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Travel Tips

Splurge or Save – The Travel Edition

It’s easy to get carried away when planning a vacation. Maybe you want to stay at a luxurious resort and eat at Michelin-star restaurants. Or visit places you’ve only dreamed about. Maybe, this is a bucket list trip you’ve been planning for years. We know travel budgets will vary depending on multiple factors so let us help you decide whether you should splurge or save.

Upgrading to Business / First Class on Flights

Maybe you’ve always wanted to sit in the forward part of the airplane, either in business or first class. After all, seating is more spacious and comfortable. There is more legroom and better reclining capabilities. This is especially nice if you are traveling internationally and have access to lie-flat seats. Service in business or first class is more personalized than that in economy class, with better quality food and drinks, personalized attention from flight attendants, and amenities like noise-canceling headphones, blankets, and pillows.

If you are on short flights (less than 3 hours), the benefits of upgraded seating and service are definitely not worth the additional cost. And, the longer flights?

What We Recommend

We recommend not upgrading unless you have the cash or can use miles or points instead of cash. Instead, explore prices for booking in the premium economy section. This is a small section of the plane between business and economy. Premium economy has wider seats that recline farther, and leg rests to support your feet and legs. This section also serves better food and wine.

Generally, the premium economy section has about 24 seats. Right now, these seats tend to be priced significantly less than business, but more than economy. Be sure to explore all the pricing options between the classes before booking. In the past, I’ve found business class fares costing only a few hundred dollars more than premium economy, and in a couple of cases, less than premium economy! If you find these kinds of deals…book immediately! We also recommend signing up for business-class fare alerts. If your travel schedule is flexible you may just be able to find a business-class fare you can afford!

Are these amenities nice? Absolutely. But are they worth eating into at least half your travel budget? We think the extra cost may not be worth it for everyone.

If a premium economy seat is not an option, try to book bulkhead seats that provide extra legroom. Book these seats early so you can select seats on either side of the plane where there are generally two seats per row. Avoid the middle seats when at all possible. If you are flying with someone and don’t want to sit in a middle seat, try to book two aisle seats across from each other.

The decision to upgrade to business or first-class flights should be based on individual circumstances, including budget, travel purpose, and personal preferences. While the benefits of upgraded seating and service can be tempting, the extra cost may not be justifiable in all cases.

So, splurge or save on upgrading to business or first-class travel? Verdict: Save

Direct Flights

Unless you enjoy layovers and transfers and sitting on tarmacs for any length of time, splurge for the direct flights. A splurge can almost always be seen as worth it if it significantly reduces your hassle while traveling, or if it gives you back your time.

Take Less Time

Common sense tells you that direct flights take less time to reach your destination than connecting flights. Connecting flights require you to transfer from one flight to another, and can add a significant amount of time when a layover is involved. Sometimes you will pay more for a direct flight, but save yourself valuable time and arrive at your destination more quickly and with less stress. We’ve also found that if you can drive to a large airport in a decent amount of time, you may pay less for airfare. We live in Oklahoma City and frequently drive to Dallas to catch a direct flight.

Give You More Control

When flying direct, you have more control over your travel experience, which can make all the difference when you want to arrive somewhere quickly and efficiently. Direct flights are more convenient than connecting flights, as they allow you to bypass the inconvenience and hassle of navigating through airports, waiting in long lines, and dealing with potential flight delays or cancellations.

More Comfortable Experience

Direct flights offer a more comfortable travel experience than connecting flights. With a direct flight, you can settle in and relax without the stress of worrying about your connecting flight or rushing to catch it. You’ll also avoid the discomfort of squeezing into smaller regional planes that are often used for connecting flights.

Avoid the Risk of Lost Luggage

Additionally, you’ll avoid the risk of lost luggage or other issues that can arise when transferring from one flight to another! It can be worth taking a direct flight for this benefit alone!

