7 Reasons To Visit The Royal Family’s Retired Yacht

In 1997, the normally stoic Queen Elizabeth shed a tear when the Royal Yacht Britannia was decommissioned. The ship had traveled more than one million miles in its 40 years of service. Most trips were diplomatic with the royals visiting dignitaries in far-flung foreign ports.

And while the yacht has a fascinating history, it’s still just as loved today. In fact, Britannia was ranked as the top UK landmark to visit by TripAdvisor UK’s 2014/15 Travellers’ Choice Awards. Even still, when I went, I expected to be a little bored. Instead, I was royally engaged for three hours.

In between ports, the yacht was a place where the royals could relax away from the public limelight. All four of the Queen’s children honeymooned on board Britannia. During Prince Charles and Princess Diana’s Mediterranean cruise, the crew became so adept at ducking photographers that Britannia was dubbed “the ghost ship.” Here are some of the reasons the impressive vessel is worth a visit.

View from the bow of the Royal Yacht Britannia. — Nadine Cresswell-Myatt

1. It’s Easily Accessible

The retired yacht is docked next to the Ocean Terminal — a huge shopping mall in the Port of Leith roughly a 20-minute bus ride from central Edinburgh. Britannia is accessed via the visitor’s center on the second floor. All five decks can be reached via a shore-side elevator tower, and the ship prides itself on being wheelchair accessible.

The Queen's room aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia. — Nadine Cresswell-Myatt

2. You’ll Get Personal Glimpses Of Royalty

Britannia offers a more intimate portrayal of the royals than a tour of Buckingham Palace, where tourists only see the formal reception rooms. There are regal reception rooms on Britannia, but you also get to see the family’s living quarters, complete with furnishings that flaunt florals and chintzes.

This is the first time living British royal bedrooms have been on public display. Her Majesty and Prince Phillip had adjoining rooms but single beds. Prince Charles had a double bed brought on board when he married Diana, and there is a photo of the hopeful couple on the bedside table. So sad in retrospect.

The Royal Yacht Britannia in Scotland. — Edinburghcitymom / Shutterstock

3. See How Royal Kids Will Be Kids

Adults sunbathed on the Verandah Deck, and the children frolicked in an inflatable wading pool. As they grew older, a slide doused with water was placed on the steep stairway leading from this deck to the Royal Deck, and Prince Charles and his siblings would see how far they could propel themselves along the polished deck. Even Prince Philip had his turn. But it wasn’t a free-for-all. Princess Anne once said it took a team of nannies to prevent them falling overboard as the children became so excitable at sea. Each child was also allocated a “Sea Daddy,” a crew member to keep them occupied.

The dining room on the Royal Yacht Britannia. — Nadine Cresswell-Myatt

4. Understand How Royalty Operates

The yacht was a representation of the United Kingdom’s greatness, and everything had to be ship-shape. A smudge on board would not be tolerated, and even the propellers faced a certain direction before dignitaries arrived. The engine room was immaculate with not a skerrick of grease.

The State Dining Room seated up to 56 dinner guests. The Clintons, President Reagan and wife Nancy, Nelson Mandela, Frank Sinatra, and Sir Winston Churchill were just a few of those who dined on board.

Precision was everything. Chairs were carefully aligned, and the distance between each place setting and the cutlery was measured with rulers.

The gifts in the dining room cabinets reveal the extent of the Queen’s far-flung travels and include a carved shark signed by Pitcairn Islanders, descendants of Fletcher Christian of Mutiny on the Bounty, an Easter Island stone head, a wooden Galapagos tortoise, and a Sioux peace pipe.

The writer enjoying tea on board the Royal Yacht Britannia. — Nadine Cresswell-Myatt

5. Enjoy Afternoon Tea On Board

Afternoon tea at the Royal Deck Tea Room is a must during your visit. This is where the Royals enjoyed their meals, too. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase views of ships plying the Firth of Forth. Tea comes in little silver teapots, and there are excellent cheese scones as well as whisky cake. My table was on the deck — a wonderful setting for that slice of Victoria Sponge I’d been saving myself for.

Crew Laundry on Royal Yacht Britannia — Crew Laundry Room (Photo Credit: Francesco Ricciardi Exp / Shutterstock.com)

6. Learn About Life As A Crew Member

Britannia’s crew included an admiral, 21 officers, and 220 Royal Yachtsmen (called yotties by the Royals).

The yotties’ bunk accommodations were cramped and basic. They wore gym shoes in order to tread quietly and would often use hand signals to communicate rather than shouting orders so as not to disturb the royals.

The officers had their own mess room where they enjoyed a tipple or two. A favorite game was tennis, during which a stuffed wombat toy was placed on the blades of the ceiling fan, careening off at unpredictable angles for awaiting players. The wooden monkey from the Queen’s 1957 visit to Copenhagen had a less painful existence. It would simply disappear from the cabinet each night and reemerge in unusual places in a game of hide-and-seek the whole ship enjoyed.

The wooden monkey on board the Royal Yacht Britannia. — Nadine Cresswell-Myatt

7. Visit The Royal Gift Shop

The ship’s gift shop sells quintessentially English items like corgi handbags, shortbread tins, tea bags with royal figureheads you balance on the side of your cup, and fine china. You can purchase bottles of Britannia gin or Christmas puddings. These have been made in the galley for the last 60 years and are part of a royal tradition.

