Traveling the World in July – Where To Go

Seychelles
Photo by Olivier Gryson

Iceberg
Photos by James Petts

Amsterdam
Photo by Luca Sartoni

Masai Giraffe / Masai Mara / Kenya
Photo by Esin Ustun

montreal
Photo by Dean McCoy

Where to go in July – U.S. Edition

Seattle
Photo by Michael Gwyther-Jones

Bar Harbor, Maine, USA
Photo by Domenico Convertini

Ice floating on Upper Grinnell Glacier

Great Smoky Mountains National Park - North Carolina
Photo by Doug Kerr

Chugach Mountains
Photo by Luke Jones

Traveling the World in June? Here are 5 Recommended Stops!

Malolo Island Resort Fiji
Photo by Roderick Eime

London
Photo by Phil Fiddyment

Swiss Alps
Photo by Artur Swaszewski
Rio
Photo by Janice Waltzer
Capri, Italy
Photo by Jimmy Mallinson

5 U.S. Spots for the Perfect June Vacation

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Teton Reflection
Jackson Lake – Photo by John Mason

Not only do the mountains look stunning, being topped with snow in June, but the weather also tends to rise to the 70s during the day, making it enjoyable for hiking, fishing, camping, and kayaking. However, the weather can tend to be unpredictable in the nighttime and early morning, so be sure to bring a few extra layers just in case! Another perk to visiting in June is that the park is fully open, yet less crowded than the other summer months.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina
Photo by Doug Kerr

If you’re looking to visit the charming city of Charleston, South Carolina, in June, you may want to look into water sports, including jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking, with the temperatures being in the 80s, and possibly the 90s! Spoleto Festival, ArtWalk on the first Friday of the month, and the Charleston Farmers’ Market on Saturdays are all events in the city to add to your calendar. The White Garden Park at the Battery will be blooming and sunset cruises are excellent options as well.

Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park, Vernal Falls, California, USA
Vernal Falls – Photo by Domenico Convertini

June is a good month to travel to Yosemite National Park due to the snow having melted, which reveal the beautiful waterfalls, such as Yosemite Falls and Nevada Falls. On average, the temperature at this time of year is in the high 80s. As for hiking, it is said that the Mist Trail is one of the best, with Mirror Lake also being a great spot to view.

Portland, Oregon

Portland Convention Center
Photo by Kunal Mukherjee

June in Portland, Oregon will likely be filled with consistently pleasant weather and hardly, if any, rain. During this month, the Rose Festival to kick off the summer concert season, Festival of Balloons, and Portland Beer Week take place. On the other hand is Portland’s Forest Park, Portland Japanese Garden, International Rose Test Garden, Multnomah Falls, or Powell’s City of Books are all free!

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Nobska Point, Woods Hole, MA
Photo by Bill Ilott

Typically for June, the weather in Cape Cod, is in the 70s and sometimes 80s, along with a cool, ocean breeze. The beaches aren’t yet too crowded, with the water still being a little colder. At Nauset Light Beach, you may be able to attend one of their campfires with games and music or the Cape Cod Pirate Festival with contests, food and drinks, and dancing.

Which of these sound like the right option for you? Please comment below.

Thanks for the read!

-xo, Nicole (:

Amazing International Trips to Take in May

Bimini, Bahamas

Bimini
Photo by Ines Hegedus-Garcia

Lower risk of rain mixed with warmer weather draws people to the Caribbean during May. Bimini is a laidback island with less tourists than other locations in the Bahamas, such as Nassau. It is fitting for someone looking to snorkel on the gorgeous beach of Honeymoon Harbour during the day and clubbing at night! Tourists typically rent golf carts or bikes for traveling around the island, and jet skis and small private boats for recreation. You could get a glass-bottom kayak as well, to ride along the mangrove creeks or book an excursion to swim with the dolphins, which I highly recommend doing in the Bahamas!

Vienna, Austria

Vienna
Photo by Luca Sartoni

The climate in Vienna in May is milder than the summertime and less rainy than April. Each year, during Mother’s Day weekend, this place hosts the Genuss-Festival Food Fair, which has gourmet Austrian food and wine. Or, you could just grab your wine from Cobenzl Winery, which provides visitors with pretty views of the city. At the end of the month is the Steffl Kirtagthe Fair with 50+ food, drink, and craft vendors, and the International Music Festival too!

Venice, Italy

Venice
Photo by Luca Sartoni

The fifth month of the year is reportedly one of the greatest to visit Venice, because of the ample sunshine and a good opportunity for sight-seeing or riding in a gondola under the Bridge of Sighs. Those interested in architecture may want to attend the International Architecture Exhibition, which takes place at this time. The most popular attractions in the city are the St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, the Riva delgi Schiavoni promenade, or the Venetian Lagoon.

Provence, France

Gordes
Photo by Julian Fong

Spring is a wonderful season to explore Provence, either walking or cycling. In late May, you can encounter the bright lavender fields as they start flourishing. Or, being the historic center for soap-making in France, L’Occitane de Provence allows visitors to book a tour of their factory and gardens. Other than that, visitors may go paragliding at La Roque-Esclapon, white water rafting in the Gorges du Verdon or hiking at Parc National des Calanques.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen
Photo by Luca Sartoni

Again, a pleasant climate along with less visitors is why Copenhagen is an attractive choice for May. For those who love the sight of beautiful, blooming flowers, Tivoli Gardens and Bakken, as well as, the Tulip Festival are available for tourists to visit. At the beginning of the month, the Copenhagen Salsa Festival is celebrated, and at the end of the month, the Copenhagen Carnival is an end-of-the-month event with 120 bands and 2,000 dancers!

