Robin D. Thomas is a brunch loving, Brooklyn born and raised Licensed Social Worker currently working in the Bronx. When she's not writing about all things wellness, entertainment and love, you can find her eating her way through different cities and tending to her plants. Connect with her on IG and Twitter at @_MissRobin or on her Instagram wellness page @thisnoirethat.
Playa del Carmen is the perfect vacation getaway for anyone who loves beautiful beaches, delicious food, and fun activities. Located on the Caribbean Sea side of Mexico, PDC is nestled right between the spring break hub Cancun and the growing hotspot Tulum. Oftentimes overlooked for some of the other popular cities, I found Playa del Carmen to have just as much in terms of vacation necessities, with a more local and authentic Mexican feel.
The Ultimate Guide to Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is perfect for a solo traveler looking to spend a few days in paradise or the group chat that wants to hang on the beach all day and turn up at night. I found the area to have a little bit of everything for everyone, so here’s my guide on where to eat, stay, and play for the ultimate Playa del Carmen vacation.
Getting Around
The easiest way to get to Playa del Carmen is to fly into Cancun Airport and then make your way south. You can rent a car and drive the one hour down to PDC, take a taxi, or you can catch the ADO bus, which will cost you less than $40 roundtrip. Overall, Playa del Carmen is an easy and safe city to navigate. If you stay on or close to Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue), you’ll be within walking distance to a ton of stores, restaurants, and nightlife. Most taxi rides were between 100 and 150 pesos, which is less than $10 USD. Renting a car is also an option, but with things being very walkable and taxis being fairly inexpensive, it’s not a necessity. Another great way to get around is bikes, which you can rent to use throughout the city.
Stay
The Thompson Hotel is for the folks who know that where you stay on vacation absolutely does matter. This luxury property offers chic rooms and upscale suites, onsite restaurants, and a spa for those who are looking to pamper themselves. One of the standout features of this property is the rooftop infinity pool, which has 360-degree views of the city and is absolutely stunning. This is your type of hotel if you value immaculate views, delicious eats, prime location, and live DJs.
Grand Hyatt offers a prime beachfront location, while also being steps away from the mix on Quinta Avenida. I like that this property allows you to take in the calm beauty of the Caribbean, while also being in close proximity to the action within the city. You get both authentic Mexican food and some international fare at the resort restaurants, and this property also has an infinity pool that gives views of the ocean.
Airbnb
If you don’t have the funds to spend on a hotel stay, but still want clean and comfortable accommodations, do not overlook Airbnb. You can find super reasonably priced apartments close to the strip that will leave you in the heart of all the action. Many of these buildings feature 24-hour security, infinity pools, top-notch gyms, and rooftop bars. This is a great way to save some money, while not sacrificing the quality of the accommodations you like.
Eat
One of the best parts of being near the Caribbean Sea is having access to fresh seafood, and Ictio Fish House is the place to go for it. Located just a block off of the 5th Avenida strip, this small seafood restaurant is a quieter change compared to some of the busier and more touristy restaurants located directly on the strip. They have both indoor and outdoor seating available, but if you can snag a spot at the bar, the service is top notch and you can watch the bartender put together your craft cocktail.
Everything they serve is delicious and tastes authentic, so you really can't go wrong when ordering. But to start, the crispy jumbo shrimp and calamari are perfect for sharing. Other must-try dishes are the garlic butter catch of the day and the adobo-styled octopus.
El Fogon
Ask anyone for a recommendation for the best tacos in Playa del Carmen, and I promise you they will point you to El Fogon. You know a spot is good when it’s filled with just as many locals as tourists, and there’s a line outside at 1 p.m. This no-frills spot serves up authentic Mexican favorites like el pastor tacos, chicken quesadillas, guacamole, and margaritas. Every dish comes with the fixings and is not only super filling but extremely affordable. You can easily get a full meal and a drink for less than $20 USD. They have more than one location, so you can taste some of their delicious tacos no matter what part of PDC you stay in.
L&L by Lara&Luca
Before you hit the beach for day drinking, you need a hearty breakfast from L&L to start your day. This cute cafe is the smaller “sister” restaurant to Lara&Luca, another popular breakfast and lunch cafe in Playa. I liked that L&L is less busy and more laid back than the other location. They serve up typical breakfast and lunch items such as eggs, coffee, sandwiches, and French toast.
