How To Do A Lobster Crawl In Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine, has been recognized as one of the best restaurant cities in the U.S.A. The availability of fresh seafood, particularly lobster, had us anticipating a visit to this New England town with great relish. The highlight of our visit was doing a self-guided lobster roll crawl in search of the best lobster roll in Portland. It was a tough job, but somebody had to do it.

Portland is a pretty walkable town, and when it comes to doing a lobster roll crawl, you will be able to cover a lot of territory just walking along the waterfront. We’ve also suggested a few delicious options that are a little ways off on either end, so start at the beginning or the end and work your way through as you choose. Also, remember: Lobster is rich and filling. You don’t have to complete the crawl in one day. Of course, though we’ve focused on lobster rolls, the lobster lover will rejoice in the many lobster offerings available in this delicious seaside city.

A lobster roll from Eventide Oyster Co. — Food Travelist

1. Eventide Oyster Co.

Don’t let the name fool you. Yes, Eventide is heaven for those who want incredible fresh oysters. But we were on the hunt for lobster rolls, and we heard that their brown butter lobster roll was to die for. And it was.

This compact, warm, buttery, toasty bit of heaven was an incredible way to start our lobster roll crawl. Some people only want their lobster roll cold and mayonnaise dressed. We are not those people. If you’re open to different sorts of lobster rolls, then Eventide’s tender sweet lobster served inside a slightly toasted bun doused with warm brown butter (that might just drip down your hand) will please your palate.

A lobster roll from Gilbert's Chowder House. — Food Travelist

2. Gilbert’s Chowder House

Walking into Gilbert’s Chowder House is like walking into a favorite local dive bar, except that it also serves incredible seafood. You might be tempted to try their award-winning chowders, but if you do, stick to a small serving. You won’t want to spoil your appetite for their classic Maine lobster roll.

It comes with potato chips, but you can substitute crispy French fries or onion rings for just a bit more. They all go perfectly with a local draft beer from Gilbert’s taps. And, if you’re there in season and decide to take a dessert break, visit Gilbert’s ice cream parlor. They’ll even give you a discount if you show your food receipt.

3. Boone’s Fish House And Oyster Room

This place will woo you with specialties like lobster mac and cheese and baked stuffed lobster. Stick to your lobster roll-crawl agenda and you will still have a choice to make.

Boone’s offers their classic take with fresh lobster in mayo and lemon on a brioche roll. Or, if you crave the warm buttery style, try the Nor’easter lobster roll warmed in butter. Considering Boone’s has been serving local seafood since 1898, we’re pretty sure you’ll be happy either way.

4. The Porthole Restaurant And Pub

This place holds a lot of people, inside and out. You might think about coming for breakfast to taste their Casco Bay omelet (loaded with lobster and crabmeat), Lobster Rockport (buttermilk biscuit with lobster, asparagus, and lobster cream sauce), or lobster eggs bennie. But you’re on a lobster crawl, so come for lunch or dinner and give theirs a try.

A quarter pound of lobster on a brioche roll with lettuce and your choice of lemon aioli, mayo, or drawn butter should suit you just fine. If you like a little rock with your roll, check out their live music on Friday and Saturday nights.

A lobster roll from Andy's Old Port Pub. — Andy’s Old Port Pub

5. Andy’s Old Port Pub

Andy’s offers a fun environment as well as tasty lobster rolls. They have live acoustic music every night all year round. We also like Andy’s commitment to sustainable seafood practices. They’ve partnered with the Gulf of Maine Research Institute’s Culinary Partners Program and ensure that their seafood, including the lobster, is harvested nearby by local fishermen.

Andy’s lobster bruschetta, Maine lobster tacos, and lobster melt might entice you you. But we’re on a mission here, so get yourself Andy’s Traditional Lobster Roll. Choose “a touch of mayo” or butter. Either way, you’ll taste the care put into every bite.

A lobster roll from J's Oyster. — Food Travelist

6. J’s Oyster

While we can’t play favorites since everyone’s taste is different, we do want to tell you not to miss J’s Oyster. This place is such a local hero, it’s hard not to fall in love with it yourself. It’s pretty much always packed, but they’ll find a way to jam you in. And the service is just as fun as the lively atmosphere.

Look around and you’ll see a full, lively bar, a tumble of ice loaded with fresh oysters, and someone at a table with a monstrous lobster salad that looks like enough for two meals. But don’t be swayed (unless you want to be) from your lobster roll crawl. You will be rewarded with J’s incredible lobster roll stuffed with plump, sweet, delicious fresh Maine lobster. Mayo is served on the side so you can dress it as you choose. Go for the lobster roll, but stay for the fun.

7. Scales

If you’re looking for an upscale spot to enjoy your lobster roll, then don’t miss Scales on the wharf. They have a wonderful raw bar with oysters and clams as well as elegant dishes like fluke ceviche, scallop tartare, and bluefin tuna crudo. The entree dishes are equally sublime, but we’re here for the lobster roll.

Not to worry, Scales’s warm buttered lobster roll is served on a griddled split-top roll with house-made mayonnaise, crispy fries, creamy coleslaw, and a dill pickle to pull it all together. If it makes you feel better, you can eat it with your pinkies up. Or throw caution to the wind like we did and dive right into this wonderful treat.