Leith Harbor in Edinburgh, Scotland. — Leith Harbor, Albert Pego / Shutterstock.com

Bonus: Consider Enjoying Leith And Staying Aboard The Fingal

Wander around the historic port of Leith, a cosmopolitan area with artisanal restaurants, bars, and shops. To provide memorable accommodation, the team behind the Royal Yacht Britannia launched Fingal, a 23-cabin luxury floating hotel in 2019, and it is moored nearby. £5 million were spent outfitting Fingal in art deco elegance, and royalty stayed here, too. The hotel’s Skerryvore Suite incorporates a portion of the cabin that was sometimes stayed in by Princess Anne.

This is your chance to sleep like a royal — in a king-sized bed rather than a single. The Royal Yacht Britannia seems a portrait of pomp and privilege, but when compared to today’s more lavish accommodations, it pales in comparison.

Note the clocks on board Britannia are set at 3:01, the moment the Queen last disembarked the royal yacht on December 11, 1997. It was indeed a sad moment for her Majesty, but a great day for tourists who can now enjoy this right royal attraction.

Planning some royal sightseeing? Don’t miss these 11 amazing hidden gems in Edinburgh, or these 9 United Kingdom castles you can actually stay in.

How To Take The Train From London To Paris

Eurostar is the train that runs between London and Paris for people going without a car. It runs more than 12 times daily, connecting St. Pancras International Station in London with Paris Gare du Nord. Here’s some basic information about how Eurostar works, what it’s like, and other ways of making the trip.

London and Paris each offer legendary culture, dining, history, architecture, shopping, and more. There’s no need to pick just one when you can easily travel between them any day of the week.

Why Take The Train?

Different travelers have different priorities, especially when it comes to cost, time, comfort, and, increasingly, the carbon footprint of their journeys.

Depending on the situation, Eurostar can be a better choice than flying. Here are some of the reasons why.

Cost

The Eurostar ticket includes a reserved seat and allows you to bring two pieces of luggage. Children travel for less on Eurostar.

Cost And Time

The train arrives in Paris proper. If you fly in, you’ll spend time and money transferring from the airport to the city center.

Time

Airlines need you at the airport at least two hours before takeoff. Eurostar in London asks you to arrive between 45 and 60 minutes ahead (longer if you need special assistance). Also, traveling by Eurostar, you’ll clear French customs and border control before leaving London. On the train, there’s no waiting to collect your luggage after the journey.

Comfort

The train is more relaxed and spacious.

Carbon Footprint

The train has a significantly smaller carbon footprint than a London-to-Paris flight or vice versa.

The Eurostar journey time is under two and a half hours. From about 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., trains go approximately once each hour. The most correct and detailed information is on Eurostar’s website and its current timetable.

The Eurostar train in London. — TungCheung / Shutterstock

Things To Know

Eurostar’s pricing depends on how far in advance you book and how much demand there is for the particular day and time you want to ride.

The cheapest offer is the Eurostar Snap £25 one way fare, a limited availability, restricted, non-refundable deal you have to book through Facebook.

Beyond that, the regular booking process offers three classes of fares: Standard, Standard Premier, and Business Premier. As of January 2020, the return fares range from £79 to £339 (Standard), £199 to £439 (Standard Premier), and £491 (Business Premier). One-way fares are about £15 more than half the return fare, roughly.

Tickets go on sale 180 days in advance and can be purchased online or by phone for a £10 fee. Some travel agents handle Eurostar bookings. Booking for yourself online gives you the most control of your reservation, though.

Your seat is assigned, but you can change it online based on availability. The Eurostar website has seat maps.

In Standard class, you pay for food and drink, but you can bring your own food in any class.

I like Standard Premier class because it has larger seats than Standard. You’ll be served a light meal, have more space, and be surrounded by fewer people.

Business Premier offers a private lounge, last-minute boarding privileges, and fancier meals.

St. Pancras International Station in London. — Willy Barton / Shutterstock

Where To Board In London

St. Pancras International Station is part of Kings Cross St. Pancras. These two connected stations function as one.

You can get there by Tube (London Underground), bus, taxi, or out-of-town train.

The Journey Planner on the Transport for London (TfL) website will help you select the best route. Use the “Edit Preferences” button to find options with the least walking, the fewest stairs, and so on. Also, ask at the ticket office of any station in the TfL network for up-to-date travel advice and tips. Maintenance work, often done on weekends, can lead to reduced service and delays.

St. Pancras is a beautiful Victorian building that’s worth exploring. Eurostar takes up much of the lower level.

You will have your luggage with you the whole time. At the Eurostar departures area, pull out your passport and ticket and say your goodbyes. There’s airport-style security and a border check by French officials.

Everyone traveling needs a valid passport. For the precise rules about entering France, including whether you need a visa, the Government of France website is the authoritative source. Here is a visa questionnaire they provide. Your own government’s website may offer useful information as well.

After security, everyone waits in the Eurostar departure lounge. When you board the train, put your larger bags into the big rack at the end of the car. Smaller items can go in the overhead rack above your seat.

