Golden sand beaches, the sulfuric pools of the world’s “only drive-in volcano” and the famed twin-peaked Pitons are the hallmarks of any St Lucian getaway, but the island is also flush with dense emerald vegetation, vibrant flowers and diverse marine life.

For adventure – and a back-to-nature respite from 21st-century life – add these national parks and botanical gardens to your island itinerary.

Pigeon Island National Park

Best park for history buffs

Pigeon Island played a pivotal role in the contentious battle between the British and the French for control of St. Lucia. It was a strategic outpost between the 17th and 19th centuries, as ownership of the island changed hands 14 times before ultimately remaining under British rule. In 1972 Pigeon Island was joined to the mainland by causeway, giving visitors easy access to the 44-acre monument to St. Lucian history.

This living museum – which was declared a national park in 1979 and a national landmark in 1992 – harbors the remnants of the Battle of the Saintes and America’s military presence during World War II. Highlights include the hospital foundation, military latrine, officers’ mess, powder magazine, soldiers barracks and Amerindian caves.

The casual hiker will appreciate Fort Rodney (225ft), named after the British admiral who kept an eye on the French naval base in Martinique. The taller Signal Peak (330ft) significantly ramps up the intensity with a steeper climb and loose, gravelly terrain, making it more suitable for the seasoned hiker. Between Fort Rodney and Signal Peak, you’ll encounter more relics of the colonial era, such as the Gun Slide, Musket Redoubt, Ridge Battery, and US Signal Station.

If you’ve got some time, enjoy a picnic on the expansive lawn or take a dip in the sea at one of the two white-sand beaches on site. There is also the option to enjoy a local meal waterside at Jambe de Bois restaurant (a reference to French pirate Francois Leclerc’s wooden leg) or along the causeway at Thirsty Parrot Beach Bar and Grill.

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Visiting Pigeon Island National Park: Pigeon Island is at the northern tip of the island, about a half-hour drive from the capital city. The landmark is open daily year-round, from 9am to 5pm (8:30am to 6:30pm from July to September). Entrance to the park costs US$10 for adult visitors and US$3 for kids 5 to 12 years old. Most of the tours are self-guided, but guided tours are available for US$20 for a group of up to five, with additional guests charged US$5 per person. Be sure to call at least 24 hours in advance to make your request.

No reservations are needed to visit the park without a guide. A guidebook with a small map and details on the geological, ecological and historical elements of Pigeon Island can be purchased on arrival. If you’re planning on climbing the park’s peaks (which is part of the guided tour), carry a pair of hiking boots along with sunscreen and insect repellent. The tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Soufrière Marine Management Area

Best park for scuba divers, snorkelers, and water lovers

Water-sports lovers, especially those partial to snorkeling and scuba diving, will find a slice of heaven in the depths of the Soufrière Marine Management Area. The protected area stretches across 6.8 miles (11km), from Anse L'Ivrogne and its well-preserved coves in the southwestern parish of Choiseul to Rodney Bay in the north. It is sectioned off into five zones, including marine reserves for the regeneration of fish stocks, fishing priority areas where commercial fishing takes precedence, recreational areas for beach activities and yacht-mooring areas for visiting yachts.

The final zone, designated for multiple uses like diving and snorkeling, is arguably the expansive area's pièce de résistance. These pockets of marine life are in close proximity to some of the premier hotels on the island, including Sugar Beach, which boasts a celebrity clientele, and the adults-only hideaway Ti Kaye Resort & Spa. Luxury honeymoon haven Anse Chastanet’s beach is just yards away from a reef considered to be one of the best snorkeling destination in the Caribbean, where the remarkably clear water allows glimpses of soft coral, colored sponges, boulder coral, brain coral and more than 150 different species of fish. There are also opportunities for kayaking, tubing, windsurfing and sunfish sailing, but jet skiing is prohibited.

Visiting Soufrière Marine Management Area: The area's sprawling nature means there are multiple points of entry along the coast. Visitors will likely need to be transported to their activities by boat, so consult with someone at your accommodations or contact the Soufrière Marine Management Area directly for information on safely getting to your destination. The entrance fee is US$1, US$5 for a diving day pass, and US$15 for an annual dive permit. The use of the moorings requires a Coral Conservation Permit, which starts at US$20 per night. Booking water activities through your hotel may incur a separate fee, and all activities must be guided.

Mamiku Botanical Gardens

Best park for birdwatchers

Along the island’s east coast, between the villages of Praslin and Mon Repos, sits Mamiku Botanical Gardens. The gardens are an extension of the Mamiku Plantation, which was gifted to Baron de Micoud in the early 1700s by the King of France Louis XIV.  The property has changed ownership over multiple generations – Mamiku is the final iteration of a series of names bestowed upon the estate, including “Union de Micoud”, “Madame de Micoud” and “Ma Micoud" – and now rests in the hands of Veronica E. Shingleton-Smith, a landscaper designer with extensive experience in creating floral gardens. Mamiku’s 12 acres of natural woodlands feature an orchid and medicinal-herb garden that doubles as an oasis for bees, butterflies and birds, with endangered white-breasted thrashers, golden orioles, black finches and many more flitting among the riot of exotic tropical flowers.

Visiting Mamiku Botanical Gardens: It’s roughly a 45-minute drive from the north side of the island to the property, while visitors from the south can enjoy a much shorter commute – just 20 minutes. Mamiku Botanical Gardens is only open a few days a week, so it’s best to contact the estate beforehand to ensure availability. On open days, you can wander for as long as you want between 9am and 5pm.

Tours are also available according to your preferred activity, in the categories of bird watching, garden lovers, or hiking. Options range from a full-day tour with a picnic lunch and river bath to a half-day door with local staples like hot bakes and cocoa tea or rum punch. Entrance starts at XCD$20 (US$7) for independent travelers. The property is partially wheelchair accessible, with a handicapped bathroom and a ramp onto the terrace for viewing the gardens.

Maranatha Gardens

Best park for seeking peace

A "prayer sanctuary" with guest houses and a restaurant, Maranatha Gardens is a respite within an already tranquil island paradise. Maranatha means “Lord come” or “Come Lord,” which is quite fitting for a space created to transport visitors to a blissfully peaceful existence, and its unhurried serenity has made it a popular pick for intimate weddings and photography sessions alike.  The garden is teeming with 100 plant species, including evergreen perennials, torch lilies, ginger lilies, dragon's breath celosias and heliconia lobster claws. Further exploration reveals a koi carp reflection pool and the Pitons' peaks standing tall just beyond the brush.

Visiting Maranatha Gardens: From the north, follow the west coast road to Colombette, Soufrière. The gardens are tucked into a hairpin bend, just before The Beacon Restaurant, which is also part of the owner’s portfolio. If your accommodations are in the south, drive northbound until the restaurant comes into view. Entrance to the garden is free.

Union Orchid Garden

Best park for flower enthusiasts

Union Orchid Garden is the product of a collaboration between the governments of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and St. Lucia, which started in 2009. The property features two greenhouses with a combined total area of 1500 sq meters and the capacity to harbor up to 50,000 adult flowering plants and an additional 100,000 tissue culture plants. As the name indicates, the main attraction here are orchids, a flower species known as much for its fragility as its intense color and fragrance. Anthophiles will find a selection that includes dendrobiums — with more than 2000 species, the largest orchid group, identifiable by their pastel hues — phalaenopsis, cattleyas, oncediums, vandas, as well as a mélange of cut flowers, root and tuber crops and local produce.

Visiting Union Orchid Garden: The Union Orchid Garden is currently revamping its tour offerings but guests can still pop in for an informal visit. It’s a 20-minute drive from the north of the island and 10 minutes from the city to the Union community. The Dame Pearlette Louisy Primary School is an easy marker just before the garden.

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Let’s be honest. Alaska isn’t the US’s most economical destination. But with some creative planning and an ability to trade luxury for a grittier wilderness experience, a trip up north doesn’t have to destroy your credit card.

The good news is that an entry ticket to Alaska’s abundant wilderness is refreshingly gratis: hiking and backcountry camping are invariably free of charge, and you don’t need to charter a floatplane to view majestic wild animals. If you’re lucky, bears and moose can be glimpsed through a bus window on the Seward Highway or during an afternoon jog in Anchorage.

