For the first time, soccer’s World Cup is being held in a Middle East country as Qatar will host the quadrennial event beginning in November.The nation is telling fans to bring their usual fervor and fandom – but not their booze.ADVERTISINGAccording to an article on ESPN, Qatar is warning all visitors coming into the country for the World Cup that it has enacted a ban on bringing alcohol into Qatar for personal consumption. And officials are talking about more than just trying to slip it into those fake binoculars when you enter the stadiums. Qatar said it will take "specific measures" against even trying to sneak alcohol into the country in their luggage at the airport."There are specific measures," Col. Jassim Abdulrahim Al Sayed of the safety and security operations committee told ESPN at a news conference in Doha. "I think alcohol will not be allowed through the airport and suitcases. There are locations where alcohol will be sold throughout the country."Excitement has been building for the event, which will start on November 20, and alcohol is available inside hotels and beer – thanks largely to Budweiser being an official sponsor of the World Cup – will be available inside stadiums and in designated fan zones. But as ESPN noted, alcohol is already restricted in Qatar, with monetary fines for drinking in public. In severe cases, it can also lead to prison times.That’s a policy that will be greatly tested by the World Cup.Soccer has passionate fans, especially those rooting for an entire nation, and that passion can turn to rowdiness at times. To curb that, Qatari officials said the main area where fans will congregate in Doha will not serve alcohol until after 6:30 p.m. Again, that could be another problem with fans because many games will be kick off much earlier in the day."There is a misconception about alcohol sales in stadiums and designated zones," Al Khater said. "We are working like any other World Cup, like usual. Very simply, we have always stated that the sale of alcohol [will be] available in Qatar and will make it available in specific zones. The fanfest (area) will serve from 6:30 p.m., but it will attract a lot of families and children and we want to give them opportunity to be in alcohol-free zone for certain parts of the day. Later, the fans will have alcohol readily available." Adblock test (Why?)

Chile is recognized worldwide for the high quality of its wines that it has produced in series since the 19th century thanks to a commercial agreement with vineyards in France and the United States. The international markets have rewarded wines produced with Cabernet grapes, mainly, which has allowed Chile to be the first exporter of wines in America and one of the leading in the world.The areas where the most iconic vineyards of this South American country are located are: Maipo, Maule, Curicó, Rapea, Cachapoal, Itata, Niobio, Aconcagua, Marga-Marga, San Antonio, Colchagua and Casablanca.ADVERTISING Trending Now Due to the pandemic, in the last two years, visits to the vineyards have been restricted, however, the activities are beginning to return to normal, with sanitation measures, so that tourists can again tour recognized vineyards and enjoy the Chilean countryside. Tours of the different vineyards of Chile include tastings and pairings with cheeses and the gastronomy of the country. (Photo via ah_fotobox / iStock / Getty Images Plus). These are five of the most important vineyards in Chile that every wine lover should know:Located in the Maipo Valley, this company is one of the most famous in the world for being the producer of the emblematic Casillero del Diablo wines and has a presence in more than 130 countries. All tours include a gift cup for visitors and are divided into different experiences ranging from the traditional three-cup tasting tour to the seven-cup tour and the Aroma Experience tour where six glasses are tasted and taught to recognize aromas and identify flavors.The tours are made through the summer residence of the Concha y Toro family along with beautiful gardens and the different depots. The tour can be combined with a tasting of four varieties of the Marqués de Casa Concha line, guided by a sommelier and accompanied by a fine collection of cheeses. The tasting of seven wines includes varieties of Ultra Premium lines and the tasting of eight wines is carried out in a Cellar Collection tour that has the most prestigious and recognized terroirs of Viña Concha y Toro in which visitors can taste exceptional wines of limited editions.Located in the Cachapoal Valley, this is one of the oldest and most important vineyards in the country where visitors can get to know its famous wineries on family tours where tastings with pairings are offered including a wide variety of cheeses and typical dishes of Chilean gastronomy.The tour includes a gourmet roast and pairing it with Cabo de Hornos wine. Visitors can also experience personalized and exclusive experiences, take excursions in the countryside or visit the modern winery and enjoy a barbecue in the quincha (palm roof) of the winery. Tourists can also take bike rides along beautiful trails to admire the biodiversity of the place. Visits to Chilean vineyards include tours around the underground factory cellars. (Photo via CoppiBartali/iStock/Getty Images Plus). Located in the Maule Valley, this vineyard has greatly developed its ecotourism area so that visitors know the secrets of wine and enjoy the nature of the place. Its facilities have