Are you considering one of these destinations for your May vacation? Let me know in the comments below.

Thanks for the read!

-xo, Nicole (:

U.S. Destinations to Check Out in May

Denver, Colorado

Bear Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park
Bear Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park – Photo by Mark Collins

Denver, Colorado is at the top of my list because I am visiting there this upcoming May. The reason I chose this month to go is becaue, unlike mid-July, it is not too hot, and the prices for travel are slightly lower. A few of the locations that I plan to visit include Red Rocks Ampitheater, Golden Gate Canyon, Emerald Lake at Rocky Mountain National Park, Denver Pavilions, Idaho Springs, Cherokee’s Castle, 88 Drive-In, and the Beacon RiNo nightclub.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores Alabama Beach
Photo by John Tuggle

An average of 76 degrees makes for the perfect time to attend the Hangout Music Festival, the Hot Air Balloon Festival, or take a dip in the Gulf of Mexico. Kayaking, bicycling, hiking, riding segways, or golfing are some popular outdoor activities there as well. A one-of-a-kind attraction to try would be Alligator Alley, where you are able to hold a baby alligator!

Springdale, Utah

Zion National Park
Zion National Park – Photo by G. Lamar

Visiting this region in the month of May would be preferred for those who enjoy hiking. That way, the excessively hot temperatures in the middle of summer can be avoided. Around that area are major sights including Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. A few hours east of those are Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park. You can also stargaze at Natural Bridges National Monument!

Marco Island, Florida

Marco Island colors
Photo by Ines Hegedus-Garcia

Typically with 80 degrees weather in May and smaller crowds, Marco Island is a fantastic pick! Kayaking on Ten Thousand Lakes, strolling along the pretty beaches that are known for shell-finding, going to world-class golf courses, fishing, and riding on waverunners through mangrove islands are just a few things to do while you’re vacationing there.

Manhattan, New York

Manhattan
Photo by Samuel Loannidis

Looking for a good time to stroll through the massive city of New York? May would be your best bet with the daily climate being approximately 70 degrees. For picnics in Central Park, you can go to Cherry Hill by the Bow Bridge or Great Lawn. Washington Square Park will have the blooming cherry blossoms at this time. On some nights, The Rooftop Film Club on top of the Skylawn Embassy Suites will present outdoor movies. Or you can make your way to the Little Island at Pier 54. The Ninth Avenue International Food Festival, the VOLTA Art Fair, and Japan Day are all celebrations that take place in New York during May. The possibilities there are nearly endless!

Thanks for the read!

-xo, Nicole (:

5 Places Around the Globe to Visit in April

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon
Photo by Luca Sartoni

Though this region is susceptible to rain 7 days out of this month, the temperature rises to an average of 65 degrees. Moreover, you may get to experience the celebration of Semana Santa Holy Week, aka the week before Easter. During this time, fairs, festivals, and religious parades take place. Or, if you’re willing to travel an hour south to Obidos, you will come across the International Chocolate Festival. You could also partake in a Secret Food Tour, being guided to some of the best local eateries and book a ticket to the Belem Tower or the Castle of S. Jorge.

Corfu, Greece

Corfu, Greece
Photo by Neil Thompson

April can be considered one of the best months to visit Corfu, Greece, due to the enjoyable weather and smaller crowds. Not to forget about the beautiful beaches and the distinguished rock formations that you can view while renting a boat, stopping at ancient monasteries, swimming at Love Canal, and sipping a cocktail at a beach bar.

Queensland, Australia

Millaa Millaa Falls, Atherton Tablelands, Queensland.
Millaa Millaa Falls – Photo by Steven Penton

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, Australia is usually around 72 degrees during this month, with little rain. A road trip from there to Sydney might be something to look into, or just a day trip to the Gold Coast. If you would rather stay in one area though, an interactive art gallery, such as QAGOMA, hopping on a segway tour, getting on rides at Warner Bros Movie World, taking a kayak tour, or relaxing on Margate Beach may be of interest.

Madrid, Spain

Madrid
Photo by Phil Fiddyment

Mild and sunny weather takes over Madrid, Spain, in April, perfect for appreciating the terrace bars and open parks. The Festimad Music Festival will be taking place at this time of year, if you listen to alternative rock. In terms of sporting events, there is live football matches, the Mutua Madrid Open Tennis Tournament, and the Rock ‘n’ Roll Madrid Marathon!

Bali, Indonesia

Photo by Kimberly McNeilus on Pexels.com

Being the beginning of dry season, April is great for traveling to Bali, Indonesia. It is an excellent month for swimming or surfing in the warm ocean. Though this is the beginning of peak season, the nightclubs become lively and you are not going to want to miss the Ubud Food Festival! The Bali Zoo, partying and staying overnight on Kuta Beach, Tegallalang Rice Terraces, and Uluwata Temple are a few favorite tourist locations too.

Which place would be your #1 choice out of the 5? Let me know in the comments below.

Thanks for the read!

-xo, Nicole (:

Which Hawaiian Island Should I Fly To?

background

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 Hawaii-185.jpg
Photo by Imogene Huxham

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

100_0437
Photo by Alan Light

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

Falling water
Photo by Brett Samuel

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
Photo by Curt Smith

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

Kawaaloa Bay

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

Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Photo by Domenico Convertini

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

Atlanta GA
Photo by Jonathan Geiger

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

Cayman Islands

Cayman Beach
Photo by Adam Gerristma

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

Happy st. Patrick's day! - Dublin, Ireland
Photo by Guiseppe Milo

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 (: