After a long taxi journey we arrived at our hotel in Sigiriya Amaara Forest hotel at about 6.30 am, luckily the hotel checked us in to our lovely room more or less straight away and we headed to breakfast then to the pool
That afternoon, the hotel reception arranged a jeep safari to Minneriya National Park. It turned out to be an unforgettable experience — we were fortunate enough to see several families of elephants roaming freely in the wild. A magical start to the trip.
The next morning, the rest of our group of 14 arrived, and together we set off to climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock. The views, the history, and the sheer scale of the fortress made it a highlight of the trip.
We stopped for a fabulous lunch on the way back to our hotel.
The following day began at 9am with a visit to the Dambulla Cave Temple, famous for its intricate murals and impressive Buddha statues.
Next, we travelled by tractor and boat to a traditional Sri Lankan farming village. There, we helped prepare and enjoyed an authentic home‑cooked Sri Lankan meal — a truly immersive cultural experience.
On Day 5, we checked out of our Sigiriya hotel and made our way to Kandy, stopping first at the Matale Spice Gardens. We sampled spices, enjoyed a head massage, and tasted more delicious Sri Lankan dishes.
We then visited a gem factory and museum, where we watched a film showing miners still using traditional methods. The museum included a rather unusual display of models depicting the mining process.
That evening, we enjoyed a vibrant show of traditional Sri Lankan dancing before checking into our hotel in Kandy.
We spent two nights in Kandy. On the second day, we visited the Temple of the Tooth, where a sacred tooth of Buddha is kept. The temple was bustling with worshippers dressed in white, offering flowers in devotion.
Afterwards, we toured the Royal Botanical Gardens by buggy — a peaceful and scenic experience until a sudden storm sent us running for cover and lunch.
Once the rain eased, we visited the British Garrison Cemetery, a quiet and reflective stop. The next day we boarded the coach with our cases again bound to Nuwara Eliya known as Little England and a visit to a tea plantation, by this time we had definitely arrived at the wet zone of Sri Lanka.
After lunch at the tea plantation we headed to our next hotel, the Mirage Kings cottage, a 100 year old colonial building.
The next morning we set out for the station for a scenic train ride to Ella, a town in the high mountains popular for hikers and tourists.
From there our coach travelled along a scenic route to the south of the island and our last stop at the beautiful Palms hotel in Beruwala. We had a lovely rest day here, swimming in the sea and the pool and walking along the beautiful beach.
The next day was the last of our tour and we visited the sea turtle sanctuary close by.
While it’s tempting to plan every detail of a trip, there is another way to travel: living in the moment and waiting to see where it takes you. Often, it’s those chance discoveries that really make a break, from the backstreet café with the friendly cat to the park where you watch the world go by, or the bar you take cover in one rainy afternoon, only to stay until closing. Freed of the tyranny of pre-booked tickets, must-see sights and table reservations, you might just find that having zero plans is often the best plan of all.
Keen to give it a try? These six cities are an excellent place to start.
Mount Lycabettus rises above the Athens cityscape (Jodie Herbage / Kintzing)
Athens: for its casual wealth of ancient wonders
Though you can – and should – book the Acropolis, there’s history at every turn in Athens, with no time slots or tickets required. Dotted with ruins and monuments, its historic core is small enough to stroll, while locals are famously friendly: philoxenia (‘love of strangers’) has been practised here since antiquity. Dinners are late and enjoyably laidback – simply head to neighbourhoods such as Koukaki or Pangrati, stroll into a taverna and set the world to rights over tsipouro and mezedes.
Where to stay: The Dolli is one of those luxury stays that makes everything effortless for guests, including getting up close to the Acropolis (which backdrops the rooftop pool).
Ocean Drive residences in the Art Deco District of Miami Beach (Matt Richardson-Wood)
Miami: let the good times roll
Miami is perfect for the planning-averse. Stay in South Beach, grab a cold frappé, then wander the Art Deco District, where all roads lead to the beach. When you spot a break in the traffic, hop in a taxi or rideshare heading to salsa-soundtracked Little Havana, say, or up-and-coming Little River. In a city that likes to stay up late, the best adventures are unplanned, so sink some beers in Wynwood (La Tropical is a blast) then see where the night takes you.
Where to stay:1 Hotel South Beach has every Miami essential, from an ocean-view pool and Collins Avenue address to a can-do concierge.
Blue-and-white azulejo tiles adorn the Capela das Almas in Porto (Pier Luigi Aldinucci / Tiny Atlas x Kintzing)
Porto: a city made to get lost in
Few places are as inviting to explore as Porto, where the Ribeira district’s pastel townhouses are stacked above the wide Douro River. Saunter past sun-warmed, azulejo-tiled façades, and see what you stumble across: a tiny bakery with chocolate-topped éclairs, a cobbled square framed by washing, a backstreet tasca with deep-fried sardines and free-flowing Vinho Verde. On the other bank are the port cellars (Taylor’s has self-guided tours and tastings – and peacocks – in its gardens). Craving the beach? No need to overthink it: just hop on the metro to Matosinhos.
