How To Visit Mesa Verde’s Incredible Cliff Dwellings

If you’re a history buff, you’ll have a field day at Mesa Verde National Park. On the 52,000-acre property are the remnants of an Ancestral Puebloan town that flourished centuries ago.

Mesa Verde National Park consists of more than 40 miles of scenic roads, a visitor and research center, an archaeological museum, and 8,500 acres of protected wilderness. Most notably, the park is home to 5,000 archaeological sites and 600 cliff dwellings that illustrate what life was like in the area centuries and centuries ago.

The Mesa Verde cliff dwellings. — Vladislav Gajic / Shutterstock

The History Of The Cliff Dwellings

The Ancestral Puebloans lived in and around what is now known as Mesa Verde National Park for more than 700 years. The mesa, an elevated piece of land with sharp drops on all sides, provided a hospitable and safe environment for the indigenous population.

From 600 to 1200, the community lived above the mesa, but they later began to construct cliff dwellings within the canyon walls, which provided shade and protection from wildlife and other communities. The first cliff dwellings were built around 1200, but by 1300, the stone cities had been abandoned. It’s theorized that this was due to drought, but that hasn’t yet been confirmed.

Mesa Verde was established as a national park on June 29, 1906, by President Theodore Roosevelt. It was the first national park that was founded specifically to “preserve the works of man.” The dwellings range from small structures of a few rooms to the 150-room Cliff Palace.

Aerial view of the Mesa Verde cliff dwellings. — Sopotnicki / Shutterstock

Where Are Mesa Verde’s Cliff Dwellings?

Mesa Verde National Park is located 8 miles outside of Mancos, Colorado. A town of 1,400 people, Mancos is about an hour’s drive northeast of the Four Corners Monument, where the borders of Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico meet.

Although Cortez Municipal Airport is about 22 minutes away from Mesa Verde, due to its size, flights are limited, and most depart for and arrive from Denver. The next closest airport, Durango-La Plata County Airport, offers daily nonstop United and American Airlines flights to Dallas, Denver, and Phoenix. The airport is located 12 miles outside of Durango, Colorado. Although there is a bus from the airport to the town, it’s necessary to rent a car to access the park.

An hour’s drive from Durango, the park’s entrance is 20 miles from the actual cliff dwellings. Nestled inside the national park, the cliff dwellings are located near the Chapin Mesa area.

How To Get To The Cliff Dwellings

The drive from the park entrance to the Chapin Mesa area takes about 45 to 60 minutes. Although there are more than 600 cliff dwellings, the three most well-known ones are Balcony House, Cliff Palace, and Long House. It takes another 15 minutes to drive to the Balcony House parking lot, where the ranger-guided tours begin.

You can only purchase tickets in person for the guided cliff-dwelling tours. Tickets are available at the visitor center at the mouth of the park, the archaeological museum, and the Durango Welcome Center. Tickets sell out quickly, so it’s better to purchase them at the park’s visitor center. You’ll be able to pick from a variety of tour times, and it will save you a 45-minute drive in case your desired time is unavailable. However, it’s possible to buy your tickets up to two days in advance. Tickers cost $5 per person.

Keep in mind that some of the cliff dwellings may be difficult to access. The guided ranger tours entail walking down a 100-foot staircase, crawling through small spaces, and climbing tall ladders.

Not all the cliff dwellings require a ranger-led tour, and there are several self-guided options. Although Spruce Tree House is unavailable for on-the-ground touring due to potential rockfall, it can be seen from an overlook. The Mesa Top Loop Road and Far View Sites Complex are also self-guided, with short trails, overlook points, petroglyphs, and other archaeological sites to explore.

Although it might not seem like it, Mesa Verde’s elevation is quite high. Take into consideration that with the elevation ranges from 7,000 to 8,600 feet, the air may feel dry and thin. It’s important to drink plenty of water — especially while hiking — as dehydration isn’t as noticeable in dry climates as in humid ones.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Mesa Verde?

Mesa Verde National Park sees a range of weather conditions throughout the year. During the summer, the average temperatures are in the mid-80s, while during the winter, the highs are in the low 40s. The best time to visit is during late May or early September, when the temperatures are in the mid-70s.

Each season brings its own attractions: You’ll see the leaves change during fall, the flowers bloom during spring, and the ground covered in snow during the winter. Although there are plenty of activities available in the area during the winter, guided tours to the cliff dwellings are not available then. Balcony House closes on September 22, and the Cliff Palace and Long House close on October 20. The Cliff Palace reopens on April 13, and the Balcony House and Long House reopen on May 18.

The visitor center, archaeological museum, and hiking trails are open year-round, with the exception of some holidays.

The Far View Lodge near Mesa Verde. — Visit Mesa Verde

Where To Stay When Visiting Mesa Verde

While you can stay within Mesa Verde National Park during the spring, summer, and fall, the campground and lodge close during the winter. If you’re planning to visit during the colder months, you can stay in nearby Durango or Cortez, Colorado.