a wine bar for meetings of up to 200 people to hold corporate events, family meetings, holidays, birthdays, etc.Hundreds of visitors come every year to enjoy guided tours of the vineyard and production areas, enology experiences, picnics, and wine tastings, among other activities. Also, in Donoso, couples can celebrate their marriage in the manor house La Oriental in Talca, located in a fabulous natural environment and with world-class service offers.Located in the Aconcagua Valley, it produces some of the most award-winning wines in the world. The tour begins with a conversation about the Errázuriz Vine and its role in the development of the wine industry in Chile and the world. The visit includes tours to the underground winery and vineyards while addressing issues of viticulture, weather conditions, and management of the different varieties.Tourists can also visit the Icono Winery and know about its sustainability, based on both its design and operational aspects, to produce the emblematic wines of Viña Errázuriz. The tour is completed with the tasting of three wines: Max, Aconcagua Costa, and Don Maximiano Founder's Reserve.This vineyard is located in the Maipo Valley and is the only one in Chile established during the 19th century that still belongs to the founding family. The traditional tour includes three tasting glasses and is carried out walking together with a private guide that takes the visitor to know historical places of Viña Cousiño Macul. In addition to tours, some vineyards offer spaces to celebrate birthdays, corporate meetings, and weddings, among others.(Photo via imeme / iStock / Getty Images Plus). A highly recommended tour is the one in honor of Isadora Goyenechea, one of the founders of the company, where the visitor knows its history through various historical places. Tourists can also enjoy bike tours to know the vineyard and emblematic sites of Vina Cousiño Macul with an explanation of the history of wines. Tours of this place guarantee a personalized experience for those who seek to know more about pairing and wine. Adblock test (Why?)

There's no experience quite like looking up at a night sky full of brilliant stars. Whether you're hunting for a meteor shower or the Northern Lights, these destinations offer some of the best experiences for stargazing in the entire world, with many classified as International Dark Sky Parks, Communities, Reserves, Sanctuaries and more. While by no means an exhaustive list, consider traveling to one of these incredible locations for some awesome astro-tourism experiences. Adblock test (Why?)

WHY IT RATES: To aid Kenya’s tourism recovery, the new, large-scale “Real Deal Kenya” lmarketing campaign, aimed at the North American market, will offer special flight booking options and itineraries with seven partner tour operators, suited to many different interests and budgets. — Laurie BarattiThe Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) has launched the first phase of a global marketing campaign in their strongest source market – North America.The campaign - "Real Deal Kenya" - was developed to reinvigorate Kenya’s tourism industry by highlighting the wildlife, culture, and adventure activities available to the global visitor. According to KTB CEO Dr. Betty Radier, the campaign is in line with the board’s strategy of making Kenya one of Africa's top tourist destinations.MORE Destination & Tourism "This is not only a very timely and relevant initiative, but also an important part of our strategy for attracting visitation from abroad, as we regain our stability from the impact of Covid-19 pandemic." she said.The digital campaign in North America - launched by media-buying agency Dalh-Mac Group, experts in travel marketing - in partnership with Sojern, utilizing their rich data partnerships to deliver a variety of video content and display banners to audiences actively seeking travel inspiration.In partnership with Kenya Airways the campaign offers flight booking options as well as partner travel itineraries that suit different interests and budgets from seven operators – Africa Answers, African Travel, Audley Travel, GAdventures, Goway, Intrepid, Kensington Tours. Travelers can explore many travel options allowing them access to different facets of Kenyan culture, gastronomy, eco-tourism and engage in adventure activities, cultural events, wildlife safaris and unique family attractions.“Kenya Airways is proud to partner with Kenya Tourism Board,” said Julius Thairu, Kenya Airways Chief Commercial and Customer officer. “As part of this campaign, we have offered customers the benefit of discounted fares on the non-stop flight between New York and Nairobi.”Kenya has recorded an upward trajectory in arrivals with resumption of travels and other tourism business. Within the review period (FY 2021/22 July – June, Kenya welcomed 1,207,691 visitors, compared to 483,257 in 2019/20, representing an increase of 149.9%.Travelers will be directed to the campaign page on Kenya Airways, RealDealKenya.com where they can access flight booking options and partner travel itineraries.The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife projects international arrivals to recover by up to 75 percent this year, with marketing initiatives being rolled out in various platforms. “Real Deal Kenya” will be launching in other international markets the remainder of 2022. For more information, visit realdealkenya.com.SOURCE: Kenya Tourism Board press release. Adblock test (Why?)

