8 Highly Rated Hotels in Downtown Philadelphia in Center City

Whether you’re heading into Philadelphia to delve deep into American history or just to join the Bird Gang for an Eagles game, you’ll need a comfortable and well-located hotel to rest your head at night.

I tend to put more emphasis on location, as landing in the right spot hands you the keys to a more relaxed and exciting trip. You’re probably within walking distance of major attractions, along with public transportation. Great eateries and cultural hubs are also easier to find in a city center compared to the suburbs.

On top of that, a city’s downtown area is often its more identifiable when it comes to culture—even if locals don’t spend the whole day there.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in the City of Brotherly Love, head to one of these hotels in downtown Philadelphia that put you right in the middle of the action.

(Just a note: Philadelphia’s downtown area is called Center City. Apparently, ‘downtown’ is a geo-term borrowed from Manhattan that slowly became the norm for other US cities—but not in Philly. The hotels listed below are located in or near Philadelphia’s Center City, which is the ‘core’ of its downtown area.)

Best hotels in downtown Philadelphia in the city center

Quiet luxury: The Windsor Suites
Local favorite: Yowie
Historic trappings: Guild House Hotel
Newly renovated & historic: The Bellevue Hotel
Simple & lovely: Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy
Apart-hotel vibes plus a pool: ROOST Midtown
All the basics: Hampton Inn Philadelphia
Close to the convention center: Courtyard Philadelphia Downtown

Best hotels in downtown Philadelphia in the city center

The Windsor Suites

This lovely hotel has all the basics that you could want for a visit to Center City. You can choose from one-bedroom or suites, some of which come with kitchenettes. There is also a business center and a rooftop pool to enjoy. While there is a large convention space on the grounds, The Windsor Suites feel very warm and quaint, unlike many other convention-serving hotels.

Yowie Hotel

Stylized as YOWIE, this swanky little boutique hotel proves that star numbers don’t count. Though it has only two stars thanks to its amenity count (no rooftop pools or fitness centers), it’s a decidedly cool and homegrown project. The hotel is upstairs; downstairs, you can find a shop and café that’s frequented by the city’s coolest artists, indie labels, designers, and more. As an added perk, you get to stay in Center City’s ultra cool South Street area.

Guild House Hotel

YOWIE is plenty stylish when it comes to hotels in downtown Philadelphia, but Guild House Hotel delivers on both character and history. Set inside a National Historic Landmark and outfitted with effortlessly opulent décor, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped inside one of the trendiest time capsules in the world. The Founders Suite looks like something out of an Old World fantasy.

The Bellevue Hotel

Looking for a slightly quieter but equally chic atmosphere? The Bellevue Hotel offers a minimalist but historic take on luxury trappings. Its décor is more understated but just as high-class, letting you settle into life in Center City in a very Parisian way.

Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy (The Witherspoon Apartments Center City)

I always enjoy a Sonder property thanks to the spa-like feel. Similar to The Bellevue, interiors are both minimal and austere, letting you escape the hustle of Center City. As with other Sonder properties, you get long-stay perks like in-suite laundry and a full kitchen. But the real magic at The Witherspoon property is the historic grounds, which date back to 1895 and ooze with character.

ROOST Midtown

ROOST isn’t a traditional hotel; it’s a collection of privately maintained apartments set inside a residential building. Some people enjoy that kind of arrangement, while others find it cold and confusing. I’ll leave it up to you—but I think if you tend to enjoy private rentals, then ROOST Midtown is a nice in-between that puts you smack in the action of Center City.

Hampton Inn Philadelphia Center City

No need to reinvent the wheel in Center City—this Hampton Inn has all the basics you’ll need for a reliably great stay. (Also, Hampton Inn has done well in sleeper surveys for its top-notch beds. Just saying.) It’s perfect for anyone who wants to be close to the Pennsylvania Convention Center, too—it’s located just across the street.