Where to stay: The yellow-painted Pestana Vintage Porto, perched right on the waterfront.
The Chinatown district, known locally as Yaowarat, in Bangkok (Chris Schalkx)
Bangkok: for its spur-of-the-moment food scene
Welcome to the ultimate no-reservations city, whose finest meals come from a wok on a pavement and are eaten when seated on plastic stools. Put your phone down and follow your nose through the markets, snacking on pork skewers, tangles of som tum, and luscious drifts of mango sticky rice. If the heat gets too much, hop on a Chao Phraya express boat or air-conditioned BTS Skytrain. Sightseeing is equally ad hoc, with no need to book ahead at temples such as Wat Pho and Wat Arun, or even the Grand Palace.
Where to stay: Perfectly placed for sightseeing, The Peninsula Bangkok also has a three-tiered pool.
The beach along the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. Opening image: the Promenade’s famous blue chairs (Christian Mackie / Kintzing)
Nice: a city of simple pleasures
The best days on the Riviera are the ones that are idled away, starting with a late breakfast (try Comme un Dimanche, behind the port). Later on, stroll through Vieux Nice’s cobbled streets, pootle down the Promenade des Anglais, or climb the Colline du Château for a glorious peach-streaked sunset. Book, if you must, the Marc Chagall Museum, but otherwise just wing it – too much planning is exhausting this far south. Day trips, it’s worth noting, are a breeze, with fast trains along the coast to Monaco, Antibes and more.
Where to stay: In blissful indolence at the Hôtel du Couvent, with its cloistered gardens, farm-to-table restaurants and orange-scented courtyard.
The Tokyo Skytree in the Sumida district (Joe Howard / Kintzing)
Tokyo: welcome to the neighbourhood(s)
Safe and with seamless public transport, Tokyo is one of the easiest big cities to explore. Instead of sweating the details, just decide which neighbourhood to make for: hip Shimokitazawa, perhaps, with its coffee geeks and vinyl shops, izakaya-lined Kichijoji or the timelessly charming Yanaka, awash with temples and traditional wooden houses. Casual dining, too, is part of the city’s DNA, whether we’re talking six-seat ramen counters or sprawling basement food halls.
Where to stay: At Yuen Bettei Daita, a ryokan-style stay near Shimokitazawa, with soaking tubs and hot spring baths.
I’m always surprised by how many people have never heard of Slovakia. Every summer, travelers planning trips to Eastern Europe tend to prioritize Budapest and Prague, often overlooking what’s right next door. Bratislava, the capital, is just a few minutes’ drive from both Austria and Hungary; when I was growing up, I’d go on bike rides into both countries.
1. Meet Bratislava’s quirkiest resident
Photo: Nikola Smernic
Bratislava’s Old Town is easy to explore at your own pace.
My favorite part of Bratislava is the Old Town. It’s compact and easy to explore on foot, especially on long summer days, making it possible to see a lot in a short space of time. One of its most unusual sights is Čumil, a bronze statue created by sculptor Viktor Hulík in 1997. Roughly translating to “the watcher,” he’s a workman peeking out of a manhole at the corner of Laurinská and Panská streets, quietly observing passers-by.
2. Take in the Danube from above
The Danube looks best from Bratislava’s UFO Bridge.
I always recommend walking across the UFO Bridge, a striking Communist-era structure spanning the Danube. Its flying-saucer-shaped pod houses an observation deck and restaurant with fantastic views across the city. In summer, the riverbanks below fill with locals enjoying the sunshine.
3. Cool off at Zlaté Piesky
Zlaté Piesky is one of Bratislava’s favorite summer escapes.
Bratislava has several lakes that become popular swimming spots when temperatures rise. One of my favorites is Zlaté Piesky, on the northeastern edge of the city, where you can swim, wakeboard, water ski, or simply relax by the water.
4. Try Slovakia’s national dish
Photo: Nikola Smernic
No visit to Slovakia is complete without halušky.
I firmly believe you get to know a place through its food. Slovakia’s national dish is bryndzové halušky: potato dumplings topped with sheep’s cheese and bacon. It’s hearty and traditionally associated with farmers, who ate it to fuel long days of physical work. I also recommend trying lokše, traditional potato flatbreads served with sweet or savory fillings.
My favorite place for both is the Bratislava Flagship, a former monastery where everything is made from scratch, portions are generous, and there’s even a brewery on site serving Slovak beers. In summer, its large outdoor terrace is a popular spot for people-watching over a leisurely lunch or drink.
5. Spend Saturday at the market
Bratislava’s markets are busiest on weekends.