America's most Insta-Worthy landmarks are incredibly diverse, with some stemming from natural wonders created over thousands of years and others brought to fruition by humankind. Either way, it can definitely make sense to plan a road trip that stops at many of these famous sights since doing so can help you fill your Instagram feed with photos others will envy. Of course, you can also have a ton of fun along the way. Where exactly are America's most Insta-worthy spots? While some are located on federal lands such as Grand Canyon National Park, Yellowstone National Park and Sedona's Red Rock State Park, others are in major cities like Seattle, New York and Orlando, to name a few. If you're hoping to snap a shot of some of the most famous places in the United States, read on to learn where to take the best photos in places like New York's Times Square, Walt Disney World in Florida and Las Vegas, Nevada. Adblock test (Why?)

Travel to Europe has bounced back in a big way this summer and experts believe the tourism industries in key destinations will continue to rebound in the fall and winter months.According to data from ForwardKeys, Turkey and Greece exceeded pre-pandemic tourism levels in the peak summer months of July and August, with international visitor air arrivals climbing by nine percent and two percent, respectively.ADVERTISING Trending Now Air travel across Europe was down by 26 percent compared to 2019, but the outlook for the next three months shows that flight bookings were only down 21 percent compared to pre-pandemic totals.Bookings for Turkey and Greece jumped 20 percent and five percent ahead, respectively, while Portugal was down only three percent, Iceland was down seven percent and Spain was down 15 percent.“The recovery from the pandemic has continued despite the travel chaos and capacity reductions caused by staff shortages,” ForwardKeys VP Olivier Ponti said. “Right now, forward bookings for leisure travel show a continued recovery in air travel, post-pandemic; and, encouragingly, business bookings are catching up.”The best performing city destinations included Istanbul, which saw a two percent increase in flight arrivals, followed by Athens (down by seven percent), Reykjavik (down by eight percent), Porto (down by eight percent) and Malaga (down by 13 percent).ForwardKeys reported that European destinations could have attracted more visitors if the aviation industry better handled the surge in demand for travel during late spring and early summer. Data showed that intra-European flight bookings would have been five percentage points higher had there been no disruption.In July, France reported that travelers from the United States helped the country’s tourism numbers nearly reach 2019 pre-pandemic levels, despite the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. Data showed that American tourists spent an average of $402 per day while in France and most spent more than $760 per day over a typical 10-day stay.A report on Italy’s tourism industry from last month revealed an estimated 2.2 million Americans are expected to visit by the end of summer and projected to spend $2.09 billion between July and September, a 20 percent increase from 2019. Italian travel numbers also indicated that international arrivals from Canada, Australia, England and Spain returned to 2019 levels.For the latest travel news, updates and deals, be sure to subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter here. Adblock test (Why?)