Accessibility for people with limited mobility is a priority in London’s public transport. St. Pancras has stairs with nearby elevators along the way from the Tube to the Eurostar.

Eurostar is not part of Transport for London. Eurostar’s website has extensive information about what assistance they offer once you reach them. You should arrive earlier (75 minutes ahead at least) if you require assistance, and if you want help with luggage, keep it under 33 pounds per piece.

Gare du Nord station in Paris. — Bikeworldtravel / Shutterstock

What To Know About Paris Arrival

The Eurostar journey itself is easy. You can eat and drink and plug in your devices. Eurostar offers Wi-Fi (though this might be limited). There are toilets on board.

In the Channel tunnel, it’s dark, but that doesn’t last long. Mostly the view varies between railway embankments and the flat countryside.

In Paris there are no formalities. Gather your luggage, leave the train, and voila, you’re there.

What to do next? Gare du Nord is a major station. You can get a taxi, bus, regional train, or the Paris Metro from here.

The local scammers love the Paris Metro self-serve ticket machines. They will offer to “help” you. Their so-called “help” is always complicated, and you will always lose. Avoid these people and don’t let them distract you. The official agents do not wander around the station; they serve only at the ticket counter.

If all you need is tickets for the Paris Metro, you can often buy them on board your Eurostar train at the bar buffet.

Alternatives To Taking The Train

I’ve already compared the Eurostar to flying.

That said, the cheapest way from London to Paris is by bus. Prices start around £12 one-way. The bus drives above ground and goes into the Chunnel on a vehicle train, not the Eurostar. You stay on the bus the whole time. This journey is hours longer and less comfortable than the Eurostar.

The ferry to France is another option. You can either take a bus from London to Paris via the ferry or find your own way to and from the ferry terminal at each end, going from London to Dover and from Calais to Paris.

Eurostar London To Paris Final Thoughts And Tips

London and Paris are in different time zones. Paris is one hour ahead. The schedule uses the local time — London time for departure, Paris time for arrival.

The Eurostar website has special offers on Paris attractions, deals on hotels, and activities for adults and children, including a very cool virtual reality app, and extensive information about the service.

The website The Man in Seat 61 is full of train travel tips and information. He says if you are connecting to another train in Paris, don’t book your Eurostar ticket until you have your onward train booked first.

I’ve taken several trips on the Eurostar and it’s been a smooth, calm ride every time.

Want more on getting around during your European vacation? Here’s why one writer says renting a car in Britain was a hair-raising experience (and why she absolutely recommends it), plus nine reasons to take a bike tour of Versailles.

Why Oaxaca City Is A Chocolate Lover’s Dream

Chocolate is one of the most popular flavors in the world, regarded by millions as the ultimate indulgence in every form, be it a candy bar, hot chocolate, or part of a dish like chicken mole. The cocoa tree originates in the rainforests of the Americas, and its scientific name, Theobroma cacao, translates into “food of the gods”. Because of its unique aroma, people considered it a sacred substance and treated it as one.

Though the cocoa tree grows wild in the rainforest, ancient societies, starting with the Olmec around 1500 B.C., cultivated it. Later, the Maya and the Aztecs used it not only as food and drink but for trading and even for currency.

When the Spanish first arrived in the Americas, they came into contact with chocolate through the Aztecs. And the descendants of the Aztecs, the modern indigenous people living in and around Central Mexico still use chocolate as a daily staple. They drink or eat cocoa in different forms for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It also plays a role in their ceremonies and rituals, including births, weddings, rites of passage, and funerals.

But nowhere else in Mexico is chocolate as prevalent as in Oaxaca City, where the rich aroma of fresh chocolate accompanies you everywhere you walk. Though they don’t grow cocoa trees here, Oaxaca is on an ancient trading route and has established itself as a center for chocolate use over the centuries.

Best Places To Try Oaxacan Chocolate

No matter where you are in Oaxaca, a chocolate shop is not far away, and more often than not, it offers a few varieties of hot chocolate. Keeping with ancient tradition, Oaxacans most often drink their chocolate either with water or milk. When you order, you need to specify with or without milk (con leche means “with milk” — sin leche means “without milk”). They always add cinnamon, and sometimes almonds.

The varieties of hot chocolate are only one way to drink cocoa in Oaxaca. Another chocolate drink to try is champurrado, a warm, thick drink made with milk, cornflour, sugar, and cinnamon.

But the oldest chocolate drink specific to Oaxaca is tejate, made by indigenous Zapotec and Mixteca people following the traditional recipes from centuries ago. They use both cocoa and cocoa flowers, plus corn and ground seeds of the mamey fruit to make it. To find it, look for indigenous women wearing traditional clothing selling it from street stands. They scoop it out of a large clay bowl into smaller wooden decorated bowls. You’ll notice that the surface of the tejate seems to have a snowy foam. This is the cocoa flower.

Oaxacans also eat their chocolate, though not as we are used to it, like candy bars or baked in pastries. Instead, they add it to their main meals in the form of a thick savory sauce called mole. Oaxaca is famous for its mole sauces, so when you visit, you need to try a dish made with it. Every restaurant in town features a few dishes with mole sauce. You’ll find at least seven different varieties of this thick sauce made with over 20 ingredients, but only the black mole features chocolate.

