Lush paradise, turquoise waters, idyllic getaway — these are all phrases often used to describe the beautiful places in the Caribbean. And though this collection of countries in the middle of the ocean contains a shared allure of natural wonders, each one also has its own history and cultural traditions.

I’ve been fortunate to visit a number of Caribbean nations, bordered by white, black, and pink sands below swaying palms, and it never grows old. The vendors with freshly plucked coconuts and plastic cups filled with dark rum to enjoy as the sun sinks into sherbet-coloured clouds. A plate of jerk chicken pulled from a charcoal-fired pit on the side of the road and splashed with mango chutney to cool the scotch bonnet. A parade of smiles and feathers and palatable joy as revellers make their way down the road for Carnival Tuesday. These are all moments that make the Caribbean beautiful.

Below, you’ll find a list of places that expand on that idea, from sustainable, jungle-shrouded hotels without any crowds to flavourful, farm-to-table experiences tucked on quiet hillsides. We tapped two Caribbean experts — writer, editor and on-air travel expert Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon and author and chef Adrian Forte — to help us compile a list of 25 of the most beautiful places in the Caribbean.

The most beautiful places in the Caribbean

Tahiti Beach, Bahamas

Located on the southern end of Elbow Cay in the Bahamas, and only accessible by foot, boat, or bike, Tahiti Beach stays with you long after you’ve left it. “As many times as I’ve been to the Caribbean and to the Bahamas, you’d think I’d be immune to the beauty of this sandbar, which disappears at high tide. But its silky white sand, surrounded by a swath of iconic Bahamian blue, stuns me every single time,” says Greaves-Gabbadon. Alaska Airlines also recently launched a number of nonstop flights from my hometown of Los Angeles to Nassau, so I’ll be heading back to the country for Carnival next year.

Canouan, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Untouched by cruise ships and crowds, Canouan is a 3.2-square-mile (8.28 square kilometre) island in the Grenadines, just a 40-minute plane ride from Barbados. It’s home to the jungly Soho Beach House and the coral-hued beachfront Mandarin Oriental. Snorkeling here is also supreme, with water so vibrantly blue, it glows.

Petit St. Vincent, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

With 135 acres of private coastline floating in the Grenadines, Petit St. Vincent is a luxury resort with just 22 cottages steps away from cerulean waters. “Posh but unpretentious, this all-inclusive private island resort is a bit of a haul to reach (from Miami, it takes two planes, a golf cart, and a boat), but the journey is worth it,” says Greaves-Gabbadon. “When I’m not reading on the porch of my cottage (all serviced by butlers in a fleet of Mini Mokes), I like to hike up Marni Hill, laze on any (or all) of the four beaches, or sip a rum punch at the beach bar, Goatie’s.”

Jakes Hotel Treasure Beach, Jamaica

I can close my eyes and see the roads from Kingston — bumpy and winding — but worth the three-hour drive to reach this slice of solitude on Jamaica’s south coast. You won’t find high-rise hotels or crowds here. Upon arrival, it’s a straightaway to my home away from home at Jakes, a boutique hotel with seaside bungalows and villas spread about Treasure Beach’s rugged coastline. Spend a day at Jakes’s poolside bar, order a rum punch, and repeat. In the morning, have a filling breakfast of ackee and salt fish with fried plantain at the property’s restaurant. And, if you love to read like I do, come for the biannual Calabash International Literary Festival, a weekend that includes communing with some of the world’s greatest literary minds as they read from their work with lapping waves in the background.

Sheer Rocks, Antigua

Located on a cliffside on Antigua’s west coast, this is dining with a view taken up a notch. “It doesn’t get much sexier than this waterfront restaurant at Cocobay Resort, where you can dine in cabanas built into the cliff’s edge and swim in ocean-view plunge pools between courses,” says Greaves-Gabbadon.

Stush in the Bush, Jamaica

This plant-based, farm-to-table experience is offered in the hills of St. Ann, near Ocho Rios. Here, the flavours of Jamaica are presented as a love letter to the surrounding terrain that produces the food. Owners Chris and Lisa Binns seek to connect visitors to the earth at every turn, with a farm tour and rustic dinner of rotating dishes that have included a Jamaican mezze board of crispy plantain chips, coconut-crusted yams, and pineapple croquettes.

Wild Cow Run, Turks and Caicos

One of the most beautiful places in the Caribbean, Grace Bay in Providenciales sees its fair share of visitors — and for good reason: The white-sand beach rivals those seen in the Maldives.

But go beyond Provo and you’ll reach Middle Caicos, the largest of the islands in Turks and Caicos, with a wild beauty of its own. “Few visitors ever venture far enough to see this wild and wonderful beach, secreted at the southern tip of Middle Caicos, so I feel fortunate to have been introduced to it by a resident,” says Greaves-Gabbadon. “Walk through the stand of casuarina trees shielding the beach from the road and you’ll be rewarded with quite a sight: two miles (3.21 km) of completely deserted, blinding-white sand that meets gin-clear water, knee-deep for almost a mile (1.6 km) out. If beach was a religion, this would be its cathedral.”

Jardin de Balata, Martinique

Known for its world-class rums, Martinique has a slew of impressive beaches, too, from Le Diamant to Les Anses-d’Arlet. For a trip away from the island’s sandy shores, head to Jardin de Balata and learn why Martinique is called the “Island of Flowers.” At this thriving, three-hectare botanical garden just outside the capital of Fort-de-France, more than 3,000 varieties of flora and fauna bloom brightly. Take a canopy ride for panoramic views. And for cultural events, there’s Martinique’s three-day Carnival in February, where I’ve recently learned the crowd is entirely part of the parade in what’s called a vidé.

Grand Fond Natural Pools, St. Barts

On an island known for its exclusivity and luxury, visitors can opt for an adventure that only requires a good pair of walking shoes and a bathing suit. After a 30-minute walk along a winding path, you’ll reach two natural pools enclosed by craggy rocks jutting from the sea. If the waves are strong, it’s best to watch from a distance, but on a clear day, floating in the emerald-coloured water is simply magical.

Blue Hole, Jamaica

One of the most sought-after locations in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Hole are surrounded by vegetation and a hilly interior. “This is a series of natural limestone sinkholes and lush untouched forestry. I visited with my fiancé and a few of our closest friends. The view from the top of the tropical falls is stunning, and if you’re the adventurous type like me, jumping off a 30-foot cliff makes you feel like you can conquer anything afterwards,” says Holmes.

Dominica

Nicknamed the “Nature Island,” Dominica is home to rain forests, bubbling rivers, ocean kayaking trails, and rushing waterfalls. A few of the island’s most beautiful natural wonders include Morne Trois Pitons National Park, Champagne Reef, and the Botanic Gardens. For an eco-friendly retreat, check into Coulibri Ridge, a 14-suite, off-the-grid luxury hotel that uses solar energy as its main power source and features an open-air yoga pavilion. For a black-sand beach escape, my favourite pick is Secret Bay, set on a secluded cliff with residential-style villas that have their own plunge pools. In February, the streets become filled with revellers for Dominica’s Mas Domnik Carnival celebration, which includes music competitions, a variety of parties, and masqueraders dressed in bright regalia.

Nayara Bocas del Toro, Panama

With 16 overwater villas, this adults-only eco-resort on a private island along the Caribbean coast does not disappoint. Flanked by three miles (4.82 km) of coral reefs teeming with sea life, snorkellers will have lots to explore at Nayara Bocas del Toro. Kayak, paddleboard, and swim directly from your room, but not before enjoying Caribbean breakfast classics like Johnny Cakes. Some villas here include glass floor panels for viewing underwater life, while two one-bedroom bamboo tree houses tower some 40 feet above the ground. The property also boasts the world’s first overwater beach, suspended on stilts and stretching 90 feet long by 20 feet wide.

Port of Spain, Trinidad

You’ve likely seen images of Trinidad’s Carnival — one of the greatest and most beautiful traditions in the Caribbean — but you may not know its origin, which is rooted in rebellion and celebration against all odds by enslaved West Africans. Today, Trinidad’s capital, Port of Spain, draws travellers from around the Caribbean, Europe, and even Japan to party into the early morning — rum in hand. My favourite moment of it all is J’ouvert — a call to meet the rising sun, bodies splashed in powder and paint — and Caesar’s Army’s A.M. Bush — a wild party that takes place in an open field. A word to the wise: Get tickets early, as Caesar’s Army events are always the most popular during Carnival. In 2024, the energy is sure to be as magnetic as ever.

Pigeon Point, Tobago

Easily one of the most picturesque beaches in the Caribbean, Pigeon Point contains all the elements of a postcard-perfect day: sugary white sand, strikingly turquoise water, and palm trees swaying slowly above it all. Located on the southwestern tip of Tobago, it’s a popular place for sunbathing and water sports, without much foot traffic or noise.

Oil Nut Bay, Virgin Gorda

Tucked in the North Sound area of Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, Oil Nut Bay is 400 acres of luxurious relaxation. Visitors here will find a beach club with three pools and a swim-up bar; Nova, an overwater restaurant; and hiking trails with views overlooking the Caribbean. One of the villas, Compass Rose, spans 3,653 square feet and features two swimming pools. Another way to see the British Virgin Islands? The Moorings offer chartered catamarans and yachts to various destinations around the region, including Virgin Gorda, the less-frequented coral island of Anegada, and Saba Rock.

