better option.

Coming soon, part 2: the food and drink of Puerto Rico.

Flickr CC Photos by fortherock, Liz Saldaña, Ricardo y Marta

A friend recently asked for some Belgian travel advice, knowing I spent many weekends in Antwerp while living in Amsterdam, as it’s a very quick train ride, Antwerp being not far past the Dutch border. Unfortunately ever experience I’ve had in Antwerp has been a rainy one, but that doesn’t mean I haven’t enjoyed it. Given the city is known as an international diamond capital, I thought I’d share my notes on what to do in Antwerp on uncovering some cultural diamonds in this beautiful city.

Antwerp Sightseeing: Art and Architecture

Many of the Antwerp tourist attractions center around art and architecture.  That’s because during the 15th century, Antwerp was the capital of the world.  It was the biggest and busiest port in the world, and the flow of trade pouring through here was nothing short of incredible.  The city’s growth slowed significantly after a skirmish with the Spanish, and some say it’s only recently that Antwerp is getting a new lease on life.  A few must sees:

• Onze Lieve Vrouwekathedraal: one of the largest gothic cathedrals in Europe – you’ll see it when you arrive! This is a must because of the outstanding architecture, but also because it has many of the most famous paints of Belgian Paul Rubens.  (These paintings are better than the ones in his museum, Rubenshuis.)
• Het Steen: This is the small medieval castle with some famous statues along the river; it’s also a great place to start/end a river stroll.
• Boerentoren: Now known as the KBC tower, they call this the first skyscraper in Europe. Fabulous views from the observation deck – and note the architectural details!
• Vlaeykensgang and the Begijnhof: Last but not least are these two hidden spots, the first being a hidden alleyway once home to the city’s richest merchants, and the latter an idyllic courtyard of a working convent.

Antwerp has many names, since Belgium has more than one official language! You’ll mostly see Antwerpen (Dutch) and Anvers (French) on street signs and maps.

Antwerp Sightseeing:  Shopping

Ok, let’s not beat around the bush: buying REAL diamonds in Antwerp is not a great experience. There are so many scams, so many unscrupulous dealers preying on innocent tourists. Definitely wander the diamond district, but do not go into any shops unless you seriously intend to make a purchase. And if you are considering buying diamond in Antwerp, please educate yourself before you leave home to avoid disappointment.

A much more enjoyable alternative, in my opinion, is to buy some diamond-shaped chocolates (all the stores have them). Leonidas is probably the most famous Belgian chocolatier in Antwerp, but my favorite chocolate shop in Antwerp is Guylian. If you’re on a budget, just go to any grocery store, as you’ll find plenty of selection without the markup!

As for traditional shopping (clothing, housewares, etc.), you’ll want to take a stroll along the Meir, Belgium’s most famous shopping street. I love the shops in Belgium because you get some of the great German stores, the classy boutiques from France, and my old favorites from the Netherlands. There are also antique shops on Loosterstraat, though you’ll note that stores run down many of the sidestreets rom the Meir.

Belgian Foodie Finds

I always say that Belgium has the best food in the world – I love their sweet snacks and their hearty beer-and-fries-influenced comfort foods. Some great restaurants in Antwerp:

• In de Gloria is a wonderful old world, comfort food restaurant in an old merchant cottage.  You’ll get very tasty stouvlees (beer beef stew) and stoemp (mashed potatoes with garlic).  Cheap and cheerful.
• Although I think the service sucks, Het Gebaar is known for their desserts.  It’s a great location too – worth stopping by for a wine and a dessert, I think.  Similarly, I love the views over the river at Het Zuiderterras, which are worth it despite the bad service.
• Rode Zeven is a great cafe/restaurant with nice wines and classic Belgian dishes, all in a great people-watching atmosphere.
• As far as beer goes, one of my favorite Belgian beers – De Koninck – is from Antwerpen, and you’ll find it served everywhere.  It’s a bit of tre, but on the outskirts of town is the Huisbrouwerij ‘t Pakhuis, a great place to sample brews on the brewery property.

It’s very traditional to have mayo on your fries in Belgium. It’s not the same mayo as you might be used to, so try it. There is of course other toppings, like peanut sauce or ketchup.