Here are some additional ways to cut your costs in the 49th state.

Flying is generally the cheapest way to reach Alaska

Book well in advance for the best deals. For drivers motoring up through Canada from the Lower 48, costs will vary depending on type of vehicle, gas prices (higher in Canada) and travel distance.

Anchorage hotels usually offer free shuttles to and from the airport

Pre-organize through your accommodation or call on arrival at Ted Stevens International Airport using the complimentary phones in the terminal building.

To avoid expensive internal flights, stick to areas connected to the main road grid

The compact, easily navigable Kenai Peninsula, one hour south of Anchorage by road or rail, is full of classic Alaskan splendor, including glaciers, mountains, and steep-sided fjords. Seward, 127 miles from Anchorage, is an ideal base. To the north, the Anchorage-Fairbanks corridor is bisected by the scenic, well-maintained George Parks Highway and supports the artsy community of Talkeetna and the fauna-filled expanses of Denali National Park.

There is no state sales tax in Alaska!

However, before you start dreaming of decadent nights in five-star hotels, take note that most accommodations have a combined city sales/bed tax of between 5% and 15%. You can shave a little of your room bills by avoiding high-tax towns like Ketchikan (14% tax) in favor of lower-tax havens like Fairbanks and Skagway (8% tax) or – better still - Nome and Valdez (6% tax).

Visit in May or September for savings of between 10% and 25%

Alaska’s tourist season runs from early May to late September but, if you avoid the high summer months of June, July and August, and book well in advance, you can save a decent amount on accommodation, flights and organized daytrips. Indeed, if you’re adept at being self-sufficient and aren’t averse to a little rain (and occasional snow), then April is a passable month in the balmier Alaskan panhandle. Alaska’s tough winters are relatively cheap, but only endurable if you’re a hardened local or an adventure extremist.

Seeing wildlife doesn’t have to cost the earth

A simple bus-ride along Denali’s 92-mile Park Road costs little over $50 round-trip and you’re pretty much guaranteed to see a whole food-chain of foraging fauna. By comparison, a fly-in daytrip from Anchorage to Katmai National Park to view bears snapping salmon out of Brooks Falls won’t leave much change from $800.

Weigh up your transport options

A shortage of rental cars in the US, post-Covid, has nudged average daily rental rates up to $100 or more during Alaska’s summer season. Before committing to a vehicle, it pays to work out how much you’re likely to need it. Gas prices in Alaska are cheaper than Europe but still $.40 per gallon above the US average. Conversely, bus fares can be surprisingly affordable. The Anchorage-Seward run costs as little as $60 one-way. Anchorage to Denali goes for around $100.

Take the public ferry

The extensive state-run ferry system, known as the Alaska Marine Highway, cuts through the same spectacular landscapes as the cruise ships but at a more reasonable price, especially if you’re willing to swap a cabin for sleeping in your seat or pitching a tent on deck (bring plenty of duct tape to secure against gusts of wind). A fare for the 19-hour journey between Ketchikan and Juneau will set you back around $140. For the six-hour hop across Prince William Sound between Whittier and Valdez, you’re looking at approximately $65.

Opt for a shoulder season or "repositioning" cruise

Alaska’s cruise season runs a short five months with the bookend months of May and September offering the best deals. You can save good money – sometimes as much as 50% – by setting sail on a "repositioning" cruise, which takes the boat to and from its home port (eg Alaska-Hawaii, Alaska-California) at the beginning and end of the season. Big ships are more economical than smaller boats. Carnival is one of the cheapest options.

Consider staying in a hostel or a cabin

Accommodation in Alaska is expensive. There’s a dearth of good bargains, even in the motel field, and the diminutive nature of most towns means there’s often little opportunity to shop around. Notwithstanding, tourist-orientated towns usually have at least one hostel offering dorm beds for between $25 and $35 per night.

Another option is cabins. Alaska has an abundance of basic public-use cabins in state parks and its two national forests, Chugach and Tongass. Many of them are hike-in, others can be reached by kayak. Cabins generally sleep between three and eight people and can cost as little as $25 per night all-in, although $60 to $70 is more common. Designs vary but most have wooden sleeping platforms, stoves, pit toilets, tables, and a nearby water source. Pre-booking is essential.

Travel with a tent or an RV

In a land of brawny adventure possibilities, camping is a popular option. Campgrounds abound with nightly fees ranging from free to $15 for rustic public campgrounds and from $30 to $45 to park your RV in a deluxe private campground with full hookup and heated restrooms with showers. Many towns that cater to tourists operate a municipal campground. Book ahead in peak season, especially at weekends. For hardcore hikers with plenty of outdoor experience, backcountry camping is mostly free.

Master the picnic

Cheechakos (newcomers to the state) pulling up a chair in their first Alaska restaurant usually glance incredulously at the menu and contemplate a three-day fast. Eating out can be prohibitively expensive in the Last Frontier because of the short tourist season and high labor costs for wait and kitchen staff. However, many travelers are surprised that food prices in Fairbanks and Anchorage supermarkets are not that much higher than home.

The solution: cobble together a picnic lunch (ideal when you’re hiking), make your own dinners in your campsite/RV, or book accommodation with a kitchen or kitchenette. Eating out needn’t be banished altogether – the halibut deserves at least one outing – but you might want to make it more an exception than a rule.

Guides, outfitters and tour companies cost money

They also provide security, local knowledge, and peace of mind in Alaska’s often hostile wilderness. However, with a bit of pre-trip homework and the right equipment, it is possible to organize hiking, biking or kayaking trips on your own. For safety reasons, it’s always best to travel with a partner or in a group. Day-hikes are a good option if you’re not mega-experienced. Try Flattop Mountain near Anchorage or the Perseverance Trail out of Juneau.

Make the most of Alaska’s national parks and historic parks

Entry to Alaska’s eight national parks is mostly free. The only park that charges an entry fee is Denali ($15 for a seven-day pass). The caveat? Most of the state’s parks are remote and require expensive boat or airplane transfers. Denali and Kenai Fjords are exceptions. Both are easily reachable from Anchorage by car, bus, or train, and offer multiple free attractions, including glacier-viewing, wildlife-watching, hiking and camping.

Alaska’s two main historic parks – Sitka and Skagway – are also fabulous and free. Stuffed with museums and heritage sites and offering complimentary walking tours with park rangers in the summer, they’re perfect places to absorb the state’s surprisingly eclectic history and culture.

Hone your fitness and polish your outdoor skills

The more adaptable and self-sufficient you are, the more options you’ll have to cut costs. Alaska specializes in the unadulterated and the unpackaged. If you can forsake romantic dinners for freeze-dried camping grub, and swap IMAX cinemas for a tent under the stars, you’ll not only have a life-changing experience; you’ll be able to afford to come back and do it again.

Daily costs in Alaska

Hostel room: $25-35 (dorm bed)
Basic room for two: $140-170
Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): from $130
Public transport ticket Anchorage-Seward (127-miles): $60-70 one-way
Coffee: $3.50-4.50
Sandwich: $8-9
Dinner for two: $60-80
Beer/pint at the bar: $6-7

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From outdoor adventure to relaxed dinners under incredible sunsets, Albuquerque is a laid-back city steeped in centuries of diverse cultures.

Native American, Hispanic and American influences have created a city that celebrates creativity in its cuisine, art, music and architecture. Families learn about the Río Grande ecosystem at the ABQ BioPark, couples stroll the quiet alleys of Old Town and thrill-seekers ply the wilderness playground that is the Sandía Mountains.

At 5300ft in elevation, Albuquerque experiences four distinct seasons with hot summer days cooling off at night and snow blanketing the Sandías in the winter. Native American Pueblos welcome visitors to share in their feast days, and flamenco and folklorico dancing continue these powerful traditions from Spain and Mexico.