In conclusion, paying more for direct flights can be a smart choice that provides many benefits, including time savings, convenience, comfort, safety, and overall cost savings. While it may be tempting to save money on connecting flights, the added stress and inconvenience often outweigh any potential savings.

What We Recommend

Book direct flights when possible. Flying is stressful enough, and in our opinion anything you can do to decrease stress the sooner you can begin to enjoy your vacation! If there are no direct flights to your destination, we recommend trying to keep your flights to one-stop, with enough time to leisurely get to your connecting flight. We realize this is not always possible because of flight delays and cancellations, but giving yourself extra time between flights will help.

So, splurge or save on direct travel flights? Verdict: Splurge

Travel Insurance

Since COVID-19, we’ve all heard horror stories of non-refundable trips gone wrong. And, there is data to support that more travelers are now buying travel insurance likely because of these stories. We also think travel insurance can make good sense. It will provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of unexpected events such as those discussed below.

Trip Interruption

Travel insurance can protect you financially if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness, injury, or death of a family member. This can help you recoup the cost of non-refundable expenses such as flights, hotels, and activities. We always hope these unforeseen events never happen to us, and most of the time, they won’t. But, it is good to be prepared, especially when your travels are taking you internationally or you will be gone for an extended period of time. We have often purchased travel insurance when a close family member is elderly, just because you never know about life and death events.

Medical Emergency

In the unfortunate event, you or your travel companion get sick or injured while traveling, travel insurance can cover medical expenses, including emergency medical transportation back to your home country. This is particularly important if you are traveling to a country with high medical costs or limited healthcare facilities.

Lost Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, helping you recoup the cost of replacing essential items such as clothing, toiletries, and electronics. Lost luggage happens more often than we’d like to think. Generally, the luggage arrives or is eventually returned but it may be a little too late. There is nothing like arriving for a ten-day sailboat trip in the Caribbean with no luggage. I just used it as an opportunity to buy a new swimsuit!

Delays or Cancellations

If your flight is delayed or canceled, travel insurance can also help cover additional expenses such as meals, accommodations, and transportation.

What We Recommend

If you are traveling domestically or to a low-risk destination, such as a resort or cruise, the likelihood of needing travel insurance is lower. Travel insurance can be expensive, and the cost may not always be worth the potential benefits. Carefully consider the cost of the insurance policy relative to the cost of your trip and the likelihood of needing to use it.

Review your existing health insurance and credit cards. These may already provide some coverage for travel-related expenses and you want to avoid paying for duplicate coverage.

Travel insurance policies can have a range of restrictions and limitations, such as exclusions for pre-existing medical conditions or restrictions on coverage for certain activities or destinations. Carefully review the policy before purchasing to ensure that it meets your needs and covers any potential risks.

In conclusion, the decision to purchase travel insurance depends on your individual circumstances and travel plans. It can absolutely provide valuable protection in case of unexpected events. If you don’t have access through existing health insurance or credit cards, and you are traveling internationally, we recommend purchasing travel insurance. Just be sure to carefully weigh the potential benefits and costs before making a decision.

So, splurge or save on purchasing travel insurance? Verdict: Splurge

Souvenirs

While souvenirs can serve as a meaningful reminder of a vacation, they can also be a waste of money and contribute to unnecessary clutter. Our experience is that many souvenir shops sell run-of-the-mill tourist items. These items are likely bought in bulk and aren’t even made in the country you are visiting.

assorted color clothes display on street — Photo by Ricky Esquivel

We have bought some of these items, certainly. T-shirts for the kids and now grandkids and other nicknacks here and there. But, we have also bought items, especially food items, which seem exciting at the time, but lose their excitement once we return home. For example, last year we bought the “highly sought after saffron” that we couldn’t buy in the U.S. because it came from Iran. Unfortunately, the spice is still sitting in its packet unused. We also bought a box of Turkish candies that we eventually threw away because we never ate them and they dried out.

Purchasing run-of-the-mill souvenirs can also have a negative impact on the environment. Many souvenirs are made from materials that are not sustainable or biodegradable, and the production and transportation of these items can contribute to carbon emissions and other environmental issues.