Far View Lodge

The Far View Lodge is located between the park’s entrance and the Chapin Mesa area. Consisting of 150 rooms, the lodge is situated on a hill with views of the three states surrounding Mesa Verde. Without cell service and television, the lodge is the perfect place to reconnect with history and nature far away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Rooms generally range from $120 to $170 per night and are available from April through October. The lodge is closed during the winter season.

Morefield Campground

Approximately 4 miles from the park’s entrance is Morefield Campground, with 267 RV and tent sites equipped with tables, benches, and barbecue grills. The campground offers access to a gas station, laundry facilities, showers, a grocery store, and a cafe that serves an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast. It’s also close to several hiking trails, the Mancos Valley Overlook, and the main road to the cliff dwellings.

The campground is only open from April through October. It closes for the winter at the end of October.

The Four Corners National Monument. — Images by Dr. Alan Lipkin / Shutterstock

Other Things To Do In The Area

The Four Corners region has much more to offer than just Mesa Verde National Park. If you make the trek to southwestern Colorado, here are a few other things to do in the area.

Visit The Crow Canyon Archaeological Center

Located in nearby Cortez, the Crow Canyon Archaeological Center provides additional information on the cliff dwellings and Ancestral Puebloan culture. At the center, you can visit an archaeological lab and a working excavation site. Crow Canyon is an active research center, and the archaeologists and historians there are constantly uncovering new artifacts and information. Educational public lectures are regularly offered at the center.

Stand At The Four Corners

An hour from Mesa Verde National Park, the Four Corners National Monument is the only place in the United States where you can straddle four states at the same time. Additionally, you can tour the visitor center and meet local artists at their booths. The Navajo Nation manages the monument and charges $5 per person.

Drive The San Juan Skyway

Starting in Cortez, the San Juan Skyway spans 236 miles across Colorado. The road loops through Durango, Silverton, Telluride, and Stoner before arriving back in Mancos. Along the way, you’ll see gold mines, historic towns, waterfalls, national forests, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the West.

Planning a trip to Mesa Verde? Make time for nearby Durango, one of Colorado’s most unique mountain towns.

6 Of The Most Beautiful Places In Greenland

Greenland isn’t a popular destination for travelers, but that’s changing quickly. Over the last few years, tourism to the area has increased substantially, and thousands of adventurers have visited the country to explore the ice sheet, see whales, or experience the northern lights for themselves.

Greenland is a beautiful place to visit during any season. If you’re traveling there — or if you’re looking for a few more reasons to set up a trip — here are some of the most outstanding places to visit to enjoy the tranquil beauty of this incredible country.

Nuuk, the capital of Greenland. — Pro_Studio / Shutterstock

1. Nuuk

Most Greenland travelers will spend the majority of their trips in Nuuk, and for good reason: Greenland’s capital is a great place to learn about the country’s culture and is a popular starting point for cruises and other expeditions.

The city of Nuuk in Greenland. — BigRoloImages / Shutterstock

From here, you can head up Quassussuaq, a 1,420-foot mountain overlooking the city. It’s a fairly easy hike, and guided hiking tours are available. Of course, you can also stay in the city and marvel at the unique architecture or head to the Greenland National Museum to learn about the country’s Norse and indigenous roots.

A fishing boat at the Ilulissat Icefjord in Greenland. — Oliver Foerstner / Shutterstock

2. Ilulissat Icefjord

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Ilulissat Icefjord is one of the most active glaciers in the world. Whales frequently visit in the summer, thrilling the thousands of tourists who stop by on guided boat tours.

A whale at the Ilulissat Icefjord in Greenland. — Vadim Petrakov / Shutterstock

While this fjord is remarkable at any time of year, it’s an especially wonderful place to visit near the summer solstice from late May to late July. At this time, the Earth’s northern hemisphere is tilted toward the sun, and countries toward the tip of the globe enjoy an amazing phenomenon called the “midnight sun.” The name says it all: The sun stays in the sky late into the night, casting a pale glow that leaves viewers feeling calm and rejuvenated.

The town of Qasigiannguit in Greenland. — tclemitson / Flickr

3. Qasigiannguit

Many of the aforementioned boat tours stop by Qasigiannguit, a quaint settlement with beautiful natural surroundings and a gorgeous view of Disko Bay. Locals know Qasigiannguit as the Capital of Whales, since whales often congregate near the bay, but the word Qasigiannguit literally translates to “spotted seals,” referring to the seals that were once common in the area.

A dog sledding tour in Greenland. — Yongyut Kumsri / Shutterstock

Here, sled dogs are a more practical form of transportation than cars or snowmobiles. Book a sled tour, and a team of Greenland Dogs will carry you over the ice as you marvel at the country’s harsh (yet beautiful) landscapes.