Discover historic Old Town

Established in 1706 by Spanish colonists, Old Town is Albuquerque’s cultural and historic heart. Centuries-old adobe buildings house shops and restaurants that edge the tree-shaded plaza. Native American potters and jewelers sell their art directly to buyers under the eastside portal, and 300-year-old San Felipe de Neri church welcomes all within its 5ft-thick adobe walls to view its Spanish folk-art altar. Folklorico dancing, music and other events take place on weekends throughout the year, and on Dec. 24 thousands of farolitos – a traditional decoration of paper sacks aglow with votive candles – line the plaza and side streets.

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Be prepared to party

Big or small, there’s usually an event or festival taking place in Albuquerque on any given weekend. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the city’s signature event, taking place annually the first full week of October. The annual Fiery Foods and BBQ Show in February sees the hottest chili products on the planet compete for honors and bragging rights.

April’s Gathering of Nations sees hundreds of Native American dancers from tribes throughout North America gather for a weekend of comradery and competition at Expo New Mexico, the largest such gathering in the country.

Flamenco Albuquerque celebrates this artform in June, and on Labor Day weekend the ABQ Harvest Wine Festival showcases wines from across New Mexico at Balloon Fiesta Park.

The first Sunday in November marks the annual Marigold Parade, a Day of the Dead celebration that’s one of the largest in the country. December’s River of Lights at the ABQ BioPark creates fanciful rope-light scenes throughout the gardens.

Drift away in a hot-air balloon

Visitors can experience the peaceful thrill of hot-air ballooning any time of year with several companies including Rainbow Ryders, Inc. and World Balloon. Balloonists meet at the launch site in the pre-dawn hours as fans and flames inflate the balloon envelopes. Once ready, balloons gently lift off for a 360-degree view of the city, Sandia Mountains and Río Grande. Once landed, customers may enjoy a traditional Champagne toast to their flight. Learn why Albuquerque is called the Ballooning Capital of the World at the Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum.

Get your kicks on Route 66

Albuquerque has one of the best-preserved stretches of Route 66 in the nation. Period neon signs, diners and motor lodges line Central Avenue that travels east to west through the city. Nob Hill between San Mateo and Girard avenues has retro boutiques, record shops, contemporary dining and brewpubs, all awash in the glow of neon celebrating the Mother Road.

Central continues west past the University of New Mexico and the Route 66 Diner, and into downtown with dive bars proud of the title, art galleries and upscale dining. The Kiva Auditorium in the Albuquerque Convention Center sees international acts and the historic Kimo Theatre, constructed in 1927 in Pueblo Deco style, hosts a range of live music, theater, dance and films. The Andaluz Hotel, built by Conrad Hilton in 1939, is known for its fine dining at MÁS Tapas y Vino, roof-top bar Ibiza and New Mexico Territorial Revival architecture with original murals.

Across from the ABQ BioPark, El Vado Motel is a classic Route 66 stop partly funded by the City of Albuquerque that has local restaurants, a local brewery and splash pad for kids that’s open to the general public as well as renovated rooms for overnight guests.

Summit the Sandias

Albuquerque may have a desert reputation, but the 37,278-acre Sandía Mountain Wilderness to the city’s east climbs to alpine elevations that see orchids in the summer and snow in the winter. More than 100 miles of established trails stitch throughout the wilderness etched with canyons filled with aspens. The most difficult trek is the La Luz Trail, which climbs 3775ft over 8 miles to the Sandía Crest at 10,678ft.

Other trails along the top of the mountain pass through pine forest and wildflower-studded glades. Seemingly every other turn offers soaring views of the expansive landscape almost a mile below. There are no facilities within the wilderness area and hikers should carry plenty of water and snacks, be prepared for cooler temperatures, and have a plan for returning before sundown. A popular option is to hike up and take the Sandía Aerial Tram back down; verify ticketing and operations beforehand.

Or take the tram to the top

If you don’t feel like hiking to the top of the Sandía Mountains, the Sandia Peak Aerial Tram travels 2.7 miles and nearly 4000ft to its terminal at 10,378ft above sea level. The 15-minute “flight” passes over the mountainous wilderness below, and wildlife including bears can sometimes be seen.

From the top visitors see the lights of Albuquerque below often with a spectacular sunset backdrop. Hike the trails at the top, snow play at Sandia Peak Ski Area and enjoy dinner with a view at Ten 3 restaurant (reservations required).

Celebrate Albuquerque’s First People

Learn more about New Mexico’s Native American nations at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center where cultures, art, traditions and histories of each of the 19 Pueblos are shared through artifacts, interactive video kiosks and video interviews with Tribal elders. Pueblo dance demonstrations take place on weekends in the courtyard.

Enjoy lunch and dinner at the Indian Pueblo Kitchen where traditional Pueblo ingredients in contemporary recipes are explained by the chef as meals are prepared, and shop Shumakolowa Native Arts gallery for pottery, jewelry and other fine art created by Pueblo artisans.

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Hike through an ancient art gallery

Petroglyph National Monument protects thousands of images pecked into basalt boulders by Native Americans some 700 years ago, and is considered an important area to Pueblo nations today. Throughout this 7200-acre park geometric, zoomorphic and anthropomorphic designs emerge from the dark volcanic boulders that cover this 17-mile escarpment on Albuquerque’s Westside. Four established hiking trails lead to the work of ancient artists who painstakingly pecked away the dark desert varnish to reveal lighter rock beneath. Maps are available at the Information Center that also has a Western National Park Association store.

Forest bathe in the Bosque

The Río Grande flows north to south through the middle of Albuquerque, and contains a portion of the largest continuous cottonwood forest in the nation. This forest, locally called the bosque (pronounced “boss-key,” Spanish for woods), is home to migrating sandhill cranes, bald eagles, porcupines, Mexican free-tailed bats and other animals. Mellow hiking trails wend through towering cottonwoods that turn honey yellow in the fall. The Rio Grande Nature Center State Park at the west end of Candelaria Road has observation stands overlooking wetlands filled with turtles and birds, and exhibits explaining the ecology of the Río Grande that flows from the Rocky Mountains to the Gulf of Mexico.

Time travel through Albuquerque’s museums

Albuquerque’s museums detail the city’s diverse and storied history from when dinosaurs roamed the shallow sea here some 250 million years ago to the city’s role in ushering in the Atomic and Space ages. In Old Town, the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science displays skeletons of an Allosaurus, Stegosaurus and other fossils from Albuquerque’s prehistoric past. The nearby Albuquerque Museum presents the art of Georgia O’Keeffe and other New Mexico masters.

Get close and personal with rattlers at the American International Rattlesnake Museum and learn the importance of these oft-misunderstood reptiles and other desert denizens.

¡Explora! is filled with hands-on exhibits that explore physics, math and art, and the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History examines Albuquerque’s role in the development of the Atomic Bomb, the Cold War, and the complex issues regarding atomic energy.

Make United soccer a goal

New Mexico United pro soccer club has gained national attention for both the quality of its players and the enthusiasm of its fans. Currently playing at Isotopes Park, the home field of the city’s beloved Triple-A Isotopes baseball team (yes, they took their name from a Simpsons cartoon episode), New Mexico United has gained a reputation for exciting games and its vibrant, inclusive fan base. A special section is reserved for ardent fans collectively called the Curse who parade with costumes and drums, and are quick to set off smoke bombs whenever United scores. It’s a party atmosphere that gets even non-sports fans on their feet cheering.

Go on safari at the ABQ BioPark

Fantastic for kids and adults alike, the Albuquerque BioPark follows the 1885-mile journey of the Río Grande from its trout-filled headwaters in Colorado to the Gulf of Mexico. Rescued sharks, sea turtles, otters and other beings that rely on the river and the Gulf it empties into are exhibited, and visitors can enjoy lunch and dinner in front of a 285,000-gallon reef aquarium at the Shark Reef Café. Outside, botanical gardens explain the medicinal and cultural importance of native New Mexico plants.

The four-acre Sasebo Japanese Garden features a large koi pond and waterfall designed by Toru Tanaka, a landscape architect from Albuquerque’s sister city of Sasebo. At the ABQ BioPark Zoo, travel the continents learning about elephants, giraffes, great apes, hippos, big cats, polar bears, reptiles, penguins and other species at this 64-acre, Association of Zoos and Aquarium-accredited zoo.

