8 Reasons To Visit Camiguin Island In The Philippines

Camiguin Island rises out of the sea like a lost world. The volcanic island is carpeted in lush, verdant jungle, with peaks that soar out from turquoise waters, which are peppered with dozens of surrounding white sand-ringed islands.

Separated from the mainland by six miles of Gingoog Bay’s turquoise waters, Camiguin is a beach-lover’s paradise that remains relatively undisturbed compared to the other more popular islands in the Philippine archipelago. Brace yourself for bursts of greens, blues, and whites. Make the most of miles of hiking trails that lead deep into jungles and up to mouths of volcanoes, or sink your toes into powdery sand that disappears into calm, crystalline water.

Before traveling, remember that Camiguin has a rainy season from December to March, and the Easter season and summer break times can be crowded. The best time to visit Camiguin Island is during the fall.

Considering vacationing on this picturesque paradise? Here are eight reasons to visit Camiguin Island in the Philippines.

A beautiful lonely lagoon on Camiguin Island. — Tatiana Nurieva / Shutterstock

1. It Exudes A Robinson Crusoe Vibe

The word is out on idyllic island escapes in the Philippines, which means it is becoming increasingly more difficult to find spots that aren’t overrun with tourists. Stories about the legendary beauty of places like Cebu, Boracay, and Palawan are out. Fortunately, Camiguin Island has been mostly spared from mass discovery, preserving its status as one of the Philippines’s relatively untouched-by-tourist islands, meaning prices are lower and it’s not uncommon to feel like you have the place to yourself.

Volcano Mount Mambajao in Camiguin. — Richard Whitcombe / Shutterstock

2. It Is Nature’s Giant Jacuzzi

Camiguin Island goes by another name among locals — the Island Born of Fire, and for good reason. With more than 20 cinder cones and 7 volcanoes (one that is still considered active), Camiguin Island has more volcanoes per square mile than any other island on earth. As such, the island is dotted with dozens of natural hot springs. There are plenty of hot springs to play in all around the island.

Ardent Hot Springs is one of the island’s best, tucked in a jungle setting not far from the beaches in Agoho and Yumbing. The hot springs is tucked in the foothills of Hibok-Hibok Volcano, which can actually be climbed in the dry season. Bear in mind the hike is demanding and can take around eight hours round trip, but for those who take on the challenge, the spoils are immensely rewarding. From the peak it’s possible to see neighboring islands including Bohol, Cebu, and Negros.

For a less-intense hike, summit the Old Camiguin Volcano, which features the Roman Catholic Stations of the Cross. This is a leisurely day hike that will take about an hour.

A beautiful waterfall on Camiguin Island. — Nikolay Karasev / Shutterstock

3. It Is Home To Breathtaking Waterfalls

Among its other notable water features, Camiguin Island has some of the best waterfalls in the Philippines. From epic falls that plunge more than 200 feet to more modest falls of 50 feet, it’s entirely possible to spend a day waterfall hopping. Katibawasan Falls, which plummets about 229 feet into a plunge pool below, is one of the most famous falls on the island. Katibawasan is popular for swimming and picnicking. It’s touristy in nature, with souvenir stands and a concrete pathway, meaning if you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path escapes, this is not it. Still, the falls themselves are beautiful and it’s a nice break from the heat to take a dip in the cool water.

Binangawan Falls is absolutely a remote experience. More adventurous travelers can head out on their own, otherwise a guided tour can be arranged. Keep in mind that reaching Binangawan Falls involves what some consider a treacherous hike, especially if the ground is even a little bit wet. The view, however, is simply spectacular. Gushes of mountain water flow down the jade-colored rock face to a pristine swimming hole below.

Aerial view of the White Island. — Richard Whitcombe / Shutterstock

4. It Is A Paradise For Island-Hopping

The Philippines is a paradisiacal playground of seemingly private islands. And while Camiguin Island is idyllic on its own, it is surrounded by a bevy of other epically gorgeous islands that are prime for exploring. Uninhabited White Island, for example, is everything you think of when you close your eyes and imagine that remote island photograph. The pure white sandbar that sits a few hundred yards offshore is a quick boat ride away. Ringed in coral reefs, this is a popular spot for snorkeling. It’s best to go in the early morning before the sun becomes too intense. A boat trip costs about 20 Philippine pesos, or 35 cents.