My favorite item was the ham and cheese croissant, which could be enjoyed on their outdoor seating or taken to enjoy on the go. They also have yummy pastries, but these sell out quickly, so be sure to go early.
El Pirata
If you’re a fried fish lover like me and appreciate sea-to-table service, El Pirata is the place to go. This restaurant is tucked away towards the end of the main 5th Avenida strip, so you might miss it if you aren’t looking for it. The restaurant serves up a plethora of tasty dishes like fresh ceviche, garlic shrimp, and shrimp empanadas, and has a full beverage menu for your libation needs. However, the fried fish is truly the star of the show.
When you order, they bring to your table a few of the fresh fish that were caught that day and allow you to choose which lucky one you want them to fry for you. And let me tell you, picking your own fried fish just hits different! It was one of my favorite meals in Playa del Carmen.
Play
Food Tour
There are so many delicious places to eat in Playa del Carmen so taking a local food tour is the best way to try a little bit of everything. I love taking food tours when I travel because not only is it a great way to try a range of different local dishes, but the tour guides usually give you a history lesson during the tour where you learn more about the history of certain dishes and the country as a whole. In Playa Del Carmen, I took a local food tour with GetYourGuide, where we stopped at several different locations for tacos, fresh fruit juice, tamales, and more.
I value it when there’s a local leading the tour because it’s a way to support the locals and also learn things that only people native to the location would know. While we walked, the guide shared a lot of insight about Mexico and Playa del Carmen, while giving recommendations for places to eat during our trip.
Cenotes
Cenotes are natural sinkholes or underground caverns that have pools of water in which you can explore, dive, and swim in. You will find cenotes all around Mexico, but there are several in the Playa del Carmen region. Cenotes vary in size and also the depth of water, so even if you don’t know how to swim, you can find a cenote to explore at your own comfort level. Two beautiful cenotes you can explore near PDC are Cenote Azul and Cenote Dos Ojos.
Cenote Azul is perfect for snorkeling because of the crystal clear waters that allow you to see the colorful fish and plant life underneath. Cenote Dos Ojos is perfect for explorers due to the mesmerizing underground caverns and rock formations throughout. You can take a trip to the cenotes on your own or book a tour that may take you to several different cenotes.
Beaches
Playa Del Carmen has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, so beach hopping is a must while vacationing in the area. Whether you want a chill, relaxing beach day or you are thinking of jet skiing on the blue waters, there is a beach for you. There are several beaches along the coast of Playa del Carmen, some that are within walking distance of most hotels, and others that you may need to travel to get to but are totally worth it.
Playa Mamitas is one of the most popular beaches in PDC due to its location near the heart of the city, and also because of the crystal clear waters and white sand. Playa Mamitas is also a great spot for entertainment and the occasional beach party for the folks wanting to turn up. Playacar Beach is another great option that is located in the upscale Playacar neighborhood, south of downtown Playa del Carmen.
It is known for its pristine beauty and laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking relaxation and seclusion. Other beaches to consider are Punta Esmeralda and Xpu-ha Beach, so you’ll have an option for every day of your trip, depending on your mood.
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Growing up in Brooklyn, New York, Caribbean culture has always been all around me, from the food to the dancehall and soca music to traditions carried out by all of the Caribbean people living in the city. As a youngin, I loved attending the West Indian Day Parade every September because the floats, steel drums, extravagant feathers, and upbeat music made me feel free and gave me a deeper appreciation for the culture.
As I got older, I learned that the yearly Carnivals happening across the Caribbean put NYC’s little festivities to shame. Traveling to the islands themselves and experiencing the people and culture first-hand really gives you a deeper understanding and appreciation for Caribbean culture.
The history of Carnival celebrations in the Caribbean can be traced back to enslaved people who were forbidden from participating in the Pre-Lenten celebrations and thus created their own celebrations and traditions, which over time developed into celebrations of freedom and rebellion. Each country in the Caribbean has its own unique history of celebrations, as well as its own Carnival traditions that set it apart from other festivities.
What started as a Pre-Lenten celebration is now celebrated during a range of months throughout the year and now attracts hundreds of people from all over the world. Here are six carnivals that you should go to this year to experience this culture for yourself.