Courtyard by Marriott Philadelphia Downtown

If the Hampton Inn doesn’t scratch your itch, you’ve got another reliable chain located in Center City. This Courtyard by Marriott has a great location in the heart of downtown Philadelphia, along with a 24-hour front desk. It’s also close to the convention center, in case you’re in town for a big event.

Which US Cities Have Airport Train Service? Plus, How to Ride

The United States has a pretty egregious reputation when it comes to public transportation.

That being said, you might be surprised to learn that over a dozen US cities now offer metro, train, and light rail connections directly from downtown to/from the airport. Some estimates put that number as high as 25 US cities.

But not all airport train service systems are created equally.

I’m from Saint Louis, Missouri, which has a pretty limited MetroLink train system. The Red Line does offer service to and from downtown Saint Louis International Airport. That being said, I wouldn’t recommend the average traveler take on Saint Louis on foot. In short, while you can get to/from the airport using the MetroLink if you’re patient, it’s not the most reliable option.

Also, it dumps you in one of Saint Louis’s sketchier downtown areas.

Are you catching my drift? While more and more cities are adding and/or improving functional airport train service, not all are actually traveler-friendly. And, in some cases, like LAX’s new FlyAway ticket system, they might not be the easiest to figure out.

Do you want information on which US cities have airport train service that you’ll actually want to use? These are my recommendations based on the criteria of being able to plan a fully carless trip—starting from the airport.

US cities with airport train service that’s easy & functional—no car rentals needed

San Francisco
NYC (La Guardia & JFK)
Chicago O’Hare
Philadelphia
Atlanta
Seattle
Minneapolis
Washington DC
Boston
Miami

US cities with airport train service that’s easy & functional—no car rentals needed

San Francisco

You can use the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system to get to and from San Francisco International Airport without a hitch. BART operates daily from 5 am to midnight—so be aware that late-night arrivals will probably funnel you toward a taxi or rideshare.

To use San Francisco’s airport train service, simply board BART at your preferred stop, then navigate to its International Terminal. From there, you can deboard and take the free AirTrain system at SFO, which takes you to each terminal. At the time of writing, a one-way fare is just over $5 and will take around 30 minutes from downtown SF.

NYC (La Guardia & JFK)

You can use the Subway to reach JFK and La Guardia, though you’ll need to use bus lines to reach La Guardia rather than the airport train system. If you’re heading to JFK, board the Subway and navigate toward the A Line. Take the A Line to Howard Beach Station-JFK Airport Station. From there, de-board and take the AirTrain JFK to the main terminal.

You can also take the E, J, or Z subway lines to Jamaica Station, which also includes an AirTrain line that takes you to JFK. However, the most popular (and the fastest) way to reach JFK via metro is usually on the A line.

In terms of reaching La Guardia, I recommend using Google Maps or a similar app to figure out a bus route. In New York City, you can use the same Subway card for buses.

Chicago (O’Hare & Midway)

For how miserable my experiences at Chicago O’Hare have been over the last decade (due to construction), I’ve always gotten to the airport faster than anticipated thanks to the Chicago L train system. (The subway/metro/public train system is called the L in Chicago, short for elevated because it runs above ground) Jump onto the L anywhere in the city, then navigate to the Blue Line. The Blue Line provides 24/7 transportation to/from Chicago O’Hare.

If you’re heading to Midway Airport, take the Orange Line to the Midway Station. It deposits you right at the airport’s terminals.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia has its own Airport Line that runs straight from Center City Philadelphia. Like San Francisco’s BART, it doesn’t offer 24-hour service. The train runs from 4am to 12 am daily, so plan accordingly. Just hop on the SEPTA Regional Rail Line’s Airport Line from the Center City Station, which serves only four stations: Philadelphia International Airport’s four terminals.

Atlanta

Atlanta’s airport train service is managed by MARTA, aka the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority. It’s not the most comprehensive in the country by a long shot, but it offers reliable airport transit. Simply head to a MARTA stop, then navigate to the Red or Gold Lines. Both will take you directly to Airport Station, which deposits you at Atlanta-Hartsfield International.