If you are wondering where to sample some of the best Oaxacan chocolate (or mole), try the following spots:

Chocolate from Mayordomo in Oaxaca. — ChocolateMayordomo.com.mx

Mayordomo Chocolate Shops

Mayordomo is the best-known and most popular chain of chocolate shops in Oaxaca, and you’ll find one of them on just about every corner, enticing you to go inside with the aroma of their fresh-made chocolate.

If you were wondering what cocoa beans look like, you’ll see them here, stored in large burlap bags at the entrance. Watch the chocolatiers grind these beans into a chocolate paste, adding unrefined sugar, cinnamon, and other ingredients to the mix, making the paste to the specifications of their customers. At the counter, try a few samples of different chocolate drinks or pieces of fresh chocolate paste that just came out of the grinding machine.

The larger Mayordomo stores also have a fast-food lunch counter, serving a few dishes topped with black mole sauce. If you want a larger selection of chocolate-based meals in a sit-down restaurant, you can also try Mayordomo’s full-fledged restaurant.

Casa Mayordomo Restaurante

You’ll find the Mayordomo Restaurant in the historic center of Oaxaca, on Macedonio Alcala. Although they offer a variety of traditional Oaxacan dishes, their focus is on chocolate; their black mole is the best I ever had. And for dessert, you must have a cup of fresh hot Majordomo chocolate.

Chocolate La Soledad

Chocolate Y Mole La Soledad has a similar setup to the Mayordomo stores, with the grinders, samples, a small cafe, and a store. You can find one on Mina Street in the center of town. Even if you had enough chocolate for the day and don’t need another sample, it’s worth walking into the store to see the intricate wood carvings on the counters and the walls.

Chocolate Guelaguetza

Another great stop for hot chocolate where you can also watch the process of chocolate making is the Chocolate Gualeguetza on 20 Noviembre street off Mina Street.

Other Chocolate Shops In Oaxaca City

Other than the three stores where you can see the process of chocolate making, you have plenty of options to stop for a cup of hot chocolate or buy already-made chocolate products or a mole paste.

Besides being a chocolate shop, La Autentica Chocolateria (owned by a small cooperative), is also a small vegetarian restaurant that displays local artwork.

Texier is more like a traditional small pastry shop/cafe/chocolatier. Besides the usual chocolate drinks, you’ll find chocolate pastries, something you won’t see in the other, more traditional chocolate stores in town.

You’ll find several chocolate shops in the Mercado, the market just one block from the Zocalo. One worth stopping at is the small chocolate store/cafe El Rito. They also produce their own chocolate, working with local cocoa farmers from Oaxaca and neighboring Tabasco and Chiapas for the past ten years.

Taking Oaxacan Chocolate Home With You

If you are flying back home, the easiest way to take Oaxacan chocolate products home with you is to buy them prepackaged. You can buy different bars in any of the above-mentioned stores to melt and make your own delicious hot chocolate from, and mole sauce mixes either as a paste or powder. If you want to have your own mixture made, your best bet to bring it home is to pack it in a checked bag. If you travel with only a carry-on, stick to the prepackaged goods to avoid any problems with airport security. (They have a rule of allowing only commercially packaged food products.)

What Else Is There To Do In Oaxaca City?

Though best known for its chocolate, the center of Oaxaca City, officially known as Oaxaca de Juarez, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site worth a visit for its architecture and history. The center and heart of the city, the Zocalo, which is surrounded by colonial structures, is always busy, with dancers and musicians setting up shows there daily. Cathedrals, palaces, colorful buildings, and cobblestoned streets add to its charm. While at the Mercado, try some chapulines, or fried grasshoppers — another Oaxacan specialty.

Oaxaca City is also important from an ancient historical perspective, being the gateway to Monte Alban, one of the most important pre-Columbian ruins in Mexico.

Captivated? Read up on why chocolate travel will tantalize more than your taste buds, and prepare to jet set accordingly!

The 10 Cheapest Countries To Visit In 2021

Traveling on a budget isn’t especially difficult, provided that you’re willing to look at a variety of destinations — and take a great deal when you find one. Following the 2020 shutdown, the travel industry is pulling out all the stops to entice travelers back. In 2021, you can experience new cultures, lounge on exotic beaches, and sample the world’s finest culinary delicacies without breaking the bank. If you’re not sure where to start, this list should help you get your bearings.

We created this list by considering lodging, dining, and airfare prices for the destinations in question, using several major cities (Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York) as departure points. We also looked at other factors that might affect travelers, including safety and availability of public transportation.

Remember, you can save significantly on airfare by using websites like Google Flights and Flightscanner or apps like Hopper to monitor prospective flights (and no, we aren’t getting paid for any of those mentions). If you’re patient enough, you’ll eventually find a great deal. Be sure to check out our article on cheap flights for more airfare tips.

With that said, let’s dive in. If you’re traveling in 2021, here are some budget-friendly destinations you’ll want to consider.

Skyline of Mexico City, Mexico. — Suriel Ramzal / Shutterstock

1. Mexico

Airfare to Mexico should stay low throughout 2021, and given the American dollar’s strength relative to the peso, there’s never been a better time to head south.