Crop Over - Barbados Carnival
Crop Over Dates: July 31, 2024 - August 6, 2024
What better place to celebrate carnival than the home of our Bajan Queen Rihanna? While some festivities start as early as May, the official festival season in Barbados starts in July and ends in early August. Crop Over originally started as a way for plantation workers to celebrate the end of the sugarcane harvest season and has now evolved into a much larger celebration. Crop Over is a blend of both old and new traditions, such as the Ceremonial Delivery of the Last Canes, and Cohobblopot, where bands show off their beautiful costumes and play soca and calypso music.
All of the week's festivities culminate with the Grand Kadooment, Crop Over’s big parade featuring all of the bands and droves of people taking to the streets in their beautiful costumes and dancing to the local music.
Other things to do: Visit Hunte’s Garden in Joseph’s Parish and find peace in the picturesque garden while spotting an array of different birds and animals. If you’re looking for beach relaxation, spend a day at Carlisle Bay, the perfect beach for swimming, taking in some sun, and a possible turtle sighting.
Saint Thomas Carnival
Saint Thomas Carnival Dates: April 28, 2024 - May 5, 2024
No passport? That won’t be a problem for U.S. travelers looking to get in on the carnival experience. Saint Thomas, one of the three U.S. Virgin Islands, is known for its crystal clear beaches, scuba diving scene, and overall vibrant culture. The island celebrates its carnival in late April and features a dynamic lineup of events including colorful adult and kiddie parades, calypso competitions, and street parties. Virgin Islanders are known to love to party, so make sure to fill up before the festivities with some local favorites like johnny cakes, callaloo, and conch fritters.
With its rich cultural heritage and lively atmosphere, this is a carnival experience perfect for a first-timer who wants to ease their way into the lifestyle.
Other things to do: Visit one of Saint Thomas’ many turquoise blue beaches such as Coki, Magens Bay, Brewers Bay, or Lindquist Beach. Coki Beach is perfect if you're looking for a more lively experience and want to snorkel without swimming far out, and Brewers Bay is best known for the sea turtles that you can see from the sand. You can also take a short ferry over to Saint John, another of the Virgin Islands, and spend a day at Lime Out, a floating taco and margarita bar.
Spicemas - Grenada Carnival
Courtesy of Grenada Tourism Authority
Spicemas Dates: August 7, 2024 - August 14, 2024
Grenada, also known as the Spice Isle due to its production of a variety of spices, has one of the most anticipated carnivals every year. During Spicemas, revelers hit the streets for lively music, paint, oil, dancing, and good times. One of the most important aspects of Spicemas is Jab Jab, a celebration that involves covering one's body in black oil or paint. This tradition started as a post-emancipation masquerade, in which former enslaved Africans would paint themselves black emulating a “Jab” derived from the French word diable, which means devil.
This was a way of mocking their former masters and also represented rebellion and freedom. Since then, the tradition has evolved into a staple of Carnival on J’ouvert morning, a celebration of freedom, and undoubtedly an element that makes Grenada stand out from other Carnivals across the diaspora. Outside of J’ouvert, Spicemas is a beautiful culmination of colorful and vibrant costumes, steel band competitions, delicious rum, and music that you’ll dance to all night.
Grenada is celebrating 50 years of independence this year, so just know that Spicemas is going to be extra special!
Other things to do: For the ocean lovers, the Molinere Bay Underwater Sculpture Park is a must-see attraction. It is the world's first underwater sculpture park and a popular excursion for folks visiting the island. This year, five new installations are being added to the park, which can all be viewed through snorkeling, diving, or a glass bottom boat ride.
Antigua Carnival
Antigua Carnival Dates: July 31, 2024 - August 7, 2024
Every August, carnival lovers flock to the beautiful island of Antigua for its annual carnival festival. First celebrated in 1957, Antigua’s Carnival started as a celebration of emancipation from slavery and has since expanded into a dynamic showcase of local talent, music, and cultural pride. Some events to look forward to are the Party Monarch and Calypso Monarch competitions, as well as the Caribbean Queen’s Competition.
Antigua Carnival is an almost two-week extravaganza that leads into J’ouvert on Carnival Monday and the main parade on Carnival Tuesday. If you love good music, vibrant costumes, and delicious food, this is the carnival for you.