People enjoying the Uunartoq Hot Springs. — Visit Greenland

4. Uunartoq Hot Springs

Greenland has a fairly unforgiving climate, but the southern part of the country features numerous hot springs. Unfortunately, most of those springs are too cold to bathe in — but that’s not the case on the island of Uunartoq, where a number of warm pools await weary travelers.

The view at Uunartoq Hot Springs. — Visit Greenland

You’ll take in views of ice-covered mountains and grassy fields while enjoying the warm waters, which reach temperatures of up to 100 degrees. Inuit ruins near the springs provide another good reason to visit Uunartoq, but you probably won’t meet many tourists; as the United States Geological Survey cheekily notes, “the worldwide club of ‘viewed icebergs while sitting in hot springs’ is very small.”

Hvalsey Fjord Church in Greenland. — David Dennis / Shutterstock

5. Hvalsey Fjord Church

The best-preserved pre-Columbian European building in the Americas, Hvalsey Fjord Church, was constructed sometime around 1300. It’s a popular tourist destination, and while time has certainly taken its toll, you can still view its arched windows and walk around its two stone halls. You’ll also see 14 stone structures near the church, the former homes of the area’s 14th-century residents.

Walking near Hvalsey tends to impart a sense of solemnity in travelers, and it makes for a great photo opportunity. You might see a few sheep nearby, grazing on the short green grass that covers the area in the summer. If you have any interest in architecture (or if you’re simply curious about Greenland’s early settlers), you’ll want to put this stop on your itinerary.

The Northern Lights over Kangerlussuaq. — Dan Bach Kristensen / Shutterstock

6. Kangerlussuaq

This small settlement is one of the best places to see the aurora borealis (or northern lights). Of course, it’s not the only place; the phenomenon can be seen throughout Southern Greenland from November through March, though you’ll stand your best chances of catching a clear view in December and January.

The Greenland ice sheet near Kangerlussuaq. — Vadim Nefedoff / Shutterstock

Kangerlussuaq provides easy access to the Greenland ice sheet, a serene (if harsh) area with clear skies and miles of untouched snow. Be aware: With approximately 540 residents, Kangerlussuaq is exceptionally small, and best used as a jumping-off point for a trip — not as a complete destination.

Remember, while Greenland isn’t highly developed for tourism, that’s a huge part of its appeal. Here, the days are long, the weather is harsh, and the natural surroundings are virtually untouched — for nature lovers, Greenland offers an unbelievable array of experiences. Add this trip to your bucket list, and you won’t be disappointed.

Meet Eternal Flame Falls: An Eerily Beautiful Spot In Western New York

When tourists come to the Buffalo region, they usually have one waterfall on their minds.

Niagara Falls is undoubtedly majestic and awe-inspiring, but there’s another cascade tucked away just south of the city that you shouldn’t miss. As a lifetime Buffalonian, I’ve hiked to the curious Eternal Flame dozens of times and can attest that it will be the highlight of your trip.

Western New York’s Eternal Flame is a beautiful fusion of fire and water that seems to defy natural law. Located off the beaten path in Chestnut Ridge Park, one of the Southtowns of Buffalo, New York, the Eternal Flame Falls is a local haunt and popular hike for Western New Yorkers and tourists in the know.

Nobody knows who lit the flame in the first place, although it’s speculated that the first fire was sparked by Native Americans thousands of years ago. But the most puzzling aspect of the falls is that while a natural gas stream fuels it, the shale below the flame is nowhere hot enough to support the flame. There’s no rhyme or reason why the flame should exist, especially as it’s shrouded in a curtain of water.

All this mystery only makes the Eternal Flame even more alluring. The more you know about it, the more eager you’ll be to put this lesser-known cascade on your bucket list.

The Eternal Flame under the falls. — Mpmajewski / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Hiking To The Eternal Flame

The round-trip hike to the Eternal Flame, which AllTrails rates moderate, is just a little under a mile and does involve some hiking up and down at the beginning of the trail. There’s also a big drop into the shale ravine at the bottom. Regardless of the season, the river bed is generally wet, muddy, and slippery. Proper footwear and a walking stick are a must.

People hike to the Eternal Flame year-round, but winter comes with its own set of challenges (and beauty). Buffalo is famous for its unpredictable winter weather, and the Southtowns are often slammed with Lake Effect Snow, or snowstorms that crop up courtesy of Lake Erie. The Eternal Flame looks nothing short of magical during the winter months, but the hike to get there will be icy, frigid, and challenging.

Summer is a popular time to visit the Eternal Flame as the riverbed is generally drier and the weather is pleasant. Summertime is also a fantastic time to snack on local comfort food at nearby George’s Hot Dog Stand or Taffy’s. Taffy’s has a cult following in the Southtowns, thanks to their 130 varieties of signature milkshakes and charbroiled hot dogs.