Seattle

Take the city’s functional Sound Transit Link light rail train straight to the airport. Simply hop on at any stop around the city, then navigate toward the SeaTac/Airport Link Station. You need to walk over a very cool skybridge to actually get to the airport, but it’s one of the fastest and most affordable airport train services out there.

Minneapolis

Want to know one of the most mind-blowing things about visiting Minneapolis-Saint Paul? It has a pretty badass public transit system—and its airport train service showcases that. Take the Metro to the airport. Simply board at any Metro station, then navigate toward the Blue Line. It includes two stops for each airport terminal. The cherry on top? It costs $2.00 during off-peak times and $2.50 during rush hour.

Washington DC (Washington Dulles International Airport)

DC has one of the coolest train transit systems, called the Metrorail. (Some of the stations are like works of art.) If you’re heading to IAD (that’s the more popular airport in the area), head to any Metrorail station and navigate to the Silver Line. It runs to the airport, though you’ll need to do a bit of walking to reach the terminals, similar to Seattle.

Boston

Heading to Logan International? You can take the local MBTA metro line to South Station and catch the Silver Line 1 Bus (or SL1 Bus), which takes you directly to the airport. Is it a direct train service? No, but it’s free, and that makes up for the hassle.

Miami & Fort Lauderdale

Last but not least, you can use Miami’s Tri-Rail system to get to the airport. The best way to use it is to head to Miami Central Station. From there, you can get an EASY card, then take the train to Metrorail Transfer, which is part of the Tri-Rail system. Then wait just two stops to reach Miami International Airport.

The Tri-Rail system also connects Miami to Fort Lauderdale and even West Palm Beach. Tri-Rail refers to the three counties that the train passes through: Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach.

Autumn Road Trip Inspiration: 8 Lighthouses in New Brunswick, Canada

Autumn is almost here, which means leaf-peeping pursuits are in full swing.

New England is the US’s most popular area for fall foliage displays, but it’s hardly the only one. From the Rockies to the Great Plains to the Pacific Northwest, most Americans across the country have a multicolored forest spectacle within reach.

But what if I told you the East Coast of Canada, just across the border with Maine, is home to some of the best autumn road trip fare?

One that involves an itinerary consisting of over fifteen gorgeous lighthouses with unbeatable coastal views?

Sure, it’s not the traditional autumn adventures that we’re used to because most lighthouses in New Brunswick aren’t surrounded by forest. But the journey between them will take you to some of the quaintest towns in the province—and you’ll have plenty of time to soak up those fall scenes in the meantime.

Ready to take a tour of the best lighthouses in New Brunswick for a DIY road trip that’s just across the border in Maine? Here’s where to go, starting from the south and moving north.

A quick note on building a road trip route: The lighthouses listed below are in order of southernmost to northernmost. I’ve included two additional lighthouses that you can visit in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. The distance from Swallowtail Lighthouse in Grand Manon and Cap D’Or Lighthouse in Advocate Harbour is around 5.5 hours, making this a great weekend trip.

Lighthouses in New Brunswick—for weekend road trips, autumn escapes, & more

Swallowtail Lighthouse
Head Harbour Lighthouse
Musquash Head Lighthouse
Renforth Lighthouse
Quaco Head Lighthouse
West Point Lighthouse (PEI)
Seacow Head Lighthouse (PEI)
Cap D’Or Lighthouse (NS)

Lighthouses in New Brunswick perfect for a road trip

Swallowtail Lighthouse (Grand Manan)

This active lighthouse is dearly beloved by the local community of Grand Manan. It’s perfect for lighthouse enthusiasts because you can take official tours and even visit a gift shop. But anyone who loves a dramatic coastal view will also have a great time visiting Swallowtail thanks to its rugged natural surroundings.

