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New York has been extremely good to me over the last couple of weeks. Even though I had some unexpected stress with my living situation (more on that to come), I couldn’t be happier where I am staying right now, a cozy Upper West Side apartment.

The weather has been exceptionally warm, with the second weekend in a row being so hot that I was tempted to get my bikini out and join my fellow sun seekers in the parks around the city – I had no idea that girls would lay out in their bikinis (or sometimes underwear!) anywhere you find a tiny spot of grass as soon as the thermometer shows 75°F!

There have been several days when it was hard for me to convince myself that I actually needed to work and not just go out and enjoy the glorious spring weather – the hardship of not having a boss! 😉

I have been lucky enough though to visit all my favorite parks over the past couple of weeks, including Bryant Park, pictured, Central Park (where I can’t get enough of the cherry blossoms), Brooklyn Bridge Park, the High Line and Washington Square Park, plus a few parks I hadn’t known yet, such as Astoria Park, Morningside Park and Riverside Park along the Hudson River.

This weekend, I also found some time to return to Harlem, where I hadn’t been in many years, and was surprised to see how much the neighborhood had changed since my last visit – expect a full post on Harlem soon!

Is Memphis on your travel wish list? Most people travel to Memphis to visit Graceland, Elvis Presley’s home – but there’s more to the city than the massive mansion of the “King of Rock’n’Roll”. If you are curious about the best attractions and activities in Memphis, Tennessee, keep reading!

The six best things to do in Memphis:

Take a stroll down Beale Street

Beale Street is one of the most famous streets in the US, and the one place that you can’t miss on a trip to Memphis. The 1.8-mile long street is the official home of Blues music and the birthplace of Rock’n’Roll, making it a must-visit attraction for any music fan. A walk down Beale Street will introduce you to talented musicians in iconic venues that are rich in history and have hosted some of the greatest Blues musicians in our history. Officially called the “Beale Street Entertainment District”, the three blocks located in Downtown Memphis are the pulse of nightlife in the city, and you will also find great food, live music venues, distilleries, and more here.

Experience the Nightlife

Memphis’ nightlife is something you don’t want to miss! Especially the live music scene is incredible, and you don’t even need to go inside an overpriced club to listen to a live band – you’ll find them playing right on the streets. The nightlife scene in Memphis spans from Midtown to Downtown along Beale Street (see above) – and that’s where most of Memphis’ hotels are located. So you won’t have to walk far to find live music and great food.

If you are visiting Memphis for a bachelorette weekend, you may want to add some beauty treatments to your day before a big night out on the town. Luckily, there are plenty of places where you can get a blowout or a specific hairdo for the occasion, such as jumbo box braids or extensions. Just don’t forget to make an appointment prior to your trip to Memphis.

Visit Graceland

Graceland is the famed mansion that was once owned by Rock’n’Roll star Elvis Presley. It stayed in the family after his passing and is now open to the public. Not only can you see how the King Of Rock’n’Roll lived, but you can also learn about his life and career. Half a million people from all over the world flock to Graceland every year- it is the second most famous home in the U.S. after the White House! It’s a Must-See destination for Elvis fans, but also interesting for people who aren’t very familiar with him and his music, for things such as the sometimes tacky decor, his two private airplanes and one of the first microwaves ever available – all on display at Graceland.

Tour the Museums

Memphis has a number of excellent museums, so if you consider yourself a culture vulture, you’ll want to add at least one of them to your itinerary. In addition to the obligatory pilgrimage to Elvis Presley’s Graceland (mentioned above), music lovers will love the Rock ‘N Soul Museum (one of the few Smithsonian Museums outside of Washington D.C.), the Memphis Music Hall of Fame as well as the Blues Hall of Fame Museum, and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. History buffs can’t miss the Lorraine Motel, part of the National Civil Rights museum complex, where Dr Martin Luther King Jr. was killed on April 4, 1968 and the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum, a small museum dedicated to telling the story of the Underground Railroad and how it helped slaves escape to freedom.

Art aficionados will love the Brooks Museum, the largest art museum in Tennessee. Dixon Gallery & Gardens is another fabulous art museum, merging a fine art museum with a 17-acre garden. In addition to art, you’ll be able to enjoy sculpture gardens, English Gardens and horticulture exhibits. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the Mississippi River Museum and Mud Island Nature Park, where you can learn more about the history of the Mississippi River and how it helped shape the history of Memphis. (Note that this museum is only open from April till October).  Then there’s the Pink Palace Museum, the largest science and technology museum in the mid-South. Even if you’re not a huge museum fan, if there’s a rainy day during your trip to Memphis, I guarantee you that there’s at least one museum you will enjoy. If you’re traveling with children, the Children’s Museum is a great activity with kids.

Get Outside

If you’re not a city dweller, you’ll be pleased to hear that there are plenty of outdoorsy things to do in Memphis. There are hundreds of miles of walking and biking trails along the Mississippi River, and if you don’t want to travel with your own bicycle, you can take advantage of Memphis’ “Explore Bike Share” which has around 80 bike pick-up an drop-off locations and costs only $12 per week.

Memphis was also named one of the best paddling towns in the United States, and you can kayak, canoe or stand-up paddle on the Mississippi River right from Downtown Memphis. Mud Island in the Mississippi River is home to the Greenbelt Park, which has a lovely 1.5-mile trail and is a popular spot for picnics. The Memphis Botanic Garden is also a beautiful destination for anyone who loves the outdoors.

Any of these places and activities are fantastic during the warmer months of the year. At night, there are plenty of outdoors events, for example at Levitt Shell, an outdoor amphitheater where you can enjoy free live music concerts in the fall and spring.