Other things to do: Take a trip to Shirley Heights Lookout for live music and breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and ocean. And with 365 beaches in total, you’d be missing out if you didn’t fit in a few on your itinerary.
Bermuda Carnival
Bermuda Carnival Dates: June 12, 2024 - June 17, 2024
Also known as Heroes Weekend, Bermuda Carnival may be smaller than some of the other carnivals, but is still a great time. Bermuda is one of the newer carnivals, originating in 2015. Celebrated in June, this long weekend of festivities draws inspiration from other popular carnivals while also highlighting elements of Bermudian culture. You can expect some similar elements as other countries such as daily fetes, soca music, and a parade filled with different bands and extravagant costumes.
They also celebrate Bermuda’s National Heroes during carnival with a national feast. Bermudians have immense pride in their country and culture, and their carnival is the biggest celebration of the year that you don’t want to miss.
Other things to do: Take a day trip to Crystal and Fantasy Caves, beautiful caves formed over millions of years that you can take tours of. Spend a few hours taking in these beautiful natural wonders and seeing some of the formations and underground pools.
Saint Lucia Carnival
Saint Lucia Carnival Dates: July 10, 2024 - July 17, 2024
Home to some of the most beautiful mountains and beaches in the Caribbean, Saint Lucia has the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable carnival experience. Saint Lucia Carnival didn’t take flight until the late 1940s but has grown into a favorite for both novice and seasoned masqueraders. Formerly held in February, this carnival now kicks off in July which allows it not to compete with the highly revered Trinidadian carnival that also happens at that time. Saint Lucia’s Carnival has grown in popularity over the years because of the lively music, delicious food, and turned-up fetes.
One of the highlights is the Parade of the Bands, where masqueraders adorned in elaborate costumes dance through the streets to the rhythms of soca, calypso, and steelpan music. The best way to prepare for the Saint Lucia Carnival is to stay hydrated and well-fed so that you can thoroughly enjoy the plethora of events and parties happening from early morning to nightfall.
Other things to do:The Pitons, Gros Piton and Petit Piton are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the main attractions in Saint Lucia. Take a hike of Gros Piton or just marvel at its natural beauty. If you're there on a Friday night, stop by the weekly Gros Islet Street Party, which is filled with music, drinks, and local food.
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Featured image courtesy of Grenada Tourism Authority
Mexico is a country known for its flavorful food, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches. Every year, people from all over the world flock to this tropical North American country with miles and miles of sandy beaches from coast to coast. Mexico is the perfect destination for crystal blue waters and beaches of all different sizes and vibes. The Pacific coast includes destinations like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlan, while the Caribbean side includes Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.
The beauty of Mexico is that with over 400 beaches, there is something for every type of traveler. I’ve spent time in at least 3 different cities in Mexico, and each of them had numerous beaches with their own personalities. Some were calm and quiet, perfect for reading a book and taking in the scenery. While others were busier, with a more turn-up crowd, perfect for the traveler looking to have some fun. So whether you’re in need of family-friendly beaches, turn-up beach clubs, snorkeling opportunities, or peace and quiet, you’ll find it somewhere in Mexico.
So, before you book your next Mexican vacation, take a look at some of the most pristine beaches across the country to add to your itinerary.
1.Playa Norte
Sunset over Playa Norte on the Caribbean island of Isla Mujeres, Mexico
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Playa Norte is located on Isla Mujeres in Quintana Roo, Mexico, and is a popular spot for folks looking for the perfect blend of beautiful beaches and fun activities. Just a short ferry ride off the coast of Cancun, this is the ideal getaway for anyone looking to dodge the crowds and spring break vibes while still having a good time. In Playa Norte, you can expect crystal clear water, soft white sand, beachfront restaurants, and activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding.
Getting to Playa Norte from Cancun is pretty simple. Head over to Puerto Juarez Ferry Terminal and catch the $20 RT ferry to Isla Mujeres. After laying out on the beach, rent a golf cart and explore the rest of the island for a fun time and beautiful sunsets.