Head Harbour Lighthouse (Campobello Island)

Located on a small, rocky island, Head Harbour Lighthouse is only accessible when the tide is low. Otherwise, you can enjoy this iconic lighthouse from the coast. It sits nestled amid pine trees, painted in bright white and red. Some have even claimed it’s the most photographed lighthouse in the world.

Musquash Head Lighthouse (Saint John)

The beautiful Musquash head lighthouse at dusk (Getty)

Though smaller and slightly shabbier than other lighthouses in New Brunswick, consider this visit more of an experience. You can enjoy a short walk (less than one mile) from the road, then take advantage of the coastal views. Many have reported seeing marine life and, according to one recent visitor, a bald eagle.

Renforth Lighthouse (Rothesay)

Renforth Lighthouse on the riverbank of Kennebecasis River in Rothesay (Getty)

Part lighthouse and part swimming hole, Renforth Lighthouse is a staple for the local community. During the summer months, you’ll notice people swimming in the area, but when the weather turns cold, you’ll notice ice fishing on the frozen waters. Just know that the lighthouse is teeny-tiny compared to others on this list, similar to Musquash Head Lighthouse.

Quaco Head Lighthouse (St. Martins)

Beautiful morning at Quaco Head Lighthouse on the Bay of Fundy near the village of Saint Martins, New Brunswick, Canada (Getty)

Enjoy a short little jaunt from the parking lot to this stolid, plain lighthouse—and hope the weather abides. Locals and visitors alike love the view and tranquil surroundings. That being said, if it’s foggy (which isn’t uncommon), you’ll be contending with fog horns. I imagine the first foghorn bellow is interesting, but the rest might not be.

Take a break from the lighthouses in New Brunswick with a stop in Fundy National Park

Woman looking at waterfall, Fundy National Park, New Brunswick, Maritime provinces, Canada. Tranquil scene.

Located in St. Martins, not far from Quaco Head Lighthouse, is Fundy National Park, one of Canada’s most rugged and stunning parks. It’s part of the Mi’gmaq territory, giving you a glimpse into Canada’s First Nations as you explore more stunning views along the Bay of Fundy.

West Point Lighthouse (West Point, Prince Edward Island)

West Point Lighthouse, Prince Edward Island, Canada

Just across the border on Prince Edward Island is a large, black-striped lighthouse with a lovely beach that’s open to the public. Natural setting aside, West Point Lighthouse also has a museum for you to check out and a restaurant for a casual meal. If you’re really into the scenery, book a night at the on-site inn.

Seacow Head Lighthouse (Prince Edward Island)

Set atop a large cliff and surrounded by greenery, Seacow Head Lighthouse is yet another great spot to spend an afternoon on Prince Edward Island. One attractive feature is the area’s red rocks that abut the coast, which are strikingly different than the darker rocks found in New Brunswick.

Cap D’Or Lighthouse (Advocate Harbour, Nova Scotia)

Looking for a lighthouse experience? Cap D’Or Lighthouse, located in Nova Scotia, has a fantastic museum, restaurant, and inn on the grounds. The accommodations are very simple, but its menu is renowned around Canada. It’s a perfect spot to round off your visit to the lighthouses in New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia.

4 Caribbean Islands That Don’t Require a Passport & Where to Go

Americans are spoiled by the Caribbean’s proximity.

Having some of the world’s most unspoiled, vibrant tropical islands within reach is a travel blessing—especially for those who live in the Southeast or nearby. Within a few hours, you can find yourself stepping off a plane in paradise.

There’s just one catch: the Caribbean is home to over 7,000 islands, home to 13 different sovereign nations, along with a slew of dependent territories that are ruled by overseas nations.

In short, it’s a clear win for travelers, but planning a trip might be a little more complex than many think. Along with finding the right island for your vacation needs, you also need to consider things like culture, language, and even nationality.

Some Caribbean islands are easier to visit than others, after all.