Mezcal is one of the most representative drinks of Mexico around the world. Its artisanal character and its variety of presentations have made it a highly demanded product in domestic and foreign markets.There is a great variety of mezcal with different flavors, aromas, and textures due to factors such as the type of agave—the plant that produces it—the type of distillation, aging time and the area where it is produced, among others.ADVERTISING Trending Now The most famous and successful types of mezcal in the world are: white, rested and aged, and smoked, but there is also the worm mezcal, which brings one of these exotic little animals inside the bottle, breast mezcal, and also mezcal creams sweetened with milk and honey.In Mexico, many states have the appellation of origin that authorizes them to produce it: Oaxaca, Puebla, Guerrero, Durango, San Luis Potosí, Zacatecas, Tamaulipas, Michoacán and Guanajuato. Although all these states are in the production circuit of mezcal, Oaxaca is the most representative in Mexico and worldwide. Here is a route for those looking to taste the different flavors of this drink and tour the most emblematic towns related to its production. These places are far from civilization and are perfect to enjoy a tour in rustic landscapes full of nature and tradition.Mezcal Route in Oaxaca Mezcal, a drink made with artisanal techniques, is one of the most representative cultural heritage of Mexico. (Photo via Thompson Hotels). Santiago MatatlanSantiago Matatlan is known as the Mezcal Capital of the World because it is one of the spots where most of this traditional drink is produced. Visitors can look around among many places where mezcal is manufactured and sold, in addition to enjoying the attraction of the village and its fabulous temple of Santiago Apostle which was built in the 17th century.OcotlanThis destination, in addition to offering many places with gourmet mezcal, is very important in historical terms. It features the monumental Ex-convent of Santo Domingo de Guzmán with a front decorated with vegetable motives. In addition, the tourist also has the opportunity to discover the historic City Hall and a community museum located in the convent of the Dominicans. Mezcal offers various flavors depending on how it is prepared and the region where it is produced. (Photo via Will McGough). TlacolulaIn addition to offering factories of excellent mixtures, this beautiful town has an attractive market and colonial vestiges such as the church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, built in the 16th century.MiahuatlanThis town is famous for the delicate flavor of its mezcal, of which smoking is a favorite of experts. The village has an interesting parish, an archeological area, and various places to explore nature in the surrounding area.Sola de VegaIn its streets, travelers can enjoy the tranquility of the village and find small places where they can taste mezcal of high quality, elaborated with traditional techniques. In addition, the tourist can buy crafts such as typical textiles of the region and beautiful pieces of pottery.YautepecMezcal is the specialty of this destination, but also very attractive are its crafts made in clay and palm, as well as textiles that can be bought in different stores throughout the town. The state of Guanajuato offers an attractive mezcal route with artisanal and industrial production factories. (Photo via Guanajuato Ministry of Tourism). EjutlaThis village has a beautiful portal where visitors can buy the best mezcals. In addition, tourists have the opportunity to enjoy colonial architecture such as the Temple of Santa Maria de la Natividad which has an extensive collection of ancient paintings.Salina BlancaHere, visitors can enjoy high-quality mezcal and the natural environment full of small saltwater waterfalls and petrified formations that have formed over the years.ZimatlanThis is a very important place in cultural and historical terms because it is inhabited by the Zapotec population, one of the most representative of Mexico and of the most outstanding in pre-Hispanic times. Its mezcal is very famous, as well as its important production of amaranth, a cereal produced since pre-Columbian times.The different routes of mezcal, mostly located in marginalized populations, have helped the progress of small producers, which with the growth of the industry are obtaining important benefits. The appellation of origin has great value for local development, as the manufacture of products linked to origin or provenance strengthens the identity and traditions of regions visited by more and more tourists. Adblock test (Why?)