Portland Lobster Company in Portland, Maine. — Jay Yuan / Shutterstock.com

8. Portland Lobster Company

Another tasty spot on the waterfront, Portland Lobster Company (PLC) takes a no-frills approach to getting you your lobster roll fix. Another local favorite, PLC’s roll includes lobster meat from a one-pound lobster brushed with sweet butter and served on a toasted roll. Mayo and lemon on the side make it easy to dress your roll as you like.

There are plenty of sides and other treats as well. Think corn on the cob and locally made wild Maine blueberry pie or cobbler. In season you can enjoy the outdoor patio and bar or live music in the evenings.

A lobster roll from the Highroller Lobster Co. — Food Travelist

9. The Highroller Lobster Co.

We want you to finish strong, and The Highroller Lobster Co. is just the place to do it. The bright and cheery decor brings a smile to your face even before you dive into unquestionably awesome lobster roll fare. The Highroller started out as a food cart but, thanks to its huge popularity and creative thinking, grew into a popular stop that’s not to be missed on any self-respecting lobster roll crawl.

The Highroller will take your challenging lobster-eating decisions to a whole new level with choices like the Lobby Pop or Fried Lobby Pop, fresh Maine lobster tail on a stick with either warm butter or in a cornbread batter; the Surf and Turf, a burger with a full portion of fresh Maine lobster on it; or the lobster grilled cheese. The incredibly delicious lobster roll comes on a brioche bun with your choice of sauce. But we have to make one other recommendation: The Lobster Cheese Crisp Taco, while not technically a lobster “roll,” is lobster wedged inside an edible holder — a crispy taco shell made entirely of cheese. Be still our beating Wisconsin hearts!

You’ll find fresh (never frozen) sweet, luscious lobster in all The Highroller’s dishes as well as a great beer menu, sides, and fun merchandise to commemorate your visit.

Remember that fresh seafood is seasonal, so be sure to check what’s open and available before you make your plans to visit. Lobster is a delicacy that many of us dream about enjoying in abundance. If you’re a lobster lover, you’ll have a fun time tracking down the best lobster roll in Portland, Maine. Even if you find it difficult to choose a favorite, you’ll be in heaven putting your taste buds to the test. And, as with many experiences in travel, when it comes to doing a lobster roll crawl in Portland, the joy is in the journey.

Portland bound? Here are seven ways to spend a day in Portland, Maine, plus 12 excellent hidden gems in Portland and where to eat local when (or if!) you’re ready for something other than a lobster roll.

How To Have A Great Weekend In Buffalo, New York

Craving a memorable New York vacation that won’t drain your bank account? Think outside the Big Apple and set your sights westward toward the Great Lakes.

Buffalo, New York, is a fabulous little metropolis nestled in the crook of Lake Ontario and Lake Erie. The city is more than just the birthplace of the iconic Buffalo wing — it’s also home to the architecture of legends like Frank Lloyd Wright and correspondence from some of the world’s greatest explorers.

Buffalo is a mere 30 minutes away from Niagara Falls, and the city is full of epic hiking trails and cozy hometown breweries.

This former Rust Belt city has come into its own and is the perfect location for a weekend away. Here are some things to do while you’re in the area.

Marvel At The Architecture

Frank Lloyd Wright, one of the most influential American architects of all time, was known for fusing construction and nature into beautiful, minimalist designs. You can find some of his most exceptional work on the winding side streets of Buffalo.

Wright was very fond of Buffalo, and his affection for the region is evident in masterpieces like the Darwin Martin House complex and Graycliff. These complexes are not wheelchair accessible and contain plenty of stairs, which could pose a challenge to those with mobility limitations or knee and back problems.

Fortunately, Frank Lloyd Wright devotees can also see his work at Buffalo’s Forest Lawn Cemetery, where President Millard Fillmore and pop star Rick James are buried. Wright’s Blue Sky Mausoleum is a creative and somber work of architecture commissioned by Darwin Martin.

You could spend all weekend paying homage to Frank Lloyd Wright’s work, but you’d be missing out if you didn’t visit the Buffalo Central Terminal, a restored art deco masterpiece on Buffalo’s East Side. The Richardson Olmstead Campus is a former psychiatric asylum that recently opened its doors to visitors. For years, this Gothic-style building was the subject of ghost stories and local folklore, but now you can walk the renovated halls and learn about its controversial past firsthand.

Our Lady of Victory National Shrine & Basilica rivals old-world European cathedrals in size and opulence. It’s located on the edge of Buffalo’s South Side and is worth checking out for its marble statuary, exquisitely detailed stained glass windows, gigantic dome, elaborate ceiling murals, and bronze doors.

The Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum's North Hall. — Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Check Out Correspondence From Legendary Explorers

There are Karpeles Manuscript Library Museums all over the country, but Buffalo is the only city lucky enough to have two within walking distance of each other. There is no admission fee, and both museums are open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Both the North Hall and Porter Hall branches boast a bevy of fascinating and historically relevant documents, including correspondence from famed Spanish explorer Ferdinand Magellan.

The Eternal Flame Falls in Chestnut Ridge. — Jay Ondreicka / Shutterstock

Explore The Great Outdoors

New York State is known for its abundance of trails and gorgeous natural spaces, and you won’t have to venture too far from the heart of Buffalo to find pure bliss in the great outdoors. Lace up your shoes and head to Devil’s Hole State Park for a brisk hike down into the lower Niagara Gorge.