And if you want to keep absolutely simple, I suggest visiting one of the Caribbean islands that don’t require a passport. You’ve got two territories to explore across six gorgeous islands. Here’s where to go, where to stay, and what you can’t miss as you visit the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

Caribbean islands that don’t require a passport: Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico

A large tropical island that offers you a bit of everything, from Latino culture to lush jungles to endless urban adventures in the capital of San Juan. A little Spanish will help you make connections and uncover hidden gems, but no need to bring your passport along.

How can you get there?

The majority of travelers arrive in San Juan, then stay a few nights in the capital before heading to an all-inclusive resort. Another popular international hub is Rafael Hernandez Airport in Aguadilla, which takes you a bit further away from the city hustle and closer to more remote resorts and experiences.

Where should you stay?

San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is a popular stop in San Juan because the hotel is affordable, comfortable, and is home to one of the city’s most popular casinos.
Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Rainforest Beach and Golf Resort is popular because it’s located in a lush jungle setting in the Rio Grande area. It’s the perfect spot to take on exotic jungle tours—or stick to the golf course, if that’s your thing.
La Jamaca is a smaller and more casual hotel that takes you off the beaten path and into a calm, island setting. Consider it a local-style hideaway where you can avoid the standard resort fare, if that’s your preference.

Culebra & Vieques (PR)

A Wild Horse poses on the beach in Vieques, Puerto Rico (Getty)

There are two islands off the coast of Puerto Rico that more intrepid travelers should know about: Culebra and Vieques. These are sometimes known as the Spanish Virgin Islands. They offer similar vibes of barely-populated, heaven-on-earth-style island living. Culebra is also home to one of the world’s most beautiful beaches: Tamarindo.

How can you get there?

You can take a ferry from the coastal town of Ceiba, which is the cheapest option to reach Vieques or Culebra. Others fly from San Juan, which is expensive but quick; both islands have their own airports.

If you prefer, you can also take a guided tour to/from the islands from San Juan, which includes plane tickets. I’d advise against doing a quick day trip; short day trips to islands usually put a huge strain on the environment and local community without giving much back. The best way to visit is to stay for a day or two.

Where should you stay?

If you’re planning to stay a few days, I recommend staying at Ulala Culebra. You won’t be near the beach, but you’ll have near-panoramic views of the island and plenty of space to roam in your private suite.
If you want a more exciting stay, book a room at Mamacitas Guest House. It’s right on the water and smack in the middle of the action, letting you walk to restaurants and nightlife. Just know that it’s got a hostel-style feel.
If you want a stylish and unexpectedly cool stay in Vieques, book a room at Puertas. I’ve heard amazing things about this beachfront property, especially in terms of ambiance.
Again, if you’re after style and something (pleasantly) surprising, stay at El Blok. It’s got character in just about every sense, from its dramatic, modern architecture to its jungle views.

Caribbean islands that don’t require a passport: US Virgin Islands

St. Thomas (USVI)

An image of Magens Bay on the island of St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands (Getty)

The United States Virgin Islands are home to three main islands—and each offers a distinct experience. The largest is St. Thomas, which is also the most developed. You can find large shopping malls, resorts from major chains, and just about any type of water adventure, especially in the main town of Charlotte Amalie.

How can you get there?

Fly into Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas. From there, you can head into Charlotte Amalie. Most visitors rent a car to get around the island, especially considering beach hopping is a popular activity.

Where should you stay?

Stay at Hilltop Villas at Bluebeard’s Castle if you want to stay close to the action in Charlotte Amalie. From there, you can explore the island while staying close to popular restaurants and entertainment venues.
If you’re looking for an all-inclusive experience, head to Margaritaville Vacation Club. Even if you’re not a Margaritaville type, you’ll enjoy this lovely beachfront resort—I promise.

St. Croix (USVI)

St. Croix is the most unique of the US Virgin Islands. It’s flatter than other islands and is also home to some of the best coral reefs in the region. Divers often head to the island, but snorkelers will have just as much to do.

How can you get there?

You can take a flight to Henry E. Rolhsen International Airport, which includes service from US cities like Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Others connect through San Juan in Puerto Rico. You can also take a ferry from Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas. Just know that ferries can take up to two hours to reach St. Croix from St. Thomas.

