Luxury Travel with Nicole – A Sweet Paradise

Which Hawaiian Island Should I Fly To?

Posted on February 26, 2023 by Nicole Benedetta

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You have to admit, Hawaii is, hands down, the most gorgeous state in the United States. It is located in the south-western part of the U.S., nearly 2,000 from the mainland. It is the home of 137 volcanic islands, as well as, Polynesian culture, whether it be cuisine, traditions, mythology, or etiquette.

The state is comprised of 8 main islands, 7 of which are inhabited and only 6 of which can be visited by the public. So, which of the 6 should you catch a flight to? I’ll help you decide by giving you a summary of each one.

Kauai

Kauai is filled with valleys, mountains, rainforests, waterfalls, and cliffs, which is why it is referred to as the “Garden Island.” The bad part is that the average annual rainfall is high, and it is generally humid. But if you don’t mind either of those conditions, Kauai could be the island to pick.

It is less of a tourist-filled location, and more of a rural area. However, the extraordinary sunsets and beaches make this island attractive for some travelers.

Kauai was also the set for the films Honeymoon in Vegas, South Pacific, Blue Hawaii, Jurassic World, Soul Surfer, The Descendants, Pirates of the Carribean: On Stranger Tides, Avatar, and King Kong.

In addition, there is an array of activities to choose from, such as horseback riding, snorkeling, kayaking along the river, ziplining in the jungle, taking a helicopter tour, visiting historical landmarks, farmers markers, playing a round of golf, or riding ATVs.

Points of interest:

Waimea Canyon

Na Pali State Coast Wildnerness Park

Limahuli Garden & Preserve

Princeville Botanical Gardens

Hawaiian Trading Post – shop with souvenirs and hand-crafted gifts

Spouting Horn Blowhole

Queen’s Bath

Ha’ena State Park

Wailua Falls

Maniniholo Dry Cave

Kapa’a – popular town known for colorful storefronts, and restaurants including local cuisine

Poipu Beach

hawaii – the big island

Hawaii Big Island — Haena Beach – Photo by Pedro Szekely

The largest island named Hawaii is often called The Big Island. It is absolutely one-of-a-kind, with the varying landscapes of different-colored sand beaches, mountains with snow-covered peaks, lava deserts, and rainforests. While this big island feels less crowded than others due to its size, there is still much to see and do.

On the Kona coastline, you have the opportunity to view the bluest water with sea turtles and dolphins.
If you prefer water excursions, you could swim with manta rays, go sailing, scuba dive, kayak, parasail, go deep sea fishing, canoe, and paddleboard. If you would rather participate in land activities, you can take a scenic drive, visit one of the several breathtaking beaches, ziplining over a river gorge, go on one of the greatest hikes you’ve ever been on, or play golf at one of the world-class courses on the Kohala Coast.

Points of Interest:

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hapuna Beach State Park

Heiau – historic site with ancient Hawaiian temples

Rainbow Falls (Waianuenue)

Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park

Hulihe’e Palace

Hilo Farmers Market

Akaka Falls State Park – Akaka Falls & Kahuna Falls

Punaluu Beach – known for black sand

Historic Hilo Town

Mauna Kea – the tallest volcano in the world/highest point in the state, renowned for stargazing

Papakōlea Beach – known for sand with a green hue

Kona Coffee Living History Farm

Waipi’o Valley Overlook

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

OAHU

The bustling island of Oahu is urban, luxurious, and consists of resorts sitting on the golden, sandy beaches, some of which are more secluded than others. The nightlife is vibrant, the weather is warm, and the adventures are endless. Plus, it is a great place to get the feel for the Polynesian culture and traditions!

Sitting on the south shore of Oahu is Hawaii’s capital, Honolulu. It was previously the home of Hawaii’s monarchy. Now, this city is centered around its dining and shopping.