No matter what time of year you visit the Eternal Flame, bring a lighter with you. The flame occasionally goes out. Although you will hear a soft pop, it’s not dangerous to light the Eternal Flame. In fact, it could be one of the most memorable moments of your vacation.

Eternal Flame Falls in Chestnut Ridge Park. — Kylecody / Shutterstock

Getting To Chestnut Ridge Park

The Eternal Flame is part of Chestnut Ridge Park and is located in Orchard Park, one of Buffalo’s so-called Southtowns. It’s only roughly 30 minutes by car from the Buffalo Niagara Airport. You can technically take a bus from the airport to the main Ellicott Street station, and hop on an either 16 or 14 bus to the McKinley Mall, but you’d still have to take an Uber, Lyft, or taxi to Chestnut Ridge Park. Ultimately, taking public transportation will tack on at least an extra hour and a half to your trip, meaning it’s better to drive or rent a car.

There are ample taxis, Ubers, and Lyfts at the airport, but if you want to explore the Southtowns and save a few dollars, renting a car or driving your own is the absolute best and most time-efficient option.

The Eternal Flame Falls in New York. — Jay Ondreicka / Shutterstock

Spending Time The Southtowns

Chestnut Ridge Park is a perennial hotspot where folks congregate to go tobogganing and sledding in the winter and play frisbee golf during the summer. Picnics are common, and dogs are welcome as long as they’re leashed.

If you want to explore the Southtowns beyond the park, head to idyllic Lake Erie Beach Park during the summer for a fun and festive vibe right on one of the Great Lakes. Drive further south to East Aurora and visit the charming Roycroft Campus, which boasts a vast selection of unique handicrafts and is a preserved guild of Roycroft crafts workers. You can tour the complex and appreciate the nature of these guilds, which has been preserved since the 19th century, as well as their material and philosophical contributions to the region.

If you’re in the mood for an adult beverage after your hike to the flame, Hamburg Brewing Company is close by. There’s also First Line Brewing, a brand new kid on the block. Buffalo is famous for its love and mastery of craft brewing, so you won’t have any trouble getting that perfect pint.

Of course, you could always travel north to Niagara Falls to visit the other famous Western New York waterfall! Niagara Falls is roughly an hour north of Orchard Park.

The Eternal Flame is a thing of beauty and an emblem of Buffalo pride. Next time you’re in my hometown, check it out!

Want more waterfalls? Climb up Thailand’s incredible sticky waterfalls in Chiang Mai, or hit the trails to find these eight stunning must-see waterfalls in Tennessee.

How To Spend A Weekend Getaway In Atlanta, Georgia

While some major cities have declined in population over the years, Atlanta is booming. The Atlanta metropolitan area was home to 2.2 million people in 1980; by the time of the 2010 census, there were nearly 5.3 million people there. In 2020, the population is expected to exceed six million!

When a city grows that rapidly, visitors can feel lost in the maze. But if you know where to go, you can have a great time on a weekend trip to Atlanta.

Here are some of the best things to do in the area.

Centennial Olympic Park in downtown Atlanta. — f11photo / Shutterstock

Visit Centennial Olympic Park

Atlanta hosted the 1996 Summer Olympics. While some of the venues have been retrofitted for other uses, Centennial Olympic Park, right in the heart of downtown, remains. All of the amenities built for the Olympics can still be accessed today.

If you have a smartphone, the best way to tour the park is to take the audio walking tour. When you arrive at the park, start at the Ivan Allen memorial. It’s located in the park directly across from the Omni Hotel near the intersection of Andrew Young International Boulevard and Marietta Street. When you get to the memorial, pull up this page on your phone. On the map that you see, click on the number one. This will play the first message of the audio tour (don’t forget to bring your headphones!). At the end of that message, you will be given directions to the next audio tour stop. If you get lost, just follow the map on your phone screen to the next location.

If you don’t have time to take the full audio tour of the park, there are still plenty of things to see. Among the most popular features of the park are the Olympic Ring Fountain in the southern part of the park, the Quilt of Nations (a walkway through a series of quilted paving patterns), and the Children’s Garden and Playground.

The Atlanta Botanical Garden in Georgia. — Nicholas Lamontanaro / Shutterstock

Explore The Atlanta Botanical Garden

Like many things in Atlanta, the city’s botanical garden is relatively new. Unlike the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, the Missouri Botanical Garden, and the United States Botanic Garden, the Atlanta Botanical Garden doesn’t have a history stretching back 100 years or more — it opened in 1973. That hasn’t stopped the garden from becoming one of the top institutions of its kind in the nation, however.

And the complex is more than just a botanical garden. If you plan ahead by checking the garden’s online event calendar, you can attend one of the garden’s chef demos, where local chefs will prepare your food using fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs from the garden. Or, depending on the time of year, you can attend one of the themed events, such as the Scarecrows In the Garden event in October or the Garden Lights, Holiday Nights event in December.