Great Places to Stay in Antwerp

I’ve got a few suggestions for some very special places to stay in Antwerp:

• Hotel Residentie Elzenveld: This is an old 11th century monastery, and it’s dripping with history and culture. It’s quiet, clean, and very well maintained for being so old. The tradeoff of the historic heritage is that the rooms are quite simple, but who needs a flat screen TV when there are courtyards to explore and free breakfast?
• De Witte Lelie Hotel is a beautiful, beautiful hotel convered out of sevearl 17th century gabled townhouses.  It’s chic and contemporary, yet still fashionably old world Belgian.  And the location is superb.
• De Koning van Spanje Hotel I would only describe as “comfortable” – comfortable beds, comfortable and relaxed breakfast, soothing and comfy tubs, and a very peaceful garden on site.  Superb.
• Lastly if you want a traditional B&B experience, my recommendations go for the delightfully historic Huis Ergo B&B.  There are only three rooms so book in advance on this one, but they’re so beautiful you won’t want to leave.

Have you uncovered any diamonds in Antwerp?  Share in the comments!

Photo Credits via Flickr CC: Gastev, FaceMePLS, scalleja, Alan Stanton

As a beer drinker – and specifically a microbrew drinker – words cannot describe how excited I was to make it to Bend, Oregon, which I now affectionately call Beer Bohemia. That’s because this tiny town has 9 (and counting!) fantastic breweries that call Bend their home. In addition, there are artisan coffee shops and wineries, world class restaurants, hotels, and a town that has a peaceful and fun atmosphere. Bend is one of those places you visit and say, “hmm. Why don’t we live here?” Good question. For now, let’s have a look at some of my favorite Bend, Oregon attractions.

Beer (and Booze)

Wow. If you like a tipple, you will love Bend – because you’ve got great Oregon wines, locally brewed beers, and without a doubt the best distillery in the state of Oregon. Bend publishes a “bend ale trail” map, but here’s my hitlist of who you need to visit.

• Deschutes: This is Bend’s largest brewery. It also happens to be one of my favorite beers (in the world). The upside is you can enjoy some of your fave beers, but the downside is that depending on where you live, you can probably get these beers elsewhere. Still, worth a visit at least for one!
• Bendistillery: Without a question, the best distillery in Oregon, the friendliest distillery in Oregon, and some of the best vodka made in the USA. It’s a small plant but the tasting room is pleasant (sit out on the back porch on a nice day), and ask if there are any infusions they’ve got for sampling, as they have things to taste that aren’t on sale. I love their Crater Lake Vodka. It’s just superb as a sipping vodka or for cocktails.
• Good Life: Great name for a beer brand, eh? Good Life has some tasty brews, and they’re all the home base for the “cyclepub“, where you and your best friends can pedal a mobile bar around Bend!
• Boneyard: A tiny, tiny brewery with a grungy, punk rock attitude, but I do love their beers and despite their rough exterior, they’re smart, funny, and friendly brewers.
• 10 Barrel: Everytime I ask a Bend local about their favorite Bend brewery, I hear 10 Barrel. They do some great seasonal brews, too, so I suggest seeing what’s on special while you’re in town.

Pace yourself. No need to visit everybody on day one – or you might have some problems I can’t help you with.

Downtown Bend attractions

You don’t have to be a beer sloshing drunk to enjoy Bend, Oregon – attractions include things for families to do, and couples too.  Downtown Bend has a number of shops and stores downtown, many in old mill factories and abandoned warehouses; skin care products, rock climbing gear, jewelry, boots, pottery, and chocolates are just a few of the things you can buy that are made right here in Bend.

Bend is also an artist haven – in every spare alley and archway, you’ll find art galleries and small exhibitions, all worthy of your attention. The city hosts an arts festival and a film festival every year, further promoting the town as a cultural hub.

Lastly, downtown you’ll find Bend’s first modern school building which houses the Des Chutes Historical Museum – exploring the history of the local area.

Bend Adventure Tours

Bend is well placed for plenty of outdoor exploring as well. Wanderlust Tours is a local tour operator (I mentioned their tip for making your travels more memorable recently), but what are Bend’s outdoor attractions?

• High Desert Museum: You wouldn’t believe it on a rainy day in Portland, but most of the eastern part of Oregon is a desert. Explore the flora and fauna of it in this fab museum, just a few miles outside of the city.
• Winter: If you’re here in winter, there is cross country ski, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice skating…
• Summer: Summer bring biking and hiking, white water rafing, fishing, kayaking and bird watching.

I think the nice thing about Bend is you can choose your own adventure – whether that’s a gentle stroll or an adrenaline-packed day.

Despite being a relativelly small city (less than 80k people), Bend is the largest city in Central Oregon and the social, cultural hub. From Bend, you can see plenty of volcanos – several of which are still possible to erupt (it’s been about 1,300 years, so they are overdue.

Restaurants in Bend

With all those outdoor adventures as well as the beer and booze, you’re going to need to get something in that tummy of yours, and quick. Spots for guaranteed tasty noshing.