Grenada

Nicknamed the Caribbean’s “Spice Isle” because of its abundance of cinnamon, nutmeg, and more, Grenada lures visitors with fewer crowds than neighbouring islands, beautiful Grand Anse Beach, the history of Jab Jab during Carnival season (when bodies are splashed in black oil and paint as a symbol of Black pride), and an addictive plate of crab back at BB’s. To take in the island’s beauty, drive up to Fort Frederick for a panoramic view. Want to learn more about the island? My favourite guide, Roger Augustine, provides the best tours on the island. When it’s time to find a hotel, my first choice is always the Black-owned Spice Island Beach Resort. Six Senses La Sagesse will also open in early 2024, stretching across 38 acres in the bucolic parish of St. David.

Jade Mountain, St. Lucia

Set between two beaches on St. Lucia’s southwestern coast, Jade Mountain offers views that seamlessly blend into its cliffside location above the Piton Mountains, plus rooms with 15-foot ceilings, infinity pools, and 24-hour butler service. Even from a distance while approaching by boat, it’s easily one of the most striking hotels in the Caribbean. Looking for a honeymoon location? This is it. It will be hard to leave your room, but if you do, the village of Soufrière, filled with great restaurants like Orlando’s and the island’s famous Sulphur Springs, is not far.

Yemaya Reefs, Little Corn Island

Past rows of mangroves and jungle, Yemaya Reefs on Little Corn Island reveals itself some 50 miles (80.46 km) off Nicaragua’s eastern coast. Step onto the sand and head to one of 16 individual casitas, some with plunge pools. Everything here is intimate, from the service to the communal yoga pavilion and thatched-roof restaurant. The food at Yemaya Reefs is particularly impressive, with dishes that celebrate Afro-Nicaraguan influences like gallo pinto (rice and beans) and rondón, a filling coconut-based stew with root vegetables and seafood like fish and crab. To get to Yemaya, you’ll need to take a 90-minute flight from the capital city of Managua, and then a 30-minute boat ride from Big Corn Island — all of which can be coordinated with the hotel.

Pinel Island, St. Martin

A tropical nature reserve located just off the coast of St. Martin, Pinel Island checks off all the boxes for a memorable beach day: soft white sand, beachfront restaurants, and a number of water activities. The best way to spend the day here? Grab a table or beach lounger at Karibuni and choose from dishes like octopus ceviche or a platter of conch boudin and codfish fritters. The ocean views are worth admission alone.

Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico

When I first visited Flamenco Beach on the island of Culebra, I stood still for a few moments, knowing the short plane ride I feared was well worth this remote slice of beach in front of me. The horse-shaped bay with shallow turquoise waters can be reached via a 15-minute flight or a 1.5-hour ferry. Upon arriving, there are a number of food stalls to enjoy as well.

Ambergris Cay, Turks and Caicos

This 1,100-acre private island is a place to get away from it all, with 17 bungalows, eight villas, and a collection of privately owned homes and luxury accommodations. You’ll share the place with sunbathing iguanas and, if you’re lucky, a few whales in the distance. My favourite rooms are the beachfront suites with private plunge pools and an unobstructed view between the front door and the ocean.

La Cabane, Barbados

If you’re looking for the perfect Caribbean afternoon, this is your place. It includes all the necessary elements: good rum and wine; a pristine, uncrowded beach; and, of course, easy vibes. La Cabane on Barbados’ west coast provides a St. Tropez-style beach club experience without any unnecessary frills. Walk barefoot and order a lobster. While you wait, take a dip in Batts Rock Beach just steps away, and don’t leave without a rum punch. Another favourite? Cutters. “I’ve frequented Barbados for the last five years consecutively to attend the Food and Rum Festival. I can say, without a doubt, the best experience I’ve had on the island is at Cutters. They make the best rum punch in the world, using the best ingredients, including freshly pressed sugar cane for their simple syrup” says Forte.

Guana Island, British Virgin Islands

Total seclusion is king on this private island in the British Virgin Islands. “There are private island resorts and then there’s Guana Island, a private island resort that’s so exclusive, non-guests can’t even swing by for a drink or dinner. The result? A luxe, low-key getaway that’s reliably tranquil, and whose seven beaches you’ll share with a maximum of 31 other (lucky) guests,” says Greaves-Gabbadon.

Emara Estate, Turks and Caicos

For a gorgeous group getaway located on its own six acres, check into Emara Estate in Providenciales. One of the most beautiful places in the Caribbean, this 17-bedroom villa is tucked away on its own private peninsula, nestled between tropical trees. “It’s one of the most beautiful private villas I’ve been to — and it was also formerly owned by legendary musician Prince Rogers Nelson,” says Forte.

Piton Mountains, St. Lucia

Sprouting from the Caribbean Sea like a scene from Jurassic Park, these two volcanic plugs on St. Lucia’s southwestern coast leave me in awe every time I see them. While winding the hillsides of the country, the mountains peak out at various turns, but my favourite spot to view them is by boat or from the sand at Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort. Afterwards, head to the town of Soufrière and have lunch at Fedo’s. (Tip: Don’t skip the fresh juice of the day.)

(Feature image credit: Yemaya Reefs) 

This story first appeared on travelandleisure.com

Related: This Luxury Resort Will Have The First Ocean Pool In The Caribbean

Welcome to Santa Claus, Indiana: a real-life town that celebrates Christmas all year long. This town is jolly 365 days a year, with plenty of holiday-fuelled fun (including numerous Christmas-themed attractions to enjoy) — even in the heat of summer.

This town’s quirky story dates back to the 19th century when the town’s original name application was rejected, and its community decided on “Santa Claus” instead. The town’s first tourist attraction, Santa’s Candy Castle, opened in the 1930s — and the rest is history.

Santa Claus’s crown jewel is a theme park aptly named Holiday World, with lands dedicated to different holidays, a water park, and the most impressive collection of roller coasters in the area. This small town is also home to an official Santa Claus post office that draws in thousands of letters to Father Christmas from around the globe each year.

And it’s not all whimsy. Visitors can also walk in the footsteps of President Abraham Lincoln and enjoy the outdoors at Lincoln State Park between holiday-themed activities.

Here’s what you need to know before visiting Santa Claus, Indiana

Places to stay

Accommodation options include kitschy-themed hotels like Santa’s Lodge, one and two-bedroom cottages at Santa’s Lakeside Cottages, campsites and cabins at Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph, and spacious home rentals like Mistletoe Manor.

Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari

The highlight for many is Holiday World, a theme park that dates back to the 1940s when it opened as Santa Claus Land. It’s grown throughout the years, expanding from solely a Christmas-themed land to include other holidays, like Halloween, the Fourth of July, and Thanksgiving. The family-owned park now offers an impressive line-up of award-winning roller coasters, but it has maintained a charming, small-town feel. Plus, fewer crowds, affordable prices, and friendly employees make it a great place for a  family excursion.

The Voyage, a high-speed wooden roller coaster, is a must for serious thrill seekers. And in the warmer months, check out Cheetah Chase, the world’s first launched water coaster, at Splashin’ Safari. The fun extends to food with the park’s signature blue ice cream (a Midwest favourite) and a bounty of holiday-inspired treats. Holiday World is typically open from May through October; check the theme park’s website for exact dates.

Other things to do

Lincoln State Park

Lincoln State Park is a calming oasis of over 2,000 acres of stunning scenery with trails, campsites, boat rentals, and picnic areas set along Lake Lincoln. Don’t forget to stop by the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial, the site where Abraham Lincoln and his family lived for 14 years during his childhood.

Santa’s Candy Castle

Santa’s Candy Castle dates back to 1935, and it’s a can’t-miss stop when visiting. The shop offers a staggeringly large collection of candies, including vintage and rare sweet treats, as well as, homemade confections. It’s also known for a special beverage that fits right in with the town’s theme — frozen hot chocolate.

Santa Claus Museum & Village

Start your holiday-inspired trip with a visit to the Santa Claus Museum & Village. It’s home to the 1880 Santa Claus Church, a 22-foot-tall Santa Claus statue that dates to 1935, and the original Santa Claus Post Office. Explore the town’s origins through exhibits and artefacts you won’t find anywhere else, and don’t forget to write a letter to jolly Saint Nick while visiting.

Christmas Lake Golf Club

This par 72 course is a welcome break from the nearby activities and features an on-site restaurant, full driving range, putting green, and shop for the utmost convenience.

Restaurants and Bars

Plymouth Rock Cafe

Enjoy Thanksgiving dinner all season long at this holiday-themed restaurant located inside Holiday World. The casual quick-service eatery is serving up the festive favourite with juicy turkey, savoury mashed potatoes, and all the fixings. It also offers a cornucopia of other homestyle delights, including barbeque beef brisket and pulled pork, for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Santa Claus Brewing Co.

As one of the newest additions to Santa Claus located just across the street from Holiday World, this brewery is pouring an ever-rotating lineup of suds handcrafted right in their on-site taproom. Beyond the beer, the brewery offers a menu of pub favourites, including wings, burgers, and its twist on pretzel nuggets, and reindeer balls.

Monkey Hollow Winery and Distillery

Part of the Hoosier Wine Trail and located minutes from Santa Claus, Monkey Hollow is a family-owned-and-operated winery and distillery. Come summertime, the facility fires up the grill for prime outdoor dining with a view of the area’s green rolling hills.

Best times to visit

With plenty of outdoor activities including the state park and Holiday World, summer is an ideal time to visit. Summer visitors can also take advantage of seasonal events, like movies at the drive-in theatre, outdoor fairs, and speciality fireworks.