What We Recommend

Instead, select one or two items that you know are locally made. For example, I will often buy a piece of jewelry made by a local artist. Every time I wear the jewelry I fondly remember wherever we were in the world. Once I bought a yard of fabric made in Mexico City. Now I’m now having it made into a lampshade that will sit in our living room.

Visit a local market for artisan-made goods, and snag delicacies at the local grocery store! While the treats won’t be as delicately packaged, they’ll be extra authentic, and probably less expensive. Our best example of this is Blue Mountain Coffee from Jamaica. Tourist and hotel shops are twice the price of the local grocery store. The packaging looks different, but the coffee? It wonderfully tastes the same.

So, splurge or save on purchasing travel souvenirs? Verdict: Save

Hotels

This is a tough call to make. And, ultimately, the decision really comes down to your travel style. For some, a vacation includes 1,000 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets and prompt room service. Others simply want a place to rest their head after a day of exploration and adventure. We think that what matters most, most of the time, is location, location, location.

If you feel this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it may be worth splurging for a luxury hotel room. You will have plush bedding, high-end toiletries, gourmet dining, and spa treatments available. Additionally, luxury hotels are often in prime locations in desirable destinations, providing easy access to popular tourist attractions, stunning views, and cultural landmarks. They may also offer exclusive experiences, such as private tours or access to unique events, that can make a trip truly unforgettable. In short, these hotels often cater to your every whim.

But, the price tag for this kind of experience may cost a small fortune. And while it’s tempting, it can be a lovely, but unnecessary expense. If you want luxury toiletries, for example, consider bringing your own in travel-size bottles and staying at lower-cost accommodations.

What We Recommend

What you decide to spend on a hotel room ultimately depends on individual preferences and priorities. Be clear with yourself and your traveling partner about what’s a priority. Personally, we have a mental dollar limit that we are willing to spend per night. If we are going to Italy, for example, we are willing to spend more than if we are on a road trip and have to spend a night along the interstate. Sure, we like to stay in hotel rooms that cost $1,500 per night, but we aren’t willing to pay that out of pocket. Instead, we earn points on travel credit cards that we then use the points to pay for nights at a luxury hotel.

Another option? Consider booking a room through VRBO. There are homes all over the world that offer an authentic experience of the destination often at prices significantly less than hotels. By staying in these homes, you will have opportunities to interact with the locals and experience the true essence of the destination.

The key is to choose a location that is accessible to attractions you want to visit and activities you would like to do.

Whether you choose to splurge or save on hotels during your travel depends on your preferences. Our verdict? It’s a Tie.

Bucket-List Experiences

We are talking about the stuff travel dreams are made of. A hot air balloon ride at sunset in Cappadocia, a private driver on the Amalfi Coast, or a private safari experience in Kenya. A bucket list trip is often a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience something truly extraordinary.

It’s possible that the cost of the trip may even be offset by the value of the experience. The opportunity to achieve a personal goal can be priceless. In this way, splurging on a bucket list trip can be an investment in yourself and your personal growth.

On the other hand, splurging on this type of trip can be financially irresponsible. If the cost of the trip exceeds your budget, it is likely to create financial stress and even debt.

Furthermore, the experience of a bucket list trip may not live up to your expectations. The trip may be impacted by factors such as weather, local political or economic conditions, or other unexpected events that detract from the overall experience. In this way, the cost of the trip may not be commensurate with the actual value of the experience. If this is the case, you may feel your money was wasted.

What We Recommend

I won’t lie. We have had our share of bucket list experiences over the years. When the stock market fell in 2008 we were glad some of our money had been spent on experiences instead of invested in stock. Our experiences were something no one, not even the stock market, could take away from us. We had invested in us.

When I’m trying to decide whether or not we should splurge on a bucket list item, I ask myself, “If I died today, would I be disappointed not to have experienced X?” If the answer is no, I am likely to wait on the bucket list item. If it’s yes, then I have to figure out how I’m going to pay for it!