Points of interest:

Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail

Byodo-In Temple

Waikiki Beach

Lanai Lookout

Kaneohe Sandbar

Pearl Harbor Museum

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Laie Falls

Tantalus – botanical region popular with birdwatchers

Waimea Bay Beach Park – perfect for surfing

Diamond Head State Monument

Maunawili Falls

Pu’u O Hulu Trail

Lanikai Beach

Crouching Lion

MAUI

Compared to the other 5 islands, Maui could be considered mid-sized. Being more developed than Kauai, but less tourist-filled than Oahu is a main reason that people enjoy traveling here. In this spot, you will uncover wildlife, culture, history, and Hawaii’s most note-worthy beaches. From Haleakala, the world’s largest dormant volcano, is a spectacular view of the sunrise, through a set of clouds.

In Maui, you can enjoy their frequent festivals, underwater reefs, bamboo forests, waterfalls, and jungles abundant with flowers.

Visitors adore swimming with sea turtles, horseback riding, whale watching, windsurfing, snorkeling, and surfing, if you know how!

Points of interest:

Wailea Beach

The Garden of Eden

Kaanapali Beach

Maui Ocean Center

Paia – beach town with coffee shops and boutiques

Ali’i Kula Lavendar Farm

Iao Valley State Monument

Haleakala National Park

Waianapanapa State Park – known for its black sand

Kalaupapa National Historical Park

Napili Beach

Hana Lava Tube

Old Lahaina Luau – great for experiencing hula, traditional dancing, and a Hawaiian buffet

Pua’a Ka’a Waterfalls

lanai

Lanai could be considered the most exclusive island of the 6, having remote beaches, high-end resorts, world-class amenities and services, professional golf, and exquisite cuisine. It is ideal for relaxing and healing in a peaceful setting at the spas, which offer lava stone lomilomi and algae body wraps. While this island is private, it does not lack adventure with off-roading in a four-wheel drive vehicle and swimming in tide pools that have been naturally carved out of volcanic rock.

When exploring, you will find unique rock formations and colorful underwater reefs. Popular activities here are lawn bowling, deep sea fishing, shooting clays, scuba diving, private boat charters, and whale watching,

Points of interest:

Lānaʻi Art Center

Keomuku Village

Shark’s Bay

Koloiki Ridge

Lanai City – with restaurants, shops, a park, and theater

Shipwreck Beach (on the north shore)

Kaunolū Fishing Village

Dole Pineapple Plantation

Hulopoe Beach

Sweetheart Rock (at the end of the Puupehe Trail)

Keiki Tide Pool

Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods)

Fisherman’s Trail

Polihua Beach

The Cavendish – 9-hole, free public golf course

Molokai

This would be the quietest and least developed island listed in this blog, therefore, probably not for everyone. It is more for those who don’t mind straying from the beaten path and connecting with nature rather than being pampered at a four-star hotel. That being said, Molokai still has wonderful beaches, rainforests, and the tallest cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Points of interest:

Kapuāiwa Coconut Grove

Murphy’s Beach

Kalaupapa National Historic Park

North Shore Sea Cliffs

Halawa Tropical Flower Farm

Purdy’s Natural Macadamia Nut Farm

One Ali’i Beach Park

Molokai Forest Reserve

Hālawa Valley – can only be explored on a guided hike

Molokaʻi Heritage Site

Halawa Beach Park

Aliʻi Fishpond

Pāpōhaku Beach

Moaula Falls

Kamakou Preserve

Palaau State Park

I know it seems tough to choose which one to visit still, but hopefully helped a little in knowing the difference between the islands and what they have to offer.

Thanks for the read!

-xo, Nicole (:

U.S. Destinations to Escape to in April

Posted on February 26, 2023August 6, 2025 by Nicole Benedetta

Las Vegas

Not yet too hot, Vegas is a good spot to go, with the afternoons typically being in the 70s, and sometimes getting up to the 80s by the end of April. The streets are less crowded, giving the opportunity to better explore the Neon Museum, take a ride on the gondola at the Venetian, the High Roller, and the Fremont Street Experience. Right outside the city, you can hike through the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.

Nashville, Tennessee

When I fly to Nashville for a long weekend trip in the beginning of April, the weather was about as good as it could get! The average being 70 degrees at that time and closer to 75 at the end of the month makes it perfect for strolling along Broadway and hitting all the country bars! Being a Luke Bryan fan, his bar, Luke’s 32 Bridge, was one of my favorites. I also really liked Ole Red, owned by Blake Shelton, because of the city and sunset views on the rooftop. The Grand Ole Opry, the Johnny Cash Museum, and Country Music Hall of Fame are good for when you need break from drinking!