Take a spin around town

Mountain bikers shred the foothills of the Sandía Mountains that contain almost 2600 acres of singletrack that rollercoasters through the high desert. Road cyclists can reach much of the city via Albuquerque’s 400-miles of paved trail system, including the 16-mile paved Paseo del Bosque Trail that parallels the Río Grande. Routes Bicycle Tours rents bikes and leads themed tours that include wine tastings and taco stops.

Come to Albuquerque hungry

Albuquerque is known for its New Mexican cuisine, and locals argue fiercely over which restaurants have the best chile. Favorites such as El Modelo, Sadies, and Duran’s serve classic New Mexico dishes such as chiles rellenos, stuffed sopapillas, carne adovada and enchiladas, and are beloved for a reason.

But Albuquerque is more than New Mexican cuisine. The Sawmill Market is an indoor food hall with a variety of vendors offering everything from Vietnamese street food to small batch pasta plates. Campo at Los Poblanos Inn uses ingredients harvested from the surrounding farm, as does Farm to Table. Sixty-Six Acres across from the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center gets creative with fusion plates such as its New Mexican Shrimp and Grits and Korean Fried Chicken Bowl. At Tablao Flamenco, marvel at the grace and power of flamenco dancers while enjoying authentic Spanish tapas.

Unwind with award-winning wine

New Mexico is the oldest wine-producing region in the United States, thanks to Spanish friars planting grapes for sacramental wine in the early 1600s. With similar elevation and climate to parts of Spain and France, Albuquerque’s mature wine scene impresses internationally. Gruet is based in Albuquerque, and invites visitors to sample their Méthode Champenoise sparkling wines in their tasting room. Casa Roñdena is known for its Andalusian-spired architecture and award-winning Meritage. Located in Old Town, D.H. Lescombes Winery and Bistro serves meals aside its Heritage Pinot Noir and other varieties. Albuquerque also has a robust microbrew scene with breweries including Marble, Boxing Bear, La Cumbre, Nexus and Bosque taking home national and international awards, and turning heads in the industry.

Explore beyond Albuquerque

Centrally located, Albuquerque makes a great point from which to explore the rest of New Mexico. Travel an hour west on I-40 to Acoma Pueblo and take a guided tour of this ancient village atop a mesa that is one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States. A half-hour east on I-40 leads to the Turquoise Trail that travels north on NM 14 to Santa Fe.

Along the way, you'll find Madrid, which was once a mining town but is now filled with brightly colored art galleries, restaurants, local shops and snack stops. Farther north, Cerrillos is an Old West town that's been featured in several movies including Young Guns.

Take the more direct route to Santa Fe via I-25 to explore all the City Different has to offer including Meow Wolf, an interactive fun house-meets-haunted house supported by Game of Thrones author George R.R. Martin. South of Santa Fe near Cochiti Pueblo, Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument contains otherworldly geological formations. Several trails wind through these surreal, cone-shaped formations and slot canyons.

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Its consistently warm-to-mild temperatures and lack of a harsh winter means there’s never really a bad time to visit St Lucia. In fact, there are only two seasons — dry and rainy – but even the threat of a torrential downpour can’t stop the island’s laid-back vibe.

It's also known for a good party, and you’ll find plenty of that during the Carnival season in July. (Those hoping to laze the days away might prefer a visit between mid-April and June.) No matter your travel style or budget, St Lucia is ready to welcome you to its shores. Here’s what to expect throughout the year.

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High Season: December to mid-April

Best time for hikers

The weather is a lot cooler during these months — particularly December, January and February — but it’s still sunny, making it ideal for hikers hoping to avoid the sweltering heat. However, this period also sees a high influx of visitors hoping to escape cold-weather countries, which means low availability and pricier flights and accommodations.

From verdant rainforests to beachy towns: the 7 best hikes in St Lucia

Low Season: June to November

Best time for traveling on a budget

It’s no surprise that St Lucia's low season coincides with its wet season. Rainfall is high, and residents are officially on Atlantic hurricane watch. But budget travelers will find this stretch favorable, as airlines and hotels offer deep discounts on fares and room rates.

Shoulder Season: mid-April to June

Best time for beachgoers

This is the sweet spot for travelers looking for a lazy beach day. Not only are the water temperatures warmer for swimming, but it’s also a low-activity period on the island, which means less crowded beaches. You might also be able to snag deals on accommodations and airfare, as prices start to drop en route to the rainy season.

The best beaches in St Lucia

January

The island is teeming with tourists ringing in the New Year in the tropics. Celebrate like a Lucian at Assou Square, the two-to-three-day family festival featuring games, rides and local entertainment. St Lucia’s two Nobel laureates, Sir Arthur Lewis and Sir Derek Walcott, are a source of immense pride for locals, and their contributions to their respective fields of economics and literature are honored with a slew of activities during Nobel Laureate Week.
Key events: Assou Square, Nobel Laureate Week.

February

St Lucia’s independence from British rule on February 22nd, 1979, is marked by parades and celebratory events island-wide.
Key events: Independence Day.

March

This is the last month of the peak season for travel, and while there are no marquee events, Friday night mainstays like the Gros Islet Jump Up and Anse La Raye Fish Fry are always lively, and flush with flavorful barbecue and freshly caught seafood.

April

Tourist crowds are lessening and prices have dropped, which makes it a great time for a chill getaway. It’s also a time of reflection, as locals celebrate Easter. There aren’t any major activities of note, so you can take your time visiting the island’s premier attractions at leisure.
Key events: Holy Week.

May

The island’s quietest period starts giving way to the good vibrations of the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival, which attracts patrons worldwide. Past performers have included Carlos Santana, Lauryn Hill and John Legend.
Key events: Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival.

June

The rainy season begins, but this is still a great time to visit. Toward the end of the month, the first signs of the island’s biggest party, Carnival, start emerging with small events popping up in various communities.
Key events: Fisherman’s Feast (Fête Pêche).

Latin American and Caribbean Carnivals for every traveler

July

Party people, this is your time. Carnival season is in full swing, and lots of related events – like the Queen Show and Calypso competition – are peppered throughout the month leading up to the main festival.
Key events: Saint Lucia Carnival.

August

St Lucia’s history of world-class cocoa production is explored during an entire month dedicated to chocolate lovers. Visitors can indulge in chocolate heritage tours, spa treatments and classes.
Key events: La Rose Flower Festival, Mercury Fest, Chocolate Heritage Month, Saint Lucia Roots and Soul Festival.

September

Discover the island’s subaqueous secrets during St Lucia’s dive and adventure week.
Key events: Wellness Music Festival, Saint Lucia Dive & Adventure Week, St Lucia Dive Fest.

Which Caribbean island is best for you?

October

St Lucia’s heritage is the focus throughout the month, as the country pays homage to its French and African cultural influences. The highlight is Jounen Kwéyòl (Creole Day), a day of traditional activities and authentic St Lucian food.
Key events: La Marguerite Flower Festival (Fête La Marguerite), Creole Heritage Month, Jounen Kwéyòl (Creole Day).

November

The final month of the island’s wet period ushers in sailing season, as the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers – a transatlantic competition for racer and cruiser yachts – makes its annual stop in St Lucia.
Key events: Atlantic Rally for Cruisers, Mango Bowl Regatta.

December

The rainy season has ended, which means more tourist traffic to the island. Availability of accommodations is low, so plan ahead to secure your room at St Lucia's multiple luxury and boutique resorts.
Key events: National Day, Festival of Lights, Caribbean Equine Cultural Festival, New Year’s Eve.

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The best time to visit St Lucia for your next adventure

When it comes to cool Southern towns, Savannah offers the whole package. The aptly nicknamed “Hostess City” offers up history, art, seafood, and laid-back coastal vibes with impeccable charm. From the solo adventurer to the luxury-minded jet setter, every kind of traveler will find something fun to do here.

And, luckily, you don’t have to break the bank to fall in love with Savannah. With a little creativity – plus a few solid recommendations from folks in the know – even the most cost-conscious visitor can enjoy much of this historic Georgia city for free.

Stroll the parks and cemeteries

In the historic district alone you'll find more than 20 different parks and squares. The British colonist James Oglethorpe first laid out the city's plan, which features a rigid grid of streets that intersect at verdant public squares. These iconic green spaces, surrounded by historic mansions and tree-lined streets, define the character of Savannah. Each has its own unique feel – and all of them invite a calming respite.