Coastal cities like Cancun and Cozumel are always a safe bet for beachgoers, but don’t overlook Mexico City. Here, travelers can easily find accommodations for $100 per night and under, and gourmet restaurants like Pujol and Zanaya make Mexico City an essential bucket-list stop for foodies. While you’re here, stop by Museo Soumaya, a private museum with an extensive collection featuring the works of Auguste Rodin and Salvador Dali.

In general, travelers can safely spend time in major Mexican cities by taking basic precautions, but some states have elevated travel advisories; check the Department of State’s advisory page before booking your trip.

2. Vietnam

We’ve written about Vietnam in other articles, and it remains a tried-and-true option for budget-conscious travelers. Even in Ho Chi Minh City, travelers can find a plethora of hotel rooms for under $50, and if you stick with local restaurants, you can easily keep your food budget under $10 per day.

Airfare is also remarkably affordable; with a quick Google Flights search, we found fares from Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles for less than $700.

Consider heading to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its breathtaking landscapes, or rent a bike in Hanoi to explore the capital’s many landmarks (Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Hoan Kiem Lake certainly deserve some time). Wherever you go, you’ll find cheap accommodations, great food, and friendly locals.

Editor’s Note: Vietnam was also named as one of the top 10 best places in the world to retire. Find out more about retiring in Vietnam here.

Skyline of Tallinn, Estonia. — Oleksiy Mark / Shutterstock

3. Estonia

While Baltic countries are generally affordable, Estonia is a perpetual entry on our budget travel lists. That’s partly because tourists don’t really know about it yet — Estonia attracted about 2.14 million foreign tourists in 2018, and that number wasn’t a significant increase from the previous year.

That generally means that you won’t have to fight the crowds, and you won’t spend too much of your budget on food or accommodations. You can find airfare to the country’s capital, Tallinn, for under $800 from most major American airports, and hotels are available from around $40 a night (less if you’re willing to book a private room in a hostel).

In Tallinn, be sure to take the free 2-hour walking tour of the Old Town district to gaze at the city’s enchanting architecture. You can also arrange brewery tours, enjoy remarkably affordable fine dining, or browse one of the city’s many art galleries. For more ideas, check out our guide to spending a day in Tallinn.

4. Armenia

This former Soviet state is one of the cheapest European countries to visit. In 2018, former president Serzh Sargsyan resigned peacefully after popular protests, and the Armenian government is currently going through a period of positive political change. Apart from the Nagorno-Karabakh region on the country’s eastern border, Armenia is a safe place to travel, and its major cities are delightful destinations for cultural explorers.

Spend some time in Yerevan, where you can pay your respects at the Armenian Genocide Memorial. The core of the city is Republic Square, where travelers can visit the History Museum and National Gallery, but architecture aficionados will want to travel out to the nearby Zvartnots Cathedral ruins, about a half-hour’s drive from the city.

The city of Odessa, Ukraine. — Murat An / Shutterstock

5. Ukraine

You’ll want to avoid Eastern Ukraine, where Russian-backed separatists are still engaged in a conflict with the Ukrainian government. Coastal cities like Odessa and Lviv are perfectly safe options for travel; we found airfare to Odessa for less than $600, and lodging is available in the city for around $30 per night and up.

Odessa is famous for its beaches, but travelers should also check out the Odessa Catacombs, an enormous network of tunnels used by Soviet partisans during World War II. Aboveground, you’ll find an assortment of fine restaurants offering the best of Baltic fare; travelers can easily fill up for less than $10, though gourmet options like Sovremennik are certainly worth a little extra.

6. Argentina

Quite a few South American countries deserve a place on this list, but Argentina is our top pick. In cities like Mendoza, travelers can enjoy world-renowned wines at restaurants like Azafran, which we’ve covered in another piece on the city. Be sure to carry plenty of paper money, since regularly changing currency rates can make electronic payments a hassle.

Airfare to Argentina can be expensive compared to airfare to other cities on this list (flights from Chicago averaged around $1,000), so if you’re planning on visiting, use the aforementioned flight-tracking tools to find deals. Once you arrive, you’ll find affordable accommodations for $20 per night and up, and you’ll be able to eat like royalty on a fairly slim budget.

Skyline of Bucharest, Romania. — Alexandru Nika / Shutterstock

7. Romania

Travelers often say that visiting Romania is like traveling back in time. That’s fair, to a degree; the Transylvanian countryside is littered with pre-Industrial villages, and you’ll see medieval architecture in nearly every major city. If that sounds appealing, good news: The prices are also a throwback. For under $700, you can easily find a flight to Romania in summer, and most cities have accommodations for less than $70 per night.

Most travelers will want to spend at least a few days in Bucharest, the country’s capital. Known as the Little Paris of the East, Bucharest has charming Bohemian architecture, numerous historic sites of interest, and fantastic shopping districts. Check out our guide to Bucharest’s hidden gems here.

8. Cuba

Despite what you might have heard, American travelers can still visit Cuba — just not as tourists. The process for obtaining a travel visa is slightly more difficult than it was in 2018, but the United States government recognizes 11 authorized categories of travel, and dedicated adventurers can still find their way to Havana.