Now that we’ve entered the “ber” months—heralded by an aroma of pumpkin spice lattes everywhere you go—the end-of-year holidays are officially in sight and New York City is preparing to host its epic Christmas-time extravaganzas. The Big Apple is legendary not only for its fantastic holiday light installations and Christmas trees, window displays, citywide decorations, and various seasonal shows and spectaculars, but also for its holiday markets.As Travel Awaits recently spotlighted, some of the city’s most popular outdoor holiday markets will be popping up before you know it. If you want to mark the calendar so you know when to head outdoors to immerse yourself in the intoxicating aromas of cinnamon and peppermint while browsing through an array of unique vendor stalls, be sure to note these opening dates.ADVERTISING Trending Now Columbus Circle Holiday MarketCentral Park in is a must-see for visitors in search of an ideal NYC wintertime experience, but it becomes an even more spectacular affair with the arrival of the annual Columbus Circle Holiday Market. Running this year from November 28 through December 24, over 100 vendors can be found flogging locally-made and artisan goods, including jewelry, apparel, trinket, art pieces, and festive food and beverages. Known around the world as one of the country’s most beautiful holiday shopping locations, this market is located at Central Park’s southwest corner in Columbus Circle, at the corner of 8th Avenue and 59th Street.Union Square Holiday MarketIn Union Square at 14th Street, the Union Square Holiday Market will be bustling with the sights, sounds and smells of the holiday season, this year starting on November 17 and running through December 24. Over 160 vendors will fill Union Square with stalls selling their unique gifts crafted by local artisans and craftworkers, artists and other entrepreneurs. Already named one of the best holiday markets in all of the U.S., the Union Square Market typically offers items such as clothing, décor, home goods, candles, soaps and more, along with a wealth of festive goodies to enjoy while you’re browsing. Two smiling friends on the Christmas market. (Photo via blackCAT / Getty Images / E+) Christmas Market at Bryant ParkOne of NYC's most beloved holiday shopping spots, the open-air, European-inspired Winter Village at Bryant Park features more than 170 artisanal vendors, both local and hailing from around the globe. Situated throughout the park’s tree-lined allées, plazas, and terraces the stalls are custom-designed as “jewel box” kiosks, lending them the feel of tiny boutique shops interspersed throughout a holiday village. The shops will be open from October 29 through January 2, located in Bryant Park between 40th and 42nd Streets, and 5th and 6th Avenues.Westfield World Trade Center's Holiday MarketLocated at the World Trade Center complex’ Oculus transportation hub, the Westfield World Trade Center’s Holiday Market is an indoor winter village that features over 20 specialty shops and runs from November 26 through January 2. You’ll find plenty of unique gifts, souvenirs and tasty treats, and enjoy special photo opportunities and live performances. The surrounding décor elements include a clocktower, chrome snowman and walk-through winter wonderland display.For the latest travel news, updates and deals, be sure to subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter here. Adblock test (Why?)

The largest of the Hawaiian islands is the Island of Hawai'i. Hawai'i Island is full of tropical wetlands, rainforests, matte black sand at Punaluu Beach, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, some of the best surf, and even snowy tips on Maunakea.Among the diverse landscapes are some of the best wildlife, especially within the reefs of the bays and deep in the ocean. This beautiful island has so much to offer when it comes to learning about sustainability, wildlife, plant life, and nature.ADVERTISINGMORE Destination & Tourism Checking into the Royal Kona Resort75-5852 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740At Royal Kona Resort, the beachy rooms have a terrace overlooking ocean views with floor-to-ceiling windows to let the natural light beam in. On the property, the hotel has the perfect bar to watch the sunset on the water while sipping mai tais topped with an umbrella. Guests can take a yoga class on hotel grounds while listening to the crashing waves or attend a luau, watching the fire dancers. Don’s Mai Tai Bar & Restaurant is a perfect place to grab some quick grub at the end of the evening, whether you want a sushi roll or just nachos topped with pork, it’s a great option and right on the property.ActivitiesKailua Village Farmers Market75-5767 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740The Kona farmers market is small, with just a few vendors, some selling fruit and others selling souvenirs. I bought a ton of fresh lychee and ate them by the water. Nearby, I grab a coffee at Kona Coffee & Tea and sit on the water's edge watching the crabs in the tide pools while enjoying your coffee and fruit in the morning.Tour the Island