Of course, Santa Claus is also a popular destination during the holiday season. Santa Claus Christmas Celebration takes place the first three weekends in December, adding merriment with drive-thru light displays, shopping experiences, chestnut roasting, meet and greets with Santa, and the Santa Claus Christmas Parade.

How to get there

Given its proximity to major cities in the US including Chicago, Louisville, and Cincinnati, it’s a popular road trip for families in the Midwest. Evansville Regional Airport is located just under 50 miles (80 km) west and Louisville International Airport is approximately 80 miles (128 km) to the east. If you fly, you’ll want to rent a car so you can get around.

This story first appeared on www.travelandleisure.com

Feature Image Credit: David Williams

Related: Discover The Magic: Must-Visit Christmas Markets Around The World In 2023

Globetrotters across the world say they plan to travel this upcoming season, according to Tripadvisor’s Winter Travel Index, released recently. While most of the respondents say they plan to travel for specific reasons like winter festivals, skiing, and cultural holidays, some plan to go off to far-flung destinations to enjoy time for themselves too. That includes heading to Tripadvisor’s top trending destination, Las Galeras, in the Dominican Republic.

Here’s why Las Galeras is the top winter travel destination

“This season, we’re seeing Americans confident in taking bigger trips. About half plan to travel more than they did last winter, and they are more likely to take a long trip (5+ nights),” Alice Jong, senior research analyst at Tripadvisor, said in a statement provided to Travel + Leisure. “Price and weather top the list of hesitations about travel, while COVID-19 has dropped to a more moderate concern. The bottom line is the vast majority (73 percent) agree that travel is extremely important to them, and they’ll prioritise it this season and into 2024.”

So, how much more, exactly, are people planning to travel this winter? According to the findings, the majority (76 percent) said they would take one to two trips, while almost a quarter (24 percent) plan to take three or more. And though the findings note that domestic travel still reigns supreme, with 68 percent of travellers noting they plan to stay in the country this winter, one-third of respondents said they plan to travel internationally.

Tripadvisors report also noted that many of those international trips will occur in the Caribbean, including the aforementioned number one trending destination, Las Galeras in the Dominican Republic.

The remote fishing village in the Caribbean nation is well-known and loved for its rugged landscape, awe-inspiring white sand beaches that flow into the crystalline sea, and fantastic land-based adventures like horseback riding and ATVing through the forests.

The second-most popular destination, Fasmendhoo, Maldives, echoes people’s desires for a tropical getaway. It’s followed by a city escape in Hong Kong in the third, the town of Frederiksted in the US Virgin Islands in the fourth, and rounding out the top five, is a particular favourite here at T+L, Herradura.

This story first appeared on www.travelandleisure.com

(Feature Image Credit: Beli_photos/Getty Images)

Related: The Best Times To Visit The Caribbean For Beautiful Weather, Fewer Crowds, And Lower Prices

New York City is home to myriad things to do and numerous must-visit museums. These venues showcase everything from incredible art to the city’s fascinating history. In fact, some of the world’s best museums are here, from The Met and MoMA to more underrated destinations like the New York Historical Society and Queens County Farm Museum.

No matter when you visit, you’ll likely include a museum or two in your itinerary. And that’s an especially good idea during the colder months; Fora travel advisor Nicole Canal notes that museum visits “make great activities since they’re not weather-dependent.” Without further ado, here’s our list of the best museums in New York City, featuring spots in all five boroughs.

The 20 must-visit museums in New York City

Tenement Museum

“Immigration is such a rich part of our history, especially in New York City,” says Fora co-founder Henley Vazquez. “For an intimate and immersive lesson, head to the Lower East Side’s Tenement Museum, where you’ll see restored tenement apartments and gain insight into immigration, both past and present.” The museum is spread across two 19th-century-era tenement houses and tells the story of the people who once lived here.

MoMA PS1

Housed in an old public school building in Long Island City, this contemporary art museum is an offshoot of the main MoMA in Manhattan and displays bold, experimental works with “a strong focus on community,” says Vazquez. You can easily spend an entire afternoon here perusing an abundance of art, be it paintings, sculptures, photographs, or murals. The museum also hosts live music performances, plus a handful of community-oriented events.

The Met Cloisters

Established in 1938 as a branch of The Metropolitan Museum of Art (more on that further down), The Met Cloisters is considered the country’s only museum dedicated to Middle Ages art and architecture; Fora travel advisor Deb Swacker says not to miss the collection of unicorn tapestries. And while the artefact-filled interiors are incredible, you should carve out enough time to stroll through the enchanting gardens, too. Planted in reconstructed Romanesque and Gothic cloisters, the greenery-filled, well-manicured grounds look (and feel) as if they’ve been pulled straight out of a beautiful European village.

New York Transit Museum

“The New York Transit Museum is great fun for all ages,” says Swacker. Located in a decommissioned subway station in the heart of downtown Brooklyn, this interactive museum is well-suited for families. “You can walk through old subway cars and sit behind the wheel of a bus,” Swacker shares. Prepare to be dazzled by the museum’s impressive collection of nostalgia-inducing vintage subway cars.

Historic Richmond town

A visit to Historic Richmond Town on Staten Island takes you back in time. Known as New York City’s only living history museum, it offers a first-hand look at what life was like here hundreds of years ago. “There are interactive exhibits and people dressed up and ready to answer all the questions,” says Swacker. Check out demonstrations in blacksmithing, broom making, basket making, carpentry, and open-hearth cooking.

Louis Armstrong House Museum

Jazz enthusiasts will not want to not miss the Louis Armstrong House Museum. Located in the Corona neighbourhood of Queens, the home “has been kept as it was when the Armstrongs (Louis and his wife, Lucille) lived here,” says Fora travel advisor Julia Flood. You’ll find a spectacular collection of 1,600 recordings, 650 home-recorded tapes in hand-decorated boxes, 5,000 photographs, five trumpets, 120 awards and plaques and more in the museum.

The Brooklyn Museum

The Brooklyn Museum is 560,000 square feet in size, making it one of the city’s largest museums. You can easily spend an entire morning or afternoon exploring its collection of half a million objects. Check the website prior to your visit to know what temporary exhibitions will be open upon your arrival.

American Museum of Natural History

For a fun-filled experience that’s great for multiple generations of travellers, head to the American Museum of Natural History. According to Fora advisor Amna Ismail, the museum entertains guests of all ages with its collection of approximately 32 million specimens and artefacts. Highlights include the massive blue whale model, mind-boggling dinosaur exhibits, and the Richard Gilder Center, which features an insectarium and butterfly vivarium.

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Whitney Museum of American Art

“The Whitney is perfect for art lovers and non-art lovers alike,” says Fora travel advisor Michelle Zelena. The 220,000-square-foot space houses a permanent collection of over 25,000 works from the 20th and 21st centuries, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, photos, films, and more. The pieces were made by 3,500-plus artists, including American icons Jean-Michel Basquiat and Andy Warhol. Don’t leave without checking out the rooftop cafe, which offers incredible city views.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

New York City’s largest museum contains millions of pieces of art, some dating back thousands of years. “No matter how many times you’ve been to The Met, you’ll see something new,” says Fora travel advisor Elise Cocozzo. Since the venue’s sprawling size and seemingly endless assortment of awe-inspiring works can be overwhelming, Cocozzo recommends taking one of several free tours, which are led daily. “They’re quick (one hour), the guides are predictably wonderful, and it’s a great way to learn a bit, see a bunch, and not get lost,” she adds.

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is housed in an eye-catching, Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building that is a masterpiece in and of itself. The fun continues inside, where you’ll find more than 1,700 works by artists like Jackson Pollock, Degas, and Van Gogh. “They also have performances, such as musicals and ballets, so check the calendar of events,” suggests Canal.

New-York Historical Society

Founded in 1804, the New York Historical Society is the city’s oldest museum. Visitors and locals learn more about the history of both the city and our nation as they stroll the venue. Don’t miss the fascinating Frederick Douglass exhibit, the Center for Women’s History, or the iconic Waldorf Astoria lobby clock, which dates back to 1893. On the ground floor of the space is the DiMenna Children’s History Museum, which offers something fun for younger guests.

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Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration

Ellis Island welcomed more than 12 million immigrants to America between 1892 and 1954, and you can learn more about the site’s significance — and immigration overall — by visiting Ellis Island’s National Immigration Museum. In addition to browsing photographs and artefacts, you might retrace your familial heritage. Head to the second floor to visit the Registry Room (also known as the Great Hall), where some 5,000 people once filed each day for legal and medical examinations.

The Bronx Museum of the Arts

This contemporary art museum highlights 20th-century works from American artists. The robust, 2,000-plus-piece collection includes everything from photographs by Jamel Shabazz and sculptures by John Ahearn to portraits painted by Henry Taylor. And don’t miss the newest exhibit, “Michael Richards: Are You Down?,” which features a collection of sculptures, drawings, installations, and more by the late artist; works showcased were made between 1990 to 2001, when Richards died in the September 11 attacks. The museum also hosts events like film screenings and panels.

Staten Island Children’s Museum

Located on the grounds of Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Gardens, the Staten Island Children’s Museum offers 12 indoor and outdoor exhibits, dance and art workshops, science and story times, and many other hands-on experiences for children ages one and up. Kids can build block houses, send video postcards, climb a rock wall, and crawl through a human-sized ant hill while observing the museum’s collection of insects, millipedes and tarantulas included.