Mantigue Island is another offshore paradise that has all the makings of a tropical hideaway. Picture swaying palm trees, sugary sand, and turquoise water perfect for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, kayaking, and more. A return trip to the island from the village of San Roque is about 550 Philippine pesos, or $10. There is also a 20-peso entrance fee and additional fees for divers and snorkelers.

Giant clams underwater in Camiguin. — Madame Butterfly / Shutterstock

5. You Can Dive With Giant Clams

Speaking of diving and snorkeling, the Philippines is world-renowned for having treasures beneath the water’s surface, and Camiguin Island is no exception. From spots that are ideal for beginners who prefer to stick to snorkeling to sites that beckon the most advanced technical divers, there are many diving opportunities off the beaches of Camiguin itself — and around its surrounding islands.

Unleash your inner mermaid when you snorkel or dive at the Cantaan Kabila White Beach Giant Clam Sanctuary. Home to some of the best-preserved coral around the island, the sanctuary offers a truly unparalleled experience. Skim the surface of the crystal clear water as you hover over hundreds of brilliantly colored shells of giant clams. It is a family-owned property, and the family offers tours and snorkel masks for rent. Guides cost 150 pesos, or roughly $3. There is also a 25-peso entrance fee and a 25-peso environmental fee.

The Sunken Cemetery of Camiguin. — Madame Butterfly / Shutterstock

6. It Has A Sunken Cemetery

One of the better-known attractions off the shores of Camiguin Island is its legendary sunken cemetery. Following a 19th-century earthquake, a local cemetery slipped into the sea. Today it is a popular snorkel and dive site. To find it, look for the massive white cross that sits on a floating pontoon in the bay between the hillside and Bonbon. If snorkeling around a cemetery isn’t your thing, the cross itself is spectacular for photographs during sunset as its silhouette rises out of the sea.

The Lanzones Festival. — Lisa R Johnson / Shutterstock.com

7. The Lanzones Are The Best In The Philippines

Any local will tell you the best time to visit Camiguin Island is around the third week of October, when the island explodes in a burst of color as locals celebrate the Lanzones Festival.

Lanzones are a local delicacy. The sweet, tangy, juicy fruit is one of the most popular products in the entire country, and some of the best can be found on Camiguin Island. The festival pays tribute to the bounty of the fruit with a week of parades, pageants, dancing, celebrating, colorful costumes, and, of course, all the lanzones you can eat.

Hibok-Hibok Volcano on Camiguin Island. — Tatiana Nurieva / Shutterstock

8. It Looks Amazing From The Air

Who needs to buy a drone when you can get a bird’s-eye view of Camiguin Island in person? For travelers who love the thrill of aerial views, Camiguin Aviation offers one of the best experiences on the island. Hop a Cessna with a professional pilot who will zoom you around the island for the most glamorous angles of Camiguin, the surrounding islands, and the turquoise-colored sea. Swoop up close and personal to the mouth of volcanoes, and brace yourself for seven heart-pumping maneuvers that will give you a zero-gravity experience. A Standard Island Flight lasts about an hour and costs 16,000 pesos or $300.

Bonus: If you’re a pilot or in the process of flight training yourself, Camiguin Aviation offers packages for pilots — a chance to perfect your skills in paradise. Courses start at $700.

Want to read up on ideal destinations before deciding where to stay? These are the most beautiful places in the Philippines.

5 Reasons To Take A Women-Only Trip

It’s time to get out of dodge and breathe some fresh air with your best friends. We believe traveling with other women is a special experience.

Listed below are our top five reasons — inspired by expert travelers — why you and your ladies need to book a trip together soon.

1. Do Things You Wouldn’t Do On Your Own Or With Your Partner

Whether you travel with like-minded women or ladies who have very diverse interests, you can have experiences you’ve been missing out on.