Go to the Zoo

The Memphis Zoo was vote one of the top ten zoos in the entire US, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It is home to more than 4,500 animals, including rare species such as the Giant Panda and hippos and grizzly bears. In total, around 500 species from all over the world can be seen. The zoo is open year-round, so you can add it to your list regardless of what time of year you’re planning to visit Tennessee. If you’re traveling with kids, check out the various programs that the zoo offers especially for children. The zoo is open daily from 9am to 6pm between mid-March and mid-October and from 9am to 5pm between mid-October and mid-March.

Dallas is a major hub in the state of Texas, and it offers visitors a wide range of fun places to visit. From museums with interactive exhibits to family-friendly activities such as Six Flags and the Dallas Zoo, there’s something for everybody! Dallas is well-known for being home to one of America’s largest airports – DFW International Airport – which welcomes more than 73 million passengers each year. In addition, Dallas has many other attractions that make it an excellent destination for your next trip. Plus, because the city is so centrally located in North America, you can fly from Dallas and reach most destinations within just a few hours. The city also provides affordable accommodations at hotels near all main attractions, as well as food options ranging from casual dining to upscale cuisine. In this article, you will find a list of the most popular attractions in Dallas, but be sure to do your own research when planning your trip, so you can make the most out of your time! 

1. Why you should visit Dallas on your next trip to the States

There are so many reasons to visit Dallas. First of all, it’s centrally located, meaning you can get anywhere in the US within just a few hours, so according to the folks at RV ezy, it might be a good idea to rent an RV to have a real adventure either with your family or your friends! If this idea seems interesting to you, you might want to see the options available in the Dallas area. Further, it has affordable accommodation and some of the best Tex-Mex food in the US. And for those who enjoy sunsets on the beach at night, you’re not too far away from Galveston right on the Gulf Of Mexico. The people are friendly, they’ll give you directions or even invite you over for dinner.

When you’re planning your trip to Dallas, be sure to check the weather forecasts, so you’ll know what clothes to pack. The winters can be extremely cold with temperatures plummeting below zero degrees Celsius at night, while the summers are hot and humid with temperatures commonly reaching 35 degrees Celsius. With all of this in mind, remember to take a break every once in a while and enjoy the wonderful cuisine that Dallas has to offer!

2. The Major Attractions in Dallas

The most popular attractions in Dallas are Fair Park, Six Flags, Arlington, Deep Ellum, and the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, and many more, depending on your preferences!

• Six Flags: Located in Arlington, Six Flags is one of the most popular amusement parks in America and offers a wide range of roller coasters and other rides for thrill-seekers. You can also check out Six Flags’ newest attraction, Wonder Woman Lasso of Truth (or WLOT). If you’re looking for something more relaxing, take a spin on the Star Flyer!
• Arlington: This city is home to several museums such as the Frontiers of Flight Museum and the Texas Air & Space Museum. For those who enjoy the local culture, the Texas Sports Hall of Fame and the Will Rogers Memorial Center are also fantastic choices when in the city.
• Deep Ellum: This is where you can find bars, live music venues, and restaurants located in historic warehouses. Don’t miss out on popular events such as the Deep Ellum Arts Festival or Dallas Pride! There are plenty of unique things to see which you might regret not seeing, so don’t hesitate to give it a visit!
• If you’re looking to explore nature, then be sure to visit the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. This popular attraction features a Japanese Garden, Spanish Courtyard, Children’s Adventure Garden, and much more. 

3. Places you need to visit on your Dallas trip 

Dallas is home to the 10th largest museum complex in the country, Dallas Museum of Art (DMA) and Dallas Children’s Museums (DMC). The latter is composed of the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, which has over 165 hands-on exhibits spread across four floors, and the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House. There are also plenty of other free attractions including public art displays around the downtown area, parks with beautiful views, and museums in nearby cities.

• Take a family trip to the Dallas Zoo for some fun at this spacious zoo – it’s one of the largest in the nation! Aside from living animal exhibits, there are also rides spread out across 100 acres of land, including a Children’s Park with its carousel and miniature train rides. For food, there’s the popular Gladys Porter Zoo Café, which serves local and international cuisine.
• For something completely different, how about a trip to Six Flags Over Texas? With 12 roller coasters and numerous other rides, this is one of the most exciting amusement parks in the country. For those with less thrill-seeking appetites, there’s Splashtown which has plenty of water slides and other attractions.
• If you’re into shopping, the upscale Northpark Center offers high-end fashion brands in an outdoor setting with views of the Dallas skyline – it even features gallery space for local artists! For more reasonably priced items, head to West Village where there are over 100 retailers including The Gap, Nordstrom Rack, and Anthropologie.
• Go for a relaxing day out in the Arboretum at Rowlett Creek – this nature reserve has several gardens to visit including the Japanese Garden which is modeled after famous landmarks in Japan. There’s also an aviary filled with over 200 different species of birds! Not far away is the shopping destination, West Village, where you can get a bite to eat and shop for some souvenirs.

• For a small-town feel, go to Downtown Garland which features several quaint shops housed in Victorian-style buildings from the 1800s! If you’re feeling hungry, stop by Old Downtown Mesquite – it’s just 20 minutes from Dallas and has lots of eateries to choose from.

Tip: CityPASS has discounted tickets to several attractions including the Dallas Zoo, Six Flags Over Texas, and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. This is a great way to save money when planning your trip!