The Atlanta Botanical Garden is adjacent to Piedmont Park, about a 10-minute drive from downtown Atlanta. The best place to park is the SAGE parking facility near the Piedmont Avenue entrance. Parking is paid by the hour, and rates vary depending on the season. For current ticket prices, check the website before you go.

Inside the CNN Center in Atlanta. — f11photo / Shutterstock

Tour The CNN Center

It seemed like a crazy idea at the time — a 24-hour cable news network. At the beginning, Ted Turner probably didn’t even realize what he was building, but CNN quickly grew from a small cable broadcaster to a massive international news network. Today, the company employs more than 3,000 people, many of them at the company headquarters in downtown Atlanta.

Visitors can get an up-close look at the news network by taking a tour of the CNN Center. Tours take place every 20 minutes all day, so it’s easy to find a spot. It’s best to purchase tickets in advance on the website. Tours last approximately 45 minutes and can be elevator/ADA-assisted upon request.

For an enhanced experience, consider the VIP tour. This more expensive tour will give you access to the news studios that CNN uses daily. Keep in mind, though, that these tours can sometimes be canceled if there is a major news event that day and the studios need to be closed off. VIP tours depart four times per day, and tickets can be purchased on the website.

Eating In Atlanta

You’re in the South, so you’re going to want to try some Southern comfort food. Here are some of the best options for dining out in Atlanta.

Atlanta Breakfast Club

You’ll want a bona fide Southern breakfast, right? Then be sure to visit Atlanta Breakfast Club. Located in Midtown, Atlanta Breakfast Club prides itself on serving the best breakfast in Atlanta. And the ultimate Southern breakfast — at least when you’re in Atlanta — means one thing: chicken and waffles. While Atlanta Breakfast Club’s chicken and waffles are divine, the menu also features a number of other breakfast options, including breakfast tacos, shrimp and grits, and peach cobbler French toast.

White Oak Kitchen & Cocktails

Located in downtown Atlanta (the Hyatt Regency is right across the street), White Oak Kitchen & Cocktails will provide the modern dining experience you’re looking for. Once you have your trip planned, you’ll want to call ahead for reservations, but with proper planning, you’ll easily get the reservation time you want.

The White Oak Kitchen experience centers on cocktails, so make sure to try one of the signature drinks. Then choose one of the inventive main courses, like the peach salad (of course — it’s Georgia, after all!), rainbow trout, or roasted quail.

Mary Mac’s Tea Room

In the 1940s, there were 16 tea rooms in Atlanta. Today, there’s only one: Mary Mac’s Tea Room. So if you’re looking to experience a little bit of Atlanta’s history, head to Mary Mac’s in Midtown.

It’s truly a 1940s experience. When seated at your table, you’ll find a paper and pencil. You’re in charge of filling out your order that goes to the kitchen. Mary Mac herself started that tradition in 1945, and it has remained to this day.

What to order? The most popular item on the menu is the Southern Special. Choose an entrée (the meatloaf, chicken and dumplings, and roast pork with cornbread dressing are all delicious), a side (I’d go with the fried okra), and a dessert (peach cobbler, of course!).

Ponce City Market in Atlanta, Georgia. — Nicholas Lamontanaro / Shutterstock

Shopping In Atlanta

There are plenty of places to shop till you drop in Atlanta. There are malls everywhere you turn in this sprawling metropolis, especially out in the suburbs, but if you’re staying near the city center, there are several unique shopping options within a 10-minute drive.

Ponce City Market

When I say “unique shopping options,” I mean unique. Ponce City Market, located in an old Sears store, is an open marketplace featuring a variety of places to gather, eat, and shop.

The development has many different facets. There’s a preschool on-site, and there are offices occupied by architects, health-care companies, and public relations firms. There’s a food hall with 36 different places to eat. And there are more shops than you’ll be able to visit in one trip.

There are the national chains (Anthropologie, J.Crew, and Lululemon, just to name a few), but also many local shops. There are bookstores and sewing studios and outdoor outfitters and everything in between. You could truly spend an entire day here and not see all of it.

Lenox Square

Lenox Square is Atlanta’s upscale shopping area. It markets itself as “the Luxury Of True Luxury,” and that’s certainly true of its list of shops. Most every high-end store, from Cartier to Burberry to Fendi to Jimmy Choo, has a presence in Lenox Square. Prada, Salvatore Ferragamo, Neiman Marcus — the list goes on and on.

But Lenox Square offers much more than luxury shops. You’ll find stores like Ann Taylor, Coach, and Michael Kors, but you’ll also find several unique options. Visit Nadia’s Boutique for unique fashions, Alex and Ani for eco-friendly jewelry, and Diane von Furstenberg for signature print dresses.

Cap off your shopping experience with some delicious gelato from Amorino!