Where should you stay?

The Buccaneer is one of the most famous resorts in the Caribbean thanks to its long history. It’s kind of a cult favorite for families and couples that revisit St. Croix thanks to its unique country club atmosphere, massive property, and all-inclusive offers.
Want total beach access? Book at Carambola Beach Resort. All you need to do is wake up, head to the beach or pool, veg out for a few hours, feed yourself, and then repeat the next day.

St. John (USVI)

Trunk Bay, St John, United States Virgin Islands (Getty)

As the smallest and least developed of the Caribbean islands that don’t require a passport, St. John is best for travelers who are independent and not afraid to get off the tourist track. In exchange for a little extra work (or spending more to stay at an ultra-lux resort), you’ll be treated to a more private, tropical escape.

How can you get there?

There’s no airport on St. John, meaning the only way you’ll arrive is via boat. You can fly into Cyril E. King Airport in Charlotte Amalie, then catch a ferry to St. John from Red Hook. The ferry only takes around 20 minutes.

Where should you stay?

I mentioned ultra-lux in the introduction, which was a reference to The Westin St. John Resort Villas. Though very expensive, it’s one of the most highly rated resorts in the USVI, making it worth your money and the time it takes to reach.
If you’re looking for a more boutique take on luxury, book a stay at Lovango Resort. It’s deliciously stylish, letting you drop off the map like a celebrity.

8 Las Vegas Alternatives to Keep in Mind in 2026-26

It might be a bit too soon to declare whether or not Las Vegas is really dead.

But there’s one certainty: Its prices have gone from affordable to pricey to shocking in a short amount of time. Thanks to additions like the Sphere, the Grand Prix, and an NFL franchise, prices city-wide are skyrocketing. Gone is the classic Strip of yore.

Again, though they’re not the only cause, those hiked prices are certainly one reason traffic in Vegas has been slow this summer.

Have you been looking for an alternative spot to spend your cash without going broke—while also guaranteeing a great time? I’ve got picks for you. Just because Vegas is possibly on its deathbed, that doesn’t mean it’s time to mourn.

Here are the best Las Vegas alternatives based on what kind of vibe you want. No overspending needed.

8 Las Vegas alternatives for gambling, entertainment, and more

A very Vegas vibe: Reno, NV
An upscale version with plenty of spas: Palm Springs, CA
A historic beach town with large casinos: Atlantic City, NJ
A casino town that’s made for gamblers: Shreveport, LA
A funky Southern Vegas-style hub: Biloxi, MS
A casino hub with natural wonders: Niagara Falls, NY
Like Tahoe, but cheaper: Eugene, OR
The ‘international’ pick: San Juan, Puerto Rico

8 Las Vegas alternatives

A very Vegas vibe: Reno, NV

Historic and vibrant Reno, Nevada skyline (Getty)

Reno is cooler than you think. It’s a great Vegas alternative because it touches on those same desert vibes and total casino access. You’ll feel like you’re in a teeny-tiny version of Las Vegas as you pop into places like Grand Sierra, Peppermill, Atlantis, and Silver Legacy—all beloved local casinos.

But there are other adventures awaiting you in Reno. From learning how to work with raptors to skiing large slopes to a massive, hands-on science museum, it’s got surprises around every corner.

An upscale version with plenty of spas: Palm Springs, CA

Not too many people associate Palm Springs with casino culture. Instead, it’s usually renowned for its gorgeous architecture, bougie history, and world-class spas. That being said, you can explore a range of casinos around Palm Springs, from Augustine Casino to Fantasy Springs Resort Casino.

A historic beach town with large casinos: Atlantic City, NJ

Atlantic City, New Jersey needs no introduction—especially if you’ve seen series like Boardwalk Empire. I’m not suggesting AC’s history closely mirrors the dramatized HBO show, but it helped introduce this coastal casino hub to Americans who aren’t too familiar with New England.