4. Where to stay in Dallas

Dallas offers affordable accommodations at hotels near all main attractions, as well as food options ranging from casual dining to upscale cuisine. Some of the most popular hotels in Dallas include:

If you’re looking for a cheaper option, the Hampton Inn & Suites Dallas Downtown (from US$157 per night), the SOVA East Downtown Dallas (from US$98 per night) and Homewood Suites Downtown Dallas (from US$155) are good options. There also lots of motels in the city, such as the Rodeway Inn near Six Flags.

In addition to these, you can also find several affordable hotels located near the airport. Good options are:

• Wingate by Wyndham DFW Airport (from US$93 per night)
• Hyatt Place DFW (from US$148 per night)
• Homewood Suites by Hilton DFW Airport North (from US$157 per night)

Dallas is a great destination for your next trip due to its affordability and close proximity to other locations throughout North America. Crowds and prices go up during holidays and special events such as Dallas Pride and the State Fair of Texas, so plan accordingly! Be sure to visit all the major attractions in Dallas, as well as experience local dining and nightlife. Have fun on your trip to Dallas!

Another unforgettable year is coming to an end – this time it is our second year as full-time travelers! We’ve literally been around the world this year and, rather than rattle off a list of everywhere we’ve been, this Goodbye 2011 post will highlight our favorite pictures of the year, starting in Central America and ending in Thailand after stints in Europe, the U.S. and Canada.

January 2011

As we mentioned in our Goodbye to 2010 post, we began the year at Lake Yojoa in Honduras, where we were the only guests at our hotel. 2011 started out as laid-back as can be…

For more January highlights, check out our Facebook album Best of 2011: January (Honduras & Nicaragua).

February 2011

Shortly after the start of the New Year, we moved on to Nicaragua – and fell head over heels in love with the country. The picture was taken in Masaya, just outside of Granada…one of Nicaragua’s most visited cities. Throughout the country, the horse and buggy is still a common and totally valid form of transportation – alongside cars, buses, SUVs, motorcycles and bicycles.

For more February highlights check out our Facebook album Best of 2011: February (Nicaragua & Costa Rica).

March 2011

After three relaxing weeks in Costa Rica we made our way to Panama and were most impressed with the Casco Viejo area of Panama City (check out our picture post of Casco Viejo). We resisted actually picking up a Panama hat, but couldn’t resist photographing them. Panamanians have certainly got style!

For more March highlights check out our Facebook album: Best of 2011: March (Costa Rica, Panama & Germany).

April 2011

Going from six months in the developing countries of Central America to visiting the mighty castles of Germany was an extreme contrast. This is what we love most about our nomadic lifestyle! At the end of the month we completed our first year on the road (find out how much we spent in one year of travel here).

For more April highlights check out our Facebook album: Best of 2011: April (Germany, Austria & Italy)

May 2011

In Spring we traveled in Europe, from Germany and Austria to a few weeks in Tuscany. While we were both blown away by the romance of the countryside, the taste of the wine and the warmth of the locals, it was the pizza…the glorious pizza…that became the highlight of May 2011 for us.

For more May 2011 highlights including Jess with a group of aliens in Spain, check out our Facebook album: Best of 2011: May (Italy & Spain).

June 2011

In the first week of June, we went on our first ever cruise and followed that up by reaching 400 days on the road! Just a week later we would discover a city that could possibly, one day, be called home: Lisbon, Portugal. The Portuguese capital just ticks so many boxes – laid-back, sunny, warm, good (and cheap) coffee, beaches as far as the eye can see, plenty of history and oozing with charm. What struck us most was how similar Lisbon is to San Francisco. We spent three fabulous weeks here in June (despite a near heart attack experience that still has us cracking up).

For more June highlights, check out our Facebook album: Best of 2011: June (Spain, Corsica, Portugal).

July 2011

From Lisbon we flew directly to Toronto to begin an entirely new North American chapter of our travels. We spent six weeks house-sitting outside of Ottawa. These weeks were filled with exploring adorable villages, peaceful sunset bike rides, evenings in the jacuzzi and hanging with the friendly neighbors drinking great Canadian micro-brews.

For more July highlights, check out our Facebook album: Best of 2011: July (Canada).

August 2011

August was truly an unforgettable month that brought us through Montreal, Quebec, Boston, and the start of our NYC2NOLA road trip through New York, Philadelphia and Washington DC on our way down to New Orleans. While we loved the freedom of the open road, it was our four nights in New York that dazzled us the most. There is just something about this concrete jungle that gets us every time.

For more August highlights, check out our Facebook album: Best of 2011: August (Canada & USA).

September 2011

After four weeks and over 4,000 miles we finally made it to New Orleans in September. What we found when we arrived is a city with style, individuality and people with a zest for life and love of music like we’ve never experienced before. We could easily spend more than a week in the Big Easy…in fact we toyed with the idea of a few months here sometime in the future, too. On September 13th, just before reaching Chicago, we hit 500 days on the road.

For more September highlights, check out our Facebook album: Best of 2011: September (U.S. Road Trip).

October 2011

And then we flew to the other side of the planet – for our first trip to South East Asia! We started in Thailand, and it was definitely a relief to gaze out at this crystal blue water after a few chilly weeks in Chicago and Colorado!

For more October highlights, check out our Facebook album: Best of 2011: October (Chicago, Colorado & Thailand).

November 2011

After finding a good place to settle down to work in the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai, we hopped a series of buses and boats to travel around northern Laos for the last two weeks of November. While the two countries have their similarities, we were struck by how much simpler life in Laos is compared to fast-paced and modern Thailand. We have learned so much since arriving in Asia, especially about Buddhism – and have become accustomed to sharing our daily lives with the hundreds of monks populating cities and villages across the Buddhist nations.