Kathy Marris of 50 Shades of Age believes women-only trips allow you to do things you most likely wouldn’t do with your partner or alone. She suggests making the most out of your trip by doing things like “visiting day spas, shopping, dining out at gourmet restaurants, partaking in yoga or meditation retreats” and “trying alternative therapies like sound healing and sipping cocktails at sunset.”

Kathy’s definitely onto something. You deserve to pamper yourself and try new things, even if your partner doesn’t want to participate!

If you’ve ever felt held back while traveling — with a partner, family members, or alone — it’s comforting to know that you can be supported every step of the way, and in each new experience, if you travel with other women.

Women enjoying coffee together. — Iakov Filimonov / Shutterstock

2. De-Stress And Recalibrate

We all need a break from life sometimes. Traveling with your girlfriends can help you take a step back and recharge your mind and soul.

Kathy is a firm believer that women-only trips are “a chance to spend quality time with your sisters and discuss the important things in life. It can be one of the best things you can do for your own health and well-being.”

3. Share Experiences With Other Women

Alicja Krysiak from Just Adventures likes to travel with small groups of women. She says it “enables us to bond and share common experiences.”

The world is your oyster when you travel. Why not experience it to the fullest? Book tours, go zip-lining, and most importantly, make memories! Do what makes your heart soar, and share these moments with women you’ll cherish forever.

A group of friends taking a selfie. — Brainsil / Shutterstock

4. Build New Friendships

Alicja thinks traveling with other women is a great relationship-building opportunity. “One specific trip was to the island of Flores [in Indonesia], where, by chance, I met a woman that was involved with a women’s weaving cooperative in Maumere. When she learned that we would be traveling to Maumere, she invited us to come and visit, and observe and participate in the work that she was doing with the local Indonesian women.”

Making new friends is an authentic way to get to know your travel location better and to experience the culture to the fullest.

5. Start A Tradition

Becky Breshears of Over 50 Traveling loves traveling with other women so much she has gone on a trip with her sister, daughter, and best friend annually for over five years. She said her yearly trips are “a great way to connect with all my best girlfriends every year, especially those that live far away.”

Traveling with other women nourishes the soul and satiates your appetite for adventure and new experiences.

Of course traveling with other people isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. To prepare for your next group travel adventure, check out our list of common group travel challenges and how to overcome them.

9 Incredible Hidden Gems In Vienna, Austria

You simply cannot know how much you need to visit Vienna until you actually visit Vienna. While the capital of Austria often takes a back seat to capitals like London, Paris, and Rome, Vienna can certainly hold its own, and then some. Baroque architecture and imperial palaces bring the city’s artistic and musical past to life, and their grandeur and opulence wrap the streetscapes in old-world magic. The coffeehouse culture and fantastic cuisine add a modern touch. Add to that the convergence of classic art with avant-garde masterpieces, and it’s easy to see that this Eastern European capital on the Danube River is a city for all times. It’s also a city for all seasons: The best part about Vienna is that it thrives year-round. From the outdoor summer festivals to the sparkling Christmas markets, there is no wrong time to visit Vienna.

Most visitors to Vienna will hit the major sites, many of which center on the powerful Habsburg dynasty whose members called the city home for more than 600 years. The palace complex houses the famous Hofburg Chapel, where the Vienna Boys Choir still sings; the Spanish Riding School; and the Kaiserappartements, the imperial apartments where the royal family once lived. There’s also the Schönbrunn Palace, the Belvedere Palace, and more, all of which served as residences for emperors. While these sites are absolutely worth a visit, there is another side of Vienna that is a bit more offbeat — a side where hidden gems are waiting to be discovered.

Here are some facets of the less-visited side of Vienna that you won’t want to miss.

The Kursalon Vienna in City Park. — trabantos / Shutterstock

1. Kursalon Vienna

You simply can’t travel to Vienna without experiencing the monumental classical compositions that came out of the city. But while everyone else is listening to the Vienna Philharmonic, visitors in the know can experience the sounds of Mozart and Strauss — minus the crowds — at the Kursalon Vienna in City Park. According to Gianetta Palmer, a Europe writer for CarInsuranceComparison.com, you can enjoy live music by a string ensemble while dancers take to the floor in the traditional Viennese waltz. Even the 19th-century Italian Renaissance-style building is a feast for the senses.