The trails at Devil’s Hole are clearly marked but may become slippery during thunderstorms, so check the weather and plan your hike for a warm, dry day. Generally speaking, late spring is the best time to go hiking in Buffalo. Bring plenty of water and snacks with you, since the Devil’s Hole trek can take up to 2 hours, and the hike back up the gorge is strenuous.

Chestnut Ridge’s Eternal Flame Falls is an incredible and less taxing trek that ends with a beautiful and mysterious surprise. Nobody knows why or how this Eternal Flame is still burning. Its ethereal visage behind a cascade of water remains an enigma. You can see it for yourself during the drier late spring months in Buffalo, when the terrain is more hospitable.

Canalside in Buffalo, New York. — Visit Buffalo Niagara

Take A Stroll Around Canalside

Buffalo’s Canalside neighborhood used to be a hotbed of poverty and crime, but like the rest of Buffalo, Canalside has shaken off its gritty past and become one of the top tourist attractions in the state.

From its wacky and wonderful Shark Girl statue to its history walking tours, Canalside draws locals and tourists alike with its funky mix of old and new, paying homage to its industrial past while ushering in an artistic future. Canalside hosts events all year, but the best time to visit this harborfront neighborhood is during early summer, when you can hit the harbor on a kayak or waterbike and explore this remarkable area on your own.

It’s free to walk around Canalside, although you’ll have to pay for some events and rentals. Since most of this district is paved and relatively flat, it’s accessible to all.

Niagara Falls from the U.S. side. — US Embassy Canada / Flickr

Get Up And Close And Personal With Niagara Falls

You can’t visit Buffalo without making the 30-minute trip north to Niagara Falls. This astonishing natural wonder straddles the United States-Canada border and attracts millions of visitors from all over the world.

The majestic falls have attracted daredevils, engineers, and even P. T. Barnum, who saw the natural wonder as an ideal spot to set up shop. You shouldn’t miss Niagara Falls on your trip to Buffalo, but why see it the conventional way when you could get up close and personal?

The Cave of the Winds tour combines a crash course in Niagara history with a chance to get within feet of Bridal Veil Falls. You’ll be given a full-body raincoat and escorted down the Hurricane Deck to the foot of the falls in a heart-pounding natural encounter that you won’t soon forget.

Anchor restaurant and bar in Buffalo, New York. — Sandra Foyt / Shutterstock.com

Eating In Buffalo

When it comes to comfort food, nobody does it quite like Buffalo. This northern city is famous for its snowy weather, and a mayor once advised residents to “stay inside and grab a six-pack” rather than face the elements. When the blizzards rage outside, Buffalonians reach for the wings, beef on weck, and craft beer inside.

Buffalo Wings

As any true Buffalonian will tell you, Buffalo wings were the product of a happy accident at Anchor Bar back in 1964. These deep-fried goodies were smothered in a secret blend of Frank’s RedHot and butter and served alongside blue cheese, celery, and carrot sticks, and the rest is history!

Although Anchor Bar has the distinction of serving up the first plate of this revered Buffalo bar food, there are plenty of other places that have put their own spin on the dish. Check out Duff’s Famous Wings, Bar-Bill Tavern, Wingnutz, Nine-Eleven Tavern, or Mr. Goodbar for some of the best wings in town. Just don’t ask for ranch dressing!

Beef On Weck

The combination of slow-roasted beef au jus and spicy horseradish on a kimmelweck bun is a Buffalo classic. Nicknamed “beef on weck,” this tasty sandwich helped put Buffalo on the culinary map.

You can get beef on weck just about anywhere, but if you want it done right, head to Swannie House, Ulrich’s 1868 Tavern, or Anderson’s.

Craft Beer

Buffalo is a city fueled by craft beer, and you can’t walk more than a few blocks without discovering a delicious pint. From hometown staple Flying Bison to Resurgence, Big Ditch, and Gene McCarthy’s, Buffalo is known for its prolific and consistently delicious watering holes. Wash down your beef on weck or Buffalo wings with a pint of Aviator Red or a frosty Hayburner.

Shopping In Buffalo

Whether you’d prefer to wander through the funky and fun shops of the Elmwood Village or browse the high-end retail at the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls, Buffalo has got you covered.

Buffalo’s Eclectic Markets

The Broadway Market and The West Side Bazaar are phenomenal places to pick up Buffalo-themed merchandise and unique regional gifts as well as to support small-business owners. You’ll find bags of sponge candy, Buffalo Bill merchandise, and signature hot sauces, as well as frozen pierogi and paczki to bring home.

Fashion Outlets Of Niagara Falls

If you’re searching for designer goods at reasonable prices, check out the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls. With stores like Ann Taylor, Coach, and DKNY, the Fashion Outlets are a popular destination for both locals and visitors. There are sales going on all the time, so there’s an excellent chance that you’ll score a fantastic deal.

Elmwood Village

A stroll through the Elmwood Village combines shopping and people-watching and is a relaxing way to spend a few hours in the heart of Buffalo. There’s no shortage of quirky and cool merchants in the village, so grab a coffee and wander down Buffalo’s most celebrated and artistic street. You’re bound to find plenty of unique Buffalo-themed gifts on this stretch, and you’ll enjoy soaking in the sun and atmosphere as you do it.

Buffalo is going through a massive renaissance and is right on the edge of a tourism explosion. Visit now, and experience everything this bright and beautiful Great Lakes city has to offer.