For more November highlights, check out our Facebook album: Best of 2011: November (Thailand & Laos).

December 2011

The last month of 2011 marked a major milestone for us, as we hit 600 days on the road! In some ways it feels as though we have just started traveling. Looking back at everything we have done in these six hundred days truly feels like an accomplishment. One lesson we have learned is that in order to be happy as nomads, we need to know when to take longer breaks and relax. That’s why we booked ourselves in to an apartment in Chiang Mai for one month in December. We love this city, as it has everything we could ever need or want. We celebrated Christmas with friends, went on hikes, spent time with elephants, eaten endless veggie cuisine and learned so much about Thai culture and tradition.

For more December highlights, check out our Facebook album: Best of 2011: December (Laos & Thailand).

Happy New Year 2012 to all our readers!

We would love for you to tell us about your travel highlights for 2011 in the comments below – we’re always on the lookout for new locations about where to travel next!

Kansas City, Missouri is an area steeped in rich history teeming with historic neighborhoods, interesting museums, and plenty of tourist attractions. Next time you’re planning for a visit to the city, why not check out some of the top-rated places below?

Popular Attractions In Kansas City

The World War I museum located in the heart of the city is a testament to the legacy left behind by war. It chronicles the strife and the battles of our history while using key objects such as torpedoes, grenades, and artifacts from worldwide battles. While visiting the museum, don’t forget to ride to the top of the 1926 Liberty Memorial in the 217-foot elevator!

Established more than 80 years ago, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is a free yet immersive experience. You can enhance your knowledge of worldwide culture and art through the different exhibits showing artwork by known American and European painters, Chinese artisans, and Native Americans. Many modern American photographers also showcase their art there!

Home of the Kansas City Royals, the 2015 World Series champions, the Kauffman Stadium offers sports fans a worthwhile visit. If you’re ever in the city during summertime or game season, all the more reason to stop by! This post from Travel Lens also has a whole list of great things you should consider doing.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Attractions

Home to an immense collection of miniature toys with a nostalgic vibe, the Toy and Miniature Museum offers a quirky tourist stop. With over 72,000 objects on display, the museum boasts a unique quality experience.

For aviation buffs and history lovers, the National Airline History Museum is a must-see! With an authentic 1941 Douglas DC-3 on display, the history of commercial aviation is brought to light with life-sized artifacts.In 1856, a steamboat named Arabia sank in the Missouri River. In 1988, its remains and artifacts were brought to light for the first time and preserved for posterity. The Steamboat Arabia Museum helps glimpse life in a bygone era while offering a great way to spend a lazy afternoon.

Neighborhoods Worth A Visit

Home of 1930’s jazz music, a culturally relevant yet historic neighborhood is the 18th and Vine District. Thanks to restoration efforts, the area still boasts numerous attractions such as the refreshed Gem Theater, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, and the American Jazz Museum.

If you would like to see what nightlife has to offer in the city, Westport has many movie theaters, piano clubs, bars, and restaurants you can enjoy. The Volker neighborhood is nearby, but it has a hipster modern vibe that younger travelers enjoy.

Outdoor Activities

Kansas City has so much year-round fun to offer. Make sure you take advantage of the city during summertime and of course, even during the colder months of the year! Running, cycling, walking or active sports there’s plenty to do.

Restaurants And Accommodation

Are you planning to stay in the city overnight? If so, take advantage of the great rates offered by national and local boutique hotel chains. There are many options in the Crown Center, which is also in close proximity to the World War I Museum.

The city has many casual and fine dining options on offer. A great recommendation for a modern organic feast is the Blue Bird Bistro and the Farmhouse. Of course, no visit to the city is complete without at least one indulgent treat! Make sure to give the Kansas City barbecue a try which consists of slowly cooked meat liberally slathered in the tangiest sauce available on the market!

If you’re an avid outdoors person, then you likely have what you consider the best-hiking destinations already in mind. If you’re planning to travel to the Carolinas, Tennessee, or Virginia, you have to explore the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Blue Ridge is a province of the famous Appalachian Mountain range, but you’ve likely heard of them on their own anyway. The Blue Ridge Mountains travel through some of the south’s most beautiful states and cities, so they’re worth a trip, especially if you enjoy the trails. Let’s take a look at some beautiful spots you could stay in as you explore the Blue Ridge.

Johnson City, Tennessee 

Tennessee’s motto is “America at Its Best,” and for a good reason. Johnson City is one notable city along the Blue Ridge Mountains. While in the city, things you must experience are Boone Lake and Tweetsie Trail. If you’re also a fan of breweries, Johnson City’s Yee-Haw Brewing Company is worth a stop. The Watauga River is another well-known spot that tourists exploring the Blue Ridge enjoy because it’s also home to Wilbur Dam, the first hydroelectric dam in Tennessee. If you want to make a few days out of Tennessee, why not go ahead and rent a car? Then just simply head to Memphis or Nashville, where you’ll find more nightlife and more prominent city vibes.

Charlottesville, Virginia

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains is the small city of Charlottesville, Virginia. Most known as Thomas Jefferson’s hometown, Charlottesville is full of small-town charm and incredible outdoor experiences. Charlottesville is also home to the University of Virginia and world-class medical services, should you need services like physical therapy in Charlottesville from hiking and traveling. Charlottesville is also known for its breweries and wineries, and you can make an entire day out of exploring them. And don’t forget to shop at The Downtown Mall, the country’s longest pedestrian mall. It’s lined with charming boutiques and local eateries — excellent restaurants are The Whiskey Jar and Hamiltons. If you’re in the shopping mood, check out Bittersweet or Oyster House Antiques.