• Deschutes Brewery & Public House: If you’re wanting drinks with your food, why not go for one of the most popular spots in town?
• Mckay Cottage: They call it “creative comfort food.” I call it “that was absolutely the most incredible breakfast ever, can we go again tomorrow?”
• Sparrow Bakery: Wow. Incredible pastries (see above) such as their cardamom buns, scones, and stuffed sandwiches. Great for a quick lunch and/or to grab coffees and snacks on the way in/out of town.
• Backporch Coffee: Have to give a shout out to this local coffeehouse that actually gave us a wonderfully detailed experience in the art of coffee tasting. Roasts their own stuff – on a hot day, ask for their cold brew!

Best Hotels in Bend

After all that food, beverage, and sightseeing, you’ll be needing a place to rest your weary self. And Bend has you covered, no problem:

• The Oxford Hotel:  Hard to believe this superb, luxe hotel is such good value, and smack in the middle of downtown Bend!  Plush amenities, spa, workout area.  This is a great find.
• Brasada Ranch: On the outskirts of Bend, Brasada Ranch feels less like a hotel and more like a destination itself.  The property has superb sunset views over the mountains and also has a wonderful on site restaurant and bar.
• Phoenix Inn Suites Bend: Another property with a great location and rave reviews for their large rooms, great breakfast, and friendly hospitality.

All photos copyright Andy Hayes.

Special thanks to the Central Oregon Visitors Association, Oregon Coast Visitors Association, Travel Oregon, Evergreen Escapes, and all of our hosts along the coast for showing us this part of the country. Learn more about our editorial policy on sponsored trips here.

While Lisbon is probably the most popular destination in Portugal, the city of Faro is starting to increase in popularity. It used to be mostly a winter-sun destination for Brits, but with the many direct flights to Faro and Ryanair calling it a hub now, you can very easily and cheaply get here to enjoy the traditional Portugese culture alongside modern attractions.

In today’s trip report, let’s explore the best things to do in Faro, Portugal.

Historic Attractions

Faro’s old town (Cidade Velha or Centro Historico) is a must see and without a doubt the most popular attraction.  Note the architecture, which is 18th century Portugese with Moorish-influence.  Despite the popularity of the area, this district still has a relaxed feel.

Check out the Se, a museum that was a former templte, then cathedral, then mosque.  Head up to the roof for great views.  The Municipal Museum is another  favorite, with some wonderful mosaics, paintings, and other priceless works.  And one spot you’ll never forget is the Igreja do Carmo church – the bone and skull chapel is chilling but a must-experience.

But if you’re here for the beach, that’s the Praia de Faro.  It’s just a quick bus trip away, and the beach has plenty of amenities, like windsufing shops, bars and coffee shops.

Day Trips from Faro

While Faro is great, there are tons of great things to see in the area. A couple of ideas for day trips from Faro:

• I’d suggest you start with any day trips from Faro by catching a boat tour from the Cais da Porta Nova. There are several which leave in the morning and spend a couple of hours exploring the shore. Great photo opportunities and time to enjoy some fun in the sun.  The best tours head out to Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, a wonderful marshland area.
• A quick train ride will also take you to the lovely medieval town of Tavira. It’s home to large town squares, a castsle, wonderful churches, and several historic museums. I love the architecture in Tavria – so beautiful.

If you rent a car and head towards the Atlantic, or north, you’ll find hundreds of small towns and villages, all quiet and peaceful, and empty beaches.  You don’t have to go far to get off the beaten track.

Algarvian Cuisine

The Algarve is known for cuisine – not only tasty fish dishes as well as yummy comfot fords. There are lots of markets around, the most famous being the indoor market in Loule. You’ll probably be near tired of fish by the end of your trip, because it is so yummy and so prevalent – ask what’s on special that day. A few things to try:

• Bean soup: Simple but yummy. I love it when they include a slice of pumpkin as well as some fresh mint on top.
• Sonhos de cenoura: The only way to describe this is carrot cake meets cinnamon & sugar doughnut. It’s so yummy – it’s a traditionally a Christmas dish. Pictured above.
• Tarte de frutos secos Algarvia: The algarve is known for cakes, and this nutty temptation is a must to perk up your afternoon.
• Molotofe: similar to flan, it’s an egg-white custard covered in caramel.