Warm Saturdays are made for market hopping in Bratislava. Locals fill the city’s markets to shop, eat and catch up with friends. Head to the Old Market Hall to browse fresh local produce, or to the Fresh Market, which combines food stalls, independent vendors and casual restaurants under one roof.
6. Shop for something uniquely Slovak
Photo: Nikola Smernic
From honey to ceramics, Slovakia excels at souvenirs.
If you’re visiting Slovakia in summer, local honey makes an especially good souvenir. Freshly harvested acacia, wildflower, and forest varieties are widely available at markets between June and September. I also love the blue-and-white hand-painted ceramics produced in the town of Modra, or corn-husk figures, traditional folk decorations handmade from dried corn leaves.
7. Make time for Banská Štiavnica
Photo: Adrian Tync
Banská Štiavnica is one of Slovakia’s most charming towns.
One of my favorite day trips from Bratislava is the UNESCO-listed town of Banská Štiavnica. Once an important medieval mining town famous for its gold and silver, it’s now known for its pastel-colored buildings, charming streets, and underground mine tours.
This was supposed to be a relaxing UAE cruise holiday for solo travellers, booked through Passion for Cruises. The package included return Etihad flights to Abu Dhabi, a hotel stay, transfers, and a week-long cruise exploring the UAE. What unfolded instead was a dramatic mix of sightseeing, missile alerts in Dubai, cancelled itineraries, and unexpected luxury hotel stays.
Planned Itinerary for the Celestyal Discovery Arabian Cruise
The original 7-night Arabian cruise itinerary we were meant to follow.
Arriving in Abu Dhabi and Meeting Fellow Solo Travellers
Before travelling, Passion for Cruises created a Facebook group so passengers could connect. That’s how I met Daniella, who was also flying from Heathrow. When we arrived in Abu Dhabi, two more ladies arrived from Manchester, though we were all placed in separate taxis to the hotel.
I had booked an Abu Dhabi afternoon tour through GetYourGuide, myself and some of the others on my tour had a private car to explore the city.
Included in the tour were the Royal Palace and the iconic Palace Hotel—two of Abu Dhabi’s most impressive landmarks.
The breathtaking Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi — one of our sightseeing stops.
Unfortunately, I couldn’t enter the mosque as I did not have covering for knees and shoulders — full arm and head covering was required. Instead, one of the others and I enjoyed a Costa coffee while the rest explored inside. That evening we had a buffet dinner at the hotel, although due to Ramadan, no alcohol was served.
Boarding the Cruise Ship and Sailing Toward Dubai
By the next morning, more travellers had arrived from Scotland, Ireland, and Heathrow. Our group eventually totalled ten women and one man. After a rooftop swim, we were taken to the ship—again in separate taxis. That evening we sailed toward Dubai.
The next morning, Saturday 28th February, many of us had excursions booked with Get Your Guide. I chose an open-top bus tour that looped around the Dubai Palm. It took about four hours, much of it spent stuck in traffic.
Missile Alerts in Dubai and the First Signs of Trouble
That evening, as we met in the bar before dinner, news began circulating about missile attacks from Iran. Reports mentioned the Fairmont hotel on the Palm, Dubai Airport, and even fake news about the Burj Khalifa. We could see the Burj from our ship—completely intact.
We were supposed to sail to Yas Island overnight, but the ship didn’t move. Just as I fell asleep, my phone jolted me awake with an emergency alert.
The emergency missile alert that woke us in the middle of the night.
The next morning, the only visible sign of damage was a small plume of smoke rising from the old town area.
Cruise Cancelled: Staying Onboard During the Uncertainty
Celestyal Cruises issued a letter announcing that the cruise was cancelled. However, we were allowed to stay onboard temporarily. We could leave the ship, but only at our own risk. We were also advised to register with the FCDO.
Despite the tension, the weather was perfect. We spent the next couple of days sunbathing, enjoying the food, and hearing occasional fighter jets overhead. One evening, we even saw a drone pass the ship, followed by a jet and a loud bang as the drone was destroyed.
Dubai Mall Fountains: A Much-Needed Escape
By Wednesday, boredom had set in, so five of us took a taxi to Dubai Mall to see the famous fountain show. We explored the mall, visited the waterfall and aquarium, wandered through a souk, and walked around the lake.
Just as we were about to stop for coffee, a waiter called out that it was happy hour. We grabbed a lakeside table and ordered half-price cocktails.
Our lakeside table at Dubai Mall — cocktails, boats drifting past, and the fountain show lighting up the night.
We stayed for a couple more rounds of cocktails and snacks, enjoying a perfect view of the fountains once the display began. Then we Ubered back to the ship for more cocktails on the top deck.
Disembarkation and Unexpected Luxury at the Marriott Marquis
Overnight, Celestyal announced that all passengers would be disembarked a day early on Thursday afternoon and put up in hotels for the night.