The concert series is a great add-on for riverboat cruisers who are headed down the Danube, especially during the Christmas season. Tickets start at 45 euros. The VIP category includes a glass of Prosecco in addition to premium seating.

2. Supersense

You know that junk drawer that everyone has? Yes, that drawer. Now imagine a museum full of the contents. You’re envisioning Supersense, a cabinet of curiosities that takes collectors back to the analog age. Supersense, located in the Second District in a former neo-Gothic mansion, is a museum of analog antiques where you’ll find typewriters, pinball machines, old telephones, and more. There’s even a DIY section where you can record 90 seconds of vinyl in a studio made out of an elevator, or play pinball on a machine that is hooked up to a Polaroid camera that snaps a picture with every new high score. There’s a printing press that can make postcards and business cards, and there’s a collection of vintage guitars and synthesizers. The coffee shop next door is a great place to grab a slice of cake and a cup of Joe.

Narrenturm Museum in Vienna, Austria. — canadastock / Shutterstock.com

3. Narrenturm Museum

Housed in one of the oldest insane asylums in the world, Vienna’s Narrenturm Museum is certainly an odd find. The Narrenturm, or “Fools’ Tower,” is a circular, looming structure that today houses the city’s museum of pathology and anatomy. Not for the faint of heart, the museum’s collection includes oddities like syphilitic skulls, graphic wax displays of untreated diseases, taxidermied monkeys, and some other grotesque items. The Collection of Anatomical Pathology in the Narrenturm is part of the Natural History Museum of Vienna. Admission to the museum costs approximately 2 euros.

4. Porgy & Bess

Vienna may be known for its connection to some of the world’s most famous musicians — Mozart, Schubert, Haydn, and more — but there is a musical tradition in Vienna that extends far beyond the classics. Jazz and blues thrive in Vienna as well, though the scene is not quite as aboveground as the city’s other musical landscapes. Porgy & Bess is one of the best places in the city (and, frankly, one of the best places in Europe) to steal away for a night of jazz and blues. Tucked away in the First District, this alternative club takes visitors back to the smoky, hazy heyday of jazz and blues. There is even an art space that features photography exhibits, sculptures, and paintings.

The Brunnenmarkt in Vienna. — Muellek Josef / Shutterstock

5. Brunnenmarkt

Taste the very best of Vienna (and tuck into a massive slice of local life in the process) at the city’s vibrant Brunnenmarkt. Located in Yppenplatz Square, one of the trendier neighborhoods in the city, Vienna’s largest street market features more than 170 stalls that buzz with activity, local vendors, residents, and tourists alike. You’ll find all kinds of produce, cheese, fish, and spices. The market is particularly popular for its fresh, authentic, and affordable Turkish cuisine, and many meals can be had for less than 4 euros. Artists have also set up shop around the market, turning the experience into a multisensory affair. Nearby are dozens of popular restaurants and wine bars. A quick snack can easily become an all-day eating, drinking, and shopping extravaganza.

The Cemetery For The Nameless in Vienna. — Stefan_Leitner / Shutterstock

6. Cemetery For The Nameless

Originally opened in the late 19th century, the Cemetery for the Nameless is the final resting place for people whose circumstances did not allow for a proper funeral, including suicide victims and unknown people recovered from the Danube River between 1840 and 1940. The mood is somber, but with threads of hope, as the purpose of the cemetery was to provide a place for the forgotten to rest in peace. Most graves are marked by black crosses with silver crucifixes. Every year on All Saints’ Day, local fishermen honor the unknown dead with a small ceremony on the Danube.

7. Gasthaus Quell

Foodies will fawn over the traditional Austrian dishes served up at Gasthaus Quell. The restaurant is an authentic beisl, or small tavern, to tuck into the tastes of Vienna. With its wood-paneled interior, chandeliers, and old-world hearth, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. The menu items are what you’d expect from a traditional Austrian kitchen, from schnitzel and goulash to sausages and more. The staff is known for being incredibly warm and welcoming.