Where to Stay in Faro

Faro has accommodations that range from all-inclusive resorts to boutique hotels and beach bungalows, with far-ranging budgets to match. Here are a few suggested recommendations:

• Hotel Eva: This hotel was recently renovated and it is a charming hotel, planted right next to the harbor, giving you great views over the ocean and the city. Guests can enjoy the well-equipped gym on site or perhaps instead just relax on the rooftop swimming pool. The on site Piano Bar is great for cocktails, and enjoy some tasty food at the Rooftop Restaurant.
• Hotel Faro: Widely known for its panroamic restaurant Ria Formosa, the Hotel Faro has a great central location for exploring the city. In addition the clean rooms and good wifi connection, the hotel offers a free shuttle boat to Desert Island in the summer (Jun-Sept).
• Pousada Palacio De Estoi Hotel Faro: Pictured above, this very special hotel has many modern features in the ambience of an old world building. This was the former home of the Viscount of Estoi, and the building took 20 years to complete – finished in 1909. The location is superb, as you can imagine, with many on site features such as a spa, swimming pools, restaurant, and bar. All the rooms have balconies overlooking the lush gardens.

Photo Credits: Bert Kauffmann,Pepe Martin, Wikicommons, guymoll

While most folks flock to Florida’s more popular destinations, like Key West, St Augustine, or Orlando, Tampa is one hotspot that is often skipped – a shame, because offers a well-rounded variety of cultural sightseeing, a world class amusement park, and access to what I think are some of the best beaches in Florida.  Here’s a quick run down of some of my favorite experiences and things to do in Tampa, FL.

Art it up in Downtown Tampa

Downtown tampa offers plenty of arts and sports for visitors – the Museum of Art (highly recommended!), the Tampa Theatre and Jobsite Theater just a few of the offerings. The St. Pete Times Forum (a.k.a. the “Ice Palace”) is an NHL hockey venue for the Tampa Bay Lightning.  Bayfront Center also hosts a number of events throughout the year.

Walk the Bayshore Boulevard

The Bayshore Boulevard is the world’s longest continuous sidewalk – hard to believe that it is in Florida, eh?  Skirting the bay, a stroll along here is a must, as it affords you some great views of the bay and the skyline, as well as some wonderful old stately homes that still sit along it.  The total boulevard runs for 4.5 miles, joining downtown Tampa and South tampa.

Sample Food and Cocktails in Ybor City

Pronounced ee-bore, not why-bore, Ybor City is Tampa’s most popular destination for tourists looking for some local culture.  Formerly a cigar manufacturing district (that’s the plant in the photo above), it’s now home to some of the best restaurants in the world – Columbia Restaurant is often sighted as an American icon.  There are a number of nightclubs and other social hotspots, as well as many gay-friendly bars and cocktail lounges.  Despite the wild nightlife here, it’s very safe, and easy to geta round with taxis and streetcars.  There are festivals and parades year round – Guavaween in October, Italian Fest in April, GaYbor days in July, and a Latin Festival in February.

Scream at Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens is one of the top 20 amusement parks in the world, and you can easily spend a couple of days here, because the park is so extensive.  There are many animal and bird exhibits, there’s the wonderful (albeit expensive) restaurants, and then the roller coaster rides.  This is a good place if you’re with a group because those who want adventure can head for the more intense rides, others can enjoy the animal parts of the park, and there are even quieter flower gardens and other areas to just chillout.

Get Out of Town

One of my personal favorite things to do in Tampa, FL wasn’t necessarily in Tampa, but getting a Tampa car rental is cheap, and you can use it to explore one of the best beaches in Florida, Clearwater.  It’s one of the few places in Florida where you truly get blinding-white sand and deep turquoise blue waters.  Just love it.

Crystal River is another popular spot where you can watch manatees in the wild, as well as take advantage of the number of eco-tours, kayaking and other watersports on the beautiful Kings Bay.

And just around the bay you’ll find yourself in sunny St. Petersburg, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and other fun things to do.  Don’t miss the Salvador Dali museum (one of the best outside of Dali’s home of Costa Brava, Spain), as well as a stroll on the St. Petersburg pier.

Spend the Night

• Sheraton Riveralk Hotel Tampa has a great location with wonderful views – you can sit and enjoy them from your balcony, which suit rooms have. It’s a few miles outside of downtown tampa, so good if you’re planning to roadtrip a lot, but also there is plenty of parking and a free shuttle service!
• Grand Hyatt Bay Hotel is just beautiful. It’s got a fabulous bar, wonderful views of the bay, and folks love the amenities suck as the gym, the fabulous granite bathtub, and the pool.
• Courtyard Hotel Downtown Tampa is styled in Courtyard by Marriot’ refreshed upgrade, meaning rooms are just sparkling. Free internet, free shuttle, free pool fitness center all are waiting for you – plus you are in a superb location just blocks from all the downtown attractions. I’ve heard evening cocktail hour here is also not to be missed!