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Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum

Design lovers are sure to marvel at this magnificent museum inside the elaborate, 64-room Andrew Carnegie Mansion on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. The venue has a permanent collection of more than 215,000 design objects, some dating back 30 centuries. Visitors will find everything from ancient Roman marble and Renaissance drawings to more contemporary works like 3D-printed glass here. Spend time on the Arthur Ross Terrace and Garden, too.

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum

Open since May 2014, The National September 11 Memorial & Museum features 60,000 artefacts — a mix of physical evidence, first-person testimonies, and historical records — from the September 11, 2001, and February 28, 1993, terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. Archaeological remnants are also on display, including the “Survivors’ Stairs” (which, at the time of the 9/11 attacks, were located at the edge of the World Trade Center Plaza) and the “Last Column,” the final piece of steel from the World Trade Center to be removed from Ground Zero. After spending a few hours inside the museum, head outside to the memorial, which is free and open to the public. The name of every person who died in these two attacks is inscribed on the edge of the two reflecting pools.

Statue of Liberty Museum

The Statue of Liberty has been synonymous with freedom, equality, and democracy since its 1886 unveiling. You can visit Lady Liberty’s crown, and you can also check out the 26,000-square-foot museum that opened in 2019. The venue highlights the national monument’s creation, significance, and history, and the postcard-worthy skyline views from the venue are icing on the cake.

Fotografiska Museum NYC

If you’re fascinated by photography, visit Fotografiska Museum NYC. The New York City branch of the famed Swedish photography museum is housed in a spectacular 19th-century, 45,000-square-foot Renaissance Revival building. Don’t miss the adorable pet-themed exhibit, aptly named “Best in Show.” And before you leave, pop into the ritzy Veronika bar and restaurant on the second floor, or the effortlessly cool Chapel Bar, housed inside a 19th-century chapel.

Queens County Farm Museum

Think of this 47-acre museum as one part interactive museum and one part farm. Dating back over 300 years, it’s one of the state’s longest continually farmed sites; today, it grows 200 varieties of crops, including veggies, flowers, herbs, and more. Explore the growing fields, pastures, and wooded areas via scenic hay rides. You might also pay a visit to the farm’s resident animals, which include sheep, goats, alpacas, pigs, and hens. The on-site apiary, home to more than two million honeybees, is the largest in the city; honey is available for purchase in the farm store, as are fresh eggs. The museum also hosts fun-filled seasonal events.

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Related: 15 Best Castles In New York, From Manhattan To The Finger Lakes

Sure, you may know Las Vegas has some cool casinos, and lavish hotels, more than its fair share of A-list residencies, and throws one hell of a great pool party. 

Las Vegas is a city with a relatively short history. Founded in 1905, it began as a railroad stopover for those journeying between Los Angeles and Salt Lake City. Over the next century, it exploded into a glittering, neon-lined escape from reality, and a destination where sin is in and where all your secrets stay a secret because, as the slogan goes, “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.”

The five things you did not know about Las Vegas City

Even if you’ve never been, it feels familiar; it’s a place embedded in our collective consciousness through movies, music, and art. But The Neon Museum, a space dedicated to collecting, preserving, presenting, and interpreting Las Vegas history through its unique signage, wants to help everyone from first-timers to Vegas die-hards get to know this 135-square-mile (349.64 square kilometres) town just a little better.

“I have the best job in the world,” Aaron Berger, the executive director of The Neon Museum, told Travel + Leisure. “It is the opportunity to tell the story of Las Vegas, the most unique city in the world.”

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To more thoroughly tell the story of Las Vegas, Berger created Duck Duck Shed, a citywide event celebrating the city’s architecture, culture, and design, happening from October 4 to 7. It’s an event, Berger said, he created out of “selfish needs.”

“As someone who’s a transplant to Las Vegas and has visited here every year since I was 18, I’ve had this love affair with the city and wanted to understand it better,” he said.

Getting to know it better, for Berger, meant taking the city down to its studs to understand how its architecture affects the way we experience it and answering the question: “How do we design a city that is the entertainment capital of the world, and one that is America‘s playground?”

This year’s Duck Duck Shed includes exhibitions ranging from Debbie Reynolds’ impact on Las Vegas entertainment; a behind-the-scenes, on-stage experience with “O” by Cirque du Soleil; an intimate discussion with famed architectural critic and former chief design officer for Los Angeles, Christopher Hawthorne; as well as an in-depth look at Roger Thomas and Todd-Avery Lenahan, two of the creatives behind some Las Vegas’ most famous hotels and casinos.

“In a city that has a reputation of building up and then blowing up, taking time to recognise the architectural, entertainment, and culinary achievements — and even the historic preservation of this one-of-a-kind city — creates a unique experience for Las Vegas visitors and locals alike,” Berger said in a statement. “Las Vegas is designed to dazzle and even overwhelm you. Duck Duck Shed allows attendees to peek behind the curtain and gain a better understanding of the how and why of this amazing city from the people who know it best.”

As for the name, Berger explained that in the book “Learning from Las Vegas,” buildings were described as either a “duck” or a “shed.” A duck is a building that needs no signage, as its purpose is clear. “New York, New York is a duck, the Luxor is a duck,” he said. A shed is something that requires a bit more explanation.

“A decorated shed would be when you’re looking down Fremont Street, and you need signs to actually tell you which one is the Golden Gate, which one’s the Golden Nugget, which one is The D,” Berger said. Essentially, a shed is a place that needs a sign to “help it differentiate. It’s about signage.”

Tickets to Duck Duck Shed are still available, but if you want to attend, you better act fast, as certain events are selling out. Want to prime your brain for learning all the new Vegas facts you can? Here are five fun facts about Sin City’s lights and architecture that will leave you wanting more.

The Las Vegas strip is the brightest place on Earth

As the NASA Earth Observatory explains, “The Vegas Strip is reputed to be the brightest spot on Earth due to the concentration of lights on its hotels and casinos. The tarmac of McCarran International Airport is dark by comparison, while the airstrips of Nellis Air Force Base on the northeastern fringe are likewise dark. “

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Las Vegas is home to the world’s second-tallest Ferris wheel

The High Roller, located right on the Strip, is the world’s second-largest Ferris wheel, standing an astonishing 520 feet high. The individual pods are air-conditioned and can hold 40 passengers each during the 30-minute ride.

There are more than 15,000 miles (24,140.16 km) of neon tubing stretching across Las Vegas

According to PBS, the city’s bright signs contain some 15,000 miles (24,140.16 km) of tubing, which the Public Broadcasting Service said is “enough to span the United States five times from coast to coast.”

The Stratosphere is the tallest observation tower in the United States

Want to get a really great view of Vegas? Make your way over to Stratosphere Tower, which stands at 1,149 feet tall, making it the tallest observation tower in the nation. Guests can dine in the tower or even get an adrenaline rush on the tower’s roller coaster that sits 1,000 feet off the ground.

Las Vegas is home to the world’s largest hotel

With nearly 7,000 rooms, the MGM Grand holds the distinction of being the world’s largest single hotel. Want to make a stay there extra special? Book one of its over-the-top suites, which come with private terraces and panoramic views, so you can take in the glittering lights from above.

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Related: The 30 Best Things To Do In Las Vegas, From Gondola Rides To Epic Stage Shows

The secret is out about the exclusive paradise of Anguilla. This secluded Caribbean island nestled among the Lesser Antilles is rimmed with white-sand beaches and home to a booming culinary scene. It’s also earning accolades with Travel + Leisure readers — you’ll find it on the lists of best islands in the Caribbean and in the world. 

New visitors may have heard of the island’s luxuries, but devotees who return year after year know that the destination also does laid-back beach bars and local Caribbean fare very well. With Anguilla’s world-class resorts, secluded, romantic villas, and even some of the best family-friendly beach resorts in the Caribbean, it’s hard to imagine any style of traveller who wouldn’t find something to love here.

With the help of local experts like Shannon Kircher, a long-time Anguilla resident and marketing director of the award-winning, family-run Frangipani Beach Resort, and Stacey Liburd, director of tourism at the Anguilla Tourist Board, we’ve put together a list of the 20 best things to do in Anguilla.

The best things to do in Anguilla

Enjoy a sunset sail on a classic ship

Anguilla locals and visitors alike recommend jumping aboard a classic sailing vessel, known as a sloop, with Tradition Sailing Charter, saying this is the best way to explore the coastline of Anguilla in style. “A sunset cruise on a classic West Indian sloop is quite memorable,” says Liburd. The delicious cocktails and Caribbean bites served onboard certainly don’t hurt.

Rent a car to explore the island

Other Caribbean islands might prefer travellers to experience the destination from inside the walls of their resort, but not so in Anguilla. The vibe here is very much “Please, go explore,” says Kircher, adding, “Everything is safe, and everything is accessible.” Renting a car and exploring the island’s beaches, historical sites, restaurants, and attractions is one of the best ways to enjoy a vacation in Anguilla.

Play tennis with Anguilla Tennis Academy

Anguilla’s location in the Caribbean means that there’s “a near-constant breeze that vacillates from a gentle breath of cool air to a stiff gale — exhilarating conditions for tennis players in the punishing heat of a West Indies court,” writes David Shaftel for T+L. Anguilla Tennis Academy sends pros to many island resorts, great for any traveller looking for lessons or a hitting partner.

Try kitesurfing with Anguilla Watersports

Break up a long afternoon on the beach with kitesurfing lessons with Anguilla Watersports. The island’s balmy breezes make it the perfect place to give the sport a try, and this outfitter on Cove Bay offers kitesurfing lessons and equipment rentals for everyone, from first-timers to professionals. Paddleboards and glass-bottomed kayaks are also available for rent.