Really, the decision to splurge or not splurge on a bucket list trip depends on your priorities and values. While it can provide a unique and unforgettable experience, it can also be financially irresponsible.

Weigh the benefits and drawbacks and make an informed decision based on your circumstances and goals.

So, splurge or save on bucket list travel? Verdict: Splurge

Conclusion

As you can see, the decision to splurge or save will vary from one traveler to the next, and maybe from one travel destination to the next. You have to decide what is best for you and your family.

In any case, whether you splurge or save, I’d love to help make your travel dreams a reality! If you need a travel consultation, a personalized travel itinerary, or just want to find out if we are real, get in touch here.

Italy

Eat Your Way Across Italy

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When we think of Italy, things like the rugged peaks of the Italian Alps and the rolling hills of Tuscany come to mind. The colorful Amalfi Coast and the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Throughout Italy, you will see magnificent architecture, stunning art, and vibrant street life. The cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice are especially known for their timeless beauty and cultural treasures. Italy offers a feast for the senses and a lifetime of unforgettable experiences. It also offers up some delicious cuisine, world-class wines, and warm, hospitable people. So, for now, let’s focus on food and what you should eat in addition to pasta and pizza that will help you eat your way across Italy!

Basics of Italian Dining

First, let’s cover a few basics of dining in Italy. Italians typically enjoy a sweet pastry or slice of bread with a cup of coffee or a cappuccino at a stand-up coffee bar before work.

Lunch is usually a more substantial meal of pasta or a salad with some protein, typically eaten between 12 pm and 2 pm. You may find many businesses close during this time to allow people to enjoy a leisurely lunch. Sounds nice, huh?

Dinner is a more formal affair, typically eaten between 8 pm and 10 pm. In our travels around Italy, we have eaten dinner as early as 6 or 7 pm and generally are the only ones in the restaurant!

People at restaurant with tables outdoors near small canal in Venice

Italians may begin with an aperitif, a pre-dinner drink such as an Aperol spritz or a Campari and soda, then move on to a multi-course meal.

Some meals begin with a plate of antipasti or appetizers, such as cured meats, cheeses, olives, and bruschetta. The first course is typically pasta, risotto, or soup, followed by a second course of meat, fish, or vegetarian dishes. Italian meals often feature a variety of side dishes, such as salads, vegetables, or potatoes, and end with a dessert such as tiramisu or panna cotta.

We aren’t saying you must follow this protocol…we certainly don’t. It is way too much food for us to eat before going to bed! But, depending on where you are, we think these foods will help you eat your way across Italy!

Tuscany Region

If you find yourself in the beautiful, rolling hills of Tuscany consider trying the following traditional dishes and regional specialties.

Crostini di Fegato: A classic Tuscan appetizer made from toasted bread topped with chicken liver pâté, capers, and anchovies. We aren’t big fans of pâté or anchovies, but you should definitely try it.
Ribollita: A Tuscan soup made with bread, cannellini beans, vegetables, and sometimes meat. Served hot, this soup is the perfect comfort food for colder weather.
Pappa al Pomodoro: Another soup made from bread, tomatoes, garlic, and basil and served hot or at room temperature.
Bistecca alla Fiorentina: A Tuscan-style steak made from a specific breed of cattle called Chianina. Cooked over an open flame and served rare or medium rare.
Cinghiale: Wild boar served as a stew or ragu, or in the form of sausages or salami.
Cantucci: Almond biscuits served with vin santo, a sweet dessert wine. They are crunchy and delicious and make for a perfect afternoon snack.

Lombardy Region

Lombardy is the most populous region of Italy, located in the northern part of the country. It is home to several major cities, including Milan. Here are a few foods we think you should eat in the Lombardy region of Italy.