7 Quick Facts About Thailand’s Yi Peng Lantern Festival

One of the most wonderfully beautiful things about world travel is the exploration and discovery of different cultures, the festivals they have, and the traditions and belief systems they adhere to. Religious festivals are some of the most unique and eye-opening experiences to have in another country and can make for a meaningful reason to visit a new land.

The Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai is one such festival that is definitely worth attending. Not only is it incredibly beautiful, but it is loaded with meaning for anyone who chooses to participate, regardless of your religion or personal belief system.

1. Yi Peng Is The Traditional Lantern Release Festival You’ve Seen Imagined In Film

Remember that scene in Disney’s Tangled where they release the lanterns into the sky? That comes from the concept of the lantern festival of Yi Peng. There are other lantern festivals as well, such as Loy Krathong, which is a release of lanterns onto the water rather than into the air. The imagery of Yi Peng, specifically, is transcendent, while its personal meaning, for many, is unmatched by any other celebration of the year.

The Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai, Thailand. — Aunging / Shutterstock

2. Yi Peng Takes Place In Chiang Mai In Northern Thailand

The Thailand Lantern Festival — or Yi Peng — is celebrated primarily in the northern part of Thailand, specifically in Chiang Mai. Each participant releases their sky lantern into the air at approximately the same time in the evening after music, other celebratory entertainment, or prayer. Thousands of lanterns ascend simultaneously, lifting at various speeds, introducing various levels of brightness to the night sky. Many of the areas where the releases happen — including the release at Maejo University — are exceptionally crowded.

Buddhist monks at the Yi Peng Lantern Festival. — 501room / Shutterstock

3. Yi Peng Is Deeply Rooted In Buddhism And Is A Religious Festival

The Yi Peng celebration is deeply rooted in Buddhism. In fact, many people believe it originated in India and is inspired by the legend of the candle-carrying bird that visited Buddha to speak with him about merit. Today, some celebrants believe paying respects to the Buddha is a way to be reborn into the next life with great joy, purity, and popularity.

Close up of the Khom Loi paper lanterns. — Tropper2000 / Shutterstock

4. The Lanterns Used In The Ceremony Are Called Khom Loi

The beautiful paper lanterns, which are released into the air each year in November, are called khom loi or khom fai. Khom loi are made from thin material such as rice paper with a candle or fire starter attached. The fire generates hot air that is trapped inside the lantern, which accounts for the lightweight sky lantern’s lift. As the lantern rises, the fire produces energy that allows it to drift in different directions as it flies into the night sky.

Thailand's Yi Peng Lantern Festival. — Eugene Ga / Shutterstock

5. The Festival Takes Place Each Year On The Evening Of The 12th Full Moon In The Thai Calendar

Yi Peng is held each year for three nights, starting with the night of the full moon. In 2019, for example, the festival will begin on November 11 and end on the night of the 13th. This year, Loy Krathong coincides with Yi Peng, meaning lotus-shaped baskets decorated with flowers and candles will be released into the rivers as the lanterns of Yi Peng are released into the sky.

6. The Festival Is Believed To Be A Time To “Make Merit”

The history books of Thailand tell us that this time of year — the time of the twelfth full moon — is when the moon will appear its fullest and brightest. This makes this full moon the perfect time to “make merit” — or a wish for good fortune in the new year.

The release of the lanterns can be understood as an act of releasing your bad luck and mistakes into oblivion. If your lantern disappears into the darkness before the candle burns out, it is said that you will have extremely good luck that year. If it crashes while still lit, you may have bad luck all year long.

Street vendors in Chiang Mai at the Yi Peng Lantern Festival. — 501room / Shutterstock

7. You Can Buy Khom Loi From Street Vendors Or In Stores

If you make it to Thailand for the incredible Yi Ping experience, you can purchase khom loi almost anywhere before the celebration begins. Many street vendors will have them for sale, and local shops will as well. Be sure to make a purchase fairly early on, though, as they may run out. The crowds are pretty heavy during this festival, so thinking and purchasing ahead will be helpful.

You’ll also want to book your accommodations well in advance if you don’t want to wander the streets all night. Finally, arrive at the location where you plan to participate in or observe the festival early.

Tips For Releasing Your Own Khom Loi

If you’re able to journey to Chiang Mai for Yi Peng, you’ll probably want to release your own lantern.

Note that larger lanterns are easier to release than smaller ones. You may write a wish on your lantern before sending it off, or you can simply speak one in your heart. Dig your fingers into the wax circle coil to rough it up a bit before the release — this makes it easier to light. When you feel suitable resistance after lighting the lantern, you can release it into the air.

Planning a trip to Chiang Mai? In addition to hosting Yi Peng, it’s one of six places for an amazing supermoon experience in 2020.

Beyond Cozumel: 5 Other Mexican Islands Worth Visiting

For many of the millions who visit the Caribbean each year, Cozumel is the Mexican Caribbean.

Isla Cozumel — among the most popular cruise destinations in the world (and possibly the most visited of all, depending on the source) — is likely to appear on any cruise itinerary in the Western Caribbean.

That means that many visitors to the area will see Cozumel — and only Cozumel — on their trips to Mexico’s spectacular Caribbean. That’s a shame, because the state of Quintana Roo along Mexico’s eastern coast is home to a string of stunning little islands that are big on vistas and culture and relatively small on crowds.

While Cozumel is undoubtedly beautiful, with its white-sand beaches and colorful reefs, the 30-mile-long island — Mexico’s largest — is far from a hidden gem.