Expect large-scale casinos and sportsbooks, like the Hard Rock and Borgata, along with more family-friendly activities.

Atlantic City is a popular stop on the Jersey Shore, meaning you can bring the family along without feeling like you’re missing out. Whether you want to walk the Boardwalk, post up on the beach, or explore one of the city’s interesting entertainment venues, you’ll have plenty to explore.

A casino town that’s made for gamblers: Shreveport, LA

Shreveport, Louisiana, USA skyline (Getty)

Don’t head to New Orleans if you want the best casinos in Louisiana—you’ll find them farther north in Shreveport, which has historically been a gambling hub. Personally, I’d go for the riverboat casinos just for the ambiance and legacy, but don’t forget about betting on the ponies at Louisiana Downs before heading out to dine along the water.

One last tip: skip out on Shreveport in the summer. The city feels like a swamp until the humidity lessens and the milder temperatures settle in. One last tip: delve into Shreveport’s history—it’s cooler than you might think.

A funky Southern Vegas-style hub: Biloxi, MS

Along with Shreveport, Biloxi is one of the South’s top gambling hubs. Biloxi is one of the most popular stops along the Gulf Coast, making it great for beach trips. Though Biloxi has faced over a decade of slow rebuilding following Hurricane Katrina, it’s all bright lights and big fun at places like Beau Rivage Casino and the Hard Rock.

A casino hub with natural wonders: Niagara Falls, NY

Fireworks over the Falls, facing Niagara Falls (Getty)

Forget the waterfalls—there’s so much more to discover in Niagara Falls. From Art Alley to the exciting drag of Clifton Hill, there are non-falls adventures waiting around every corner. There are even a few top-notch casinos, including Seneca Niagara Falls Resort on the US side and Fallsview Casino Resort on the Canadian side.

Like Tahoe, but cheaper: Eugene, OR

Lake Tahoe is one of the best places that Americans can head for a balanced trip that involves Mother Nature and gambling… but it’ll set you back almost as much as Las Vegas. If you want a scenic gambling trip, head to Eugene, Oregon instead. Along with casinos, you can explore craft breweries, delightful wineries, and, of course, hike and swim through some of the area’s greatest natural corridors.

Just know that the most popular casinos are located outside of town. Three Rivers Casino Resort is located around thirty minutes away, along with Seven Feathers Casino Resort.

The ‘international’ pick: San Juan, Puerto Rico

Of all the Las Vegas alternatives offered here, San Juan, Puerto Rico, is the most adventurous. The island has many casinos, sportsbooks, and racetracks to choose from. Cock fighting is still the national sport, as well, in case you want to bet on poultry pugilism.

There’s Casino Metro, Casino del Mar at La Concha, and Stellaris Casino are three of the most popular picks in the capital of San Juan. However, you can find larger casino-resorts the further you wander from the capital, such as the Wyndham Grand Rio.

Visiting Barcelona for the First Time? I’ve Got 6 Booking Tips from a Pro Guide

Ah, Barcelona.

It’s one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, a contemporary hub for art, philosophy, street fashion, and more that comes with a bold Catalan flavor. It’s also my transplant home for the last seven years.

And a bit of a war zone when it comes to tourism.

Over the last few years, I’ve covered tourism in Barcelona from a variety of angles. I’ve laid out my favorite pastry shops and Christmas markets, explored issues like de-listed Airbnbs and why some people protest tourism, and tried to showcase other locations around Barcelona that are worth visiting.

As a local resident, I’m fairly qualified to point you in the right direction when it comes to things to do, as well as local social issues. But I didn’t grow up in the city, nor do I speak Catalan, meaning there are many elements to Barcelona that are beyond my purview.

In short, there’s a lot I could learn from a local tour guide who has both academic and professional experience in showcasing the very best of their city. Similar to Panos, an expert guide in Athens who represents ToursByLocals, Cayetano also has the qualifications you need for a great tour of Barcelona.

Want to see the difference between a regular tour guide in Barcelona and one who is specifically trained to take you to some of the city’s best sites—and beyond?

Whether you’re visiting Barcelona for the first time or returning, here’s what the city’s most highly rated guide, Cayetano, wants you to know.

6 reasons to book a qualified guide if you’re visiting Barcelona for the first time

#1: The difference is decades of experience

Here’s the rub: Catalonia is full of tour guides, but not all of them have the necessary experience to offer a balanced tour—one that includes lots of learning, a few laughs, and other elements like knowing how to keep a group of possibly jet-lagged and hungry tourists happy.

Guides like Cayetano have the necessary background to put together a memorable tour that’s worth the money. Not only does he have the right licenses (which I dig into below), but he has a whopping 27 years of experience in hospitality—and that includes time spent working in the United States, which makes him particularly great for American visitors.

#2: And an academic background

As with visiting Athens, you need a guide in Barcelona who is qualified to summarize thousands of years of history. I mean that literally; Barcelona has been around for a long time, and a basic tour guide probably won’t have the experience or skillset to convey a lot of information in an eloquent and entertaining way.

Guides like Cayetano have experience, as I covered above, but they also have rigorous academic training. He has a bachelor’s degree in Art History, along with a second in Business (Hospitality and Tourism). He also has two separate licenses: an Official Guide License from the Catalan Government and another from the Professional Licensed Tour Guides Association of Catalonia.)

#3: Catalonia actually tests its tour guides

Like you might have noticed in the previous section, being an official guide gives Cayetano a leg up on other guides in Barcelona. Not all tour guides actually have the correct licensing from local tourism authorities, but Cayetano has passed specific exams (including linguistic exams) to earn his travel guide ‘badges’, so to speak.

This status allows Cayetano to take visitors into official monuments and museums. More importantly, in my opinion, it also shows that this is Cayetano’s profession—not just a hobby or a side hustle.

**#4: You need a great introduction to Catalonia (and the Mediterranean…)**

One reason Cayetano loves his job is introducing visitors to the Mediterranean way of life, which is a lot different than how we live in the United States. If you’re visiting Barcelona for the first time, that gives you a great introduction to not just the city, Catalonia, and Spain, but the entire region.

That being said, visitors need to learn about Catalonia and its historic involvement with Spain. It’s a very complex and emotionally charged topic, meaning locals like Cayetano are the most qualified to discuss it. I could give you an intro based on my seven years in Barcelona, but it would be paltry compared to the depth and insights that a tour guide like Cayetano can share.

#5: Qualified guides know Barcelona—and beyond

That brings me to my next point: Barcelona is smaller than you might think, and Cayetano knows when, where, and how to take you away from its busiest sites and off the beaten path.

Some of his favorite excursions are the Sagrada Familia, and Montserrat, and its various experiences, including seeing the Black Madonna (La Morenata) and the boys’ choir (Escolonia de Montserrat). The latter is located outside the city and is one of the most iconic destinations in Catalonia that many first-time visitors miss.

He also offers tours such as a Game of Thrones-themed tour of Girona via high-speed train and a dual Montserrat & Manresa tour on St. Ignatius, for example.

#6: Licensed tour guide = priority access

Licensed tour guides in Catalonia get priority access to most of its museums and monuments. That’s an important note here because you don’t want to waste time when you’re on vacation. As Cayetano says, “Time is money when you are traveling.”

Booking a tour with an official guide like Cayetano saves you time when you need it most, preventing you from wasting precious hours in line. Or, more importantly, wasting precious time trying to figure out how to buy tickets online—without realizing they’re already sold out.

One last tip: Cayetano recommends visitors stay in one spot when visiting Europe

I have one last piece of advice if you’re visiting Barcelona for the first time: try to stay in the area for most of your trip. Cayetano wishes that more visitors knew that the best way to experience locations around Europe is to stay for more than a few days to really invest in the local culture and atmosphere. He doesn’t like to see visitors wasting their time in airports and train stations.