A call was made to Passion for Cruises to change our taxi pick‑ups from the ship to the hotels. On Thursday morning, we checked whether we could check in for our flights — and to our relief, we could. Boarding passes appeared with seat numbers.
We spent the rest of the morning on the sundeck until around a thousand passengers were disembarked in waves of coaches. Our group was split across two hotels, with just myself and Monica (flying to Manchester) placed at the very exclusive Marriott Marquis at Dubai Creek.
During dinner, another alert sounded, but no one reacted. Overnight, we learned that the Manchester flight was cancelled, while Heathrow still looked safe. The next morning, Friday, we rebooked Monica into the Towers Rotana with the rest of the group, and five of us set off for Abu Dhabi Airport with plenty of time to spare.
Airport Chaos, Overbooked Flights, and One Final Alert
It turned out to be just as well we were early. At the luggage drop-off desk, we were told the flight was overbooked and our bookings had been cancelled. We joined a long, slow-moving queue to try to rebook.
Not long after, another alert sounded. Airport staff rushed indoors, and everyone in the departure hall was ushered into the security area. Once the all-clear was given, we returned to the queue for another hour until we finally reached the agent’s desk.
Now we were told there were no seats left on the plane and we’d have to fly the next day. Daniella, my companion, complained politely but firmly — and it worked. Eventually the manager was called, and after another hour of uncertainty, we were handed boarding passes at last.
By then, the flight was already boarding, but security was empty and the gate was close, so we made it on without trouble.
The flight home was uneventful — a welcome contrast to the days before. At the time of writing, my friends heading to Manchester, and one going to Dublin, are still in their hotel hoping their rescheduled flights will finally depart tomorrow, two days later.
Discover the cheapest travel destinations for 2026, each offering incredible experiences at budget-friendly prices.
by Hanna Krayer
Who says you can’t travel on a budget and enjoy priceless experiences? You just need to know where to get more bang for your buck. This roundup of the cheapest places to travel to in 2026 has the exchange rate and cost of living research done for you.
Considering the average cost of food, transportation, and lodging — along with the most impressive and fun places to visit — here are 10 inexpensive travel destinations where you should go in 2026 to make your dollars stretch further.
Cheap places to travel in 2026 at a glance
Best for food: The street food scene in Vietnam is one of the best you’ll find on the planet — cheap, varied, and delicious. Top choice for families: Ohrid, North Macedonia, is an ideal destination for families, offering a perfect blend of relaxing lake time and cultural exploration. Best place to visit for solo travelers: Cusco, Peru, is a great place for solo travelers, because it attracts many young people from around the world. Most unique beaches: Antalya, Türkiye, is home to many gorgeous Mediterranean beaches. Ideal destination for couples: Sri Lankaoffers an affordable getaway for two. The island has palm-lined beaches and colorful Buddhist temples.
1. Siem Reap, Cambodia
Cambodia’s temples make it one of 2026’s best value trips.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly destination with rich culture, delicious cuisine, and roughly 300 days of sunshine annually, add Siem Reap, Cambodia, to your 2026 travel itinerary. The city is best known as the gateway to Angkor Wat, where you can explore awe-inspiring temples, ancient ruins, and sunrise views for a modest entry fee. Beyond the temples, visitors can wander through the Old Market and sample Cambodian street food, or experience Siem Reap’s lively nightlife along Pub Street.
If you plan to explore multiple temples, go for the 3-day or 7-day Angkor Pass instead of a single-day ticket. It’s better value for money and gives you time to visit at a relaxed pace. To catch the sunrise, visit before 5:00 AM to secure a good viewing spot and avoid the crowds.
Ancient Town in Hoi An is a travel experience that is well above its price tag.
From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam is an inexpensive place to explore. As you travel the country on its infamous sleeper buses or night trains, disembark in the charming town of Hoi An. With an Ancient Town lit by lanterns, lush rice fields, and awesome beaches, it’s a tranquil place to explore while saving big on food and activities.
The most magical time to visit Hoi An is during its monthly Lantern Festival. There are also many free activities in Hoi An, and affordable walking tours of the Ancient Town, which are a great option to enjoy the city.
With stunning and inexpensive destinations from Bali to Yogyakarta, Indonesia attracts backpackers from around the world.
Anywhere in Indonesia is a great bang-for-your-buck destination, but Yogyakarta is one of the country’s lesser-explored gems with so much to offer. Here, you can watch the traditional Javanese shadow puppet theater (wayang) at the Sonobudoyo Museum and try the city’s specialty gudeg (sweet jackfruit stew) for less than five bucks. Don’t miss the Ramayana Ballet at Prambanan Temple and visit Borobudur — the largest Buddhist temple in the world.
If you want to experience a Yogyakarta legend, get up early to buy traditional sweets from Lupis Mbah Satinem, who was featured on the Netflix show “Street Food: Asia.”