Tourists enjoying wine in Vienna. — Austria.info

8. Vienna Wine Trail

Did you know that Austria has a rich wine heritage? It’s true. Austrian wine — particularly its white varietals like riesling and grüner veltliner — is some of the best in Europe. Vienna’s winemaking tradition dates back centuries, and wine taverns are still popular throughout the city. Today, there are about 1,730 acres of vineyards in the Vienna area. Head to the hills surrounding the city to discover taverns and cellars that offer wine tastings.

Vienna has its own wine trail as well, which leads from Neustift am Walde to Nussdorf. Along the way, you’ll pass through Sievering, Cobenzl, and Grinzing, all notable locations in the Viennese wine and heuriger tavern traditions. Enjoy the delicious local wine while drinking in the equally delicious views of the surrounding countryside.

The Irrgarten in Vienna. — H1N1 / Shutterstock

9. Irrgarten

No doubt one of Vienna’s most iconic attractions is Schönbrunn Palace, the insanely ornate and over-the-top hunting lodge and summer palace of the Habsburgs. But while most visitors are roaming the decadent rooms, head to the outdoor section, especially the Irrgarten, or “Lost Garden,” a quirky topiary maze. The original maze was taken down in the 19th century, allegedly because members of high society were meeting within its walls for frisky business. But the maze was rebuilt in the 1990s using the plans for the original 17th-century maze. It’s absolutely worth the time to find your way out. Bring your own breadcrumbs… just in case.

Where To See The Best Fall Foliage In The U.S.

Fall is prime vacation time in the United States. The kids are back in school, the weather is no longer swampy, and there’s so much to see and do. But for an extra dose of the season, there’s only one activity that is king — traveling to see the leaves change as summer shifts into fall.

We’ve rounded up the most famous U.S. fall foliage spots (I see you, New England) plus some off-the-beaten-path destinations for the ultimate autumn holiday.

Aspen, Colorado

Those Rocky Mountain highs are especially delightful during the transition from summer to colder weather. And it makes sense that a town named for a lovely tree would shine during the fall season. With its vibrant mountain energy, small-town charm, and beautiful landscape, Aspen is an easy addition to our list. Visit in late September or early October to see the peak color.

There’s a ton to do in the area besides skiing, from hiking to luxuriating in the nearby hot springs to exploring the Aspen Art Museum. For extra enchantment, consider luxe accommodations for your Colorado getaway.

Great River Road, Mississippi River Valley

Another top spot for fall foliage can be found in the upper Midwest along the mighty Mississippi. The river itself forms the border between the states of Minnesota and Wisconsin, and there’s an especially pretty stretch around Lake Pepin, which is the widest natural part of the river. From Bay City, Wisconsin, down to Nelson, Wisconsin, and from Red Wing, Minnesota, to Wabasha, Minnesota, visitors will delight in the stunning autumnal views. Consider driving all the way around the lake by crossing the bridges in Red Wing and Wabasha. Or, for a bird’s-eye view, venture to Alma, Wisconsin, and its Buena Vista Park Overlook on top of a river bluff.

The area is also home to the Great River Road Wine Trail and fabulous restaurants like Harbor View Café in Pepin, Wisconsin; it is only a short distance from the Twin Cities. Visit in mid to late October for the best leaf-peeping.

Fall foliage in Yosemite National Park. — Luc Stadnik / Shutterstock

San Francisco Area, California

Best experienced in early November, the San Francisco area offers some lovely fall foliage. With Muir Woods, Yosemite, and wine country all close to the city, there are endless ways to customize your visit. And if you choose to visit Sonoma or Napa, early November is usually just past the peak tourist season. Why not pair the enchanting fall leaves with an earthy cab and a hike through a national park?

The city of San Francisco itself is home to many beautiful parks perfect for leaf-peeping. And with its unbelievable culinary scene, San Francisco is a great choice for foodies looking to enjoy some fall foliage.

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

It’s no surprise that New England makes an appearance on our list of best fall foliage destinations. The state of Massachusetts offers plenty of beautiful places to see the leaves turn, but the Berkshires are truly special. The area is less bustling in the fall than it is in the summer, but there’s still so much to do. With its famous food and unique shopping, the region provides a perfect base for autumn exploring. Plus, it’s home to the highest peak in the state, Mount Greylock, for fantastic views of all the changing trees. Visit in early to mid-October to experience peak foliage.