Some may argue you haven’t really been to Savannah until you’ve snapped an obligatory photo of the Forsyth Park fountain or a stone angel in Bonaventure Cemetery.

Hop on a bike on Tybee Island, Savannah's beach town

Eighteen miles down I-80 and across the Talmadge Memorial Bridge is Tybee Island, on the Atlantic Ocean. Since the parking game can be stressful, heading there on a bike will be a vigorous yet relaxing excursion.

North Beach offers a busy yet amenity-packed waterfront option – think taco lunches and rum drinks after a dip in the ocean. To get to a quieter stretch of sand, continue toward Back River or Savannah River Beaches. Better yet, disappear into the waterways around Little Tybee, an unspoiled nature preserve reachable only by boat or kayak.

Explore Savannah Botanical Gardens

Even if you can’t tell a camellia from a canna lily, you’ll want to fill your Instagram feed with shots of the gorgeous flora at Savannah Botanical Gardens, where entry is always free. Located off Eisenhower Drive, this lush 10-acre property is yet another example of how Savannah gets its green spaces right. Come back over multiple days to stroll the nature trails or lounge beside the pond at your leisure. Four-legged friends are welcome if leashed, and there’s a Children’s Garden for little nature lovers.

Wander Broughton Street

The wide sidewalks of Broughton Street make it a pleasure to spend an afternoon hitting up the vintage shops, antique galleries, and boutiques. After browsing, pull up a seat at the Paris Market Café to people watch while you nibble on a macaron sampler. (This isn't free, by the way – but at $15 for six cakes it's worth every penny.)

At the south end of Forsyth Park, check out downtown’s funkier little sister, the Starland District. Once the site of Starland Dairy, it’s now where Savannah's creative class goes to buy vinyl and drink espresso. When your feet get tired, hop aboard Savannah’s free (and air-conditioned) “dot” shuttle to get back to where you're staying.

Find a festival

Get the most bang for your proverbial buck by timing your visit with one of Savannah’s many annual festivals. Since Georgians love a good party, special events (most of which are free) abound, from Savannah Pride to Oktoberfest.

Catch a vegan cooking demo, attend a reading by a local author, or – if it brings you joy – get your face painted. Just be sure to plan well in advance for such major events as the SCAD Savannah Film Festival and the Savannah Food and Wine Festival, as hotels tend to book up quickly.

Discover Southern charm at outdoor markets

Riverstreet Marketplace is the largest outdoor market in the city; it's open daily from 10am to 8pm. Peruse the stalls to find products made locally and from around the world. Browsing is always free – but it might be hard to leave without buying a small piece of art, jewelry, or jar of hot sauce to commemorate your trip.

For more of a small-town-locals-only vibe, visit the Forsyth Farmers Market on Saturdays. If “trash to treasure” is what you’re into, put Keller’s Flea Market on your list for all things secondhand.

Tour the Savannah College of Art and Design

The Savannah College of Art and Design has provided the cultural heartbeat of the city since 1978. The school hosts programs all year long, many of which are free and open to the general public. Scattered across Savannah's historic center, the school's buildings are works of art in themselves – but if you’re eager for new work by up-and-coming artists, hit up any of the six galleries scattered across campus. The SCAD Museum of Art, which charges $10 for admission, shouldn’t be missed.

Save the date for Super Museum Sunday

History buffs take note: the Georgia Historical Society hosts a day each year devoted to “reacquainting” people with areas of cultural interest. One Sunday each year, residents and out-of-towners alike enjoy free access to over 100 sites, homes, and museums – many not usually open to the public. Dive into a lesson on the American Prohibition or the Tybee Island Light Station, all free of charge.

Check the GHS website for each year's full list of participating museums as well as information on directions and hours of operation.

Take to the water

You’re missing out if you don't spend at least a little time off dry land in these parts. Savannah is surrounded by blue-green waterways just begging to be paddled.

Take the short drive out of town to meander through the marshy inlets of Savannah National Wildlife Reserve or head south to Skidaway Island State Park. These barrier islands and estuaries provide an up-close look at the cabbage palms and white egrets of Georgia’s Low Country.

Taste the town

Since dining out in Savannah can be pricey, we recommend sipping and sampling before settling on a place for dinner. Try out regional wines (or a moonshine smoothie!) at the Georgia Tasting Room, or get a sugar rush with a free praline at Savannah's Candy Kitchen.

Leopold’s gives out free samples of its famous ice cream (think flavors like Savannah Socialite or Peanut Butter Chippy). At longtime favorite Olde Pink House, you can enjoy a reasonable (if not free) meal by ordering up the blue crab beignet or fried green tomato appetizers.

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Montana is the ultimate destination for outdoor adventurers, with endless mountain ranges, forest hiking trails and wonderful waterways to choose from – all of which transform dramatically from season to season.

Despite the trappings of the modern age, the Treasure State still embodies the spirit of the Old West, offering opportunities to experience life on horseback, hunt and forage for wild food and drift through ghost towns that look like the last cowboy just rode into the sunset. But there's more to Montana than cowboying up and getting outside.

Bustling towns are made more colorful by burgeoning artistic talent, and the world is taking notice of Montana’s innovative culinary scene. Whether you’re seeking adventures in untouched landscapes or creative encounters in cool urban hubs, Montana can provide what you’re looking for. Here's a guide to the top things to do in Big Sky Country.

Hiking in Glacier National Park

Hitting the trails in Glacier National Park is probably the most popular activity for visitors to Montana, and for good reason. Glacier’s jagged mountain peaks, lush valleys and crystal clear lakes and rivers are accessed via endless miles of wilderness trails, from popular and accessible jaunts like the Avalanche Trail to more rugged, challenging expeditions like the hike to Hidden Lake.

Meeting mountain goats, moose and grizzly bears is just part of life in the park, giving visitors the sensation of being truly in the bosom of America’s wildest wilderness. Hiking is exceptional throughout Montana, not just inside Glacier – so long as you carry bear spray, stick to designated pathways and follow the usual safe-hiking rules, every day will be brimful of adventure.

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Flyfish the Madison River

Rushing rivers drain down from the mountains across Montana, inspiring writers, artists and anglers alike. The state is one of the world's top destinations for flyfishing, thanks to unpolluted turquoise rivers teeming with trout. And with the lack of crowds, fishing here is a truly peaceful experience – which is, after all, the true goal for many anglers!

Grab a Montana fishing license and head to the Madison River, close to the southwestern city of Bozeman. The 50 miles of river near Quake Lake offer rich catches for both waders and boat-based fisherfolk, particularly along the so-called Riffle. Alternatively, head to Yellowstone National Park where the Madison River begins. Montana Angler can give you tips on which angling guides to hire, and even the best lodges to stay in to access prime stretches of river.

Raft the Gallatin River

Fishing fans aren't the only people who love Montana’s legendary rivers. Adrenaline junkies flock to the state every summer to take on Montana's famous whitewater rapids, which churn furiously along the Gallatin River, just outside Yellowstone National Park’s western entrance. Based out of Big Sky, rafters can hit rapids reaching up to Class IV, with the rapids at their most intense early in the summer while the water is still high from the spring melt.

Along gentle stretches of river, rafters may see bald and golden eagles flying overhead, or elk stopping by the riverbanks for a sip of icy water. Montana Whitewater and Geyser Whitewater Expeditions are two great options for a guided trip on the Gallatin.

Hit the powder in Big Sky

Snow is a fact of life in Montana, so rather than shying away from it, outdoor adventurers embrace it. Winter snowfall in Montana is ample and powdery, and slopes are protected by the Rocky Mountains and free from the chill winds that scythe along the coasts. Unsurprisingly, this is a dream destination for skiers and snowboarders.

Big Sky Resort is the ultimate destination in Montana for winter sports, with 5800 acres of ski-able terrain, including plenty of slopes suitable for beginners. There are ski-in accommodations perched on the mountainside as well, making it possible to plan a whole trip around shredding gnar.