Ossobuco alla Milanese: A dish made with veal shanks slow-cooked in a tomato-based sauce, served with saffron risotto.
Cotoletta alla Milanese: Breaded and fried veal cutlets, similar to Wiener Schnitzel.
Bresaola: A cured meat made from beef, served thinly sliced with rocket salad and Parmesan cheese.
Risotto alla Bergamasca: One of our favorites! A creamy risotto made with sausage and beans, typical of the Bergamo province.
Gorgonzola cheese: Cheese lover? This creamy blue cheese is produced in the Lombardy region and is often served on its own or with risotto.
Polenta e Osei: A traditional dessert made with crumbled cake and chocolate, shaped to look like a bird’s nest and served with a polenta-like cream. Let us just say, this is yummy!

Lazio Region

Rome is a major city located in the Lazio region and no doubt one you will visit. And, if you want pizza, we think there is no better place than Rome! Roman-style pizza is a thin, crispy pizza with simple toppings like tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. Here are some not to miss foods as you eat your way across Italy.

Roman fried artichokes Jewish style seasoned with flakes of kosher salt.

Roman-style artichokes: Artichokes cooked with garlic, mint, parsley, and white wine.
Saltimbocca alla Romana: A classic Roman dish with thinly sliced veal, prosciutto, and sage, cooked in white wine and butter.
Supplì: Deep-fried rice balls filled with mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce, similar to arancini from Sicily. Your best bet is to order these as an appetizer or from a local street vendor.
Fiori di zucca – deep-fried zucchini flowers filled with mozzarella cheese and anchovies, a delicious and popular Roman street food.
Abbacchio alla scottadito: Grilled lamb chops seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and olive oil.
Carciofi alla giudia: These Jewish-style fried artichokes are one of the best-kept secrets of Roman cuisine, with a deep history originating from 16^th-century Rome. Frying their vegetables was the only sure way of eliminating the bacteria, and thus fried artichokes were born. These crispy treats have a historical significance and are still very prevalent on menus today throughout Rome.

Veneto Region

Venice is the capital city of the Veneto region and is one of the most famous and visited cities in Italy, known for its beautiful canals. The seafood here doesn’t get much fresher than in Venice, so here are a few foods to enjoy as you eat your way across Italy.

Fresh bigoli with seafood with tomato sauce, clams and mussels.

Sarde in Saor: Traditional Venetian starter dish made with fried sardines, onions, pine nuts, raisins, and vinegar.
Baccalà Mantecato: A creamy spread made from salted cod, olive oil, and garlic, usually served on toast.
Fritto Misto: A mix of fried seafood including shrimp, calamari, and small fish, usually served as a main course.
Risi e Bisi: This typical Venetian dish made with rice, peas, and pancetta, similar to a risotto.
Bigoli in Salsa: Okay, maybe a little pasta! Bigoli is a type of thick spaghetti served with a sauce made from onions, anchovies, and olive oil.
Cicchetti: This is more of a way of eating and something we often enjoy. These small bites of food are served in bars and taverns throughout Venice. Think Spanish tapas.

There are two others foods we need to discuss that are crucial to Italian eating. The first is truffles and the second is dessert!

Truffle Everything

Italy produces some of the world’s finest truffles, with several regions famous for their quality and variety. You will want to try them any chance you have. Read on to learn about the best truffle regions in Italy.

Piedmont: We love the Piedmont region of Italy for many reasons, but especially for its white truffles, some of the most highly prized and expensive truffles in the world. The town of Alba is particularly famous for its annual truffle festival. On our bucket list is a visit back to this area for truffle hunting. Add some of the region’s Barolo wine and it doesn’t get much better.
Umbria, Tuscany, & Marche: These areas are known for their black truffles, which have a strong, earthy flavor.
Emilia-Romagna: This region is known for its white truffles found in the hills around the town of Savigno.

These regions are known for their truffles but also for the delicious dishes made with them, such as pasta, risotto, and meat dishes. Visitors can enjoy truffle hunting experiences and taste the delicacies made with these exquisite ingredients at local restaurants and markets. What a fun thing to do as you eat your way across Italy.