Atlanta, Georgia

The average daily high temperature in Atlanta in April is 71 degrees, which is nice if you want to attend the Georgia Renaissance Festival, Monster Jam, the Atlanta Grilled Cheese Festival, the Atlanta Film Festival, Illumine, or the Inman Park Festival and Tour of Homes! For rainy days, good options could be Imagine Picasso: The Immersive Experience, DIGATL: Atlanta’s First Digital Art Gallery, or the Trap Music Museum.

Orlando, Florida

During the month of April, Orlando weather is warm, yet not too hot, and the crowds aren’t too bad. If visiting Disney World, you will get to enjoy the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival, or the Universal Mardi Gras International Flavors of Carnival at Universal Studios. At the Promenade Plaza Stage, local and regional bands will be performing Tuesday through Sunday. And, Megacon is occuring from the end of March to the beginning of April!

Grand Canyon, Arizona

Grand Canyon South Rim — Photo by G. Lamar

Being in the 60s, April is one of the better times to take a hike at the Grand Canyon. Though you may want to skip the first week, due to the spring break crowds. Most days during this month have a low chance of rain and clear skies. Bright Angel Trailhead to Indian Garden Campground and Rim Trail to Trail of Time are popular hikes in the South Rim. Meanwhile, North Kaibab Trail to Roaring Springs and Widforss Trailhead are recommended hikes for the North Rim.

Which of these places is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below!

Thanks for the read,

-xo, Nicole (:

Perfect International Getaways for March

Posted on February 24, 2023August 6, 2025 by Nicole Benedetta

Cayman Islands

Whether you choose Grand Cayman, the largest of the islands, or Little Cayman, March will be a wonderful time to visit. The daily temperature averages around 82 degrees, and the rates for accommodations are dropping. This is ideal for taking a dip in the ocean, due to the lack of rain and loads of sunshine. The coral reefs and crystal clear water draw in people who are looking to scuba dive and the Bioluminescent Bay is good for kayaking.

Dublin, Ireland

Of course, March would be the best time to travel to Ireland, due to the massive St. Patrick’s Day festivities that take place! Go to Dublin for the five-day carnival with a parade, music performances, food/drinks, art installations, and pubs such as The Lark Inn or The Yacht. If celebrating this holiday does not intrigue you, however, you may want to go to the Marsh Library, and in front of that, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, plus the Howth Cliff Walk, and Malahide Castle & Gardens. Yet, keep in mind that during this month, intense rainfall may take place, with the temperature staying around 50 degrees.

Galapagos Islands

Tortuga Bay, Galapagos — Tortuga Bay – Photo by Kuhnmi

March is the perfect time to spend in the Galapagos Islands, because of the warm weather, the end of rainy season, the opportunity to go snorkeling, and the colorful sunsets! The marine wildlife is abundant near these islands, especially near Gordon Rocks, a submerged volcano crater on top of a tuff cone. Tortuga Bay on Santa Cruz is a popular nesting sight amongst the sea turtles.

Tokyo, Japan

Cherry Blossoms — Photo by Michael Stout

Tokyo is typically warming up to an average of 55 degrees during this month. In late March and early April, you will definitely want to catch the beautiful blooming of the cherry blossoms and attend Ueno Sakura Matsuri at Ueno Park. At the time of year, the Hina Matsuri (Japanese Doll Festival), Mt. Takao Fire-Walking Festival, and Golden Dragon Dance all occur too!

Sicily, Italy

Piazza del Duomo - Lecce, Italy - Travel photography — Photo by Giuseppe Milo

March marks the end of the winter season in Sicily, with it being the warmest city at this time of year at approximately 55 degrees. Fewer crowds, lower prices for travel, and the abundance of festivals including the Carnival of Acireale, make this month appealing as well. With less tourists, it is fantastic for exploring the city and visiting the cultural landmarks of Piazza Duomo and Villa Bellini and hiking at La Rocca Hill in Cefalù to view the ruins of an ancient castle and Mediterranean Sea.