Horseback riding at Bar W

For a proper Old West experience, you have to get into the saddle. Head up to the resort town of Whitefish, where the Bar W Guest Ranch offers everything from first-time lessons to trail rides through the pines and along the banks of glittering Rocky Mountain lakes. You can even take on the challenge of learning rodeo skills.

Many guests opt to stay on site to take advantage of everything the ranch has to offer, with accommodation in a wood-floored lodge or comfy log cabins. However, trail rides can be found throughout the state, both at resorts and country ranches, so be sure to saddle up wherever you’re bound.

Soak in a hot spring

Geothermal springs extend well beyond Yellowstone's boundaries, with hot pools found all the way to Montana's northern border, providing ample opportunities for a relaxing alfresco soak. The town of Hot Springs is an obvious and fun place to dip into earth-warmed water, while Quinn’s Resort in the nearby town of Plains offers a more high-end experience.

Near Bozeman, Chico Hot Springs is a popular add-on to a Yellowstone vacation. The resort offers accommodations and dining in addition to hot springs, making it an excellent spot for enjoying the waters without adding too much driving into the mix.

Wildlife watching at Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park was the country’s first-ever national park, and it protects a landscape that has hardly changed since the park was founded in 1872. The geysers and other thermodynamic features are obvious drawcards, but it’s the safari-like experience of seeing America’s mightiest mammals roaming wild and free in their natural habitat that will stay with you.

Driving Yellowstone’s roads and hiking on its walking trails will throw up chances to spot roaming bison, packs of wolves, grizzly bears, moose, bald eagles and a multitude of other species that flourish away from human interference. Check out tours with Wolf Tracker to see the famous Yellowstone wolves; they can be tricky to spot without help from an expert.

Connect with Native American culture

Many imagine, mistakenly, that Native American culture is something of the past, but the people who survived what can only be described as genocide and mass theft of their land follow their own way of life in mountainous Montana, defying the stereotypes depicted in movies and media.

Most of Montana's large Native American population come from twelve tribal nations: Assiniboine, Blackfeet, Chippewa, Cree, Crow, Gros Ventre, Kootenai, Little Shell Chippewa, Northern Cheyenne, Pend d'Oreille, Salish, and Lakota or Dakota.

Exploring Glacier National Park with Glacier Sun Tours offers a fascinating Native American perspective on Montana, as guides from this indigenous-owned company delve into the park’s dark history and the ways local plants and animals were used by indigenous peoples. Finally, head to the Museum of the Plains Indian in Browning on the Blackfeet Reservation for a deep dive into the challenges faced by Montana’s Native Americans.

Live the upscale Old West life at Paws Up

Real-life cowboys lived uncomfortably self-reliant lives that most modern people would not want to emulate; you can however experience a luxurious version of the cowboy life at the Paws Up ranch in Greenough, a town close to Missoula. This all-inclusive Wild West experience is set on a working beef ranch of 37,000 acres, with all sorts of outdoorsy activities from archery to off-road driving and horseback riding.

For independent spirits, the ranch has 100 miles of trails and a 10-mile stretch of river, mean hiking and fishing are never too far away, whether you opt for camping, glamping, or living it up in one of their luxury cabins. If glam isn’t your style, Montana has many other dude ranches offering varying degrees of luxury. Bonanza Creek Ranch in Martinsdale feels a bit more like the old days, with log cabins and horse-riding at a more affordable price point.

Get acquainted with local artwork in Missoula

Montana isn’t all ranchers and hikers. The incredible scenery and self-reliant way of life has inspired plenty of artists working in every conceivable medium. Artistic talent can be seen throughout the state, but Missoula in particular seems to stimulate the creative mind.

Museums and galleries abound in this small city, including the free-to-visit Missoula Art Museum and Elk Country Visitors Center Museum. Visitors interested in supporting local talent can head to Radius Gallery and 4 Ravens Gallery to browse work for sale from Montana artists. While you're here, take a walk into the hills – several trails start right on the town limits.

Take a road trip on the Beartooth Highway

Montana is stunningly beautiful, and you don't need to take an extended hike to take in the views. The achingly scenic Beartooth Highway spans the northern part of Wyoming and the southern part of Montana, passing just beyond the boundaries of Yellowstone National Park. It's best explored during summer when the snow is gone; poor weather conditions typically close the road from October to the Memorial Day weekend (see the state government website for updates).

This winding road twists over mountain passes, plunges into deep green valleys, and terminates at the rugged town of Red Lodge, where plenty of outdoor adventures on foot and four wheels can be arranged. Take advantage of pullouts on the roadside to scan the countryside for wildlife, including mountain goats, bears and eagles.

Explore ghost towns

The prosperity that the Gold Rush bought to Montana didn’t always last, leaving many of the towns hastily assembled by prospectors to crumble to ruin once the ore dried up. Garnet was once a busy gold mining town, and its time-aged remains are preserved as a memorial for those who want to wander streets that once thronged with optimistic gold seekers.

Bannack State Park offers a more formal approach to ghost town exploration, with fees and tours to help make sense of the many remaining centuries-old structures. Coloma and Virginia City are two more ghost towns worth exploring, but Visit Montana can steer you towards many more. Stick to the greater Bozeman area to see them all.

Go snowmobiling in Cooke City

While Yellowstone National Park falls mostly silent during the winter, just north of the park, Cooke City is bustling with snowmobilers. Trails covering more than 60 miles of wild country let snowmobilers explore southern Montana under a blanket of snow on the edge of the Beartooth Mountains.

Backcountry snowmobiling is popular throughout Montana during the winter, but Cooke City is a great place for beginners to get a feel for the sport. Many enthusiasts bring their own sleds with them – accessing the town through Yellowstone’s northern entrance in Gardiner then driving east through the Lamar Valley – but snowmobiles are widely available for rent when you get here.

Stimulate the soul at the Garden of 1,000 Buddhas

Montana may not seem like the most obvious location for Tibetan Buddhist devotion, but the Garden of 1,000 Buddhas in Arlee is challenging traditional notions of Montana’s identity, as well as providing a place for people to focus on peace and contemplation.

Though donations are encouraged, visiting this dharma-wheel-shaped garden of statues and stupas is free, and the setting is very conducive to meditative self-exploration. The garden is on the land of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes of the Flathead Reservation just outside of Missoula.

Hunt antiques in Glacier country

The East and West Coast cities have their luxury chain stores; Montana has its antiques. Antique shopping is one of many ways to find treasure in the Treasure State, and the options are limitless. The Kalispell Antiques Market is one of many incredible sources of antique shopping in the area, as is the Cowboy Cabin in Whitefish, where items for sale have included one of Annie Oakley’s guns.

Driving from here to Glacier National Parks will take you past a slew of townships and villages overflowing with antique shops; check out Shops at Station 8 in Columbia Falls, which offers an ever-changing, curated selection of goods.

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Less than 10 miles off the coast of Cancún, Mexico, the tiny island of Isla Mujeres beckons travelers with its island charm. Those who cross the small stretch of the turquoise sea for a day trip will light upon wild cliff sides, endless stretches of palm trees, a vibrantly colored town, streetside coconut carts and one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

Once sacred to the Maya goddess of childbirth and medicine, Ixchel, Isla Mujeres or Women Island was named by 16th-century Spanish conquistadors for the abundance of goddess statues they found there. Today, Cancún and island locals refer to it simply as “Isla”.

Getting there

Frequent ferries make it easy and quick to get from Cancún to Isla Mujeres for the day. If you’re staying in the Hotel Zone, leave from Playa Tortugas, El Embarcadero or Playa Caracol. If you’re staying downtown head to Puerto Juarez. The pleasant 20-minute trip is made even more so by staking a claim on the ferry’s upper deck to admire the unbelievably blue views along the way.

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Starting your day

Once you arrive and step off the ferry dock, head towards the center of town to Avenida Hidalgo for your first meal of the day. This pedestrian street is known for its four-block stretch of restaurants and shops. Along the way, you’ll pass brightly-painted stores selling equally colorful souvenirs like embroidered Maya blouses, Mexican skull decorations, whimsical animal figurines and the island’s famous seashells, with vendors calling out promises of cheap prices or maybe even 'free tequila.'