Visit Anguilla’s off-shore cays

“Going to the off-shore cays is one of the highlights of any Anguilla visit,” says Liburd. Catamaran excursions or sunset cocktail cruises to tiny, white-sand cays like Scrub Island or Sandy Island are among the top things to do in the destination.

“It’s hard to beat a stop on a boating excursion to Prickly Pear, one of Anguilla’s most popular off-shore cays,” says Dan Lockyer, chief commercial officer of Dream Yacht Worldwide, which offers charters to Anguilla out of St. Martin. Stop for a lobster lunch at the island’s small restaurant, or jump in the surrounding shallow waters for surprisingly great snorkelling.

Snorkel at Shoal Bay

“The underwater visibility is excellent all around Anguilla,” says Lockyer, and that makes snorkelling a popular activity on the island. Shoal Bay is one of Anguilla’s top destinations for snorkelling, as visitors frequently spot stingrays, swarms of fish, and even the occasional sea turtle here. After your swim, grab a drink on the sand at Shoal Bay Beach Club at Zemi Beach House, LXR Hotels & Resorts.

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Take a Moke ride

Get the lay of the land in Anguilla by renting a Moke and going for a thrilling drive around the island. These open-air vintage vehicles, originally from Britain, are now an iconic Caribbean mode of transportation. They’re brightly coloured, available for rent with Moke Anguilla, and the perfect prop for taking photos at the island’s most picturesque spots.

Enjoy Anguilla’s live music scene

From beach bars to restaurants and clubs, live music takes over Anguilla every night of the week. Sandy Ground is among the island’s most popular nightlife destinations, with spots like Lit Lounge offering live music and delicious cocktails. Bankie Banx’s Dune Preserve on Rendezvous Bay hosts live music multiple nights per week and was even named the world’s best beach bar by CNN — Bankie Banx himself usually takes to the mic on weekends.

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Swim at Meads Bay

Visitors can’t go wrong at any of Anguilla’s 33 pristine beaches, though central Meads Bay is particularly impressive with its tranquil, turquoise waters and impossibly fine white sands. Restaurants, bars, and some of the island’s best resorts line its shores, including Frangipani Beach Resort, named among the best resorts in the region by T+L readers.

Sample Anguillan roadside barbeque

Roadside barbeque spots in Anguilla are not to be missed, with local fare at these no-frills eateries including chicken and ribs, rice and peas, Johnny cakes, and much more. “Locals, expats, tourists — everyone will be there,” says Kircher. “Inexpensive and amazing, it’s always a go-to.”

Enjoy Anguilla’s rich culinary scene

“Anguilla doesn’t have any all-inclusive [resorts], and that has allowed the culinary scene to flourish in a way that travellers might not expect,” says Liburd. With excellent options for everything from Italian and French cuisine to Mexican with a local twist, Anguilla is quickly becoming a culinary destination in the Caribbean. One must-try eatery for Caribbean fare is Sharky’s. The shop is owned and operated by an Anguillan chef who serves elevated takes on island favourites from his own home.

Take in the views from Crocus Hill

With an elevation of just 213 feet, Crocus Hill is the highest point on Anguilla. Climb to the top and you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of this island and neighbouring ones across the waves. Don’t let the low elevation fool you — the road to the top is steep.

Learn about Anguilla’s history through petroglyphs

Visit Fountain Cave and Big Spring to spot hundreds of petroglyphs, and even carved stalagmites, representing the gods of the Taino indigenous populations who first called Anguilla home. To learn more about the island’s indigenous history, consider booking a heritage tour with Anguilla National Trust.

Spot-nesting sea turtles

In addition to walking tours and heritage tours, Anguilla National Trust offers evening “turtle patrol” excursions from July to October, which is the height of turtle nesting season. Participants will learn about the species of turtles that come to the island to nest, and they’ll spot the creatures in their natural habitat. It’s an informative and engaging way to support the island’s critical sea turtle conservation efforts.

Hit the spa

Luxury resorts abound here, so travellers can choose from a seriously sumptuous selection of high-end spa services and treatments around Anguilla. The Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla has an oceanfront spa with an infinity pool and treatment rooms within earshot of the waves. Another option is Zemi Thai House Spa, which blends Southeast Asian treatment styles with local Taino traditions within an authentic 300-year-old Thai house at Zemi Beach House, LXR Hotels & Resorts.

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Visit Rendezvous Bay

Enjoy breathtaking vistas of neighbouring St. Martin with a drink in hand from the sugar-sand beach at Rendezvous Bay. This beachfront offers plenty of eateries to choose from, including Bankie Banx’s Dune Preserve, which is worth a visit even before the live music gets started. Fewer resorts along the shores here keep things more tranquil than at other beaches on the island.

Try your hand at salt picking

“For many years, the salt industry on the island was huge,” says Liburd. The industry has faded as Anguilla’s tourism industry has picked up, but travellers can still get an idea of its impact on the island by taking a salt-picking tour, or by taking home unique flavoured salts from local entrepreneurs. “It’s one of the most authentic and historic experiences visitors can have on the island.”

Celebrate Anguilla’s carnival

Anguilla’s summer carnival celebrations, known as Anguilla Summer Festival, stretch from late July through early August and include a jam-packed itinerary of boat rides, beach parties, parades, and concerts. Plan a trip to coincide with “August Monday” (which is always the first Monday of August) to experience the very height of the festivities; it’s marked by a “road march” with live calypso and soca music to get the party started.

Play a round of golf

Visiting Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club is a must for golf lovers vacationing in Anguilla. The recently revamped, Greg Norman-designed, 18-hole championship golf course makes for a beautiful excursion, thanks to its oceanfront location and spectacular views.

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Dive at the wreck site of a Spanish galleon

Seven distinct marine parks protect the waters of Anguilla and its marine life, allowing for thriving reefs. One of the island’s most impressive dive destinations is Stoney Bay Marine Park, home to the 18th-century wreck site of the Spanish galleon El Buen Consejo. The government of Anguilla has designated the site as an underwater archaeological preserve, where divers can spot submerged treasures like anchors, cannon balls, and even religious medallions.

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Related: 20 Best Things To Do In Costa Rica

In the heart of the Finger Lakes region, Ithaca, New York, offers visitors the chance to explore stunning natural attractions and vibrant local culture. Known for its cascading waterfalls, breathtaking gorges, and sweeping views of Cayuga Lake, Ithaca is a perfect destination for nature lovers but is also said to have more restaurants per capita than New York City, per Visit Ithaca. (Plus, the Finger Lakes was named one of the best places to travel in 2022 by Travel + Leisure editors.)

“Original art, original music, locally grown foods, locally produced craft beverages — this is who we are and what we appreciate, and we want to share it with everyone who visits Ithaca,” said Peggy Coleman, VP of Tourism for the Ithaca/Tompkins County Convention & Visitors Bureau, in an interview with T+L.

Ithaca is a great starting point for travellers looking to explore the popular Finger Lakes wine trails. There are a number of local wineries lining the nearby lakes, many specialising in riesling, which the region is known for because it has a similar growing climate to Germany.

Ithaca is often likened to cities like Boulder, Colorado, or Burlington, Vermont, because of its independent, bohemian spirit. It’s a vibrant, diverse destination, and a college town — home to both Cornell University and Ithaca College. Here’s how to explore this city, where “gorges” puns run rampant and you’re never more than stumbling distance from a great hike.

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The best travel guide to experience the city of Ithaca

Best hotels

Coleman said she’s seen an explosion of short-term rentals in the past decade and even more unique accommodations like farm-stay experiences as the tourism industry grows. She mentioned the Canopy by Hilton, located downtown, as a popular option for visitors who want to be centrally located.

Argos Inn is located just off the Ithaca Commons, with 13 rooms and one of the best cocktail bars in Ithaca in the lobby. This historic inn feels elegant yet cosy: a tucked away retreat that’s very walkable to downtown Ithaca.

About 20 minutes outside of town, the Inns of Aurora Resort and Spa is a campus of six high-end, peaceful inns located right on Cayuga Lake. This luxury hotel was voted the No. 1 resort in New York state by T+L readers in our 2022 World’s Best Awards. The Inn at Taughannock Falls is another cosy retreat near the lake and is a popular spot for weddings and large events.

For those looking to embrace the natural beauty Ithaca has to offer, Firelight Camps have glamping tents, with trails close by leading directly to some of the best waterfalls in town. Firelight Camps CEO Robert Frisch told T+L what visitors can expect when they stay.

“Sitting with a cocktail by the evening campfires blazing near our lobby tent is a really fun, casual social atmosphere,” he said. “Then, walking down the paths to your tent in the woods, and waking in the morning to birdsong is super relaxing and unique.”

Frisch said he has been lucky to see the tourism industry blossom over the past decade he’s been in business in Ithaca. Firelight Camps are celebrating their 10th anniversary in 2023.

“We’ve seen a huge boom in development in the urban downtown, but also a continued focus on outdoor experiences,” he said. “I’ve been so impressed with the city and town’s focus and commitment to growing in an intentional, sustainable manner.”

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Things to do

The main attraction in Ithaca is undoubtedly the local scenery. Visitors can explore the town’s waterfalls and gorges, including popular spots like Buttermilk Falls State Park and Taughannock Falls State Park, both with cascading waterfalls surrounded by verdant forests. Near Cornell University, amateur and pro bird watchers alike will enjoy the easy trail through Sapsuker Woods.