During a sponsored press trip to Quintana Roo, I learned about five other Mexican Caribbean islands worth visiting.

The Malecon seawall on Isla Mujeres. — Cindy Barks

1. Isla Mujeres

At 13 miles or so from the Mexican city of Cancún, Isla Mujeres is not exactly an off-the-beaten-path spot either, with its regular boat trips from the busy tourist center.

Still, Isla Mujeres manages to retain a singular charm. From the windswept white seawall on the eastern shore to the blue-green waters and soft white sand of Playa Norte on the northwestern end, the island showcases the best of the Caribbean.

Considered one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world, Playa Norte, or North Beach, features warm and shallow water perfect for swimming and snorkeling. And the Malecón seawall on the eastern shore makes for a beautiful walk on a warm, sunny day.

But the shorelines and beaches are just a part of the island’s charm. Steeped in history and legend, Isla Mujeres is said to have been sacred to the Mayan goddess of childbirth and medicine, Ixchel — hence the island’s feminine name, which translates to “Island of Women.”

The arrival pier on Isla Mujeres. — Cindy Barks

Pirates also reportedly frequented the island, and their lore is central to another of Isla Mujeres’s legends. Near the seawall sits a graceful statue, La Trigueña, depicting a young woman who was said to have been the unrequited love interest of Fermín Mundaca.

According to information from the state’s tourism bureau, Mundaca was an 19th-century pirate and slaveholder who used the island as a refuge. Portions of his home, Hacienda Mundaca, remain today.

With its bustling central business district, Isla Mujeres is also the place to buy authentic Mayan souvenirs, from intricately painted Mayan masks complete with obsidian and quartz symbols to colorful Mayan calendars and embroidered tote bags. It’s all there along the main Avenida Rueda Medina near the boat dock.

A host of quaint restaurants and hotels also line the island’s coastline, making Isla Mujeres a perfect spot for a several-day stay, a day trip, or morning or afternoon visit.

Planning a visit to Isla Mujeres? Book a stay at one of our favorite Isla Mujeres hotels.

2. Isla Contoy

For a more remote island experience, visitors to the area should make a point to take in the nearby Isla Contoy as well.

An uninhabited island known for its diverse plant and bird life, Isla Contoy only allows 200 visitors per day.

“Isla Contoy is known most for having the most diverse bird sanctuary in the Mexican Caribbean,” says the state’s tourism bureau.

Located about 18 miles north of Isla Mujeres, Isla Contoy is available to visitors through a limited number of tour companies.

Among these is Asterix, a group of tour guides who offer an all-day tour that includes a stop at Isla Mujeres, snorkeling at the Ixlache Reef, a guided tour of Isla Contoy, and a buffet lunch featuring fresh fish roasted with succulent slices of onion.

The tour also includes about an hour of free time, and this is where Isla Contoy really shines. Floating in the island’s warm, buoyant, turquoise-blue water is an experience not to be missed.

Asterix tour guide Ulises Peniche says that Mayan fishermen occasionally visited Contoy between 889 and 1687 A.D., and the island was also an accidental stopping-off spot for Spanish explorers.

The entrance to Isla Contoy National Park. — Cindy Barks

Isla Contoy has been protected by the Mexican government since the 1960s, and it was declared a national park in the late 1990s. It is jointly managed by the government and the Amigos de Isla Contoy organization.

“Besides its unparalleled beauty, secluded sandy white beaches, and lush palm trees, the island boasts more than 150 migrating and resident bird species,” states the organization’s website. “The most numerous and easy to observe are the frigate, the brown pelican, and the double-crested cormorant.”

For those who can get a reservation, Isla Contoy offers a slice of island heaven located right at the confluence of the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.

A couple of things to remember before heading to Contoy: There is no fresh water on the island, so everything that is consumed must be brought in. Also, the island is a sunscreen-free zone for the health of the coral reef — a point that is emphasized on the sign at the entrance to the island. Hats, sun-resistant rash guards, and shade umbrellas are recommended for those sensitive to the sun.

3. Isla Holbox

For a similarly secluded spot, but with more amenities, Isla Holbox is the Mexican Caribbean place to check out. It is variously described as a tropical paradise, a bohemian retreat, and a fishing village.

The island, located northwest of Cancún, is separated from the mainland by a shallow lagoon that gives sanctuary to flamingos, pelicans, and other exotic birds.

Holbox is located within the Yum Balam Ecological Reserve and has been declared a Flora and Fauna Protection Area.

“Holbox has beautiful beaches, crystal-clear water, colorful wooden houses, and sandy streets that one can explore on foot, by bicycle, or in golf carts,” says the state’s tourism bureau. “A true paradise, Holbox is ideal for a pleasant rest surrounded by nature.”

Hotels on the island range from rustic wooden cabins and inns to charming and exclusive boutique hotels. Currently, Holbox offers 73 hotels with a total of 1,032 rooms.

A pier on Isla Holbox. — RODRIGO Rodrigo / Pixabay

Since Holbox is an island of fishermen, the best food is typically the catch of the day. Local dishes tend to highlight fresh fish and other seafood, and the island’s unique restaurants serve up traditional Mayan and international cuisine.

Activities on the island include kitesurfing, windsurfing, kayaking in the sea and through the mangroves, snorkeling, diving, and fly-fishing.

The tourism bureau suggests that visitors consider taking cash, because there is only one ATM on the island, and no banks. Holbox is accessible from Cancún by a 2-hour-and-30-minute drive to the port of Chiquillá, where boats and ferries make the 20-minute trip to the island.