Asheville, North Carolina 

When you’re driving through North Carolina, if you’re not along the coastline, the state can seem somewhat flat and boring — nothing could be further from the truth. While exploring the Blue Ridge, make a point to stop in the metropolitan area of Asheville, North Carolina. Things worth noting in this city are hopping on Lazoom (a giant purple bus) and getting a tour of the town. It’s also a good idea to experience the River Arts District. A beautiful walk along the river opens your world up to local artists and exhibits.

Additionally, the food in Asheville is fantastic. Places worth grabbing a bite are Vivian, The Bull, and Beggar. If you live a plant-based lifestyle, you have to go to Short Street Cakes, a bakery that makes some seriously decadent vegan treats!

Frederick, Maryland 

Maryland is known for its delicious seafood from the bay, but you’ll likely be far from water if you’re on the Blue Ridge. It’s worth taking a drive to the coast to experience some fantastic crab if you have time. Also, in Frederick, you should check out the art galleries (there are ten!) in downtown Frederick. While you’re downtown, you should also explore the retail and dining scene. While it’s a small city, Frederick has a lot to offer. The city’s proximity to Baltimore and Washington, D.C. also makes it easy to go out for a night in a bigger city if that’s what you’re looking for.

Greenville, South Carolina 

Last on the list is the city of Greenville, South Carolina. As the Blue Ridge travels through some great states, you’ve got to stop in South Carolina on your journey. If you’re an art lover, Greenville has two excellent museums worth a visit: the Greenville County Museum of Art and the Bob Jones University Museum and Gallery. Surprisingly, there are also eight comedy venues located in Greenville, so this is a city worth stopping in if you like laughs.

Traveling the Blue Ridge Mountains is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many people. One of the most popular times to experience its majesty is in late Fall, as the season change causes the leaves to turn. Many believe the leaves changing in central Virginia is one of the most magnificent displays of the season’s changing in the country. So, if you’ve been thinking about adding this experience to your travel list, let this list be your inspiration to start planning. Happy trails!

New Orleans is a beautiful, one-of-a-kind city that is quite unlike any other major city across the United States. Owing to its founding to the French, the city was established in 1718, trading hands a few times before finally joining the Americas with the rest of the Louisiana Purchase. 

Because of the rich cultural history during its founding, as well as the numerous cultures that have influenced it as it grew to a Metropolis, the city has a distinct vibe and look that’s completely unmatched. When you inevitably come to visit this beautiful city, here are some essential hot spots for your trip.

Tour the French Quarter

It’s really impossible to go for a trip to New Orleans and leave this out of the itinerary! The French Quarter is what gives New Orleans its distinctive characteristics and is what is the most easily recognized landmark in the city. The French Quarter maintains a lot of the old French feel, with cobblestone streets and arched balconies overlooking the streets, all with their original French names!

Bourbon Street is one of the key draws of the French Quarter, being one of the party hubs of the city. It is thirteen sprawling blocks, with plenty to do, so if you ever find yourself looking for a slice of the nightlife, Bourbon Street is where to go.

Visit the Swampland

The swampland that surrounds New Orleans is a unique environment in the United States, with the only thing similar to it being in the Everglades in Southern Florida. However, while the Everglades is more remote, the swamps of New Orleans come right up to the city and can easily be visited without having to sacrifice a whole day to the endeavor (unless you want to, of course!).

The native diversity is incredible, with a trip to the swamps offering views of alligators, cranes, turtles, mosses, and trees unlike those on the mainland, and more! In addition, certain tours of the swampland would be sure to show some of the ways the Cajun culture lived in the swamp and how they thrived there!

Explore the Garden District

It is completely possible that during your trip you’ll need moments of calm and peace. When that happens, it is reasonable to seek out calmer haunts. In this case, the immaculate architecture of the Garden District proves to be a true blessing. The Garden District has some of the nicest homes, with gardens and parks offering an oasis of calm in a very busy city.

The intersection of Washington Street and Prytania Street is also a fantastic place to take a break for a nice luncheon or to go shopping during the daytime, too. It has many lovely businesses that can help you regain your energy and composure before or after a night of intense partying.

Take a Risk with a Macabre Evening

One of the main draws of New Orleans, besides Mardi Gras, is the culture of voodoo. Voodoo was initially brought to New Orleans when slaves fled Haiti in the late 1700s. Ever since then, it has been an iconic piece of culture within the city. To start the evening and get yourself in the mood, visit any of the beautiful but spooky cemeteries that dot the city. To protect against rising water levels, many of the crypts and tombs are raised above the ground and are artfully decorated.

Once you’ve gotten into the mood, now more than ever might be the time to look for a tarot reader near you while on your vacation. New Orleans has no shortage of options that you can choose from and this is a great way to learn a little bit more about yourself or even sneak a peek into your future… if you dare!

View the Art Behind the Mardi Gras Holiday

Even if you are not in town for the holiday itself, there are locations around the town where you can see artwork and items that would be used for the actual holiday. One such place is Mardi Gras World. It hosts a collection of previous items used during Mardi Gras, both as decoration and even some items used during the parades through town. If you missed the big day, this is a good way to get in on the action and snag some beads — with no one being the wiser!

There’s no doubt about it. New Orleans is a city that’s absolutely steeped in history, and it’s one that is quite unlike anywhere else in the entire United States. If you’re considering where to go this year, and you want somewhere different than what you’ve done before, consider the bustling beauty of New Orleans. You’ll love your stay here in the Big Easy!