Italian Desserts

Italy is famous for its delicious and varied desserts found in multiple locales around Italy. Here are some of the most popular ones.

Tiramisù: Most people will know what this dessert is, but if you haven’t tried it in Italy – you should! A layered dessert made with ladyfingers soaked in espresso and layered with a mixture of mascarpone cheese, eggs, and sugar, and dusted with cocoa powder.
Gelato: Another dessert that has made its way into US restaurants and grocery stores, but again, when in Italy. This Italian-style ice cream comes in a wide range of flavors and is typically made with fewer calories and less air than traditional ice cream.
Cannoli: Yum – this is one of our favorites. A Sicilian dessert made with fried pastry shells filled with sweetened ricotta cheese and often topped with chopped pistachios or candied fruit.
Zabaione: Made with egg yolks, sugar, and sweet wine that is whipped together until light and frothy, then served either hot or cold.
Panettone: Also can be found in the U.S., but not as good as what you find freshly made in Italy. A sweet bread typically eaten during the Christmas season, flavored with candied fruit and raisins.
Cassata: This is another Sicilian dessert made with layers of sponge cake, sweet ricotta cheese, and candied fruit, often topped with marzipan.
Sfogliatelle: Shell-shaped pastry filled with sweetened ricotta cheese and often flavored with candied citrus peel or cinnamon.
Torta Caprese: A dense chocolate and almond cake that originates from the island of Capri. Yes, please!

Food Tours and Cooking Classes

One of the ways we enjoy sampling different foods and learning how to cook these new foods is by signing up for a food tour or cooking class. These opportunities exist all over Italy. For food tours and cooking classes, you can search online or check out Viator or Tours by Locals.

Conclusion

If you made it to the end of this post, you are probably starving! The food in Italy is of course, amazing. And while you won’t go wrong with eating lots of pasta and pizza, just remember Italy has a lot of other food to enjoy.

Need Help?

Are you looking to eat your way across Italy? We’d love to put together a culinary exploration for you, contact us here.

If you just want to learn more about Italy, we have several posts dedicated to Milan, Lake Como, and Venice.

Caribbean

Find Your Perfect Caribbean Getaway

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There is more to the Caribbean than sun, sand, and tropical drinks. The region is made up of many distinctive islands, each with its own culture, cuisine, and activities. From the Mayan ruins to the vibrant nightlife of Nassau’s Atlantis, the Caribbean is an amalgamation of unique experiences waiting for you to explore. We hope that by sharing our personal insights, we will help you find your perfect Caribbean getaway.

The Caribbean is one of our favorite places to visit. The warm waters and distinct locales call us to return year after year. We can’t say that one location is better than another. But, certainly, there are a few islands we have visited numerous times. When I think about why we return again and again to those destinations it is primarily because of the people, the culture, and the cuisine.

But, enough about us! Let’s examine a few stunning destinations to help guide you in creating the perfect Caribbean getaway.

Aruba

Aruba is 1 of 3 islands located off the coast of Venezuela that is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. These 3 islands, Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao, are sometimes referred to as the Dutch Caribbean and also as the ABC Islands.

You may also have heard Aruba referred to as ‘One Happy Island’. I don’t know about you, but this brings a smile to my face. This small island has a reputation for being a welcoming and joyful place for travelers to visit. It is an ideal vacation spot for the entire family, solo travelers, honeymooners, and LGBTQ travelers.

Travelers are often concerned with hurricanes that may disrupt their Caribbean vacation plans. This is especially between the months of May and November. But, it’s good to know that Aruba has the lowest precipitation levels among the 700 Caribbean islands. And, its location is beyond the hurricane zone, which generally ensures a pleasant climate throughout the year.

Aruba offers exciting diving opportunities. There is also Flamingo Island, a sanctuary for donkeys, and a choice of 40 pristine beaches. Aruba will effortlessly tick all the boxes for tourists. On top of that, the island speaks four languages, namely Papiamento, Dutch, English, and Spanish, which makes it a friendly and hassle-free destination for visitors to navigate.