Phipps Plaza

Nearly across the street from Lenox Square is another shopping area, Phipps Plaza. Anchored by Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue, Phipps Plaza provides much of what Lenox Square does, just with different store options.

For some, the ability to visit Nordstrom or Saks Fifth Avenue is a draw, since those stores are not available everywhere in the country. But there are several more unique shopping opportunities at Phipps Plaza.

These include Frontgate, a popular online kitchen, bath, and home accessories retailer that opened its first brick-and-mortar store at Phipps Plaza. There’s also Trina Turk, a contemporary clothing store with only 13 locations in the United States. And these are just some of the more than 100 stores at Phipps Plaza!

All of this — the stores mentioned above, the restaurants mentioned above, and the attractions — because Atlanta grew from a charming Southern town to one of the largest metropolitan areas in the South. It’s worth a weekend visit, and maybe more!

Planning a trip to Atlanta? Consider booking a room at one of the best boutique hotels in Atlanta. And don’t leave without checking out the city’s nine best-kept secrets.

What Is Swedish Lapland? Everything You Need To Know About Mysig And More

If you want to run with the bulls, you go to Pamplona. And if you want comfort in the Arctic (mysig, they call it; more about that soon), head to the Swedish Lapland. This undiscovered country is full of adventures — wilderness to explore, Arctic cuisine to taste, reindeer herders to talk to — and the northern lights.

A map of the Swedish Lapland. — Swedish Lapland Visitors Board

Here’s what you need to know about the Swedish Lapland to start planning your next adventure, mysig guaranteed.

Abisko National Park in the Swedish Lapland. — Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH / Shutterstock

The Swedish Lapland Has 8 Seasons

Europe’s only indigenous people, the Sami, have called the Lapland region home for centuries. And the Sami recognize eight distinct seasons — a crucial distinction for a people who live in close harmony with nature. Many Swedes in the Lapland have adopted this understanding, too.

The four additional seasons recognized in Lapland lay in between the four seasons we’re familiar with, so don’t be surprised to hear terms like Spring-Winter, or “gidadalvve” in one Sami dialect, and Summer-Autumn, or “tjaktjagiesse” in another dialect, when conversing with the locals.

By the way, you should be able to get by just fine with English; about 86 percent of Swedes speak some English, so while it’s always a good idea to learn some basic phrases in the language of your destination, you probably won’t need Swedish proficiency to get by and enjoy a Lapland vacation.

The Lapland Is Isolated, And That’s A Good Thing

The Swedish Lapland’s extreme isolation is one of its greatest appeals. While the Lapland region itself stretches across Norway, Finland, and Russia, in addition to Sweden, Lappland (double p) is the Swedish province in the nation’s extreme north.

The Swedish Lapland Visitors Board makes this distant region accessible, however. Fly via one of a handful of carriers into Lulea or Kiruna, the two major airports located in Swedish Lapland. While you’ll probably fly into the region, once you’re there you can explore by train — and there’s plenty of mysig to be had onboard. One popular route runs between Lulea and Kiruna; it’s a great way to experience a taste of everything this remote region has to offer.

The cozy aesthetic of mysig. — Elena E / Shutterstock

Coziness (Or Mysig) Is A Big Deal

Mysig is the new hygge. That latter concept — from Denmark –practically took over the internet in 2016. It must have been winter.

In any case, you might remember hygge: Fluffy socks and steaming mugs of tea, wool sweaters and lovers curled by the fire. As Oxford has it, hygge is “a quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being.”

It stands to reason that if you travel north of Denmark to Sweden’s northernmost edges — literally in the Arctic Circle — something like hygge will become a survival strategy. Enter mysig, the Swedish concept of coziness. The Straits Times calls mysig “a Swedish term for the feeling of wanting to be warm and cosy, eat good food, and enjoy good conversation.”

So, how can you enjoy mysig during your trip? Well…

A Swedish cinnamon bun and coffee. — CatchaSnap / Shutterstock

Coffee Breaks Are A Way Of Life

Fika is closely linked to mysig, and it’s a great entry point for understanding both concepts. It refers to a coffee break (or a tea break, if that’s more your speed), enjoyed with a fresh-baked pastry in a cozy setting. During fika, you contemplate life, relax, and take in the moment.

While you’d be forgiven for confusing fika with a simple coffee break, the Swedes don’t think of it that way. They prefer not to translate the word, as fika is an important national tradition. Fika typically lasts for 10 to 30 minutes, and tourists are encouraged to partake. Visit a coffeehouse or restaurant around 10 a.m. or 3 p.m to enjoy this social institution.

The Northern Lights over Swedish Lapland. — Kuznetsova Julia / Shutterstock

Yes, You Can See The Northern Lights

Swedish Lapland boasts some of the best views of the aurora borealis, that is, the northern lights. The lights are most visible September through March (True Autumn through True Winter), though it’s not guaranteed you’ll see the phenomenon when visiting.