While Los Angeles itself has plenty to offer, the city can be quite overwhelming, especially for people who aren’t used to cities of this magnitude. During the month I spent in the West Coast metropole last year, I became increasingly frustrated about the long drives and traffic several times – can it really take 90 minutes to cover an eight mile distance? I found myself wishing for small town conveniences on various occasions (usually while stuck in a traffic jam on the 405), and that’s when I realized it may be a good idea to check out some nearby cities of a more manageable size to see what they have to offer. Luckily I had enough time for several day trips from Los Angeles, which allowed me to check out several cities right in Los Angeles county. Some cities along the coast, some just outside the L.A. city limits. Each one was special and unique in their own way, and worth a visit for things that the others didn’t have. If you visit L.A. and want to escape the ‘Big Smog’ for a day, here are five cities near Los Angeles that are worth visiting:

Five Cities that make for great day trips from Los Angeles

1. Long Beach, California

Long Beach is LA’s big neighbor to the south, California’s 7th largest city and second busiest container port in the U.S. The massive port has led people to believe that Long Beach is nothing more than a big industrial city, but I found out that the city itself is actually a fine escape from L.A., offering a downtown area that is walkable and, as its name suggests, a pretty long beach.The coastline is actually divided into different smaller beaches, but what they all have in common is that they are wide, sandy, and have a bike & running path that follows the shore for miles.

I was surprised to find more independent coffee shops that I could possibly try in a day (Rose Parks and the Library Coffee House were among my favorites), colorful street art (especially in the East Village Arts District), and the quaint Belmont Shore neighborhood with its Spanish-style homes from the 1920s and 1930s and palm-fringed streets.

The one thing that really had the ship lover in me the most excited weren’t the freight ships that majestically glide in and out of the port, but the original Queen Mary ocean liner that is retired in Long Beach and can be visited, which is best done by having drinks at the Observation Bar.If you arrive hungry in Long Beach, for breakfast head to the Coffee Cup, Sweet Dixie or Fuego At The Maya. If you get hungry later in the day, head to Los Comprados for Mexican or to Nick’s for classic American comfort food. For beer lovers, Belmont Brewing right by the beach is a must and its happy hour makes it a perfect sunset hangout. Long Beach is one of the best cities near Los Angeles worth visiting, but it also has enough to offer to make it a destination in itself.

There are quite a few hotels in Long Beach, most of them conveniently located in the Downtown area, in walking distance to the beach.

2. Malibu – a MUST-DO day trip from Los Angeles

Malibu is located west of L.A. and is known for its stunning cliff views over the ocean, as well as lovely Zuma Beach and Malibu Lagoon State Beach, which is especially popular with surfers. The city stretches along the ocean for nearly 30 miles and a ride along the Pacific Coast Highway is the perfect way to get a first glimpse of what is some of California’s finest coastline.

The other big draw of Malibu is that it is right near some hiking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains, where you can hike through canyons and to waterfalls. A great hike that is not too difficult and only takes two hours is the Solstice Canyon hike, but if you want a bit more of a workout, head up the Mishe Mokwa Trail to Sandstone Peak, which inclines 1,600 feet and offers amazing views over the Malibu coast, and on a good day, all the way to the Channel Islands. Check out this article for more Malibu hikes – the 7.5 mile Puerco Canyon hike is already on my to-do-list for my next California stint.

The Malibu Pier is also not to be missed, and while you’re there, have dinner at Malibu Farm, an organic cafe right at the end of the pier. The best time to visit is at sunset, but their breakfast dishes are also absolutely delicious.

3. Pasadena – a food lover’s paradise

Pasadena is located northeast of L.A., and is a food lover’s paradise: There are over 500 restaurants here, including the only Michelin-rated hotel restaurant in Southern California, The Langham Huntington, and don’t miss the 46-year-old Pasadena landmark Pie ‘n Burger. If you are a foodie, this one should top your list of the cities near Los Angeles worth visiting.

Architecture buffs will love Pasadena for its historic homes: Bungalow Heaven is a Landmark District made up of 800 small craftsman bungalows built between 1900 and 1930, the Gamble House being the most famous one, known as the masterpiece of the Arts & Crafts period.

Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Norton Simon Museum, an extensive art museum with a wonderful sculpture garden and a remarkable contemporary art section.

4. Anaheim

Anaheim is home to the ‘Happiest Place On Earth’ – Disneyland! And because of this, it’s one of the most popular day trips from Los Angeles. If you’re a theme park fan, Anaheim will surely be included in your L.A. itinerary already, but even if you are not a Disney fan or an amusement park aficionado, you’ll appreciate Anaheim for the historic Packing District, including the gorgeous Farmer’s Park with an olive grove, gardens and a weekly farmer’s market on Sundays.

The Packing District is made up of three 1920s commercial spaces which have been refurbished and now house some of the city’s greatest eateries. Make sure to stop at the Old Packing House, a historic 1919 citrus packing house turned into an upscale food court with local vendors and bars. Beer lovers flock to Anaheim for its numerous microbreweries which resulted in Anaheim being named the ‘Beer Capital Of Orange County’. Check out this list of breweries to plan a self-guided brewery hopping tour around Anaheim.

5. Santa Ana – for its historic Downtown

Santa Ana sits southeast of Los Angeles and its primary draw is the Historic Downtown district which is famous for its art deco houses. If you enjoy interesting architecture, Santa Ana is definitely one of the most interesting of all day trips from Los Angeles for you. In addition to the historic architecture, you’ll find the Artists Village downtown, which is an area filled with art galleries and studios as well as some fantastic restaurants.