What are your favorite things to do in Tampa, FL?

Photo Credits: csessums, sonny side up, 55thstreet, uberphot,brian marshall,
John Weiss, brinkenfeldt

Getting away from London can be a challenge – there’s so much to see and do there to take up days and days – but if you do you’ll see how diverse and unique England’s travel opportunities are. One aspect of England relatively undiscovered are the scenic railway lines – trains used to criss-cross Great Britain in massive numbers, and while those are dwindling, you’ll still find some great train experiences.

No matter whether you choose to add on a rail trip to your existing itinerary or plan on taking advantage of the many escorted rail holidays in England, you’ve got plenty to choose from. Here are some of my favorite scenic railway destinations in England.

(For reference, you might want to use the National Rail Network Map as a reference.)

Dawlish

Some day the view of the coastline near Dawlish, just as you exit a railway tunnel, is one of the best views of the entire English rail network. Dawlish is on the south coast of Devon, just past Exeter, so it’s a couple of hours out from London. The establishment of a rail line here in 1847 made way for this town to run into a popular seaside resort. This is one of the most expensive pieces of rail line, as the rail companies have a harsh battle with sea erosion to protect the rails.

Durham City

Many people hop on the National Express one of the UK’s best trains, to be whisked away for the 5 hour journey up to Edinburgh, the Scottish capital. Most note the large cathedral as the train pulls into Durham City, but don’t take second thought. Durham City is one of my favorite towns in England, with the incredible cathedral, the tea shops, hidden alleyways, and the countryside as you approach Durham is stunning.

Settle-Carlisle Railway

Called the most scenic railway in England, the Settle-Carlisle line passes though an area of rich history and scenery, via the Yorkshire Dales and Eden Valley, passing through many wonderful villages and towns. There are some steam trains and other special experiences on thsi line, but you can still enjoy theh view by booking a ticket from Leeds to Carlisle – two great cities also worth of your attention!

North Yorkshire Moors Railway

A magnificent part of England, you can enjoy the scenic Yorkshire Moors from the comfort of a vintage steam train by taking the NYMR line, which dips under gorgeous bridges and scenic hills for the one hour journey from Pickering to Grosmont. Along the way you can take advantage of tea and scones by booking in for lunch! The schedules rotate throughout the year for special events; advance booking recommended.

Bath

Historic Bath is one of the prettiest towns in the English Countryside, and one of the most popular daytrips from England. You have lots of options for getting here, from the regular mainline service to traveling in the luxurious surrounds of the Orient Express. Regardless, as you’ll start to spot lots of Georgian architecture in the distance long before you pull into Bath station.

Esk Valley Railway

Another wonderful North Yorkshire Moors railway, the gorgeous Esk Valley Railway connects Middlesbrough to the seaside town of Whitby via one of the prettiest valleys in the area. The train makes some wonderful stops in towns like Lealholm, worth getting off to explore, as well as the salty air boardwalk in Whitby. This line is the sea extension of the Northern rail mainline network.

Lewes to Hastings Railway

Once its own railway company and part of several train companies operating in the area, the Lewes and Hastings Railway is one of several scenic stretches of train that travelers see heading out to the famous boardwalk and attractions of Brighton. It’s a shame few stop on the way – towns like Hastings are quieter and have a atmosphere and charm of their own. For an added railway treat, take the Hastings Cliff Railway for some great view along one of the steepest sets of track in England.

The Severn Beach Line

Another line often said to be one of the most scenic in Europe, the Severn Beach Line whisks you along nine villages from Bistol down to Severn Beach. You’ll see the beautiful Avon Gorge and Avon Valley, as well great views of the Severn Estuary as you pull into the station. A must if you’re visiting Bristol.

The Bittern Line

Running from Norwich to Cromer and Sheringham, this 30 miles of track is wonderfully picturesque and a great way to relax and enjoy a bit of the English countryside. The wide open countryside in this part of the country – with sweeping views that go on for miles – is popular with hikers and birders, the latter being the reason for the name of the line, a bird called the Bittern. Hop off the train at any stop for great scenery, fresh seafood, and other joys of Eastern England.

Cotswolds & Malverns Line

Last but not least is the Cotswolds & Malverns Line which gives you access to many of the world-famous attractions in the Cotswolds. Hiking paths, old world architecture, and other untouched countryside await in towns like Oxford, Worcester, or Hereford.
Photos by mattbuck4950, Andrew Hayes, hisgett, A Travelling Bum, WikiCommons, whatwhenwhere, mattbuck4950, P.A. King, oliverm5