Of course, that could change at any time, so if you’re planning a Cuban vacation, you’ll want to go while it’s still possible. All U.S. flights must arrive in Havana, and the city is both affordable and beautiful. Excellent day-trip options from the capital are available as well.

Skyline of Sofia, Bulgaria, at sunset. — Boyan Georgiev Georgiev / Shutterstock

9. Bulgaria

A former Soviet satellite state, Bulgaria has developed its tourism industry substantially in recent years. Nearly nine million foreign tourists visited in 2017, and if you’ve always wanted to head to the Balkans, you’ll want to book your trip before that number grows.

Visit the capital city, Sofia, to see the Church of Saint George Rotunda, built by the Romans in the fourth century. The city also has numerous art galleries, bustling antique markets, and ancient Roman ruins. Our guide to Sofia can help you plan your trip to this often-overlooked capital.

If you’re looking for more of a traditional vacation experience, head to Varna, a seaside city with fantastic resorts, large public parks, and medieval cave monasteries.

Airfare to either city hovers around $700 from Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles, and accommodations are generally available for less than $60 per night (and yes, that includes seaside hotels in Varna).

10. Italy

We’re surprised to see Italy on this list, too — the country hosts record numbers of tourists year after year, but it’s still an affordable destination for American travelers, provided that you plan carefully. To avoid crowds and keep your expenses in check, consider traveling sometime between October and June.

Airfare to Rome, Venice, and Florence is fairly affordable year-round, with sub-$700 flights popping up from time to time. Unless you’re traveling for several weeks, pick one city and stick with it; many tourists overpack their itineraries, which can leave them fighting the crowds and overpaying for food and accommodations. Check out our guides to each of the cities (linked above), and don’t be afraid to explore.

For a less conventional vacation, consider heading to one of Italy’s beautiful small towns (and yes, we have a guide for that, too).

5 Off-The-Beaten-Path Arizona Towns And Why You Should Visit

These five truly small Arizona towns are interesting, each giving a visitor a distinct experience. We discovered them over several months while we were looking for a place to settle in Arizona, where there are about 300 sunshiny days a year. Just short side trips from the larger towns we were considering, we took a peek and were hugely rewarded.

These towns are, on average, about three hours apart from each other, except for the last two, which are closer together. A three day-road trip can be designed to string them together, starting in Lake Havasu City or Bullhead City in the northwest and ending south of Tucson in the southeast.

Burros on main street in Oatman. — Jon Chica / Shutterstock

1. The Burro Town Of Oatman, Arizona

Oatman, Arizona is a rugged former gold mining town in the Black Mountains at about 2,700 feet in elevation. It is only an hour from Lake Havasu City and just 40 minutes from Bullhead City. We went from Lake Havasu City. The access roads were old and poorly paved, but the wild chollas dotted the foothills, reminding us of a section of Joshua Tree National Park where they are also plentiful. The town’s current population is down to 128 from 3,500 during its mining heyday in 1915.

I found and purchased a unique little leather purse in Oatman, as I always do in these small towns, but what made the shopping most enjoyable were the many wild burros — white, grey, brown, or spotted — that walk all around town. Like most tourists, we fed them little bits of alfalfa which can be bought from any store. They usually gather at storefronts. We couldn’t enter a store when one went so far as blocking the door (to the consternation of the owner, who sprayed him with water to shoo him away, allowing us to enter).

The town of Jerome, Arizona. — FiledIMAGE / Shutterstock

2. The Mountain Town Of Jerome, Arizona

Jerome, Arizona is at the top of Cleopatra Hill between the cities of Prescott and Sedona. At 5,000 feet in elevation, it overlooks the beautiful Verde Valley. The view is breathtaking from many points in the town. An old mansion still stands tall, reminding locals and visitors of the town’s mining heyday. An old solitary jail still stands at the outskirts of town, too. A grand old wheel lords the middle of town, another reminder of its historic past. And, of course, there is a mining museum that tells Jerome’s story in detail.

The historic copper mining town once thrived. In fact, it was the fourth largest city in the state with 15,000 people in the 1920s. Now, its population doesn’t even reach 450. But it has transformed itself into an artist and tourist hub. As a matter of fact, today it’s known as the largest ghost town in America and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1967. Jerome is dotted with retail and gift shops, art galleries, cafes and restaurants, and many lodging options. I even found a Filipino (like me), who had married a Caucasian partner; she owned the flamboyant Lola Boutique.

The hanging man in Tortilla Flat, Arizona. — Carol Colborn

3. Tortilla Flat In The Middle Of Nowhere

For the nature lover, a drive down the Apache Trail — which starts in Apache Junction 40 minutes east of Phoenix — showcases the beauties of desert scenery. In spring, the hills even turn yellow. At the end of the trail lies Tortilla Flat, a small unincorporated community built on the last surviving stagecoach stop. With a population of just six, the Flat is the smallest community that has a U.S. Post Office and a voter’s precinct. It was once a camping ground for gold prospectors, but later it became a freight camp during the construction of the nearby Theodore Roosevelt Dam.

In 1942, a flood pushed many residents away, and in 1998, an Indiana farmer bought the town. Today, there is a small country store with great ice cream for sale — including the world-famous prickly pear cactus ice cream — a saloon serving good Southwest cuisine, and a souvenir shop where I found a lovely and unique top. Many Superstition Mountain-area hiking trails start in Tortilla Flat.