Avenida Hidalgo is also home to several eateries serving breakfast and brunch options, like open-air venue Lola Valentina. Try the cheese-filled French toast or enjoy the extensive vegan options, and wash it all down with hibiscus water or (why not?) a watermelon-jalapeño margarita.

After breakfast, it’s time to experience the most iconic activity on Isla Mujeres: a golf cart ride around the island. There are several golf cart rentals shops just across the street from the ferry terminal. Most places will charge $600-$700 Mexican pesos for the day (usually until 5pm), and some allow you to rent by the hour. To rent, you need a valid driver’s license from your country of origin.

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DIY golf cart tours of the island

Isla Mujeres is just five miles long with one main road going around its entire coastline, so navigating by golf cart is an easy daytime tour. Head south out of town and just keep going. You’ll pass many attractive outdoor spots for lunch or drinks along the way, so keep an eye out for the tree-shaded deck at Barlito; Oscar’s, which has fantastic pizzas in the afternoon; and The Joint with its live reggae bands.

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Near the southern end of the island is the spectacular Garrafon Park lookout point. Pull over, maybe buy some ice cream if the vendor is there and enjoy the view of the Caribbean Sea. If you’re feeling adventurous, check out the zipline over the water; tickets for the zipline are sold at the entrance to the park.

Just a bit further along the road is the entrance to Punta Sur, the southern tip of Isla Mujeres and the easternmost point in all Mexico. It's a particularly popular spot on the morning of January 1 for anyone who wants to see the first sunrise of the new year. A $30 peso entrance fee gets you access to Punta Sur park. Once inside you can explore the majestic cliffs, admire the brilliant blue ocean and wander through the sculpture park. There is also a Maya temple dedicated to Ixchel.

Once you’ve gotten your most Instagrammable shots of the trip, hop back into the golf cart and head back to town along the rocky east coast road — lined with cliffs, crashing waves and the occasional roadside seashell stand.

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An afternoon at North Beach

Once back in town, return your golf cart and walk to the beach at the northern end. Called Playa Norte (North Beach), this stretch of silky white sand is frequently ranked among the best beaches in the world thanks to its rows of palm trees and calm clear waters that never reach above your waistline — perfect for ocean lounging or wading. If you’re feeling budget-conscious, just lay a blanket down in the shade of a palm tree between Green Demon and Buhos.

If you’re looking for cocktails and amenities, you can rent a lounger at any of the several beach clubs. On Sundays, Fenix beach club has live salsa music and dancing in the afternoon, while Green Demon has live reggae parties on the beach starting at sunset. (On North Beach, weekdays are best for avoiding crowds, but Sundays are best for live music.)

Yachts begin to line up just off the coast in the late afternoon and groups of friends gather on the shoreline in preparation for Isla Mujeres’ famed sunsets: the island is one of the only places on Mexico’s eastern coast where you can see the sunset over the ocean.

After dark on Isla Mujeres

Once the sun has set and the stars have come out, head back to Avenida Hidalgo, where travelers congregate for an evening of dinner and drinks, still wearing flip-flops with the day’s beach sand clinging to their toes. This central street becomes the hub for island life after dark, whether it’s pasta at Rolandi’s or live music under strings of lights at El Patio. For cheap eats and local favorites, walk a bit further south to find several street carts selling tacos and more by the city hall square.

When you’ve had your fill of salt-soaked breezes and the quiet whoosh of swaying palm trees, it’s time to hop on the ferry for a starlit ride back to the glittering lights of Cancún.

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Medellín is everything you want it to be. On one end, the city’s upscale neighborhoods are loaded with international culinary offerings, world-class shopping options and trendy hotels. Otherwise, the city is generally a budget traveler’s dream-come-true. Throughout the “City of the Eternal Spring,” your dollar can go a very long way - from affordable lodging to cheap street eats to inexpensive Aguila beers at local watering holes.

Regardless of your budget and when you go, it never hurts to sprinkle in a free activity or two. And, in the case of Medellín, these freebies are some of its most quintessential experiences. Here are the nine best free things to do in Medellín.

Admire Fernando Botero's sculptures in Plaza Botero

Where in the world will you find a major city’s principal square dotted with 23 sculptures of voluminous characters from Fernando Botero? The answer is: Only in Medellín. Botero is Colombia ’s most beloved artist and in this totally free and open space, you can admire his larger-than-life sculptures, including a man on a horse (hombre a caballo), a cat (gato) and Adam and Eve (Adán y Eva). The Museo de Antioquia, Hotel Nutibara and Medellín’s metro border you in the square, making for that much more magical of a setting.

Take a self-guided walking tour of the very vivid graffiti art

For those seeking that next Insta-worthy snap, Medellín is heaven. In fact, you could make an entire day perusing some of its most renowned public art hotspots. The Comuna 13 / San Javier neighborhood – particularly near its Metrocable station and famous outdoor escalators - is absolutely loaded with vivid outdoor art depicting the barrio’s transformation, locals and everyday Colombian life.

For street art lovers, additional pedestrian-friendly highlights include Carrera 43C in El Poblado near La Matriarca restaurant and the walls lining the Medellín Aquatic Complex near El Estadio Atanasio Girardot. There is also an Open Sky Gallery along the Ayacucho Tramway near the San José station, with an entire building painted with a 3D traditional chiva bus.

Peruse the wares at Mercados Campesinos

Each weekend, more than 20 of Medellín’s most popular parks are morphed into public, outdoor markets with vendors and goods galore. It's always free to look, but if you’re wanting to try some of the region’s most unique fruits (e.g., maracuyá, lulo and gulupa, among so many others) or snag some artisan made crafts, these markets are primed for perusing. You can feel good about your purchases, too - more than 600 rural-based families participate each week and benefit from the sales directly. Parks with regular markets include el Segundo Parque de Laureles, Ciudad del Río and La Foresta. Get shopping!

Walk among the wildflowers in Parque Arví

Parque Arví is tucked over the northwestern, mountainous edge of Medellín. Amid tons of park options throughout the valley, Parque Arví is arguably the most secluded and nature-focused option. Within its nearly 40,000-acre confines, you’ll find more than 50 walking trails, an outdoor market and seemingly endless wildflowers and butterflies in between.

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Admission to the park is totally free but getting there won’t be. For the most scenic and affordable option, take the Metro to the Acevedo station, transfer to the Metrocable K Line toward Santo Domingo and then, in Santo Domingo, take the Metrocable L Line to Parque Arví. A roundtrip ride to Parque Arví will run approximately 25,000 pesos (or $7) and the views along the way are worth it.

Stroll through a mall

The malls in Medellín are more than just a hodgepodge of shops – they are cultural centers in their own regard. For holidays and major events, the common areas of Medellín’s most popular centro comerciales are morphed into playgrounds for kids, art installations and totally visual spectacles. An example: In 2021, for Medellín’s iconic flower festival ( Feria de Las Flores), the Santafé mall installed a flower art piece composed of more than 180,000 flowers in its common area. In addition to Santafé, El Tesoro, Premium Plaza, Arkadia and Oviedo are among Medellín’s most popular shopping destinations.

Go to church

A predominantly Catholic country, you’ll find a towering church anchoring most major plazas and squares throughout Medellín. Your reason for visiting one may vary – perhaps you need to repent for partying too much in El Poblado the night before or you’d like to experience some of the city’s most dazzling architecture. For architectural masterpieces, hit the brown, white and exterior-art-draped Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Rosario in Bello and the all-brick Catedral Basílica Metropolitana in the heart of El Centro. Both welcome visitors, but make sure to be quiet while church is in session.

Talk to a paisa

Stunning mountain views, bumping nightlife and culinary morsels aside, Medellín’s notably warm and friendly people are what make the city so special. Wherever your Medellín adventure takes you, take a moment to pause and engage with a paisa (the name given to those from Medellín). For a more formal interaction, there are regular free language exchanges that connect paisas with foreigners, with the one at Noah Boutique Hostel being a local favorite.

Museo Casa de La Memoria

With decades-long, politically induced armed conflicts to its inner-city drug cartel clashes in recent decades, Medellín has endured heartache and loss on an incredible level. The Museo Casa de La Memoria looks at the city’s past through the lens of those that have been displaced as a result of Colombia’s conflicts and massacres. The free museum has three levels of exhibits, many of which zoom in on individual experiences of loss, survival and reflection. It is a very emotional experience and you’ll leave with that much greater of an appreciation for just how far Medellín has come.