Coleman recommended the centrally located Cascadilla Gorge trail, right off the Commons, as well as Mulholland Nature Preserve.

“I like that I can be surrounded by nature just a few minutes from downtown,” she said. “I also like to visit the Covered Bridge in Newfield — there’s a cute little shop right next to the bridge, the Covered Bridge Market, where I like to grab a snack or picnic to go.”

The Ithaca Farmers Market operates every weekend from April to December. Vendors include local craftspeople, farms with fresh produce, and local wineries. This open-air marketplace, along the Cayuga inlet, has been a staple of this town since 1973.

For Frisch, one of his favourite local getaways is East Shore Park on the lake, which is popular among local families.

“They have a great big public grill there, so we love having a simple BBQ and letting the kids run around there,” he said. “The revamped Stewart Park playground is also a stunning place to let your kids run around.”

He’s also a fan of Ithaca’s local music scene. He hopes visitors check out shows at some of the great smaller venues like Deep Dive and the Downstairs. The State Theatre of Ithaca is a popular stop for many musicians, as is the Hangar Theatre for musicals.

“Visitors should expect a relaxed adventure, be it breathtaking nature, an extensive variety of restaurants, live original music, and mind-expanding exhibits,” Coleman said.

For families looking for an engaging list of activities, check out the Discovery Trail, a partnership between top Ithaca attractions, including the kid-friendly Sciencenter — an interactive museum with hands-on exhibits — the Cayuga Nature Center, the Cornell Botanic Gardens, the Museum of the Earth, and more.

Visitors can also take a break from savouring Ithaca’s natural beauty to instead savour some of the finest wines in the region at nearby wineries. Six Mile Creek Vineyard‘s tasting room offers panoramic views of the vineyard, award-winning cabernet franc, and live music on Thursdays. On the west side of Cayuga Lake, oenophiles can taste at wineries like Americana Vineyards and Thirsty Owl Wine Company. South Hill Cider is another of Coleman’s favourites. The couscous salad is as light and refreshing as the crisp, bubbly Baldwin cider. Or, pair the smoky, barrel-aged Farmhouse cider with the pulled pork sandwich. There’s also live music and yoga classes on weekends during the summer.

The Ithaca craft cider scene has expanded in the last 20 years, Coleman said. Finger Lakes Cider House is a worthwhile stop on Cayuga Lake, and Bellwether Cider and Wine sells at the Ithaca Farmers Market. “The craft cider scene is finally being recognised for the high quality being produced here,” she said. “As winemakers engage the terroir, so do our cider makers.”

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Best Restaurants

Ithaca is home to a wide range of options that cater to every palate, with hundreds of local restaurants showcasing almost every type of cuisine.

Moosewood Restaurant is one of the most famous Ithaca establishments, known for its delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes, using locally sourced ingredients. This destination spot has been a staple in the Ithaca community for more than 40 years, and recently underwent a full renovation. Another great dinner option is The Heights, near Cornell University, for high-end Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, or try Le Café Cent-Dix on The Commons for elegant French-inspired fare.

Frisch named Gola Osteria as his top spot in town for a nice dinner out, and Lev Kitchen on the Commons downtown for a more casual meal — “so tasty,” he said.

Visitors can also head to the Ithaca Beer Company taproom to enjoy a seat outside while dining on a robust farm-to-table menu and sampling beers made with local hops. For lunchtime sandwiches and breakfast options, find the nearest Ithaca Bakery or Collegetown Bagels (call it CTB to sound like a local) — there are several throughout town.

For dessert, make sure to stop at Purity Ice Cream, where, rumour has it, the ice cream sundae was invented. Operating in Ithaca since 1936, they have a mix of classic and unique flavours. Or, if you’re craving ice cream while touring the wineries on the west side of Cayuga Lake, hit Cayuga Lake Creamery — they also have a location on the commons.

Best time to visit

Ithaca is home to a year-round adventure. In spring, the waterfalls will be roaring to life thanks to the snowmelt, and flow generally from May until early October. In the fall, colourful foliage, milder temperatures, and fewer visitors make for a relaxing respite. And despite the colder temperatures, winter can be especially beautiful, with frozen lakes, falls, and winter activities like snowshoeing.

Summer is certainly the most popular time to visit, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities. The college students clear out in the summer, which makes the area surprisingly crowd-free.

Ithaca also has many seasonal festivals and celebrations, including Porchfest, held every fall in the Fall Creek neighbourhood, a music festival celebrating artists who play, yes, from house porches; Apple Harvest Festival, also in the fall, which brings together cider-makers, local farms and more for a celebration of all things apple (the cider doughnuts are a can’t-miss); and Chili Cook-Off, in the late winter, with plenty of hot, delicious samples to warm up in the frigid upstate air. Check out the calendar of Downtown Ithaca events for more.

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How to get there

Visitors to Ithaca can fly into Tompkins Regional Airport, which offers convenient access to the town and surrounding areas. As of summer 2023, the airport only operates flights to/from New York’s JFK International Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport via United and Delta, but connections in the past have included Detroit and Philadelphia, and there are plans to possibly expand as far as Chicago and Los Angeles in the future.

If the flights to Ithaca are too limited for your travel plans, fly into Syracuse Hancock International Airport, which is about an hour’s drive from Ithaca and has a wider range of flight options.

From New York City, the drive up to Ithaca can take about four hours. Because of the large college population, there are also frequent bus routes into Ithaca from NYC. There’s a Greyhound station, and Cornell’s campus-to-campus bus service, which is available to the public.

Neighbourhoods to visit

The Commons: Downtown Ithaca is where visitors will find the pedestrian-friendly blocks known as The Commons, home to tons of restaurants and shops.

Collegetown: Situated just outside of Cornell University is Collegetown, with a number of bars and eateries. Visitors who hike up the Cascadilla Gorge trail can reward themselves with a delicious beer or bagel from CTB.

South Hill: South Hill is where you’ll find Ithaca College, with Buttermilk Falls State Park flanking the west side, and Six Mile Creek natural area on the east.

Fall Creek: This charming neighbourhood has its namesake creek, homes of every shape and size, tree-lined streets, and the gorges — sorry, had to — Ithaca Falls.

How to get around

Once in Ithaca, most visitors will find that having a car offers the most flexibility, but the town also has a robust bus system called the TCAT that runs frequently.

Rideshare services are available, but with fewer drivers than in larger cities, it can take quite a while to get an Uber, so make sure to plan ahead and schedule rides if possible. For larger groups wanting to safely dive into all the Finger Lakes wineries have to offer, there are a number of bus and shuttle companies in the area. Make sure to check each winery’s group policy before arrival. You can find recommended group transportation services from the Finger Lakes Wine Country Tourism Association and the Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance.

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Related: A ‘Bling Empire: New York’ Guide On Where To Eat, Drink And Stay In The Big Apple

White-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and life at a leisurely pace are common discoveries in the Caribbean islands. But each destination in the region also has its own unique set of characteristics and offerings. St. Barts is known for its five-star hotels and luxury shopping, St. Lucia has incredible hiking, and Anguilla is perfect for honeymoons and couples trips.

Along with its reputation for stunning beaches, Turks and Caicos — an archipelago made up of 40 islands and cays — is where to go if you want to explore your aquatic surroundings (and, of course, relax on the beach).

“One common misconception [about Turks and Caicos] is that there is nothing to do on the islands aside from sit at the beach or pool,” says Karen Whitt, vice president of sales and marketing of The Hartling Group, which owns The Palms and The Shore Club. Whitt, who has lived on Providenciales (or “Provo”) for the last 18 years, suggests travellers “get on the water” for activities such as “snorkelling, scuba diving, fishing, and boating.” Val Kalliecharan, founder of Luxury Experiences Turks & Caicos, echoes her statement, noting that being on the water is “the best way to experience [the] islands.” “You look around,” he says, “and you’re literally seeing 360 degrees of turquoise with a dozen shades of blue.”

Whether you’re planning your first trip or you’re ready for a return visit, we compiled the best things to do in Turks and Caicos, with some help from three local experts.

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The best things to do in Turks and Caicos

Linger at Grace Bay Beach

There’s no shortage of beautiful beaches in Turks and Caicos, but it’s worth noting that Grace Bay Beach was named the best beach in the world in 2022. While there, “relax on the soft sand, take a dip in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, and soak up the sun,” says Whitt.

Eat conch, in its many forms

“Turks and Caicos is known for its abundant conch population, and many restaurants serve freshly caught conch,” says Whitt. “Whether it comes in the form of fritters, salad, ceviche, fresh off the beach or fried, every visitor needs to try this island favourite.” Her go-to spot? Da Conch Shack.

Wayne Hall, owner and operator of Ocean Vibes & Grand Turk Shore Excursions, recommends “the local conch fritters at Mr. Groupers [and] some conch salad at Froggie’s.” Kalliecharan, on the other hand, says that the coconut cracked conch at Bugaloos is a must-try dish.

Take a boat tour

To get an insider’s view of Turks and Caicos, you’ll want to schedule a boat tour. “This is a great way to appreciate the beauty of the coastline, visit secluded cays, and even spot wildlife like dolphins or migrating humpback whales,” says Whitt. The tourism board recommends several charter companies, including Moana Charters, Sail Beluga, and Island Adventure TCI.

Explore island caves

Hall, who’s originally from Grand Turk and spent most of his childhood on Middle Caicos, suggests “[visiting] the twin islands of North and Middle Caicos and [exploring] the natural, unspoiled beauty and the caves.” Conch Bar Caves and Indian Cave — which are dry cave systems — are open to the public.