A tree full of birds at the Isla Pajaros refuge. — Laura / Flickr

4. Isla Pájaros

While in Holbox, birders should make a point to visit Isla Pájaros, a small islet located in the Yalahau Lagoon. It is a refuge for birds such as pelicans, frigates, white ibises, ducks, herons, storks, and flamingos.

It is a protected area, so foot access is not allowed, and the islet is only accessible for observation from a scenic viewpoint.

“Birds can be seen all day, but the real thrill comes at sunset when all the species in residence flock back to the island to roost,” says the Isla Holbox website.

Isla Pájaros is located 30 minutes by boat from Holbox and is only 200 feet wide.

Snorkelers at Cabo Catoche. — EverythingPlayaDelCarmen.com

5. Cabo Catoche

Another remote island accessible from Holbox is Cabo Catoche, a small island offering a unique combination of nature and history.

In the nature category, Catoche features abundant marine life that makes it an ideal spot to go fishing and snorkeling.

And when it comes to history, Cabo Catoche features the archaeological remains of the centuries-old Boca Church, the first Catholic church built in Mexico, according to information from Quintana Roo’s tourism bureau.

Planning a trip to Mexico? Here’s everything you need to know about the country’s drinking water.

10 Relaxing Wellness Retreats For Women

Women seek out retreats for many reasons: to create lasting memories, to disconnect from everyday stressors, to reconnect with the parts of themselves that are sometimes forgotten. Retreats are also a chance to immerse ourselves in natural beauty while achieving physical, mental, and spiritual goals.

The spirit of a women-only retreat is fundamental to a woman’s ability to recharge, push herself with new adventures, and explore her inner workings in ways that only other women can relate to. Saveria Tilden, creator of AdventurUs Women Escape Series, explains this quest well:

“I don’t think it is a fluke that there are so many Facebook groups and meetups being created for women to hike, climb, bike, paddle, run, et cetera. We are redefining what it means to be a woman in today’s world. … We are leaders, strong, independent, smart, self-sufficient and, in many ways, I feel like the image of a woman exploring and/or adventuring outdoors personifies all of these things. And yet how does one start on that path? How do we become that person? Seeking out other like-minded women is a logical first step.”

Luckily, there are a multitude of opportunities in Canada, Mexico, Central America, and the U.S. — all set in stunning locales — where you can find a deeper connection to yourself and the outdoors while connecting with like-minded women. Here are 10 worth considering.

1. AdventurUs Women Escape Series At LOGE Camps

Bend, Oregon

We don’t all have experience with — or access to — outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and paddling. At AdventurUs Women Escapes at LOGE Camps you’ll learn outdoor skills with experienced women guides. You’ll also enjoy personal-growth workshops, making new friends, relaxing evenings by the campfire, live music, and a comfortable bed after an adventurous day.

Cathy Herbstler traveled from Bellevue, Washington, to attend this year’s retreat. She told us, “I just returned from the Bend, Oregon, event last weekend and I am forever grateful and inspired by the group of women who I spent three days with in the beautiful mountain town of Bend.”

“Not only did we have the flexibility to pick our own adventures such as hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, stand-up paddleboarding, et cetera.” She also took part in journaling, meditation, and yoga.

“There is a different vibe at these retreats for women only,” she said, “as we feel it’s easier to open up and be ourselves and support one another along the journey. It’s a unique opportunity for women who maybe have never tried outdoor activities to give it a try and not be judged or pitted against others in terms of skill level but rather lifted up and encouraged to get out of our comfort zones. And women of all ages attend! Some mom/daughter combos, too!”

AdventurUs Women Escapes is currently scheduling next year’s event in Bend. Join their Facebook group to stay notified of upcoming retreats.

2. WildWoman Experience At Sacred Mountain Waters Retreat

Asheville, North Carolina

If you’re looking for a chance to connect with your soul sisters in a rustic environment, the WildWoman Experience, which hosts 40 women from all over the globe, could be the retreat experience you’re craving. The retreat is facilitated by Laura Wolf and Melanie Lighthouser. Wolf told us, “Women return to their home communities rejuvenated, empowered, and inspired, connected to themselves and our earth, and feeling a deep sense of sisterhood and healing of any fears or judgements they had of themselves or of other women.”

According to Wolf, the WildWoman Experience is a profound gathering of women rooted in initiations designed to activate their wild essences and nourish their souls. At the retreat you’ll participate in rituals — dance, drum, breath, laughter, storytelling, sharing food — while surrounded by the emerald forests, majestic mountains, and healing waters of western North Carolina.

Next year (2020) WildWoman expects to host its fifth annual experience. It will be hosted at Sacred Mountain Waters Retreat, a private property 40 minutes north of Asheville. Sacred Mountain Waters is nestled in a mountain valley where two rivers meet. Surrounded by two miles of pristine rivers and forests, wild mountains, and abundant meadows, it features a wood-fired hot tub, infrared cedar sauna, and ample space for camping, hiking, and celebrating.

3. Women’s Quest

Worldwide

For 25 years, Women’s Quest has provided fitness and yoga adventure retreats for women who want to explore mindful practices, re-energize the body, ignite the mind, and refresh the spirit. The retreats are put on by women, for women, and are located in some of the most beautiful destinations on earth.