The middle-of-nowhere Superstition Restaurant and Saloon oozed Old West, from the hanging man and the saddle bar stools to an old jukebox. $1 bills covered every inch of the walls, so we followed suit and signed and stuck one to the first teeny weeny empty spot we could find. But the best experience was saved for last. When we told people we met that we were going to Tortilla Flat, each one advised us not to miss the restrooms of the saloon. Let me tell you that if you weren’t captivated by the end of your meal, you will be by a trip to the restrooms, where the stall art showed us how we could have looked as voluptuous saloon ladies of the West’s glorious past.

The town of Tombstone in Arizona. — Nick Fox / Shutterstock

4. The Gunfight At Tombstone, Arizona

Only a little over an hour from Tucson, Tombstone, Arizona receives approximately 450,000 visitors each year. It has been declared a National Heritage Site, best remembered for being the site of the famous gunfight at O.K. Corral. Since much of the fight occurred on Tombstone’s Fremont Street, daily reenactments are done there. Saloon ladies frequent Allen Street, along with the many incarnations of Wyatt Earp. The most famous graveyard of the Old West is Tombstone’s Boot Hill, where various victims of violence and disease — including those from the O.K. Corral gunfight — are buried.

A former silver-mining boomtown with a current population of 1,296, Tombstone has theaters, restaurants, gem shops, and lodging options galore. But what also fascinated us there was the world’s largest rosebush — according to Guinness — that was planted in Tombstone in 1885 and still flourishes today. Brought in from Scotland, the Lady Banksia rose now covers 5,000 square feet of the roof of the Arcade Boarding House, and its trunk has a 12 foot circumference. Unfortunately, the rose bush was not in bloom when we were there. One must go in April to see the spectacle.

5. The Art And History Of Tubac, Arizona

Only 45 minutes away from Tucson is Tubac, Arizona. With a population of nearly 1,200, the town has become famous for its Luminaria Nights, held in December of every year, and the Festival of the Arts in February. It is also known as an artist colony, as it’s home to 100 art galleries, home decor shops, jewelers, potters, and artists of all kinds. We spent a lot of time at the Sculpture Garden, which had many beautiful (but pricey) sculptures for desert homes. I was even able to find Southwestern cuisine cooking items at Tubac’s Tumacookery and Santa Cruz Spices.

It was also pure delight to dine at Elvira’s, the town’s fine dining Mexican restaurant since 1927. It is bedecked with thousands and thousands of colorful lights. And it is where we always order our favorite flank steak molcajete — Mexican beef stewed with cactus and served on a hot volcanic pot that keeps the dish simmering while one dines. It tastes even better than it looks.

Only seven minutes away is the oldest Spanish mission on American soil, founded by the Jesuit Eusebio Francisco Kino. It was in 1691 when he founded the San Cayetano de Tumacacori, and a day later, 15 miles away, Mission Los Santos Angeles. In 1756, San Cayetano de Calabazas was also founded nearby. Now, the three missions are all protected in an area called the Tumacacori National Historical Park. It is easy to see the Tumacacori Mission. The two others, however, have to be scheduled by appointment.

I hope you are able to take this road trip. If not, don’t forget that these places are relatively short drives away from Lake Havasu City or Bullhead City for Oatman; Prescott or Sedona for Jerome; Phoenix for Tortilla Flat; and Tucson for Tombstone and Tubac. You will get a unique experience, find something cool to bring home, and maybe even eat something unforgettable.

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8 Reasons To Visit Lewisburg, West Virginia

I recently rode the Cardinal train through West Virginia, stopping in Huntington, Charleston, and White Sulphur Springs/Lewisburg. It was a spectacular ride, featuring fall foliage, mountains, the Shenandoah Valley, and views of West Virginia’s whitewater rivers only accessible by train. While I fell in love with the entire region, Lewisburg won a special place in my heart with its friendly people, beautiful main street, small-town charm, innovative dining scene, and unique lodging options.

This small town, with a population of about 4,000, boasts the arts and fine dining of a much larger city. It’s easy to see why Frommer’s Budget Travel named Lewisburg America’s coolest small town.

A quinoa bowl from The Local in Lewisburg. — The Local / Greenbrier County CVB

1. It’s Got A Vibrant Culinary Scene

Lewisburg is a foodie’s paradise, and it’s easy to find mouthwatering meals, from Southern comfort food to farm-to-table cuisine to fine French dining.

At The French Goat, I dined on hot and savory French onion soup and a main course of filet mignon with whipped potatoes and French beans topped with oh-so-rich foie gras butter. After dinner, we relaxed on the front porch with an aperitif apres le diner while chatting with locals.

At The Local, a grocery and deli, the menu changes daily, but if it’s available, try the smoked brisket chili. Or stop by Stardust Cafe, a farm-to-table favorite for locals and visitors, for the caper berry trout salad. At Draper’s, inside the Greenbrier Resort, you’ll want to try Mr. Justice’s Favorite Fried Chicken. If you stop by Food & Friends, a cozy American cafe, at lunchtime, order the Carolina crab croissant and be sure to pick up a piece (or three) of the delectable chocolate at the cash register. At Livery Tavern, you can enjoy American fare like steak and seafood or try one of the vegetarian or vegan options, all served in an 1800s-style dining room.