Plan a spa day

Relaxation is paramount in Turks and Caicos, so it should come as no surprise that a spa day is among the best things to do in the destination. “Many of our islands’ experienced wellness therapists combine global wellness practices with the traditional healing practices of the islands, and natural ingredients sourced from the surroundings and the Caribbean,” says Kalliecharan. For example, The Spa at The Palms offers treatments that incorporate a Mother of Pearl scrub, “which uses a precious blend of hand-crushed local queen conch shells and aromatherapy to gently revitalise and soften skin,” explains Whitt. “It’s a true island-inspired escape.”

Explore one of the world’s largest barrier reefs

Turks and Caicos boast the third-largest barrier reef — measuring about 340 miles (547.17 km) in total — and both Hall and Whitt have it on their must-do list. “It [provides] some of the best snorkelling and diving experiences, showcasing a vibrant ecosystem with colourful fish, coral formations, and even the chance to spot sea turtles and dolphins,” says Whitt.

Book a photo session

A photo will last a lot longer than your Turks and Caicos sun tan, so you’ll want to ensure you get a few amazing shots during your trip. Instead of taking them with your iPhone, schedule a quick session with a photographer (check out Brilliant Studios or Paradise Photography). Kalliecharan says that scheduling your shoot “about 1.5 hours before sunset” will guarantee excellent lighting.

Spend a day at Grand Turk

Grand Turk, the second-most populated island in Turks and Caicos, has plenty to see and do — including Cockburn Town, the capital. “You can explore its colonial past, see pink flamingos up close, and swim with Atlantic humpback whales (when in season),” says Hall. Grand Turk Light House, built in 1852, is a historic landmark, and there’s a chance you’ll see endangered flamingos while there.

Swim with humpback whales

If you want to see the humpback whales that Hall mentioned above, you’ll have to visit Turks and Caicos from January through April, during the annual humpback whale migration. Grand Turk and Salt Cay are the best places for whale sightings but remember to keep your distance when swimming or snorkelling — humans should not chase the whales or get too close.

Visit the Turks and Caicos National Museum

Travellers can familiarise themselves with the islands’ history during a visit to the Turks and Caicos National Museum. There are two locations — Grand Turk and Provo — and both offer tours, events, and classes. The Provo museum also has a “Heritage House,” which recreates how the region’s islanders lived in the past.

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Try your hand at kiteboarding

Whitt says that Long Bay Beach on Providenciales is best for kiteboarding; the island’s “consistent trade winds and calm, shallow waters” lend themselves beautifully to the sport. If you’ve never tried kiteboarding before, book a lesson with Big Blue Collective or Kite Provo.

Go on a horseback ride

“For an unforgettable way to explore Turks and Caicos, I recommend booking a tour with Provo Ponies,” says Whitt. “The company offers guided horseback rides along the beautiful beaches of Providenciales. Guests can enjoy a leisurely ride along the shoreline, taking in stunning views of the turquoise waters and white-sand beaches.”

Have a cocktail at sunset

“As the sun begins to set, head to a beachfront bar or restaurant to enjoy a refreshing cocktail or a cold local beer,” says Whitt. “Many places offer sunset views, live music, and a festive atmosphere. And, if you’re lucky, you might see the orange-coloured sky and the green flash,” says Kalliecharan. The latter is a rare and stunning phenomenon that occurs when sunlight is refracted through the atmosphere into different frequencies.

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Shop around Middle Caicos Co-op

If you want to take home a handcrafted souvenir from Turks and Caicos, explore the offerings at the Middle Caicos Co-op. Visitors will find more than 60 island artisans selling their wares here, including straw and sewn work, as well as conch shell crafts, paintings, model sailboats, and jewellery.

Attend an island fish fry

“Travelers should visit the local Fish Fry, which [has] a good variety of Caribbean restaurants, as well as authentic Turks and Caicos cuisine,” says Hall. Held every Thursday from 5:30 pm until 9:30 pm at Diamond Plaza in the Bight, the Fish Fry brings local food, drinks, and entertainment together for family-friendly fun. Admission is free, but you’ll need cash for many of the stalls.

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Indulge in the catch of the day

If you can’t make it to the weekly Fish Fry, that’s okay — but you’ll still want to add freshly caught fish to your lineup of meals. Hall’s top suggestion? Crackpot Kitchen’s grilled or fried fish paired with peas and grits.

Kayak through the mangroves

If you prefer a smaller boat and a slower pace, try kayaking in Turks and Caicos. “You can kayak from Providenciales straight into the mangroves, which are the breeding ground for marine life and birds, as well as a protective barrier for coral and other marine ecosystems,” says Whitt. If you have a keen eye, you might get to “see juvenile turtles, sharks, rays, and other small sea creatures,” adds Hall.

Look up at the stars

Sundown may signal the end of a beach day, but it also means it’s time to stargaze. “The clear skies of Turks and Caicos offer incredible views of the stars and constellations,” says Whitt. “Take a moment to appreciate the tranquillity and beauty of this island paradise before calling it a night.”

Keep an eye out for Turks and Caicos rock iguanas

Hall recommends visiting Half Moon Bay to see “native rock iguanas in their natural habitat.” The three-quarter mile beach is found between Little Water Cay and Water Cay, and the iguanas are known to come out onto the beach’s dunes.

End your trip with an elevated dinner

“We have an incredible array of culinary experiences here in Turks and Caicos,” says Kalliecharan. Dinner at the Chef’s Table at Provence by Eric is number one on his list, but other fine-dining options include Grace’s Cottage, Coco Bistro, and Caicos Café.

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Related: 22 Best Things To Do In Bali — From Volcano Treks To Luxe Spa Days

Composed of the towns of Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo, and the scenic coastal corridor stretching between them, Los Cabos is located on the tip of the sun-drenched and golden Baja California peninsula, and it’s one of Mexico’s most enchanting destinations.

An impressive number of Travel + Leisure readers’ best resorts in Mexico are here, and they bring a serious taste of luxury and modern indulgence to the place, as do a seemingly endless array of all-inclusive resort options.

The best travel experiences in Los Cabos are those that highlight the area’s cultural and gastronomic riches. Farm-to-table restaurants flourish, local artisans shine, and a wealth of wellness experiences marry new technology and theory with ancient wisdom.

Narrowing down all that Los Cabos offers into a manageable list of highlights is becoming an increasingly challenging task. But with the insights of local experts like Sandra de la Garza from Visit Los Cabos, Marc Rodriguez, general manager of Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection, and Alejandro Bravo, chief concierge at Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, we’ve compiled the 20 best things to do in Los Cabos.

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The best things to do in Los Cabos

Enjoy farm-to-table dining

Los Cabos may be surrounded by desert, but the area’s thriving farm-to-table dining scene offers fresh, ultra-local ingredients that spice up its culinary scene in a big way. Add spots like Acre, Flora Farms, and Los Tamarindos to your itinerary if you’d like to try a few of the area’s most renowned farm-to-table destinations.

After a meal at Acre, you can even stick around and spend the night in the unique treehouse accommodations offered at this alternative boutique resort. “The wild palm trees paired with colourful tile, exposed wood, and concrete accents create a sultry, Tulum-esque jungle vibe,” writes Maya Kachroo-Levine for T+L.

Take a cooking class at Monte Cardón

Foodies will love cooking classes at Monte Cardón, one of the newest farm-to-table destinations in Los Cabos. “Chef Ubaldo Martínez offers an off-road adventure at a ranch outside of San José del Cabo, where guests pick seasonal vegetables and fruits before preparing their own menu,” says Sandra de la Garza from Visit Los Cabos. “It’s a special local experience and a way to take Baja cuisine home with you.”

Go on a whale-watching tour

Los Cabos is considered one of the world’s top spots for whale watching; between mid-December and April, visitors often spot whales “on standard snorkelling or diving excursions, or even from the balcony of your hotel,” says de la Garza. Whale-watching tours in the area are safeguarded to be as eco-friendly as possible and fill up fast, so make sure to book ahead.

Try a temazcal ceremony

Visitors can reroot and restore with the ancient tradition of a temazcal ceremony. These Mesoamerican sweat lodge sessions tout both health and therapeutic benefits. Book a session led by a trained temazcalero, a master in temazcal art, at the JW Marriott Los Cabos Resort & Spa, for an experience that incorporates healing local herbs like aloe, rosemary, and sage.

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Experience The Well

The first West Coast outpost of the famed New York wellness haven, The Well at Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection is a must-visit destination for travellers seeking a next-level wellness getaway in Los Cabos. The east-meets-west methodology of The Well connects with traditional local practices here; treatments range from rebozo repositioning yoga to celestial bathing, immersive healing, and attunement sessions in the destination’s Bath House.

Help your kids become environmental stewards

Would you believe that Los Cabos, once synonymous with spring breakers and party-hungry Californians, is an increasingly popular destination for families? Ideal for travellers exploring the region with kids in tow, the Ambassadors of the Environment program at Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, offers immersive experiences in Baja’s most diverse ecosystems. Groups can enjoy activities together, including gardening, snorkelling, hikes, and storytelling. The program was designed in partnership with Jean-Michel Cousteau and with the whole family in mind.

Take a dip in the hot springs at Sierra de la Laguna

“For travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences in Los Cabos, I suggest exploring the Sierra de la Laguna for hiking and off-road adventures,” says Alejandro Bravo, chief concierge for Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. Take a dip in the hot springs that pop out like miniature oases among desert dunes and cacti.