The island also boasts a low crime rate. This is because Aruba has a stable political climate, and a strong economy, which contributes to its overall sense of security and stability. Safety is a major factor for travelers right now so visiting Aruba may be the perfect Caribbean getaway choice for you.

Mexico

Quintana Roo is a state in the eastern part of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, that borders the Caribbean Sea to the east. Like many U.S. citizens, we have made numerous visits to Quintana Roo. We traveled there certainly because the beaches are beautiful, but also because the time required to travel there was minimal.

Twenty-five years ago Cancun proper was still making a name for itself. And, beyond Cancun to the south, there was very little activity. Now, this region is packed with a wide range of resorts, hotels, and attractions, from the secluded Tulum ruins to the lively Cancun clubs.

Cancun’s Zona Hotelera is a bit crowded. You might want to explore further south towards Playa Del Carmen and beyond. You will still find spacious luxury resorts, but also charming boutique hotels, tranquil stretches of beach, and captivating ruins with a rich history.

Safety is an issue to be concerned about when visiting Quintana Roo and many other areas of Mexico. We have personally never experienced any issues, but at the present, the U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4 to Quintana Roo, which means Do Not Travel.

If you do decide to visit the area, however, here are a few tips to keep safe:

Be aware of your surroundings
Use reputable transportation
Avoid excessive drinking
Look for places with good reviews and ratings
Stay informed of potential safety risks or travel advisories.

Occasionally, hurricanes are a problem in this area during the summer and fall months. We recommend purchasing travel insurance just in case you need to make last-minute changes to your getaway.

If you want to learn more about Cancun or perhaps want to explore the Pacific Ocean side of Mexico, check out this blog post.

Bahamas

The Bahamas span over 100,000 square miles and boast some of the best beaches imaginable. The closest point in the Bahamas to Miami, Florida is only about 50 miles (80 kilometers) away. The country is made up of an archipelago of more than 700 islands and cays. This offers visitors an array of experiences, from the capital city of Nassau to the picturesque Eleuthera. You might want to swim alongside friendly pigs in Exuma. Or enjoy a fish fry at Arawak Cay, or dive into the barrier reef surrounding Andros.

The Bahamas has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, with the average high temperatures ranging from 75°F (24°C) in January to 89°F (32°C) in August. The coral reefs make the Bahamas a popular getaway for scuba diving and snorkeling.

One of our favorite Caribbean foods is Conch, which is the national dish of the Bahamas. Similar to calamari, Conch meat can be prepared in several ways, but Conch fritters are a must-try in our books!

Atlantis, located in Nassau, is the place to visit if you are looking for 24-hour excitement and entertainment. This mega-resort includes five distinctive hotels, a dolphin habitat, a marine park, a 141-acre waterpark, a casino, a marina, a golf course, a theater, and a shopping mall. It is highly recommended for families, honeymooners, and solo travelers.

Hurricanes also make their way across the Bahamas, so be prepared if you travel during hurricane season. It is also important to stay alert and follow common sense when it comes to safety.

Belize

Belize is a small country located in Central America. It is bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. The capital of Belize is Belmopan. But, the primary tourist spot is Belize City, located on the coast.

If you are interested in a Caribbean getaway, you will want to experience the beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and diverse marine life. This region is home to many small islands, known as Cayes, and several coastal towns and villages. One of the most popular destinations is the island of Ambergris Caye, located just off the coast of Belize City.

Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye is known for its beautiful beaches and snorkeling and diving opportunities. Visitors can take a boat tour to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Here you will see a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and sharks. Renowned for hosting the second-largest barrier reef globally, Belize attracts divers, snorkelers, and biologists year-round who visit to discover its diverse ecosystem and UNESCO World Heritage sites scattered across the island.