While Istanbul makes for a great vacation, packed with historic sites and Turkish culture, budget-conscious travelers may want to opt for Antalya, Türkiye, for its stunning natural beauty and plenty of affordable experiences. The city boasts pristine Mediterranean beaches, where you can relax or swim without paying high resort fees, and history buffs can explore ancient ruins like Aspendos, Perge, and Hadrian’s Gate. Antalya’s charming old town (Kaleiçi) offers budget-friendly cafés, and local markets provide delicious Turkish street food, all at a reasonable price.
Antalya boasts an affordable and efficient tram system that connects the city center, beach areas, and the airport, so it’s easy to travel around. The Kaleiçi (Old Town) is also entirely walkable, and there are numerous free activities to enjoy.
Medellín is a lively, inexpensive city, with incredible nature on its doorstep.
Colombia has long established itself as one of the world’s most affordable travel destinations. Besides Cartagena and Bogotá, Medellín has attracted many remote workers thanks to its affordable cost of living. It has shaken off its image as a dangerous city, once controlled by the Medellín drug cartel, and now hosts grand festivals like Tomorrowland’s CORE. From exploring the infamous neighborhood of Comuna 13 to day trips to Guatapé, a good time comes cheap in this vibrant metropolis.
December is an ideal month to visit Medellín for its renowned Christmas lights display. As the “City of Eternal Spring,” you’ll enjoy pleasant weather all year round.
Is it possible to top up your Vitamin D levels without depleting your bank balance too much? Absolutely. We’ve compiled a list of sunny destinations that will appeal to anyone in a savings state of mind. Pack the suncream so you can avoid going ‘into the red’ in every sense.
Dubai
The crowned king of winter sun escapes, Dubai may be one of the richest places on the planet, but there’s plenty to do for a dirham. Sail across Dubai Creek in a traditional abra, spot powder pink flamingos at the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary or go for a night swim at Umm Suqeim Beach. And the dancing flumes of the Dubai Fountain are free for all. Weekend brunch is a Dubai institution and one of the best-value deals can be found at Cuisines at the Crowne Plaza Dubai Jumeirah.
Where to stay
Rove La Mer Beach on Jumeirah has a hip beachy vibe at a bargain price. And all rooms have sofa beds for extra heads.
Miami
With South Beach bringing the heat, nothing cures the winter blues like Miami. And while influencers driving gold-plated Benz might suggest it’s a playground for the rich, there are plenty of free kicks to be had, from yoga classes on Miami Beach to outdoor movies and concerts at the New World Center. Get around for gratis on the Miami Trolley and the Metromover or hop on a free walking tour of the Wynwood Art District or South Beach’s Art Deco architecture. And to save dollars on dining, Miami famously has the best food trucks in Florida.
Where to stay
South Beach Hotel offers free beach shuttles and chair reservations for guests.
St Lucia
Palm-fringed beaches, lush rainforests and the ever-dramatic twin peaks of the Pitons, St Lucia encapsulates the Caribbean idyll. The destination may be dreamy, but a St Lucia holiday needn’t cost big bucks. There are experiences that can be had for nothing, from parrot-spotting in the rainforest and snorkelling off Anse Chastanet beach to splashing in the waterfalls of Anse La Raye. Don’t miss the Gros Islet Jump Up, St Lucia’s Friday night street party where you can feast on fish fry, drink rum punch and dance to reggae for mere dollars.
Where to stay
Marigot Beach Club is a boutique resort that’s accessible by a free boat service.
Orlando
Orlando is like a huge sun-drenched playground, and a holiday here is the ultimate antidote to a grizzly winter. Aside from the theme parks, there are plenty of cheap thrills to be had. Forget hiring a car, as most theme park hotels offer complimentary shuttles. Or use the I-Ride trolley for a couple of dollars a day. Go shopping at Disney Springs, watch the street performers at Disney’s BoardWalk or dine out at Universal CityWalk. For a slice of Old Florida, visit Old Town Entertainment District and see the Friday Night Muscle Car Cruise for free.
Where to stay
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort is a retro base where guests get Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and Universal’s Volcano Bay™ (though you still have to buy tickets!).
Cancun
Sweeping down Mexico’s Yucatán coast, Cancun’s floury beaches are balm for the soul after a British winter. Zona Hotelera is a 13-mile stretch of glitzy hotels, bars and nightclubs, but Playa Delfines is one of the few free beaches on the strip. Margaritas and tacos are the diet du jour – pay in Mexican pesos to get more bang for your buck. Buses are the cheapest way to get around. Avoid pricey hotel excursions and take the ferry over to Isla Mujeres or visit the Mayan ruins under your own steam.
Where to stay
Dream Sands Cancun Resort & Spa offers an Unlimited Luxury all-inclusive deal, and golf-loving guests can bag discounted green fees.