Visit Cabo Pulmo for snorkelling and diving

Oceanographer Jacques-Yves Cousteau once called the Sea of Cortez the “Aquarium of the World” for its incredible diversity, meaning that Los Cabos is a supreme destination for exploring beneath the waves. Located an hour and a half north of San José del Cabo, “Cabo Pulmo is known for its great temperatures and crystal-clear waters,” says Bravo. It’s one of the best spots in the region for water adventures.

Party in Cabo San Lucas

These days, Los Cabos has much more to offer than just its party scene, though if you’re looking for it, it’s certainly still here. Downtown Cabo San Lucas is home to famous nightlife spots like Sammy Hagar’s Cabo Wabo Cantina. Even if spring breaks in Cabo are far in your past, downtown offers plenty of destinations for live music any night of the week.

Sip local spirits

“It’s a really exciting moment for Mexican spirits,” says Marc Rodriguez, general manager of Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection, who recently worked with the property’s head mixologist to craft a mezcal unique to the resort. “Tequila and mezcal are king, but even new Mexican whiskies and botanical gins make mixology in Los Cabos more exciting than ever.”

Visitors can taste local spirits in Los Cabos alongside experts, but sipping ultra-rare tequilas — accompanied by local bites and sunset views over the water at Agave Study at Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal — is a true highlight.

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Sail to Land’s End at sunset

The dramatic, ocean-carved arch at Land’s End, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, is the prevailing symbol of Los Cabos. “With several tour options available, ranging from cosy small boats to elegant luxury sailboats, visitors can experience El Arco in a way that suits their preferences,” says Flavio Rojas Negretti, marketing and public relations manager for Solaz, a Luxury Collection Resort, Los Cabos. “Experiencing this site at sunset is a sight to behold and one that will etch an indelible memory in your mind.”

Go shopping in Cabo San Lucas

Everything from designer outposts to tiny markets makes Los Cabos an alluring destination for shopping. Visit Luxury Avenue Los Cabos in the marina for high-end brands, or stop by J & J La Casa del Habano Los Cabos for a whiff of the world’s best cigars. For a more local experience, Rojas Negretti recommends the San José del Cabo organic market as “a vibrant meeting point for local farmers and producers. They come together to sell sustainable and eco-friendly products, offering visitors a chance to delve into local culture, taste the region’s culinary delights, and bring home unique souvenirs.”

Go deep-sea fishing

Year-round fishing draws anglers from around the world to Los Cabos, where one of the most important fishing tournaments in the world awards jackpots that reach into the millions. Even if you can’t compete with the sport’s big fish, hit the water with Cabo Magic Sportfishing to try your hand at catching the area’s marlin, dorado, and massive yellowfin tuna.

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Get out on the water

“Getting out on the water is central to basking in the Baja lifestyle that every visitor is looking for when they come to Los Cabos,” says Rodriguez. Whether you’re longing for a lazy afternoon sampling appetizers aboard a yacht or you prefer slightly more adrenaline-pumping water sports like kayaking, paddle boarding, or jet skiing, Cabo Adventures can set up just about any activity.

Los Cabos is also famous for its surfing, with championship waves and more beginner-friendly swells. Book a local lesson or travel 45 minutes to Los Cerritos Beach, a renowned surfing destination with laid-back beach town vibes.

Explore the towns and villages of Baja California Sur

Los Cabos is just the tip — literally and figuratively — of all that Baja California Sur has to offer. Rent a car in Los Cabos to explore nearby towns and seaside villages that give you an even better taste of local life. Rojas Negretti recommends checking out the small village of Santiago near the oasis of Sol de Mayo, while de la Garza recommends a pit stop for authentic tacos and empanadas at La Garita, which is located near the charming beach town of Todos Santos.

Sample fusion favourites at Nozomi

Some of Latin America’s best chefs now call Los Cabos home, and they’ve brought with them an incredible diversity of flavours and cooking traditions that help make the area a culinary capital. The Nozomi series at Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection, is just one example of Los Cabos’ unique dining offerings; the experience marries Japanese cooking techniques with local ingredients, resulting in a new fusion of flavours.

Enjoy the San José del Cabo Art Walk

Locals and visitors alike rave about the San José del Cabo Art Walk. During this Thursday evening tradition, gallery owners and budding local artists open their doors and connect with guests overbites and beverages along the town’s cobblestone streets. It’s the perfect chance for visitors to explore the charming and historic village of San José del Cabo, including its original mission church and town square.

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Tee off by the sea

Los Cabos is one Latin America’s premier golfing destinations, with courses built by legends like Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio, Greg Norman, and Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Enjoy the area’s best courses at the award-winning One&Only Palmilla, or stay at the family-friendly Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos All Inclusive Golf and Spa to play at Cabo del Sol, which is rated among the World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses by Golf Digest.

Drive over desert sand dunes

Los Cabos isn’t all relaxation and restoration. “A tour of Migriño beach and the surrounding desert on ATVs is a must for adventure enthusiasts,” says Bravo. These popular half-day excursions usually include transportation from area hotels and some even end with tequila tastings.

Hit the beach

Yucatán destinations like Playa del Carmen and Cancún may have Baja beat with their serene, white-sand beaches perfect for swimming, but the golden sands in Los Cabos are nothing to scoff at. Los Cabos boasts 25 blue flag beaches, the most of any location in North America; this special designation identifies beaches with the highest safety, water quality, and environmental standards. Lovers Beach and Divorce Beach, superstition-inspiring names and all, are two of the most impressive beaches in Los Cabos.

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(Hero and feature image credit: Roberto Israel Fuentes Martinez/Getty Images)

This story first appeared on travelandleisure.com

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Travellers looking for an Airbnb for their next trip to New York City might be left grappling with limited options. With new city regulations on short-term rentals (STRs), finding stay options is set to get a lot tougher.

Effective September 5, 2023, the new New York City directive mandates listings on rental sites like Airbnb cannot be available for stays less than 30 days if the owners have not gone through the city’s application process and received approval and an official registration number.

The new rules require hosts to strictly comply with occupancy and building codes. This aims to improve visitors’ security as well as reduce “public nuisances” such as late-night partying, excessive noise and crime rates.

What does the new rule say and how does Airbnb view it?

According to Bloomberg, NYC had some very restrictive measures in place in terms of STRs. However, these rules were often neglected. Pre-dated rules forbid hosts from renting out apartments for less than 30 days if they are not present in the apartment or staying in the same building. It also mentions that a host cannot rent to more than two guests at a time.

Additionally, the property space must abide by building and fire codes at all times, which includes installing sprinklers and fire alarm systems and prohibiting locks between rooms.

According to the NYC Office of Special Enforcement, The STR Registration Law now makes it compulsory for hosts to register with the Mayor’s Office of Special Enforcement (OSE) and booking platforms (such as Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com, and others) are prohibited from allowing transactions for those unregistered. Violations of these parameters will invite penalties for both hosts and the booking services.

[inline_related_article article_id="17544,1895"]

What does the regulation add to this?

The NYC Office of Special Enforcement states, “Final rules for the program were published on February 3, 2023, and the law took effect on March 6, 2023.”

“Starting September 5, 2023, OSE’s initial phase of Local Law 18 enforcement will focus on collaborating with the booking platforms to ensure they are using the city’s verification system, that all verifications are occurring correctly, and that the platforms stop processing unverified transactions,” it adds.

To put it in simple terms, STRs are permitted only if the host is staying in the same unit or apartment and there are a maximum of two guests staying with the host.

A big blow for Airbnbs and short-rental businesses

Airbnb had labelled these rules a “de facto ban” against the company in a lawsuit in early 2023. CNN says, some independent hosts also filed lawsuits to prevent the city from implementing such stringent measures, however, all cases were dismissed in August.

The city claimed that about 50 per cent of Airbnb’s gross USD 85 million (HKD 666,675,400) revenue from NYC was collected from illegal rental listings. New York City is ranked among the top five American markets for the company, and while hotels are its direct competitors, they, along with lodging houses and furnished apartments make up about 6,000 active listings on Airbnb, says market analysis firm AirDNA. Hence, they can be exempted from these rules.

Additionally, not just the company but several individual hosts have also raised their voices against this crackdown. Since many of them rely on the extra income from renting out space to pay for their personal housing costs and livelihood, it will be a severe blow to them, too. Those who own one and two-family homes in New York’s suburbs are taken aback as they will now struggle to pay expensive property taxes without the extra money coming in.

Effects on tourism

Airbnb says the steps are a setback for tourism as well. With New York witnessing huge footfall during peak seasons such as the New York City Marathon and the Christmas holiday season, Airbnb accommodations come in handy as the hotel market fails to match the demands.

The city received over 3,200 registration applications after the lawsuits were cancelled in August. Of these, only 260 were cleared.

Penalties and implications for current reservations and Airbnb users

Although guests will not be affected by non-compliance issues, Airbnb hosts can be fined as high as USD 5,000 (HKD 39,216) or three times the revenue, whichever is lower. Similarly, booking platforms can be levied a penalty of USD 1,500 (HKD 11,764) or multiples of transaction fees.

Airbnb will not cancel any reservations with check-in dates on or before 1 December 2023. However, the platform may not collect the amount or refund to keep the accommodation in line with the rules. Those checking in after 2 December might face cancellations if the host fails to provide their registration number.

Starting 5 September, hosts who do not provide the registration numbers or fail to adhere to the rules will have their listings automatically converted to long-term stays if their calendar permits. Else, the listing will be deactivated.

(Hero and feature image credit: Hannah Busing/ Unsplash)

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