Another popular destination on the Caribbean side of Belize is the town of Placencia. Placencia is located in the southern part of the country. It is known for its long, sandy beach and laid-back vibe. And is a popular spot for travelers looking to unwind and relax. Take a boat tour to the Silk Cayes Marine Reserve where you can snorkel or dive among coral reefs and see a variety of marine life.

Although the likelihood of a hurricane making landfall in Belize is relatively low, the country is still located in the hurricane belt. It is important for visitors to be aware of the potential risks. and to take necessary precautions. In terms of safety, Belize is generally considered a safe country to visit. However, be aware of petty criminal activities, such as theft and pickpocketing. Keep valuables in a safe place, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid walking alone at night.

Jamaica

Jamaica is the third-largest English-speaking country in the Americas, following the United States and Canada. It is one of the countries we have visited numerous times over the years. The island’s rhythm is palpable through its reggae music, jerk chicken, and delicious rum punch!

Negril

If soaking up the beach is high on your priority list, we strongly recommend you visit Negril and stay on or near Seven Mile Beach. This beach is one of the most famous beaches in the Caribbean. Incredibly beautiful, the beach is divided into several sections, each with its own vibe. The western end of the beach is quieter and more secluded, while the eastern end is livelier and more crowded. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, parasailing, and jet skiing.

In Negril, you will also not want to miss the stunning sunsets. As the sun sets over the Caribbean, the sky is painted in shades of orange, pink, and purple, creating a stunning backdrop for an evening stroll along the beach.

Ocho Rios

Another option is to visit Ocho Rios, which is on the opposite side of the island. This area has a different vibe but is just as beautiful. Besides lying on the beach, you will want to visit Dunn’s River Falls & Park. The highlight is climbing the falls so bring appropriate footwear if you plan to make the climb. Over the years the area has expanded and now includes a zipline, a beach for lounging, a kid’s splash pad, and nature trails for hiking.

In addition to the potential for hurricanes, you should also be aware of other safety concerns. The country has a high crime rate, particularly in urban areas such as Kingston and Montego Bay. Take precautions such as staying in well-lit and populated areas, not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, and avoiding wearing flashy jewelry or clothing. As I said, we have traveled there many times, and honestly, we have never had a problem, but we know other visitors have.

If you are interested in Jamaica, we highly recommend you read our blog post entirely on finding the best getaway spot in Jamaica.

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is located two hours south of Miami. It is a treasure trove of natural wonders, with national parks, rivers, beaches, and ancient relics. While popular tourist destinations like Punta Cana and Puerto Plata are a great way to unwind, there’s so much more to discover in this vibrant country.

During the winter mating season, Samana Bay comes alive as thousands of humpback whales come to play. Santo Domingo, the capital, is one of the oldest cities in the Caribbean, with a charming walled historic core known as the Zona Colonial, where you can find buildings dating back to the 1500s. Meanwhile, Barahona, often referred to as ‘the Caribbean’s Bride’, boasts some of the most stunning beaches and landscapes in the region, and an array of outdoor adventures thanks to its diverse ecosystem.

Like other islands in the hurricane belt, it is important to be prepared if you choose to visit the Dominican Republic during hurricane season. You might remember the country was hit hard in 2017 by both Hurricane Irma and Maria.

The country has a high crime rate, particularly in urban areas such as Santo Domingo and tourist destinations such as Punta Cana so stay alert. The Dominican Republic has also been in the news in recent years due to reports of illnesses and deaths of tourists from causes such as food poisoning and drinking tainted alcohol. Be cautious when consuming food and drinks and only patronize reputable establishments.

Nearly all these islands in the Caribbean have the potential for hurricanes and safety concerns are important to consider anywhere you travel. However, these islands remain popular getaway destinations for travelers. The beaches are beautiful, the culture is vibrant, and there are natural attractions everywhere.

Conclusion

Are one of these islands the perfect Caribbean getaway? If not, well, the good news is that these islands only represent the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the Caribbean!

I’d love to chat more about finding your perfect Caribbean getaway tropical vacation! Feel free to reach out to me: travelwiththecrows@gmail.com.