Ready to ditch the beaten paths of Paris and London and discover some new European gems? Pivot your gaze to Eastern Europe and these seven thrilling destinations, each of which is criminally underrated. The flights and trains there usually won’t break the bank, and everything you could want from an exciting, relaxing, or adventure-seeking trip, or any other kind, awaits. There are spectacular hikes in Eastern Europe, and its cities don’t disappoint either. From the medieval flair of Dubrovnik to the pulsating energy of Belgrade, these lesser-trodden cities are ripe for exploration and the perfect European destinations for when you want to discover something new
1. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Discover why the beautiful Dubrovnik was selected as a location for Game of Thrones.
Yes, Dubrovnik is a famous Game of Thrones location, and the city has had a surge in popularity since it became the hit show’s backdrop, but its actual history is just as interesting. It’s survived everything from medieval sieges to, well, fictional dragons. But Thrones fan or not, there’s something pretty special about this Croatian gem. Fancy a dive into authentic coastal life? Dubrovnik’s your go-to.
Highlights
Wander around those historic ruins or, for a different angle, hop on a cable car for some jaw-dropping views. And if you’re up for a splash, it’s one of the best places in the world to go kayaking — that’s a whole different kind of epic.
2. Riga, Latvia
Riga, the capital of Latvia, is one of the most beautiful cities in Eastern Europe.
Gothic architecture and an incredible art scene make Riga the perfect go-to for weekends away in Eastern Europe. Take a stroll through the palace gardens and lunch like a local at the Central Market. The Latvian capital is renowned for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and vibrant cultural scene, so make sure to include some tours.
Highlights
If you have a true foodie in tow, consider eating your way through the city (and soaking up the culture) on a food tour. And for those with an eye for fine art and design, Latvia’s National Art Museum and Art Nouveau Museum are must-sees.
3. Skopje, North Macedonia
Discover Skopje, a hidden Eastern European gem in North Macedonia.
Ready for a time-traveling trip? Head to Skopje in North Macedonia and feel like you’re stepping into a storybook: cobblestone streets, ancient churches, and yes, a real-deal medieval castle. This Macedonian treasure is tailor-made for lazy strolls, lakeside chill-outs, and, let’s not forget, indulging in some serious snacking. Grab your towel and a pastry or two and set up camp on the beach for a perfect summer day with minimal crowds.
Highlights
Make sure to see the iconic Stone Bridge connecting the Old Bazaar to the city center and the towering Millennium Cross atop Vodno Mountain.
4. Belgrade, Serbia
Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, is another Eastern European highlight.
Although recent history has left its mark on parts of Belgrade, this city’s rebirth is something to behold. Stroll its streets and you’re in a clash of titans: elegant Habsburg mansions rubbing shoulders with stark Soviet giants. Done with the history lesson? Dive into Belgrade’s vibrant nightlife and get a taste of its street food scene.
Highlights
Zip off to Serbia’s surprising horde of wineries in Novi Sad. And get back in time for a sunset cruise down the Sava and Danube.
5. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Explore the medieval charm of Mostar.
As far as Instagram-worthy bridges go, Mostar’s Old Bridge is definitely up there. Located in the heart of Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the huge limestone arch is a must-see, but by no means the only place you have to see. The medieval charm extends across the rest of the city, where you can buy old-school trinkets from traditional markets and enjoy evenings at one of many charming millhouse restaurants.
Highlights
The Kravice Waterfall is a short car trip away and makes for a perfect day trip.
6. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a classic Eastern European destination.
Known for bachelor parties and wild weekends, Prague’s appeal goes far beyond amazing beer — though it’s worth the trip alone. Travelers to the Czech Republic’s capital city can choose from countless things to do. A tour of the imposing Prague Castle or the historic Charles Bridge will teach you about Prague’s past. While you’re on the bridge, make sure you rub the bronze plaques below the statue of Saint John of Nepomuk for luck.
Highlights
For travelers looking to take it easy, the centralized location of Prague’s greatest hits makes seeing the major sights easy, leaving more time to eat trdelnik. And if you’re looking to travel around the holidays, you’ll find it’s one of the most charming Christmas destinations in the world.
7. Bucharest, Romania
Bucharest is anything but your average European capital.
Bucharest, Romania’s beating heart, is an uncharted sea of contrasts. A walk through its streets is a gripping adventure through its history. The National Museum of Art of Romania is there for the cultured, or day trips from Bucharest to Dracula’s castle are there for the brave looking to experience scary places around the world.
Highlights
Don’t miss the audacious opulence of the Palace of Parliament, a mesmerizing relic of megalomaniacal Communist rule, and experience the atmospheric charm of the Old Town’s quaint alleys, lined with buzzing cafes and eclectic bars.