Which of these interests you the most? Let me know in the comments!

Thanks for the read,

-xo, Nicole (:

Need a Spring Vacation? Here Are 5 Excellent U.S. Locations for March!

Posted on February 23, 2023August 6, 2025 by Nicole Benedetta

San Diego, California

Fewer crowds combined with 60 degree weather in March should draw you to San Diego, also named America’s Finest City. It’s a nice time to sit on the beach and bask in the sun, or get a glimpse of the green foliage and spring time flowers blooming. For EDM festival goers, you may want to try out the CRSSD Festival at the beginning of the month. If that’s not your style, you could also give the Spring Busker Festival a whirl. There, you would witness professionals from across the country displaying their unique talents from sword swallowing to knife throwing. Not to forget the San Diego Zoo, which has been acclaimed by many visitors as the best!

Miami, Florida

Having personally visited Miami in March, I can say that it is an amazing time to go! The weather is beautiful with clear skies and a daily average of 75 degrees. For my stay, I relaxed on the beach, went on a boat ride, made a trip to Barton G. for dinner, Miami Beach Botanical Gardens, the Superblue museum in Wynwood, and rode around in a slingshot, which was one of the highlights of the trip. Of course I stopped into one of the nightclubs, since Miami is known for that, as well as for hosting Ultra Music Festival, and Jazz in the Gardens Music Fest, which both take place in March.

U.S. Virgin Islands

St. John, St. Thomas, and St. Croix is right around 78 degrees at this time of year with low chance of rain, making it spectacular for swimming in the ocean. Tourists on those islands like participating in snorkeling, hiking, fishing, golfing, ziplining, parasailing, boat rides, and kayaking too!

Fairbanks, Alaska

The Aurora over #chenasprings, outside of fairbanks ak — Chena Springs – Photo by Kodachron

Fairbanks, Alaska may be frigid in March, but it is said to be the best time to marvel at the aurora borealis in the Borealis Basecamp igloos with transparent roofs. It can be seen on most nights when the sky is dark and clear. Polar bears and moose are also more likely to be seen on guided wildlife tours during the spring. The Chena Hot Springs is an excellent spot for seeing ice sculptures or taking a soak. Ice fishing is also an option, for those that it may interest.

Dallas, Texas

During the day, Dallas will reach an average of 71 degrees, while at night, it will drop to around 48 degrees. If you’re looking to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, you may want to attend the Dallas Mavs St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival, the North Texas Irish Festival, or grab a drink at one of the pubs! For basketball fans, March Madness will be returning to the American Airlines Center in Dallas for the regional round of the 2024 NCAA Division 1 Men’s Basketball Championship at the end of March. And, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is where you can check out for the Dallas Blooms Spring!

Where would you visit in March? Let me know in the comments!

Thanks for the read.

-xo, Nicole (:

Which U.S. Cities To Stop In This February

Posted on February 2, 2023August 6, 2025 by Nicole Benedetta

Leavenworth, Washington

This is a pretty spot to travel to in the winter due to the snowfall. Leavenworth is a Bavarian-themed city approximately 2.5 hours from Seattle. Popular activities include skiing, snow tubing, snowmobiling, visiting a reindeer farm, enjoying the hot springs, riding in a horse-drawn sleigh, viewing the Christmas lights that are hung until February, and walking around the German Christmas Market.

The Florida Keys

Key West Sunset (3) — Key West – Photo by R Boed

Personally, escaping the cold by traveling to a warm destination is my dream. If it’s the same for you, the Florida Keys is an incredible choice. The daily average temperature down there is 71 degrees. In addition, the Annual Old Days Art Festival takes place at the end of the month, with nearly 25,000 visitors and over 100 artists. It is also a nice time to explore the historic treasures and watering holes of the islands. And you can’t forget about stepping foot on the gorgeous beaches, or even taking a swim in the ocean.

New Orleans, Louisiana

If you want to celebrate Mardi Gras in New Orleans, you have to go in February. Here, you can attend parades, picnics, listen to music, and of course, party! And the best part is that it’s not too cold during this month. You could also spend Valentine’s Day here, at a romantic restaurant or taking a riverboat cruise.

Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas is a good place to stop at during the second month of the year, as it is less crowded, the rates for accommodations are cheaper, and the weather is typically pleasant. This city engulfs a variety of interests such as fitness, food, history, music, and art. A few things for you to participate in could be the marathons, exploring museums, distilleries, ice skating, film festivals, or a drive-in movie.

Breckenridge, Colorado

View from a slope — Photo by Jarrod Doll

This is the perfect time for hitting the slopes on the fully open terrain in Breckenridge, Colorado. You can partake in pretty much any of the winter sports here as well. Not to forget the museums, live music, the outdoor sculptures, yoga, the large historic district, and drinking at one of the several bars in the town.

Honolulu, Hawaii

View of Hanauma Bay — Hanauma Bay – Photo by Daniel Ramirez

Though Hawaii is wonderful to travel to year-round, February is less busy than other months, the rainfall is minimal, and the temperature is usually between 68-79 degrees every day. It is still a nice time for snorkeling, hiking, surfing, mountain tubing, surfing, and festivals.

Are you thinking about traveling to one of these destinations soon? Let me know in the comments!

Thanks for the read.

-xo, Nicole (:

8 Excellent Hotel Choices in Barcelona

Posted on January 24, 2023 by Nicole Benedetta

If you’re planning on going to Barcelona, Spain in the near future, listen up! Below, I’ve chosen 8 hotels in the area that I, myself, would love to stay at. So I bet you will to.

Hotel El Palace Barcelona

Hotel El Palace is located in the middle of the city, near Las Ramblas, the major shopping district. Even though it is a bit older, having been constructed in 1919, the classic decor is charming. Along with booking a room there, you will be provided with slippers and a bathrobe. And also your own mini bar! Amenities include a spa with a sauna, a gym, outdoor pool, a business center, and even a limousine and chauffer available upon request!

W Barcelona

Situated on Barceloneta Beach is the W Barcelona, providing visitors with stunning views of both the ocean and the skyline. Amenities here consist of an infinity pool, spa, and rooftop bar. In the rooms, you will find a rainforest shower and a Nespresso machine.

Motel One Barcelona-Cuitadella

This is definitely not a regular motel. Motel One Barcelona-Cuitadella offers a rooftop terrace overlooking Cuitadella Park, the beach, and the city! It also provides continental breakfast and a lounge bar that is open 24/7.

Hotel Casa Bonay

If you’d rather stay in a cute boutique hotel, check out Casa Bonay! Each room is soundproof and equipped with a tea/coffeemaker, a minibar, and mosaic designs throughout. You will also find a cafe and winery onsite, along with sunbeds on the rooftop!

Mercer Hotel Barcelona

Mercer Hotel was formed in an ancient building, displaying exposed brick walls in the rooms and stylish decor. The hotel features a rooftop swimming pool with a bar and an interior courtyard. Just a short walk away, you will discover restaurants, the metro station, and Barcelona Cathedral.

Hotel Paxton

The accommodations at Hotel Paxton include, but are not limited to, a fitness center, a seasonal outdoor pool, a terrace, and a continental breakfast. Nearby are beaches such as Mar Bella and Bogatell, if you’re willing to walk about 12 minutes to get there.

Monument Hotel

At this property, you will have access to a 3-star Michelin restaurant, a spa, and a rooftop pool. In your soundproof, exquisitely-decorated room, you’ll get a Bluetooth sound system, a bathrobe, and typically, a balcony with views of Barcelona.

Hotel Royal Passeig de Gracia

Right in the midst of the city is this 4-star hotel, containing an interior garden, fitness center, business center, and bar. It features luxurious, spacious rooms with modern technology and an electric kettle. Approximately a 5 minute walk away is Plaza Catalunya, known for its fountains and statues.

If you enjoyed my post, please like and subscribe.

Thanks for the read!

-xo, Nicole (:

Power Couple Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds Love to Vacation Here

Posted on January 10, 2023January 11, 2023 by Nicole Benedetta

Where does everyone’s favorite celebrity couple like to go on vacation? Let’s take a look!

Africa

After getting married in 2012, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds went on their honeymoon in Africa.