2.Playa Mazunte
Head over to Oaxaca on the Pacific coast of Mexico, and you’ll find yourself on Playa Mazunte, a charming coastal village known for its laid-back atmosphere and eco-tourism. Playa Mazunte offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, eco-friendly attractions, and relaxation. Think golden-colored sand and clear blue waters that are perfect for swimming or just laying out and sunbathing. Playa Mazunte is not as popular as some of the other beaches, so you can expect less of a crowd and a more chill vibe.
A hub for eco-conscious travelers, yoga on the beach is not out of the ordinary on any given day. There are four beaches in the town of Mazunte, and you can’t go wrong with any of them.
3.Playa La Ropa
Playa La Ropa is situated south of Zihuatanejo Bay in the state of Guerrero and has quickly become a popular area for beach lovers. Zihuatanejo became increasingly popular after being mentioned in the '90s movie The Shawshank Redemption, and since then, it's become the ideal spot for people seeking stunning views and relaxation. Playa La Ropa gives you calm, clear waters to hang out in, with luscious green hills as the backdrop.
There are numerous restaurants and bars along the beachfront where you can enjoy fresh seafood and tropical drinks, or you can get active and try parasailing while taking in the panoramic views of the bay. Either way, you’re in for a fantastic beach day.
4.Playa Paraíso
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Playa Paraíso has been called one of the best beaches in Mexico, and for good reason. Paraíso means paradise in Spanish and is the perfect word to describe this place. Breathtaking turquoise blue water, tall palm trees, and crisp white sand spanning the coastline near Tulum. There are tons of activities to do in the water, but also, as the area becomes more developed, there’s been an increase in beach clubs popping up that offer food, good drinks, and lots of vibes. Playa Paraíso is a great choice to hang out during a girls' trip or baecation to Tulum.
5.Yelapa Beach
Yelapa Beach, nestled along the Pacific coast near Puerto Vallarta, is a hidden gem accessible only by boat. This is a great beach for both families and solo travelers alike. Sunbathers can bask in the warm rays, while adventure seekers can partake in activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking to nearby waterfalls and jungle trails. If you’re interested in art and culture, the Yelapa Museum of Art, History and Culture is a must-visit. Yelapa is a small fishing village, so indulging in some fresh seafood at one of the beachside palapas is a must.
6.Playa Carrizalillo
Located in Puerto Escondido, Playa Carrizalillo is a longtime favorite for both locals and tourists. This smaller cove is defined by tranquil, blue-green water that attracts surfers from all over the world due to the calmness of the waves. This is an ideal beach for anyone interested in learning to surf for the first time or honing in on their skills. But if you aren’t into surfing, no need to worry; the beach is a beautiful place to just spend the day lounging, and the calm water is also great for swimming and snorkeling. After hanging out in the water, grab a drink at a local beach bar and take in panoramic views of the bay.
7.Playa Balandra
Aerial view of Balandra Bay in Mexico
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Playa Balandra is a stunning and iconic beach located near La Paz, the capital city of Baja California Sur, Mexico. Unlike many of the other beaches, Playa Balandra boasts shallow crystal clear waters that allow you to easily walk around and explore the entire bay. The area has been considered one of the most beautiful in the region because of the white sand, clear waters, and mountainous background.
If you love wildlife, this is an ideal location for spotting starfish, stingrays, and lots of colorful fish. Playa Balandra and the surrounding areas are considered protected areas, so be mindful of restrictions on the number of people that are allowed to enter each day. Aka, get there early!
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Traveling in general brings out a sense of excitement for everyone, but for me, solo travel takes it to a new level. Every once in a while, it’s worth disconnecting from your everyday routines and spending time with yourself in a new place. Being able to wake up when I feel like it, eat what I want, and only do the things that I like is a level of enjoyment that I love. Solo travel doesn't always have to be about relaxing and self-care, either. Sometimes you just wanna meet new people and have some fun adventures in a city that you don't live in.
There are many benefits to taking that leap and experiencing your first solo trip, it’s just a matter of booking the trip and going. But how do you choose where to go and what to do if you’ve never traveled alone? Or what if safety and fear are holding you back? This is where research and considering your own interests come to mind.
Visiting another U.S. city for your first solo trip is a great way to ease into solo travel and find out if it’s really for you. Choosing a domestic location before jumping to an international country allows you to get your feet wet while staying close to home.