4. Prana Del Mar Retreat And Wellness Center

Los Cabos, Mexico

Located on the outskirts of Los Cabos, the Prana del Mar Retreat and Wellness Center, a yoga beachfront retreat, provides upward of 40 different health and wellness retreats annually between October and July. Although most of their retreats aren’t strictly for women, some are. Even so, the majority of retreat participants are women and many groups host sisters, friends, and mothers and daughters traveling together, plus solo travelers.

Internationally-acclaimed teachers visit each week throughout the year and offer twice-daily classes — think yoga, meditation, and other wellness modalities. Guests come for about a week and enjoy luxurious accommodations, delicious, healthful meals, and the option to explore the Baja area. They’ll also find an array of spa services and activities including chef-led cooking classes and jewelry-making workshops.

This eco-friendly resort features solar power, an organic garden, a solar-heated lap pool, and organic linens and personal care products, plus they recycle all wastewater for irrigation and use bamboo flooring in their yoga studios.

In addition to Prana del Mar’s retreats, you can schedule surf lessons, go whale watching, ride horses, snorkel, kayak, or tour the artist community of Todos Santos. View the upcoming retreats to plan your Baja-inspired women’s getaway.

5. Wild Adventure Wellness Retreats

Glover’s Reef, Belize

Liz Galloway, founder of Wild Adventure Wellness Retreats believes that transformational travel is not a luxury but a necessity — one that helps us break through barriers, boundaries, and fears to understand ourselves as we are meant to.

Galloway’s goal is to provide transformational travel retreats with a purpose. She offers one or two retreats per year where she brings experts, coaches, therapists, fitness trainers, guides, shamans, and even Olympians together to offer retreats that include kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, cultural immersion, kite boarding, diving, guided meditation, yoga, group goal setting, nutrition, and one-on-one sessions.

“Our participants are aged 35 to 60,” she told us. “I feel it’s important to have retreats and boundary-breaking at this age to combat society’s labels and the shifts in life. A place where we really take on our own, and embrace it all.”

Galloway has discussed living beyond labels at any age on the Women Entrepreneurs Podcast and said she wants to focus on what women can accomplish and teach others. “I work hard to produce a unique adventure geared towards the small groups each time.”

6. Together We Seek Retreats

Vermillion, Ohio

Professional women gather at Together We Seek Retreats to explore and discuss new levels of awareness, and to embark on experiences with the goal of leaving refreshed, energized, and inspired. These retreats create a space for women to come together to explore, experience, and connect through ancient practices including storytelling and making time for meaningful conversation.

JJ DiGeronimo, author of Working Women and founder of Together We Seek Retreats told us, “Making time to invest in yourself by attending a retreat can be a great break from life demands, but it can also act as a catalyst for what you are looking to manifest next.”

7. SwellWomen At W Punta De Mita

Punta Mita, Nayarit, Mexico

Join SwellWomen at a chic beach resort edged with lush jungle in Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit at the W Punta de Mita resort. Four female empowerment retreats are scheduled annually and will include a mix of yoga, surf lessons, all-inclusive food and beverages, spa time, and more.

8. Wellness Retreats At The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada

If your ideal retreat includes a world-class, bucket-list-worthy destination like the rugged heart of Banff National Park in the majestic Canadian Rockies, the Wellness Retreats at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise are for you. The retreats are tailored to the 45+ woman who is at a crossroads in her life or is looking for something deeper — something more. They offer immersive wellness experiences accompanied by the sparkle and mystery of Lake Louise and are known for promoting self-discovery and rejuvenating the spirit.

Join one of their three-day, all-inclusive wellness retreats in the spring or fall. Retreat goers form a group of like-minded participants for a weekend of yoga, meditation, and mindful walks. Begin each morning with 1.5 hours of flow yoga and end your day with gentle yoga and meditation, followed by a healthy, nourishing meal. Learn how to live in the moment and find more inner peace and happiness by immersing yourself in a stunning, nature-centric experience.

9. Women’s Retreats

Wyoming

If your heart yearns for the beauty of Wyoming, there are a few women’s retreats from which to choose. Two Wyoming ranches offer wellness-oriented retreats that incorporate horseback riding. Plan on riding into the mountains for yoga, hiking, and fly fishing in the summer months. Ranches with these programs include Bear Basin Adventures and Diamond 4 Ranch. Or try the Proud Wyoming Woman Retreat hosted in Sweetwater County.

10. Meditation And Transformative Retreats

Finger Lakes Region, Central New York

A respite in the peaceful Finger Lakes region of Central New York means wineries, spas, and meditation retreats. In short, this picturesque wine region of the east is the perfect backdrop for personal regrowth.

For a meditation retreat, heal solo or join other women who are looking to start anew at Mountain Horse Farm in Naples, New York, which offers retreats like the Just Juice Detox. Mountain Horse Farm also offers animal therapy, cow cuddling, massages, hiking, and a dog hotel on site so you can bring your pup with you.

Or try a transformative retreat. Spiritual warriors, head to Ithaca, New York, for weekend programs at a small bed and breakfast owned by Sally VanOrman, a social worker, psychiatric nurse, and natural childbirth instructor. For women only, the Change Your Mind, Change Your Life retreat offers participants the opportunity to become aware of the common beliefs and distortions that have an impact on their lives through guided instruction on self-evaluation in small, intimate group sessions.

Want some time to yourself? Here’s how to spend a week off grid in the Rockies.