When we’re on holiday, we’re often relaxing in unfamiliar surroundings. This makes a lovely change of pace from the daily grind, but it’s also the perfect environment for losing devices – whether you accidentally drop your phone in a pool or are unlucky enough to be targeted by pickpockets in a piazza.
Hopefully, neither of those things will happen. But implementing some extra security measures before you go will help limit the damage if the worst happens. Here are some steps to consider:
Back up your devices. Even if your phone or tablet does go walkabout, backing up means you can restore your treasured photos, messages or music collection on another device. Back-up methods vary depending on device, but are rarely tricky – a quick online search for your model of device and “how to back up” will give clear instructions.
Lock all devices, including e-books, with a password, passcode or passphrase. If your device allows it, a passphrase is harder to crack than a simple word or collection of numbers. Think of a simple run-on sentence (eg “I love Ibiza”), then throw in some special characters and different cases (eg “i L0v3Ib1£a”).
Approve all pending software updates. Yes, even those you’ve been snoozing for a month. They often include fixes to security issues, so you’ll be getting the best possible protection.
Turn off functionalities you don’t need. Wireless technologies such as Bluetooth and NFC should be switched off when you’re not using them, especially in public places. Leaving them on may make your device more vulnerable to hackers.
Remember, less is more. If possible, don’t pack all your devices: the fewer valuable items you have to protect and remember while you’re on holiday, the better. It also means that if something goes wrong, you’ll know you have a device at home where you can easily access all your accounts and data.
Be sensible on the socials. This is particularly important if you’re leaving lots of precious items at home (which you probably are). Holiday periods often see spikes in burglaries, because criminals know homes are sitting empty while people are away.
We’re not saying you should go off-grid, but it’s worth thinking twice before posting that you’re about to head off to the beach/mountains/coast. Consider only sharing holiday details and photos once you’re home – and avoid adding your location to posts while you’re away.
Beware public devices. Steer clear of using public computers and tablets in hotels, airports, and libraries if you can – you just don’t know who used them previously or what viruses or malicious software might be lurking on them. This is particularly important to bear in mind if you want to log into important accounts such as online banking, email or social media.
If you have to use a public device to check personal accounts, remember to log out of everything and clear the online browser history before you leave. When you next have access to a secure device, consider changing the passwords for the accounts you used in risky places. A password manager will make this process much easier.
Take care where you connect. If you sync your phone in a rental car to use features such as music or hands-free calling, be aware that the rental company (plus any subsequent drivers) may then be able to see your contacts and other synced information. That’s just one example of why it’s important to think carefully before connecting or charging your devices on holiday.
When connecting, pay attention to the warnings on your mobiles and tablets asking if you want to allow syncing of your contacts and photos. Feel free to say no!
Use the internet less. It’s safer not to connect to public Wi-Fi if you can avoid it. If you’re holidaying in Europe, it’s preferable to use mobile data, which is more secure than public Wi-Fi networks. Most mobile carriers still allow customers to use UK minutes, texts and data in the EU at no extra charge. Just check your contract before you travel.
Have fun. Remember, digital security shouldn’t make your life harder or your holiday less enjoyable. You don’t need to be paranoid and hyper-vigilant about the risks to your devices; in fact, it could spoil your trip.
But by taking these simple steps ahead of time – and paying attention to the digital devices and services you use while you’re away – you’ll be able to properly relax, safe in the knowledge that you’re as protected as possible. Have a good trip.
Ed Grenby dons his cowboy hat on this tour of railroad towns and cool-cat cities across the great States
Glenwood Springs, Colorado
When you build a town around some lukewarm water, it’s always going to have a charming modesty about it. The hot(-ish) springs here – and their gently steaming open-air pool complex – remain the main attraction, but the scenic Colorado River-hugging railroad brings only a handful of visitors a day. They wander the still fairly Wild West-feel streets (where you can find a gun shop, tattoo parlour, saloon and chapel all on the same block) and the Pioneer Cemetery, where – despite the cigarettes and bourbon they leave by his grave – legendary OK gunfighter Doc Holliday rests in peace.
The Florida Keys drip invitingly off the end of continental USA into the Caribbean, but Key Largo at one end and Key West at the other are now bustling mini-cities. In between, the islets retain their sleepily independent character, and Islamorada is a dozy doozy. Here, one in every three people you see are hippie retirees with a quirky line in winsome seashell art that they sell from their shoreside cottages – and the other two are dolphins. (Don’t worry, the few nut-brown hippies who don’t do art do fishing and dolphin-watching trips.)
It’s not quite the same now you can no longer arrive by paddlesteamer down the Mississippi itself, but roll a couple of hours up Route 61 (known here as the Blues Highway) from New Orleans, and you’ll soon find yourself in a world of decorous plantation houses, rocking chairs on porches and cooling mint juleps to mitigate the sultry heat of southern Louisiana. The history is as murky as the bayou – the ghost of slavery looms large – but today Spanish moss-draped Rosedown Plantation and The Myrtles are pure peace.