One way to choose is by selecting a destination that mimics the city you're from so that it feels more familiar and comfortable. Another thing you might consider is a city with easy-to-navigate public transportation so that you can get around without issue. Whatever it is that you need, there are plenty of places within the United States that make for fun and memorable solo trips.
To help you make a decision, I’ve highlighted six domestic cities that are perfect for your first solo trip.
Houston
Being the city that gave us Beyoncé should be enough reason for you to run to Houston. But if that’s not enough, Houston has a lot more to offer. This bustling Texas city is filled with rich culture, delicious food, and the kind of vibes that most places can’t replicate. I recommend Houston for the fun traveler who likes good music and a good time. If you want to tap into true tourist form, you can check out the NASA Space Museum, shop in The Galleria, and take a stroll in Emancipation Park.
But if you are looking to turn up and have a good time, go to brunch at the Breakfast Klub, explore downtown Houston, and then experience the lituation that is an H-town Day Party. I hope them Meg knees are ready!
Chicago
Chicago holds a special place in my heart because it was the city I chose for my first solo trip back in 2016, and it changed me. If you’re from a major city and are used to a busy and fast-paced environment, Chicago is the city to pop your solo travel cherry. Book a river tour and learn some city history, take a food tour, and then go have a drink with views of Millennium Park and the Bean from Cindy’s Rooftop.
If you stay anywhere near downtown, many places are walkable from each other or just a short drive away. If you’re around for Sunday Funday, check out brunch at The Whit for the culture. And yes, trying deep-dish pizza from an authentic Chicago pizza shop is a must.
Tampa, FL
If you’re looking for fun in the sun but want to stay stateside, Tampa has it. This is the perfect solo destination for someone who likes warm weather and beaches. If safety is a major concern for you, rest easy knowing that Tampa has been called one of the safest cities in the U.S. Tampa also has a more relaxed and slower pace than some bigger cities, which may alleviate some of your nerves.
Spend your morning soaking in the sun and relaxing at the beach, and follow up with lunch somewhere along the Riverwalk. Take a small tripod, and don’t be afraid to get some cute pictures along the water.
New York City
New York is the perfect first solo destination for anyone because there’s great food, an art scene, theater, culture, and a plethora of different things to do based on your interests. I often hear people say that they don't want to travel solo because it’ll feel weird, or they don’t want people to know that they are alone. Well, the great thing about NYC is that at any given point in the year, there will be thousands of other tourists walking the streets, and you won’t stick out like a sore thumb.
New York gives you options for just about everything you might want to check off your list. Go visit the MoMa, take a cruise around the Statue of Liberty, walk the Brooklyn Bridge, or just chill out in Central Park. The options are unlimited.
Phoenix
Phoenix is such an underrated city, in my opinion, and should definitely be on your radar for a solo trip. Phoenix is called the Valley of the Sun for good reason because you can expect warm temperatures year round. So, this may be an ideal first solo trip for someone trying to escape the winter cold. Visit the desert botanical garden, take a hot air balloon ride, or treat yourself to a relaxing few days at one of the luxury resort and spa locations just outside of the city.
For the adventure and nature lovers, a day trip to Sedona will provide you with outdoor activities and beautiful scenery. And if you need a more fast-paced adventure, take a short drive over to Scottsdale for good eats and a fun party scene.
Nashville
Music City has art, food, culture, and, you guessed it, a great music scene. Nashville usually doesn’t get a lot of shine when it comes to vacation destinations, but it should. It’s here you can visit the National Museum of African American History, which celebrates the music genres that were created and influenced by African Americans. You can’t visit Music City without seeing the live music firsthand, so throw on some dancing boots and hit the Broadway strip, which is filled with “Honky Tonk” bars that you can go in for singing, dancing, and good music.
If you’re up for a short trip outside of the city, visiting the Nearest Green Distillery is a must to learn all about the Black man who taught Jack Daniels how to make whiskey. And if art is your thing, grab a scooter and ride around the city, checking out the many art murals that are spread out all over Nashville.
Which of these cities would you travel to?
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Whether you prefer to travel in groups, solo, or on baecations, picking the right destination is a major component of ensuring a great trip. Where you go for your next vacation can come down to price, location, activity options, and a host of other things. We’ve seen how often group trips can go awry because each person has different interests and wants to do different things. But how do you pick the right place for yourself when there’s so many options to choose from?