The Aurora Sky Station in Abisko National Park has been called the best place in the world to watch the northern lights, but just about anywhere in Lapland would be an ideal setting. This magical sight is truly breathtaking to witness, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled and make time to focus on the sky.

The Lodgings Are Straight Out Of Fairy Tales

Forget the roadside motel. The Swedish Lapland offers accommodations that you have to see to believe. There’s the world-famous ICEHOTEL, for instance. Artists rebuild rooms out of ice and snow from the nearby Torne River every winter. There’s also a permanent building for warmer months.

If sleeping on a bed of ice isn’t for you, try Treehotel. Guest rooms are built into the pine trees of the Northern Swedish forest, and they are a sight to behold. The Mirrorcube structure is particularly enthralling; its mirrored exterior blends seamlessly with the surroundings, like sleeping in an invisible fortress.

A husky sled ride in the Swedish Laplands. — Roberto Fera / Shutterstock

It Offers Your Best Chance To Travel By Dog Sled

Dog sledding is a major part of life in the Swedish Lapland. Some area populations list more sled dogs than people!

Get to know these hardworking pups by booking a short trip at any one of the area’s ski resorts. Longer experiences are also available; some guides even take visitors on multi-day tours with pre-planned stops at log cabins.

Stubba Nature Reserve in the Swedish Laplands. — Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH / Shutterstock

It’s Great To Visit Any Time Of Year

So when should you travel to Swedish Lapland? That depends on what you want out of your journey. Northern lights chasers should visit for as long as possible between September and late March.

If experiencing the extraordinary landscape is your goal — whether you plan to hike, drive, or ride the train — responsible travel agency Jacada recommends arriving in June, July, or August. And for the iciest, snowiest, winteriest getaway of your life, head to the region from December to March — and prepare for the full mysig experience!

If you’re heart’s set on seeing the northern lights, it’s time to consider these 10 hotels with northern lights views. Or, if you’re in it for the adorable animals, read up on nine places to see reindeer in the wild (including Swedish Lapland, of course).

12 Totally Free Things To Do In Charleston, South Carolina

There’s a reason Charleston, South Carolina, tops numerous bucket lists — it’s totally enchanting. From its stunning architecture and storied history to its rich Low Country cuisine and lively nightlife, this Southern city hits all the right notes. But, as all travelers know, visiting a popular destination can be hard on the wallet. Luckily, there are plenty of free activities available for both locals and visitors alike.

Here are some of the best things to do in Charleston without spending a dime.

View of Morris Island Lighthouse from Folly Beach. — Denton Rumsey / Shutterstock

1. Hit The Beach

With its lovely coastal location and balmy weather, Charleston is a great spot to enjoy the beach. Laid-back Folly Beach is a free option located just 20 minutes away from the city limits. To see a cool old lighthouse that’s on the National Register of Historic Places, walk 30 minutes north to the Morris Island Lighthouse.

For additional pretty lighthouse views and fun on the beach, head to Sullivan’s Island, which is about 20 minutes away by car. Please keep in mind that parking options at both beaches will likely cost money, but there is sometimes free parking available as well. For the best luck, arrive early, especially if you’re visiting on a weekend, since it can get quite crowded.

The Isle of Palms is yet another beach option, but it’s slightly farther away, about a 30-minute drive from Charleston. Paid parking is available near the beach, but occasionally free spots open up. Even when the temperature is too cold for swimming, a beachside picnic or simple stroll can still be enjoyable.

2. Learn About Military History

Charleston was a hot spot for anti-Union activity both before and during the Civil War. The city was even nicknamed the Cradle of Secession for its prominent role in the formation of the Confederacy.

Most visitors know that the first shots of the Civil War were fired at Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor, but not everyone knows that this historic landmark can be visited free of charge.

Please note that while the national historical park that houses Fort Sumter is free to access, it’s on an island only accessible via boat. The boat ride costs a small fee and departs from both Mount Pleasant and downtown Charleston. The full boat schedule can be found here. Be aware that private boats are not an option for this activity.

The Arthur Ravenel Bridge at sunset. — MarkVanDykePhotography / Shutterstock

3. Cross The Arthur Ravenel Bridge

Another iconic Charleston sight is the cabled Arthur Ravenel Bridge that traverses the Cooper River. With two striking metal diamond shapes adorning the gateway, the structure is both beautiful and strong. It offers easy access to nearby Mount Pleasant and can be crossed on foot for amazing harbor and skyline views. Bikes are available throughout the city for a small fee and are another option for crossing the bridge.

Those seeking more exercise should consider a walk to Mount Pleasant’s cute Shem Creek area; it’s full of restaurants, offers pretty water views and a lovely boardwalk, and is less than an hour’s walk from the bridge.