The Artists Village was part of an initiative to bring abandoned downtown areas back to life, and it has certainly worked here. The Orange County Center for Contemporary Art and the Cal State Fullerton Grand Central Art Center are both worth a visit.

Historic ‘Calle Cuatro’, or 4^th Street, is also part of the historic downtown and lined with restaurants, independent shops and boutiques, craft beer breweries and the 4^th Street Market, which is an indoor food market.

Any other day trips from Los Angeles you would add to my list? Share them in the comments below!

Photo Credit: Photos used via Flickr’s Creative Common license. Pasadena by Graham, Santa Ana by Jasperdo.

PIN IT!

Traveling during the winter is a great escape from your day-to-day life and can provide much-needed relief from the season’s stress. Even though winter is a magical time of year with the holidays and snow, some people still deal with the winter blues. You might think you need to take a vacation somewhere the sun is shining and lined with palm trees during this time of year – but there’s also something special about visiting a small town during the winter too. Add to that, and you may not have the budget to fly to the Caribbean or trans-Atlantic, then taking a quick road trip to a town a few hours away could be all you need. 

Consider putting Charlottesville, Virginia, on your travel list this winter. With its rich history and charming neighborhoods, it’s a cute spot where you can cozy up in a historic home with your partner or do some pretty fantastic sightseeing that could take days. Here are some things to do in Charlottesville during the winter that make this a great place to visit.

Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello 

Thomas Jefferson’s famous home, Monticello (which means “little mountain”), is worth visiting Charlottesville alone. You can get an up-close look at how life on a plantation was lived. Intimate glimpses into the private life of Jefferson and his family are something you’ll never forget from his library to his dining room; everything is just as it was while he lived there. In addition to the home, the grounds of Monticello are simply breathtaking, with majestic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. 

Skyline Drive 

Speaking of the Blue Ridge Mountains, there are many opportunities to hike in and around Charlottesville and Albemarle county. But maybe you’re not that much of an “outdoorsy” type and don’t even own a pair of hiking boots. If that’s the case, taking a drive along the Skyline Drive right outside of Charlottesville will offer you some of the most spectacular mountain views you’ll ever experience. While the winter season gives you a clear picture of the beauty that is Central Virginia, this experience will have you wanting to come back in the fall to see the leaves changing color – a once-in-a-lifetime experience everyone needs. Not to mention there are many scenic overlooks and stops where you can catch the perfect selfie with a gorgeous mountainous backdrop!

The University Of Virginia 

UVA is one of our nation’s top public universities, and the campus is nothing short of Ivy League. On-campus you’ll see architecture influenced by the French and The Rotunda (designed by Thomas Jefferson) is a must-see. Edgar Allen Poe’s room is available to view (as it was when he lived there) on the lawn too. The campus is also home to a charming section of Charlottesville referred to as “The Corner.” The Corner is home to several famous local bars and restaurants and upscale boutiques, and rare bookstores. Several hotels are located on The Corner, making campus and shopping local an easy day’s work. 

The Downtown Mall 

Charlottesville’s historic Downtown Mall is the country’s longest pedestrian mall. Taking a stroll down the brick-lined mall is nothing short of idyllic, especially during the winter when all the shops are lined with twinkling lights. There are plenty of local shops, restaurants, and even art galleries on the mall. In addition to that, there are even more fun vintage shops, coffee houses, and music venues off the beaten path of the mall down its many side streets. 

Charlottesville is a great place to visit and enjoy an authentic small-town experience with plenty of luxury sprinkled in. With its winters don’t get as cold as many northern states, you could easily wear your favorite bamboo long sleeve shirt and a jacket the entire weekend and be comfortable. You want to make sure you pack hiking boots if you’re a nature lover as there are so many opportunities to enjoy nature both in town and in the surrounding counties. It’s easy to feel right at home in casual attire in Charlottesville, so if you’re looking to spend a quiet but fun-filled weekend in Dave Matthews hometown, Charlottesville should be your next road trip this winter. Happy Trails!

Photo Credit: All images used via Flickr’s Creative Commons Licensing. (1) Monticello by Bret Wiese; (2) Skyline Drive View by Bob Travis; (3) The University of Virginia by John Sonderman; (4) Dpwntown Mall by Bob Mical

If you’ve been to New York City several times already and have seen all the main sights, check out these five new attractions that I think are worth visiting, including a new observation deck, a fabulous new park, and a couple of temporary pop-ups that you can experience only in 2021.

If you’ve never been to NYC, check out this comprehensive guide to 29 must-see things to do in New York City.

Here are five new attractions to see in NYC in 2021:

1 The Edge Observation Deck

The Edge is the newest observation deck in New York City, and it is a serious competition for the existing observation decks – the most iconic one, the Empire State Building; Top of the Rocks, and One World Observatory atop the Freedom Tower, which opened in 2015.

What makes The Edge a true showstopper is its spectacular architecture: it is the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western hemisphere at a height of 1,130 feet, and  it extends about 80 feet beyond the side of the skyscraper it is attached to (30 Hudson Yards). The Edge opened for the first time just before New York City shut down because of COVID-19, and is finally able to welcome visitors again. You’ll find yourself 100 floors above the streets, and you can enjoy 360-degree views that none of the other observation decks can offer: the New York City skyline seen from the west side of Midtown Manhattan.

The observation deck also features an anxiety-inducing 225-square-foot triangular glass cutout in the floor, and the angled glass walls of the sleek space will impress everyone, no matter if you consider yourself an architecture geek or not. In total, there are 79 glass panels, each one 9-foot high, offering an uninterrupted view over the skyline and giving you the feeling that you are standing right on the edge – a thrilling experience for sure!