Choosing a destination that will provide you with the most memorable experience comes down to your own needs, and believe it or not, your love language can help with that. Our love languages are a guide to how we prefer to receive love and support, as well as how we like to give it.
Knowing about our love language can help build healthy relationships, better self-care routines, and improve our overall well-being. Imagine centering your travel around the way that you like to be loved and then experiencing that each moment of your trip. Every place around the world is unique and thus can provide a different vibe and feeling for us. Figuring out the places that align with our love language can be a game changer in how we experience the world.
Whether you’re a quality time girlie like me or prefer acts of service, here’s some of the best destinations to visit based on the five love languages.
If your love language is acts of service, you might want to visit...
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Rome, Italy
The “Eternal City” is home to the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and all the pasta and gelato that your heart desires. People who value acts of service love when things are done for them, and life is made easier. If that’s your jam, consider going to Rome and experiencing an authentic Italian dinner cooked by locals for you. What better act of service than having someone cook a full meal for you in their home?
No need to learn how to roll pasta dough or knead pizza. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the free-flowing wine while learning about Italian culture and having a 4-course meal provided for you. After that, take a guided city tour where someone else can show you around all the popular spots, skipping the lines and avoiding crowds.
Bangkok, Thailand
Having acts of service as your love language is not just about how others show you love but also about how you show it back. If you enjoy giving acts of service to others, consider heading to Thailand and visiting an ethical wildlife sanctuary where you can spend the day volunteering. Choose a place like Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand, where people are not allowed to touch or ride the elephants but can help with harvesting bananas, cleaning enclosures, or even helping out in the animal clinic. You’ll leave feeling a sense of pride and knowing that your time was spent in a way that made an impact.
If your love language is physical touch, you might want to visit...
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Guatemala
There are so many ways that we can experience the love language of physical touch, and Guatemala is a tropical sanctuary that can provide just that. This South American country is full of rainforests, volcanoes, and ancient ruins and can be the perfect escape to get some TLC. Consider staying at a luxury hotel like Villa Bokeh, where you can get your physical needs met through massages, yoga, or rowing on their lagoon. And if you want to explore off the resort, get those steps in with a hike of one of Guatemala’s volcanoes.
If your love language is gift giving, you might want to visit...
Dubai
There’s no better place to go to for all your shopping needs than Dubai. Whether you are a gift giver or like to be spoiled, this is where you need to be. To start, the Dubai Mall is the largest mall in the world at over 12 million square feet. With around 1,200 shops to choose from, you are bound to find something for just about everyone. Dubai is not a budget destination, so leave a little extra space in your luggage and prepare to spend a pretty coin while you’re there. If luxury gifts aren’t your thing, head to the Covent Garden Market, where you can shop local vendors for more affordable items.
If your love language is quality time, you might want to visit...
Costa Rica
Whether you’re planning a cute baecation or a solo trip, quality time is all about disconnecting and spending intentional time with your loved one or yourself. Costa Rica is an ideal location to be off the grid and be present. Spend some special time with bae at a nice resort, enjoying a couples massage, a trip to the rainforest, or a sunset dinner. There’s something about being off the grid that allows us to be more present with each other.
If you want to get in some DND solo quality time, book a stay at Nayara Springs Resort, located on the outskirts of Costa Rica, where you can enjoy uninterrupted and secluded relaxation while indulging in amenities like yoga classes and a hot springs pool.
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Tanzania
There are many ways to spend quality time with yourself or others, so why not do it in one of the most beautiful countries in the world? Explore Dar es Salaam with family, learn about the history of Tanzania, and then spend more quality time at the beach on Mbudya Island. If you are looking for a more romantic trip or quality time on your own, go out to Zanzibar, the archipelago off the coast of Tanzania. Here you’ll find some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and can stroll through the historical Stone Town.
If your love language is words of affirmation, you might want to visit...
Paris, France
If words of affirmation get you feeling all tingly inside, then why not take a trip to the "City of Love," Paris, France? Not only is Paris considered the mecca for love, but French is literally one of the world’s romance languages. So take a French lesson where you can learn how to speak beautiful words about yourself, or if you’re with bae, take a stroll by the Eiffel Tower at night while sharing some of the things you appreciate about each other.