with Kailani Tours Hawai'i Deluxe Volcano Experience Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. (photo by Jessica Kelly) If you’re looking to explore the depths of the island with a group, check out the Kailani Tours Hawai‘i Deluxe Volcano Experience. The tour guide and owner, Chris Paterson, is incredibly knowledgeable when it comes to showing guests the best the island has to offer, explaining different aspects of the culture and scenery. The group leaves in a comfortable van and first heads to Kona Joe's Coffee, a coffee farm where guests see the process of how it’s made and get to try some of the coffee themselves. Afterward, the group will head to Punaluu Beach where you can view the matte black volcanic sand and the sea turtles chilling on the beach.After visiting the black sand beach, the group heads over to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park during the day to check out the steam vents and experience the heat that comes from the volcano, as well as see the steam and volcanoes during the day. After a sit-down, three-course dinner as a group at Kilauea Lodge, where you can try some of the freshest fish that was swimming that morning on special, guests will head back for a night hike through Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Following a mile hike down a gravel path, the sky lights up red and in the distance visitors see lit-up lava pools in the darkness of night, watching them bubble and pop. It’s truly a sight to see.Kahalu'u BayThere’s no shortage of beautiful places to snorkel here, but Kahalu‘u Bay on the west coast is easily one of the best spots. Cindi Punihaole, Kahalu‘u Bay Education Center Project Director, and Dr. Christine Zalewski, Dear Ocean President, were both an absolute pleasure to speak with about their conservation efforts. Not only do the groups work to protect the bay and the animals and plant life, but they’re also actively trying to educate the community about how to observe the incredible marine life and ecosystem without disturbing its growth, advising on scientific safety for both the visitors and the ocean life.Learn more about their efforts at the Kahalu‘u Bay Education Center. Guests can bring their own snorkel and observe some incredible animal life within the warm bay waters, where I saw moray eels and a wide variety of colorful fish.Explore Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical ParkState Hwy 160, Honaunau, HI 96726In Southern Kona along Honaunau Bay, explore one of the most historic places on the island. Within this national park, visitors can learn about Hawaiian culture and take in the surroundings. Snorkeling in Hawaii. (photo by Jessica Kelly) Anelakai Adventures Manta Ray Night Snorkel78-7138 Kaleiopapa Street Kailua-Kona, HI 96740Anelakai Adventures is a paddle-powered boat without motors, where guests can paddle out a short distance from the shore to swim with manta rays at night. With the conservation efforts on the island, an eco-friendly boat is a huge plus. Plus, if there are some members of your group that are hesitant about getting into the water with the manta rays, the boat is small and close to the water, making it easy to view them clearly from your seat, unlike some of the other larger boats. Once the boat reaches the area (about a 10-minute paddle from shore), guests will enter the water, hanging onto a bar while the blue lights attract the plankton making them visible to the manta rays.Sea Quest Hawaii Captain Cook Exclusive78-7106 Kamehameha III Road Kailua-Kona, HI 96740For another incredible snorkeling adventure, sign up for a tour with Sea Quest. Riding out, we were so grateful to see a ton of dolphins surrounding our boat. Guests will have the opportunity to snorkel Kealakekua Bay, viewing schools of colorful fish. On the way to and from the snorkeling destination, the captain will point out various landscapes and points of interest, including Pele, the Goddess of Fire and Volcanoes. It’s said that Pele created the Hawaiian Islands and it’s truly incredible to see how an actual outline of a woman was formed within the volcanic rock.Other Dining Options To Keep In MindEnjoy Breakfast in HolualoaGrab a coffee in Holualoa and explore the village. Drive through the island to explore some waterfalls like Rainbow falls and Pe'epe'e Falls. This might seem unusual, but check out some Japanese delicacies if you pass a 7-Eleven. Admittedly, this isn’t something I thought I’d suggest, but they have a bunch of sushi kits, a wide range of musubi, and steam buns to go. There are even some unique finds like Gejang (raw marinated blue crab) at their local grocery store, Foodland, too. Pe'epe'e Falls and Boiling Pots. (photo by Jessica Kelly) Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill74-5599 Pawai Pl, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740Stop in for some poke bowls at this authentic Hawaiian restaurant, serving the freshest seafood and salads, along with plenty of toppings. The bowls and entrees come with white or brown rice sprinkled with furikake. They have delicious options like the Hottie with spicy aioli with