4. Tour A Tea Plantation

Did you know that the Charleston area is home to North America’s only tea plantation? That’s right! On nearby Wadmalaw Island is the Charleston Tea Plantation. While there are multiple tour options, the basic factory tours are completely free. The on-site parking is also free, but be prepared to drive about 30 minutes to reach the plantation from central Charleston.

King Street in Charleston. — Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock

5. People-Watch On King Street

King Street in downtown Charleston is the main artery of the city’s entertainment district. It’s chock-full of restaurants, bars, and shops to enjoy. Browse the colorful merchandise during a walk through the city and watch the lively crowds go by. To keep this activity free, visitors should take advantage of the city’s walkability and walk to King Street from their accommodations.

6. See The Sights

After some fun on King Street, travelers should consider walking to some of Charleston’s most famous sights and photo ops.

The Battery, a defensive seawall and promenade on the southern tip of the city, provides unreal views of the harbor. The free and scenic White Point Garden, which is located at the southernmost tip of the Battery, boasts almost 6 stunning acres full of dreamy Spanish moss.

To see the famous Pineapple Fountain, head to another downtown-area park, Waterfront Park. This 8-acre oasis is located on the banks of the Cooper River.

Gorgeous antebellum architecture and cobblestone streets can be found all around town. One very pretty such area of Charleston is Rainbow Row. These colorful row houses were constructed in the Georgian style and painted in pastel tones. Conveniently, this attraction is a short walk from the previously mentioned Pineapple Fountain.

The Angel Oak in Charleston. — Nagel Photography / Shutterstock

7. Take A Photo With The Angel Oak

The Angel Oak, a 400- to 500-year-old tree, is another thing you can see for free in Charleston. With its numerous heavy limbs on the ground, the tree makes a cool photo backdrop. It also provides tons of shade, so it would be a great place to spend some time with the family on a hot summer day. This otherworldly plant can be found on Johns Island, which is about 20 minutes away from the city proper by car. Free parking is available on the island.

8. Appreciate Contemporary Art

The Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art is a modern gallery exhibition space located on the College of Charleston campus. Not only is admission always free, but free guided group tours are available on-site as well. Visitors can expect diverse works showcasing all sorts of themes and inspiration. The museum is one of Charleston’s true hidden gems. Please note that the gallery is closed every Sunday, so plan accordingly.

9. Fall For Fossils

The College of Charleston is also home to another museum that’s free for visitors: the Mace Brown Museum of Natural History. Run by geology students, this paleontology-focused outfit is home to more than 1,000 fossils. To find it, head to the School of Sciences and Mathematics, and then go to the second floor. You’ll see dinosaur bones, crinoids, Oligocene mammals of North America, mosasaurs, cave bears, Pleistocene mammals of the Carolinas, and fossilized plants. A popular exhibit features the reconstructed jaw of a giant extinct shark. Please note that the museum is closed every Wednesday. Also, while admission is free, donations are accepted.

10. Get To Know A Founding Father

Charles Pinckney was a South Carolina governor, a Founding Father, and a signatory of the United States Constitution. The remnants of his plantation are now under the stewardship of the National Park Service as the Charles Pinckney National Historic Site and are free to visit. This could be a fun addition to a walk across the Arthur Ravenel Bridge, since the historic site is in Mount Pleasant at the other end. The grounds are about a 2-hour walk from the middle of the bridge. If you’d prefer not to walk, the site is less than 20 minutes by car from downtown Charleston.

Flowers in Charleston's Hampton Park. — Cvandyke / Shutterstock

11. Stop And Smell The Roses

While the aforementioned Waterfront Park and White Point Garden tend to be full of tourists, you can enjoy some peace and quiet in another of the city’s green spaces: Hampton Park. This more-than-60-acre local favorite sits north of Charleston, close to The Citadel, the military college of South Carolina. It’s actually the largest park on the entire peninsula. There are gorgeous floral displays as well as a gazebo, playground, picnic area, and more. Free parking (with some time limits) can be found close to the park.

12. Participate In The Local Art Walk

One final free activity in Charleston can be experienced within the city’s French Quarter, one of the area’s many arts districts. Every Friday evening, about 30 galleries in the area open their doors for the French Quarter Art Walk. Travelers can browse the offerings and chat with local artists free of charge during this event. Some galleries even offer free beverages and small bites.

Though Charleston can be an upscale city experience, there is plenty for more frugal travelers to enjoy as well. From a slice of history to a welcoming fountain to a heavenly tree, the Holy City offers many things to do that cost nothing at all.

Is Charleston on your itinerary? Check out our ultimate guide to the beautiful Southern city, and consider staying in one of the area’s most charming hotels, rentals, or bed and breakfasts.

Have even more time to spend in town? Eat your way through Charleston with our guide to the city’s best waterfront restaurants, or take a day trip from the city to Beaufort, Hilton Head, or Kiawah Island. For even more Southern fun, head to the equally stunning and historic city of Savannah, Georgia, just a couple of hours from Charleston.