Bonus points if you can say it in French.
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For many of us, traveling usually signifies being busy and on the go and has less to do with sleep. With the way that PTO is set up, there's usually a sense of urgency to go from one activity to the next and maximize the limited time you have on vacation. Despite how exhausting it can be to move non-stop on a trip, I am guilty of saying, “I’ll rest when I get back home.” However, in recent years, sleep tourism has emerged as a new and exciting trend in the world of travel, and it involves visiting places specifically for rest and sleep-focused accommodations. This is especially important for those of us who live in the hustle culture and prioritize work and other responsibilities over our own well-being.
If you’re wondering to yourself why you’d travel somewhere just to get some sleep, research is showing that lack of sleep can have impacts on our physical health, mood, and even cognitive functioning. So even if you’re taking a relaxing vacation to get away from the stresses of life and work, if you aren’t prioritizing rest as well, you may be putting yourself at a higher risk for things like diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. And according to The Sleep Health Journal, more than 35% of Americans report poor sleep.
With this in mind, establishments around the world have been shifting their focus to providing packages and amenities for those looking to fight off sleep deprivation. Some of this includes suites equipped with weighted blankets and sleepytime tea, to sleep-inducing medications, and oil diffusers. As society begins to shift its priorities towards mental health, wellness, and well-being, here are some places that you can check out to get your sleep vacation popping.
Park Hyatt in New York, New York City
Hyatt
While New York City is famously dubbed “The city that never sleeps,” the Park Hyatt Hotel is trying to change that with its restorative sleep suites. These 1-bedroom accommodations are equipped with everything you need to tune out the bustling sounds of the city and get some well-deserved shut-eye.
Some of the things included in this experience are an AI-backed bed and mattress that adjusts itself to help you fall asleep and stay asleep. The smart bed makes adjustments to your body’s needs, relieving pressure points, changing its firmness, and providing motions that will aid you in sleeping better. You can also expect to find sleeping masks, an oil diffuser, and sleep-related books to add to this relaxing experience.
Pebble Beach Resort in Carmel, California
The Spa at Pebble Beach
Pebble Beach
Although I’ve never taken a vacation solely for the purpose of sleeping, hitting up The Spa at Pebble Beach while out of town is always on my to-do list. This resort, located just south of San Francisco, has found a way to package a restful experience right into its spa experiences. One of the relaxing services you can treat yourself to is a 45-minute floatation wrap, which involves being wrapped in a heated cover and laying on a floating bed while allowing your mind to be free. And if you want to take your spa trip to the next level, you can add on a restorative nap to ensure full rejuvenation and bliss.
Six Senses in Portinatx, Ibiza
Six Senses
While Ibiza is known as one of the party capitals of the world, Six Senses is changing the way people experience Ibiza with a specially curated sleep program. They offer 3-, 5-, and 7-day wellness programs that include sleep tracking and analysis, massages, personalized fitness activities such as yoga and Pilates, and other sleep amenities, all from the advice and expertise of a sleep doctor. The benefits of this program include not only a better sleep pattern but improved memory, stress decreases, and a strengthened immune system. The perfect wind down after the turn-up.
The Springs Resort & Spa in Pagosa Springs, Colorado
Nothing says relaxation better than hot springs and aromatherapy, and this Colorado-based resort is giving that plus more. Located in Pagosa Springs, this resort takes sleep tourism to the next level with natural, hydrothermal hot springs that you can soak in to help better prepare your mind and body for a good night's rest. And if you want to really enhance your evening, add on their sleep ritual tray, which includes a deep sleep guide, ear plugs, and a cell phone sleep sack to ensure there are no disruptions to your beauty rest.
The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel in London
The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, in London is, upping its wellness options with the introduction of their “sleep concierge,” a new service dedicated specifically to providing a peaceful sleeping experience for guests. The hotel partnered with a sleep expert to curate the perfect sleep package that includes a pillow designed to support your personal sleep style, a meditation recording, bedtime tea, and a scented pillow mist to help you drift off into dreamland without issues.
Upgrading to the sleep concierge package also gives you access to a morning motivation recording to help get your day started right after the amazing sleep you just had. We love the follow-up support!
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