Hawaiian salt and onions, the Hawaiian with a flavorful dry rub of inamona, limu kohu Hawaiian salt onions and spicy red pepper flakes, or the Sweetie with furikake, onions and Hawaiian salt with sweet soy glaze. Pair this with some sides like Mac Salad with celery, potato, carrots, mayo, Hawaiian salt, and pepper or the seaweed salad.Kat’s Kau KauRight across from Magic Sands Beach Park (Ali'i Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740) is a Hawaiian shaved ice truck serving the classic Hawaiian treat. Perfect on a hot day after the beach, don’t forget to add lychee cream to it.OahuAfter spending time exploring Hawai'i Island, take a flight over to the island of Oahu. The island is big on surfing, being the start of modern big wave surfing and full of history. Learn about the Hawaiian monarchy and their part in WWII, while soaking up the sun, swimming with wildlife, and eating traditional dishes.Checking into the Turtle Bay Resort57-091 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, HI 96731The Turtle Bay Resort is designed beautifully with an open concept that lets natural light flood in while the friendly staff greets guests with a fresh flower lei upon check-in. If guests are fans of Forgetting Sarah Marshall, the movie was actually filmed right at Turtle Bay Resort. The views are amazing and the rooms are modern and comfortable. Turtle Bay Resort in Oahu, Hawaii. (photo by Jessica Kelly) The hotel has beautiful infinity pools, private beach access, an incredible bar overlooking the ocean, places to lounge and listen to the waves, and attentive staff. In addition to luxury amenities, guests have the opportunity to book activities right at the resort, like horseback riding. This is truly a top-tier hotel when it comes to accommodations in Oahu.Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort2169 Kalia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815The night before leaving the island, consider spending the evening in the big city of Honolulu. Not only are there still beaches and amazing restaurants, but it’ll put guests back near the airport (Turtle Bay is about an hour away). Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort has beautiful rooms, especially the suites, with balconies and a wrap-around terrace overlooking the gorgeous beach view. There are pools along with private beach access with a busy city on the other side. Parking is a little difficult in Honolulu, so there is a chance guests may have to park in a parking garage about a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Valet is first come first serve. Guests can always drop their luggage at the bellhop stand.ActivitiesWild Side Specialty Tours85-371 Farrington Hwy, Waianae, HI 96792 (808) 306.7273Wild Side Specialty Tours is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. The tour is essentially a water safari, where guests never really know what they’ll encounter along the way. The Captain judged if the group could safely and ethically interact with the animals or just observe from above depending on the situation. When he gave the group the go, we would gently get in the water, with dolphins (from a distance) where we could hear them speaking to each other through echolocation using high and low pitches to identify what’s around them. That was so incredible and special to hear and see. Snorkeling with Wild Side in Hawaii. (photo by Jessica Kelly) We were able to snorkel the coral reefs where we saw a sea turtle swimming slowly. At times, guests can experience chance encounters with whale sharks, whales, groups of turtles, rays, and more depending on the location and the day. sometimes they explore different locations than we did. It just depends on what the captain thinks is best for that day, and every experience can be different. The staff was super friendly and helpful, making the experience that much better.One Ocean Diving66-105 Haleiwa Beach Road, Haleiwa, HI 96712If travelers are looking for a thrilling activity, explore the deep with One Ocean Diving in Oahu. One Ocean Diving is top-tier when it comes to ethical dives, with the safety of the sharks and guests always taking priority. They teach safety techniques like how to redirect a shark if it approaches you, how to maintain eye contact with the animals and why that’s important, and what to do so that you and sharks remain safe. Our group observed Galapagos and Blacktip sharks, but on any given day you can see a variety of different sharks. Just a few days prior to our group dive, they saw huge tiger sharks. It all depends on the day and the season, especially when dealing with wild animals in their natural habitat. You never know who might show up.Malama Hawaii Experience at Kualoa Ranch49-139 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744With Hawaii being an island, sustainability is huge and taking care of the natural landscapes is extremely important. During the Malama Hawaii experience, visitors will be educated about what it takes to care for the Upland, the importance of Kalo, in addition to helpful medicinal plants that are grown in the area. Guests will have the