If Cape Cod is as cute as a boutique button factory – and it is – then Chatham is its sweetest slice. Poised perfectly on the ‘elbow’ of the Cape’s arm, it’s got more white-picket fences and windmills than the rest of the place put together – not to mention seals on its lovely sandy beaches, timeless family-run shops and seafood restaurants on its quiet Main Street. Its ‘nightlife scene’ peaks with summer brass band concerts under a gazebo in Kate Gould Park. (Want more? There’s a vintage drive-in cinema up the road in Wellfleet…)
Technically a city, Henderson feels like a teeny-tiny little hamlet beside its next-door neighbour Las Vegas. In fact, Henderson is where those nice people you’ve been tipping all weekend live – and, crucially, where they go to relax after they clock off. That means it’s got 73 parks, 185 miles of trails, friendly little bars, down-home restaurants – and all the kitsch Art Deco Americana of old-time Vegas, but without the crowds.
If it got any cheesier, the French would start eating it, but there’s a wholesome apple-pie side to this family-holiday haven, too. Mom-and-pop pancake houses and campgrounds mingle with odd little attractions such as the Southern Gospel Hall of Fame & Museum or Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, but for Americana overload it has to be Dollywood, the Smoky Mountain-themed theme park that Parton part-owns. When it all gets a bit much (and it will), light out for those bluegrass hills themselves: Great Smoky Mountains National Park is minutes down the road.
The most New Yorky small town you can imagine, Hudson has a centre that’s filled with urbane art galleries, funky antique shops, LGBTQ-friendly bars and sophisticated hotels (try The Maker, inspired by perfumes). Round the town’s edge are orchards and cider breweries, and beyond are the beautiful wildflower meadows and waterfall walks of the Catskills and Hudson Valley. Then, a mere two hours’ riverside drive away, there’s the Big Apple itself – just in case you want to see what happens when a small town gets dangerously carried away…
Central America is hardly a well-kept secret. Costa Rica is jam-packed with eco resorts, expats and sloth-scouting holidaymakers, while the beaches of Belize are littered with yogis. And then there’s Panama with its famous canal and cruises to match. Anyone who’s done a little research on travelling to Guatemala recently will no doubt have come across the same raft of travel bloggers and influencers as the rest of the world. On the other hand, there are a few countries there that still fly under most people’s travel radars.
El Salvador
El Salvador used to be solidly on the “Do Not Travel” list. However, things have begun to look pretty different in the last few years. Since he took office, President Bukele has been making drastic efforts to cut back on the violence. It’s still not exactly a beginner’s holiday, but more experienced travellers can feel confident checking out the country’s Mayan cities and volcanic hikes before the hordes catch on.
When it comes to those aforementioned ruins, there are a good few sites to choose from but if there’s only room for one ancient city in your itinerary, it should probably be Cihuatán. You’ll find quite a few companies offering combined tours of Cihuatan Archaeological Park and the distillery, usually with a stop off in the charming colonial town of Suchitoto as well. While it’s great for a couple of hours meandering through the cobblestone streets and galleries, stick around a little longer to hit the trails, your gateway to serene lakes, hidden waterfalls, and mysterious caves.
Santa Ana is the country’s highest active volcano, whose summit comes complete with epic views over the radioactive-turquoise of Laguna Ilamatepec, the less bio-hazardous-looking Lake Coatepeque, and the surrounding volcanoes.
The Santa Ana volcano climb is fairly intense, taking anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, however summits like one of San Salvador’s two peaks will take as little as 30 minutes. The trail up the higher of the capital’s twin peaks still only takes around 1.5 hrs, with the leafy canopies of El Boquerón National Park protecting you from the elements.
Honduras
Another not so well travelled country is Honduras. If it’s beach time you’re after, this is likely where you’ll want to focus all your energy. The Bay Islands, located in the Caribbean off Honduras’ northern coast, have some of the clearest waters around and are renowned for phenomenal diving.
Roatán is the most popular holiday island there. The village of West End is a lot less busy and might make a good home base if you’d like room to breathe.
Utila is a smaller island southwest of Roatán, with a party reputation and a huge scuba culture. You can take a water taxi to Water Cay, a tiny uninhabited island nearby. On the mainland, there are a few more spots that are well established on the tourist trail. Firstly, there are the Mayan ruins at Copán Ruinas
The rainforests of Pico Bonito National Park and the nearby Cangrejal River Valley, just inland from the coastal city of La Ceiba are ripe for adventure travel, with white water rafting, hiking trails, and wildlife aplenty. Similarly, Lago de Yojoa is a nature-lover’s paradise, this time with a bonus lake.
Now, while Honduras isn’t super touristy overall, it’s also not the kind of place we’d recommend getting off the beaten path.