Maldives

A year later, in 2013, the couple spent their wedding anniversary in the beautiful Maldives.

Vancouver, Canada

View this post on Instagram

Not only is this Reynold’s hometown, but it is also where he filmed his movie Deadpool 2, so he enjoys taking Lively here with him.

Paris

After finishing up her work on the Gossip Girl set in December 2012, Lively, along with her husband, Reynolds, flew to Paris, where they were spotted kissing on the Pont des Arts Bridge.

Hawaii

In April 2017, the two took a vacation to one of the gorgeous Hawaiian islands.

Ireland

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Above you’ll see some shots from their 2019 Ireland trip.

Hope you enjoyed this post! If so, please like and subscribe.

-xo, Nicole (:

5 Fantastic U.S. Destinations To Visit In January

Posted on January 9, 2023August 6, 2025 by Nicole Benedetta

Phoenix, Arizona

If you’re looking to escape the cold of winter, Phoenix, Arizona would be a great location for you to visit. It has, perhaps, the best weather in January, with the average temperature being in the 70s.

Aspen, Colorado

Contrarily, if you would like to visit a ski resort town, Aspen, Colorado would likely be a good fit. Whether you’re a beginner or nearly a professional, Aspen will have a place for you!

Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs, California will provide you with 70 degree weather and sunshine in the month of January. It’s perfect for taking a hike or lounging by the pool.

Austin, Texas

If you’re looking to avoid crowds and relax in warm weather, Austin, Texas is the way to go at this time of year.

Sun Valley, Idaho

Another popular resort town would be Sun Valley, Idaho. Even celebrities such as Arnold Schwarzeneggar and Ashton Kutcher own vacation homes in that city.

Thanks for the read!

-xo, Nicole (:

How To Spot Gwyneth Paltrow and Lucy Hale in Paris

Posted on July 14, 2022July 14, 2022 by Nicole Benedetta

Ever wonder where celebrities visit while they’re in Paris?

Well, Bradley Cooper has been known to stay at luxurious Villa La Coste in Provence. The Villa Tropicale 4-bedroom suite is equipped with a video projector, heated pool on a spacious deck with plenty of seating, and even a grassy area with a set of swings.

Meanwhile, Rita Ora has been seen at Hotel de Crillon. The largest suite is the L’Ecrivain, which features a minibar, private balcony, soaking tub, and entertainment including streaming services.

When it comes to dining, Gwyneth Paltrow seems to enjoy lunch at La Dome Cafe. Leonardo Di Caprio eats his dinner at Le Sourire de Saigon. And both Jessica Alba and Lana Del Ray have been to a corner bistro called L’Avenue.

As for shopping, Mariah Carey and Halle Berry can be found at The Golden Triangle. This is made up of three streets in the shape of a triangle, with high-end designers including Valentino and Armani.

Another popular place to spot to catch a celebrity would be at a fashion event.

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A post shared by Lucy Hale (@lucyhale)

Lucy Hale attended the Miu Miu Fashion Show in October of 2021.

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A post shared by Hunter Schafer’s pics (@hunterschaferpics)

Emma Watson and Hunter Schafer were at the Schiaparelli Fashion Show just a little over a week ago.

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A post shared by Gigi & Bella Hadid (@gigibellhadid)

Bella Hadid and Gigi Hadid were both in the Vivienne Westwood Fashion Show in March of 2022.

Good luck and thanks for the read!

-xo, Nicole (:

Where I Want My Next Tropical Destination To Be & Why

Posted on January 18, 2022January 10, 2023 by Nicole Benedetta

I personally LOVE the beach. Staying in an all-inclusive resort on a white sand beach, with a view of the sparkling blue water is pretty much all I dream about. And having the option to stay in an over-the-water bungalow would be an amazing bonus! Therefore, my next destination of choice would have to be Montego Bay, Jamaica.

About

Montego Bay, located in the northwest portion of the Jamaican island, is full of resorts, beaches, and some golf courses. It is a popular vacation destination for tourists, as it is full of natural beauty, lively nightlife, shops, and activities. On average, the temperature is between 72 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, which is ideal for taking a dip in the ocean or the pool.

Attractions