Know before you go: You have to book a timed ticket in advance – and I recommend booking your ticket well in advance, since tickets sell out. This goes especially for the time slots around sunset. You can book a skip-the-line ticket here.

Tip: If you are interested in visiting one of the longstanding observation decks, check out my comprehensive comparison of the Empire State Building, the Top of The Rock and One World Trade Center.

2 Yayoi Kusama at the New York Botanical Gardens

Renowned Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama was supposed to have an art exhibit in the New York Botanical Gardens in 2020, but because of the global pandemic that brought the world to a halt last year, her long-awaited exhibit had to be postponed. A year delayed, it finally opened in April 2021, and it was definitely worth the wait.

The 92-year old artist, famous for her colorful, dotted sculptures and art installations (infinity rooms in particular), created Cosmic Nature specifically for the New York Botanical Gardens. You’ll find trees wrapped in white-dotted red fabric, over a thousand mirrored stainless steel balls in a lake, a sculpture installed over a reflective pond, and a yet to be opened Infinity Room. You will also see sculptures with names like I Want To Fly To The Universe and My Soul Blooms Forever. The sculptures are randomly scattered throughout the Botanical Gardens, so you’ll stumble across them every once in a while while wandering the grounds.

I felt like I got to kill two birds with one stone when I made my way up to the Bronx to visit “Cosmic Nature” – I got to see new sculptures by an artist I adore, and I got to re-visit the 250-acre Botanical Gardens, which I hadn’t been to in a while. And spring is always a lovely time for that because many flowers are in bloom.

Know before you go: Be aware that the ticket I booked – the KUSAMA All-Garden Pass Ticket – only includes admission to the Botanical Gardens and all the outdoor sculptures. If you want to see the indoor spaces and indoor sculptures, too, you will have to book the combined Gardens & Gallery Pass. Also note that an Infinity Mirrored Room will be added on August 3. Cosmic Nature is on view until 31 October 2021.

3 Little Island

Little Island is a new park in the Hudson River, built atop 132 pylons resembling tulips, which make up the structure of the park. The unique setup above the water conveys the impression that Little Island is actually floating in the river. The unique 2.4 acre park has a hilly topography which makes it appear bigger than it actually is, and when you walk up the stairs to the highest point, you can enjoy fantastic views over the Hudson River, New Jersey and Lower Manhattan from a unique vantage point.

The small park includes an amphitheater (holding 687 people) overlooking the Hudson River, offering performances throughout the summer months. There are performances six days per week – you can check the events calendar here. Attending a sunset performance on Little Island is definitely one of the best things to do in NYC in 2021.

If you get hungry, you can grab snacks and drinks (including alcoholic beverages) at three food stalls in the park. Little Island is just around the corner from the Highline Park, so you can combine it with a visit to the Highline and Chelsea Market, or stroll down the Hudson River Greenway.

Know before you go: At the moment, you can visit the park without a ticket before noon, but after 12pm timed tickets are essential in order to avoid overcrowding. The park is open daily from 6am to 1am. You can get your free ticket here.

4 The Green at Lincoln Center

The square outside the Lincoln Center, a performance venue on the Upper West Side, is usually a bland concrete space that is not known to be a cool hangout spot. But this has changed now – at least temporarily. The square, officially named Josie Robertson Plaza, was transformed into a large green space in May 2021 and is now called “The Green”.

The 14,000 sq feet plaza has been covered in artificial lawn and is supposed to be enjoyed by New Yorkers as a chillout area. Should you get hungry, there is an empanada stand and a gelato vendor, and in case you get bored, you can enjoy free books from a small library cabinet courtesy of the New York Library.

There are some chairs to sit in, but most people enjoy the “lawn” and lounge on the ground. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to catch one of the many pop-up events and performances that are happening on The Green throughout the summer. I should note, however, that if you’re looking for a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, you may be better of in nearby Central Park, where it is easier to find a quiet corner away from noise and people. When I visited The Green on a sunny spring afternoon, it was packed with families and strollers and the noise level was quite high.

Know before you go: The Green will remain open until September 2021, open daily from 9am till midnight. No tickets needed.

5 The Vessel

The Vessel is the centerpiece of a brand new neighborhood in Manhattan: Hudson Yards. The development was built over the West Side Yard, an industrial rail storage yard, and now houses several residential towers, a hotel, office buildings, a mall, and a performance venue. In the middle of it all sits the Vessel.

While the Vessel isn’t technically new (it opened in March 2019), it closed in January 2021 after three suicides off the structure in less than one year. It was unclear if the immersive sculpture, which is 150 feet tall and essentially a spiraling staircase with 154 interconnecting flights of stairs, would reopen. There are almost 2,500 steps and 80 landings – but no worries, you can take an elevator all the way to the top if the thought of climbing up 15 flights of stairs scares you (just be prepared to wait in line).

The sculpture itself is pretty to look at from the outside – made from shiny copper-clad steel – but immersing yourself in the artwork, i.e. walking up the stairs and seeing it from various angles and heights on the inside is what makes this is a truly memorable experience. Beyond the views of the Vessel itself, climbing to the top also rewards with stunning vistas over parts of Manhattan and the Hudson River.

Know before you go: There is a limited number of free tickets available per day, after these run out, tickets are $10 per person. You have to book your time slot in advance, and you have to be with at least one other person to visit the Vessel (a new measure to prevent more suicides). You can reserve your tickets here.