What I Learned From Visiting The D-Day Beaches

A visit to the D-Day beaches in Normandy, France, will no doubt leave you changed. You will appreciate life more and be more thankful for freedom. Today, these beaches are an arena for reflection. You will be surprised at how peaceful the coastline is now, with waves gently lapping at the shore. But for a few terrible days during World War II, it was a place of chaos and deafening sounds and fires and so much suffering.

Here are some things I learned from my time on the channel shores of France this summer.

Omaha Beach in Normandy. — Sharon Odegaard

Ordinary People To Heroes

On June 6, 1944, the Allies landed in five sectors along 60 miles of French coastline. The Americans were assigned to Utah and Omaha beaches, the Canadians to Juno, and the British to Sword and Gold. The purpose of Operation Overlord, the official name of the invasion, was to push back the Germans who had been occupying France for four years. The planning and preparation took months, and men from 12 Allied countries did their part. In all, about 160,000 troops landed by sea and air. D-Day still stands as the largest invasion in history.

Visiting the beaches, however, allowed me to move past the statistics and mind-boggling numbers. I’d read overviews of the battles in Normandy, but in going there I saw for myself what the soldiers saw, where they ran, the bluffs they climbed, the cliffs they scaled, the rivers they forded.

It’s often said that every person on either side of the conflict on D-Day was a hero. The more I traced some of their paths, the clearer this became. The success of liberation came down to one person at a time standing beside his friends, doing what certainly couldn’t have come naturally.

I walked into the water on Omaha Beach, dug my toes in the sand, and saw in my mind the hundreds of men who ran into a hail of bullets because that was their role and they wouldn’t let their buddies down. I stood on a vital drawbridge held by courageous souls who refused to retreat even as men around them died. I solemnly entered the country church that served as a medic station and witnessed the bloodstains still clearly visible on the wooden pews. I traced the footsteps of paratroopers who attacked nests of gunners firing at their comrades on the beaches from three miles away. They couldn’t even see the men they were risking their lives to save.

Every person who pushed past the instinct to flee, drew deep to find courage, and didn’t give up contributed to the remarkable victory. They are heroes, every one.

The writer at the cemetery for D-Day soldiers. — Sharon Odegaard

Coping With Overwhelming Emotion

It’s common for visitors to the D-Day beaches to be overwhelmed with information and emotion. Standing in a sea of white crosses and stars in the cemeteries is poignant. The loss of life is astounding. Omaha Beach alone is the resting place of more than 9,000 soldiers. I learned that one way to cope with my feelings is to focus on individuals. Look at the names on the grave markers. Thomas J. Minnick, Nickolas Wassil, Donald Grohman. These were men — or young boys — who got on a boat in England and landed on the foreign soil of France and never went home. I imagined their fear. I imagined all they missed of life. I imagined their families. I imagined so much grief.

After you wander among the graves, take a moment to sit. Resting on the grass and reflecting gave me time to be still and process my thoughts. It’s also a stance that I felt was respectful given the significance of the place.

Graves at the D-Day cemetery. — Sharon Odegaard

Look For The Miracles

While war always brings sorrow, I learned that looking for the heartwarming stories helps. I booked a day with a local guide who has talked with French people who witnessed D-Day firsthand. He’s also met numerous veterans when they’ve returned to Normandy. He supplied me with so many uplifting stories.

One of my favorites was his answer to my question about why the town of Bayeux, just over three miles from the beach, wasn’t destroyed by bombs as many towns were. He told me that on the evening of D-Day, a priest from Bayeux knew the Allies had gained a hold on the beach. He also figured that the next day, bombs would fall on his beloved town as the Allies moved inland to dislodge the Germans. He stole away through the night to an Allied commander to inform him that the Germans had quietly abandoned Bayeux that day. There was no need to bomb the town. The Allies believed him, cancelled the planned bombardment, and the next day liberated Bayeux without a fight. The cathedral dating from the 1100s and the town’s winding cobblestone streets survived. The bravery of one priest willing to risk his life saved medieval Bayeux.

Flags from the Allied countries. — Sharon Odegaard

Many Countries, A Common Goal

Like many Americans, on my first visit to Normandy, I went only to Omaha Beach, the most famous of my country’s sites. But I thought there might be something gained from seeing the entire invasion area. My hunch was right.

Touring all the beaches allowed me to find out more about the contributions of the British and other soldiers. I was able to get a better grasp of how each sector fit into the grand plan. Whether it was taking a road, laying a cement harbor in the water, or liberating a town, all the parts made a whole. Being in the five areas widened my understanding of how people from different countries came together to work toward a common goal. And that is a good reason to travel, no matter where you go.

Utah Beach in Normandy. — Sharon Odegaard

Gaining A New Perspective On Life

Knowing more about what happened on these beaches reminded me that, while I have value as a person, the world does not revolve around me. Soldiers and civilians alike sacrificed everything for each other and for liberation. It made me feel small, in a good way. An ache or pain, a disappointment, money worries — these everyday problems pale in comparison to the life-and-death circumstances of war.

I traveled to the D-Day beaches to pay respects to those who were part of the Normandy campaign. Visiting here made me think of the words of President Abraham Lincoln during America’s Civil War: “In a larger sense, we cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate, we cannot hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have hallowed it, far above our poor power to add or detract.” While this is true of the D-Day beaches too, a visit will give you the opportunity to honor the heroes of Normandy while at the same time inspiring you to be brave in the face of whatever life brings.