Museo de Geociencias de la Universidad Nacional

Calling science lovers! For as much as Medellín has sprouted from its mountainous shell, there is a lot going on underground, too. This free museum has more than 10,000 fossils, rocks and minerals from throughout Colombia to explore. In 2021, the museum celebrated its 100th anniversary, so there is plenty of history to get acquainted with here, too.

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From snow-capped mountains and the Bushveld to sub-tropical beaches and the Kalahari, South Africa is a mind-bogglingly diverse country. Showcasing the best of its stunning landscapes, its national parks and reserves are great places to experience the wilderness and see Africa's famous wildlife.

South Africa has hundreds of national parks and reserves, many featuring wildlife, while others are primarily wilderness sanctuaries or hiking areas. Here are the best national parks to add to your South Africa itinerary.

Kruger National Park

Best national park for wildlife watching

Kruger National Park is one of the world's greatest wildlife-watching destinations. All of Africa's iconic safari species – elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah, rhino, buffalo, giraffe, hippo and zebra – share the bushveld with a supporting cast of 137 other mammals and more than 500 varieties of birds. Beautiful granite kopjes (hills) pepper the south, the Lebombo Mountains rise from the savanna in the east, and tropical forests cover the north of the 7520-sq-mile park.

Yes, Kruger can sometimes become crowded. And yes, you may have to wait in line to see those lions. But that's because the vast network of roads makes Kruger one of Africa's most accessible parks. You can explore on your own or take one of the plentiful guided wildlife activities, and accommodations are both plentiful and great value.

Royal Natal National Park

Best national park for mountains

Fanning out from some of the range’s loftiest summits, the 30-sq-mile Royal Natal National Park has a presence that far outstrips its relatively meager size. With some of the Drakensberg’s most dramatic and accessible scenery, the park is crowned by the sublime Amphitheater, a 5-mile wall of cliff and canyon that’s spectacular from below and even more so from up on high. Here, the Tugela Falls drop 2788ft in five stages (the top one often freezes in winter). Looming behind is Mont-aux-Sources (10,767ft), so called because the Tugela, Elands and Western Khubedu Rivers rise here; the last eventually becomes the Senqu (Orange) River and flows all the way to the Atlantic. The park is renowned for its excellent day walks and hiking opportunities.

Golden Gate Highlands National Park

Best national park for sunsets

Right before the darkness erases the remaining flecks of color from the sky, something magical happens in Golden Gate Highlands National Park. The jagged sandstone outcrops fronting the foothills of the wild, maroon-hued Maluti Mountains glow golden in the dying light, and lemon-yellow rays silhouette a lone kudu standing still in a sea of mint-green grasses before the sky explodes in a fiery collision of purple and red. Golden Gate Highlands National Park might not boast any of the Big Five, but it does feature fantastic nightly sunsets.

There are quite a few animals in the park, though, including grey rheboks, blesboks, elands, oribi antelope, Burchell’s zebras, jackals, baboons and numerous bird species, including the rare bearded and Cape vultures as well as the endangered bald ibis. The park is popular with hikers on long treks, but there are also shorter walking trails.

Table Mountain National Park

Best national park for activities

Stretching from Signal Hill to Cape Point, Table Mountain National Park is a natural wonder, its range of environments including granite and sandstone mountains, giant-boulder-strewn beaches and shady forests. For the vast majority of visitors, the main attraction is the 3560ft-high mountain itself, the top of which can easily be accessed by the cableway, which runs every 10 to 20 minutes. The park is the venue for a host of adventure activities including hiking, abseiling, mountain biking, rock climbing, paragliding, bird and wildlife watching, snorkeling and diving.

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Best national park for desert

A long, hot road leads between crimson dunes from Upington to Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, one of the world’s last great, unspoiled ecosystems. Once you enter the magical park, tucked away alongside Namibia in the Northern Cape and southwest Botswana, you’ll soon see why the journey was well worth the effort.

The Kgalagadi is a wild land of harsh extremes and frequent droughts, where shifting red and white sands meet thorn trees and dry riverbeds. Yet despite the desolate landscape, it’s teeming with wildlife. From prides of black-maned lions to packs of howling spotted hyenas, there are some 1775 predators here. It’s one of the best places in the world to spot big cats, especially cheetahs. Add in giant, orange-ball sunsets and black-velvet night skies studded with twinkling stars, and you’ll feel like you’ve entered the Africa of storybooks.

Cederberg Wilderness Area

Best national park for hiking

Some of the Western Cape's finest scenery is found in the desolate Cederberg Wilderness Area. Here, craggy peaks reaching around 6560ft harbor weird rock formations, well-preserved San rock art, clear streams and excellent hiking and rock climbing.

The region isn't known for its wildlife, though you might glimpse a baboon or one of the small antelope that hop along the rocks here. Elusive leopards do roam at night, but you'd be extremely lucky to see one. The region is better known for its plant life – mountain fynbos (shrubby vegetation with fine leaves) abounds, and wildflowers erupt in spring. Vegetation varies with altitude, with the eponymous cedar stands living between 3280ft and 4920ft. This is also the only place in the world where rooibos (red bush) grows and is processed into tea.

Mapungubwe National Park

Best national park for history

Stunningly stark, arid, rocky landscapes reverberate with cultural intrigue and wandering wildlife at Mapungubwe National Park. A Unesco World Heritage site, Mapungubwe contains South Africa’s most significant Iron Age site, plus animals ranging from black and white rhinos to the rare Pel’s fishing owl and meerkats. The wildlife here is excellent, with lion, leopards and elephants, as is the birdwatching. But the park is as much about history as wildlife – archaeological finds from the 1930s are on display at the excellent Interpretation Center, and the site itself can be visited on a tour.

Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve

Best national park for rock formations

The stunning Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve centers on the 19-mile-long Blyde River Canyon, where epic rock formations tower above the forested slopes and eagle-eye views abound at the dramatic meeting of the Drakensberg Escarpment and the lowveld. It's one of the world's largest canyons and one of South Africa’s most outstanding natural sights.

Most visitors drive along the canyon’s edge, where Route 532 offers plenty of viewpoints for gazing in awe. If you have enough time, however, the canyon is even better explored on foot.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Best national park for coastline

The iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a Unesco World Heritage site, stretches for 137 glorious miles from the Mozambique border to Maphelane, at the southern end of Lake St. Lucia. With the Indian Ocean on one side and a series of lakes on the other, this park protects five distinct ecosystems, offering everything from offshore reefs and beaches to lakes, wetlands, woodlands and coastal forests. Loggerhead and leatherback turtles nest along the park’s shores, and whales and dolphins appear offshore. The park is occupied by numerous animals, including antelopes, hippos and zebras. The ocean beaches pull big crowds during the holiday season for everything from diving to fishing.

iSimangaliso means "miracle" or "wonder" and, given its extraordinary beauty, it’s an appropriate title.

Namaqua National Park

Best national park for wildflowers

Flower-seekers flock to the small, remote Namaqua National Park each spring, when the shrub land and old wheat fields are transformed by the spectacle that is the wildflower bloom. There are short nature trails and drives with viewpoints – the park is one of the best places in Namakwa to photograph the flowers. For the rest of the year, the national park is largely forgotten, although that does make it a peaceful place for a hike. It's also a decent birdwatching destination.

Addo Elephant National Park

Best national park for elephant watching

The jewel in Eastern Cape's crown is Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa's third-largest national park. It protects the remnants of the huge elephant herds that once roamed the Eastern Cape. When Addo was proclaimed a national park in 1931, there were only 11 elephants left; today there are more than 600 in the park, and you’d be unlucky not to see some. A day or two at Addo is a highlight of any visit to this part of the Eastern Cape, not only for the elephants but for the lions, zebras, black rhinos, Cape buffaloes, spotted hyenas and myriad birds. The park is also one of few which boasts the "Big Seven," thanks to sightings of great white sharks and southern right whale (in season) off its coastal sections.

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