Carnegie Hall in Lewisburg. — Carnegie Hall / Greenbrier County CVB

2. It’s A Small Town That’s Big On The Arts

Though it’s a small town, Lewisburg is home to an outstanding arts scene.

The Greenbrier Valley Theatre, the state professional theater of West Virginia, offers plays, poetry, and live dance, plus special events like the GVT Play Fest, which features several 10-minute plays written by West Virginia playwrights.

Then there’s the Trillium Performing Arts, which for 36 years has encouraged artistic expression through education, participation, and performance. The organization’s Lewis Theatre opened in 1939. After nearly 70 years, the structure was in need of some TLC, so Trillium initiated a capital campaign to renovate it into a space suitable for both film and live performances. Today, you’ll find a variety of performance arts there, including Friday Night Alive, a family-friendly event showcasing local talent.

As if that weren’t enough, Lewisburg is home to a Carnegie Hall, one of four remaining in the world.

3. You Can Enjoy Lots Of Live Music

In any of Lewisburg’s bars or pubs, you might just hear your new favorite song.

Musical events you won’t want to miss include the West Virginia Winter Music Festival, a benefit for musicians in need; the State Fair of West Virginia Concert Series; and Healing Appalachia, an event intended to eradicate addiction in the greater Appalachian region.

Items for sale at Wolf Creek Gallery in Lewisburg. — Wolf Creek Gallery / Greenbrier County CVB

4. There Are Charming Boutiques And Galleries

West Virginia-made products, art, and even kitchen items can all be found in the downtown district. It would be easy to spend a day perusing the shops and taking home pieces you never knew you needed.

At Wolf Creek Gallery, you’ll discover carefully curated women’s clothing and jewelry. Lee Street Studios is a school-turned-artisan collective where artists create, display, and sell their work. Patina offers an eclectic mix of antiques, vintage decor, and art.

If you’re visiting on the first Friday of the month, check out the First Fridays After Five event, where you’ll find shops, galleries, and restaurants open through the evening and offering complimentary refreshments and entertainment. When I visited, I purchased some cheese for the train at Bella and enjoyed a wine sample (or two) at the boutique shops.

While you’re downtown, take a tour of the area to learn about the historic buildings and period architecture. You can use the online guided tour or pick up a printed version at the Greenbrier Valley Visitors Center.

5. The Local Brews Are Fantastic

Staying true to its Appalachian roots, Smooth Ambler utilizes local ingredients like mountain water and hand-selected grains to distill its bourbon. Greenbrier Valley Brewing Company brews up six flagship flavors, six seasonals, and an ever-changing selection of small batches for craft beer lovers. Hawk Knob is West Virginia’s first cidery, specializing in dry-aged meads and traditional dry ciders.

The Herns Mill Covered Bridge in Lewisburg. — Jill Dutton

6. You Can Take A Scenic Drive

The scenery surrounding Lewisburg is spectacular. Go for a drive to take in all the area’s scenic beauty, including rolling hills and expansive farmland. Along the way, stop to take photos of the Herns Mill Covered Bridge, one of only two covered bridges remaining in Greenbrier County. Follow the Lower Greenbrier River Byway that travels 27 miles along the railroad to view more of the scenic countryside and wooded areas, or head to the White Sulphur Springs National Fish Hatchery for a guided or self-guided tour. After touring the hatchery, enjoy the walking trails on the grounds or hike up one of the neighboring mountains.

7. There’s A Great Farmers Market

I love discovering what food is local to an area and where that food comes from, so I was like a kid in a candy store when I learned that Lewisburg has not one but two farmers markets. The two markets — the Greenbrier Valley Farmers Market and the Lewisburg Farmers Market — have since merged to form the Courthouse Farmers Market, open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

There’s traditional market fare — locally grown produce, grass-fed beef, honey, syrups, and jams, plus baked goods — but what really got me excited were the fresh-baked bagels from Blue Moon Bagels. The story I heard was that a New York film crew had been in town, and when they discovered these bagels, they ordered dozens to take home with them — to New York. That says a lot, considering that New York is known for its bagels. Whether the story is true or not, these were fantastic bagels — so soft and savory that they nearly melted in my mouth. We took a few dozen with us for the road, too.

The year-round market is located outdoors from May through October and indoors from November through April.

8. It’s Close To A World-Famous Resort

White Sulphur Springs, just down the road from Lewisburg, is where you’ll find The Greenbrier, a world-famous resort since 1778. One of the most luxurious resorts in the world, The Greenbrier has not only hosted celebrities, business leaders, and 27 U.S. presidents, but it also has a secret bunker! The space was carved into the mountainside beneath the resort to serve as a Cold War fallout shelter and as a government-relocation facility for Congress. Today, visitors can tour the bunker and see this piece of history.

Take a carriage ride around the property, swim in the mineral-water pool, indulge in a spa treatment, or shop to your heart’s content at this luxury resort with lavish decor by the famous Dorothy Draper & Company.

Planning a trip to West Virginia? Here are seven things to do in the state with the whole family.