opportunity to assist with whatever they need that day, whether it be cleaning, planting, picking fruits or vegetables like taro (kalo), and more. It’s an incredible way to be immersed in the culture of the island and learn about sustainability efforts. The author at Kualoa Ranch. (photo by Jessica Kelly) Guided UTV Adventure at Kualoa Ranch49-560 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744Right on Kualoa Ranch, where countless movies have been filmed, guests can go on a two-hour UTV ride around the valleys, discovering different movie sites from films like Jurassic Park, Jurassic World, George of the Jungle, King Kong, and so much. As a huge Jurassic Park fan, you can actually run through the park where the stampede of Gallimimus dinosaurs ran during the first movie.Bishop Museum1525 Bernice St, Honolulu, HI 96817Local residents couldn’t recommend the Bishop Museum enough. The Bishop Museum holds many artifacts, heirlooms, and cultural information about the island. Visitors can learn a lot about Polynesian cultures while exploring the objects and taking in the rich history of the island.Dole Plantation64-1550 Kamehameha Hwy, Wahiawa, HI 96786What started as a simple fruit stand in the 50s transformed into the Dole Plantation where fruit fans can tour the property via the Pineapple Express Train Tour, the Pineapple Garden Maze, and the Plantation Garden Tour. Guests can explore the Dole Plantation before grabbing one of their famous dole whip desserts loaded with pineapple chunks or a meal in the cafe.Roadside Fruit Roadside fruit in Hawaii. (photo by Jessica Kelly) Be on the lookout for fresh roadside fruits. There are plenty of locals cracking open coconuts for thirsty hikers and beachgoers. The best part is that they'll cut it open for you after you drink the coconut water, so you can eat the coconut meat. There was also plenty of fresh and sweet mango, too, with a tajin shaker. It’s a great treat on a hot day.DiningWaiahole Poi Factory48-140 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744The perfect place for Hawaii comfort food is the Waiahole Poi Factory for the Kanaka Nui platter, aka…a little of everything. On the platter is Laulau (tara leaves wrapped around shaved pork, fish, and coconut cream), smoky salty Kalua Pig, Chicken Long Rice (a ginger, vermicelli noodle, chicken thigh, and green onion comfort soup), Luau (made with beef or squid, cooked down taro leaves, and coconut milk), Poi (a mashed, silky past made from fermented taro root), Lomi Salmon (onion, tomato, salt, salmon), and Haupia (a coconut milk, jelly square). This is an incredible way to taste a wonderful variety of dishes.Paniolo Pa'inaAt Turtle Bay Resort, guests can sign up for the Paniolo Pa'ina Dinner Experience. Although it’s not technically a traditional luau, it’s very similar. Guests can enjoy music, cocktails, dancing, and shows in addition to lei-making lessons and an incredible buffet filled with local foods like a full-roasted pig with crispy skin. The food was phenomenal and the fire dancers were so impressive and fun, the entire experience made for an incredible evening.North Shore Shave Ice and Shrimp Truck59-694 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712In this small little area across from the beach, visitors can stop and relax at the picnic tables, grab food or shop at local pop-up shops all in one lot. The garlic peel-and-eat shrimp with a side of salad and rice is a great go-to dinner and super flavorful from the North Shore Shrimp Truck. In the same truck, they also have amazing shaved ice to end your meal with. North Shore Shrimp Truck. (photo by Jessica Kelly) The Pig and the Lady83 N King St, Honolulu, HI 96817The Pig and the Lady is the perfect place to visit for modernized Vietnamese dishes like Octopus Ala Plancha with braised mung beans, spices, charred scallions, inamona, marinated cucumber, and micro herbs and Charcoal Grilled Pork with lentils stewed with a salty ham hock, toasted rice and chanh muoi salsa verde, and sprinkled with a little lemon zest. They have a variety of delicious noodle dishes, as well, like Pho 75 Dac Biet made with their signature spiced beef bone broth, fresh rice noodles, Meyer lemon, rare steak, stewed brisket, oxtail, aromatic herbs, and fresh ginger fermented chili. Adblock test (Why?)

Gorgeous lakes are dotted all over the USA, so no matter where you are in the country, you aren't far from a breathtaking inland body of water and a few days of fun—especially over a three-day holiday weekend. The best lakes in America serve as both a base for water-based recreation and a place to get away from it all. Some beautiful lakes were formed by glaciers, and others lakes were created by modern works of engineering. Some of the best American lakes are as big as seas while others can be sailed across with one strong breeze. Some are warm year-round while others may stay a little chilly even in the summer. Almost all attract visitors looking for some fun on the water or just simply a slice of solitude and the following collection features the best lake destinations in each state.  Adblock test (Why?)