Fall foliage in Acadia National Park, Maine. — flashbacknyc / Shutterstock

Mid-Coast Region, Maine

Often overlooked in favor of Acadia National Park or Portland, the Mid-Coast region of Maine — which winds up the coast from Bath, Maine, to Searsport, Maine — is a winner in the fall. It’s the hidden gem of New England foliage routes. It’s a harder-to-reach destination because you can’t fly into it, but it’s worth the hassle to make the coastal drive during autumn. With its scenic seascapes, towering lighthouses, and quaint small towns, Maine’s Mid Coast provides an enchanting fall foliage experience.

Consider spending time in nearby Portland or Acadia on your trip. Late September to mid-October is the best time to see the leaves change in this region.

Brown County, Indiana

Early November is the best time to check out this central Indiana location. Brown County is home to Brown County State Park, which is the perfect spot for viewing fall foliage. For maximum convenience, the area offers a Leaf Cam that updates every 15 minutes so that visitors can scope out the scene beforehand. The variety of trees results in spectacular color; you’ll see oak, hickory, poplar, birch, dogwood, and maple trees.

Brown County is also very near Indiana University’s pretty main campus in Bloomington, a walkable spot to enjoy the fall leaves.

Fall foliage in Texas's Hill Country. — Richard A McMillin / Shutterstock

Texas Hill Country

This 14,000-square-mile section of Texas boasts beautiful colors during the fall season. The whole area is lovely, but if you have limited time, plan to check out Lost Maples State Natural Area. With its huge maple trees and options for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities, Lost Maples is hard to beat. Plus, since the Texas Hill Country is considered to be where the Southeast transitions to the Southwest, you can experience two distinct types of foliage on the same trip.

With its central location in the Southern U.S., the Texas Hill Country is best experienced in early to mid-November. If you have extra time in the area, consider a visit to the thriving nearby cities of Austin and San Antonio.

Bennington County, Vermont

Another New England stunner, Bennington County, is home to five of Vermont’s famous covered bridges, as well as trees that truly shine in autumn. As Vermont’s oldest county, Bennington offers plenty of historical attractions, too. All five of its bridges are on the National Register of Historic Places. This area and its scenic rolling hills make an ideal backdrop for fall exploration. Visitors can drive to the covered bridges on stunning byways or hike in the area’s state parks and natural areas. Bennington (the town, not the county), Vermont, is also very near the Green Mountain National Forest. Southwestern Vermont is adjacent to the New York state border and close to western Massachusetts as well.

Fall foliage near Traverse City, Michigan. — Gary Richard Ennis / Shutterstock

Leelanau Peninsula, Michigan

This “little finger” of the glove of Michigan extends into Lake Michigan. With pretty water views from both Lake Leelanau and the Great Lake, the area is perfect for fall foliage viewing. It’s best to drive the M-22 route to experience the beauty of the season. Leelanau is a popular summer destination — it’s sometimes called the Cape Cod of the Midwest — but it’s refreshingly less busy once the weather cools down. Consider a trip between mid-September and mid-October for peak color.

Traverse City, Michigan, is very near the peninsula, and offers lots of fun wineries; be sure to sample the region’s famous cherries as well.

Adirondack Region, New York

With one of the longest fall foliage seasons in the country, this northeastern New York gem deserves a look. The Adirondack Mountains are enclosed within the Adirondack Forest Preserve, the oldest conservation site of its kind in the country. There are more than 6 million acres to explore, and more than half of them consist of hardwood forests that are drop-dead gorgeous in the fall. The area offers opportunities for hiking, canoeing, fishing, birding, and more. Aim to visit in late September or early October for peak color.

Willamette Valley, Oregon

Oregon’s wine region has more to offer than grapes. It’s home to the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway, which allows visitors to enjoy the fall foliage while getting their exercise in. Oaks, cottonwoods, and covered bridges make this an especially lovely destination. Plus, it’s near the hipster mecca of Portland, Oregon, which offers a large airport for travelers’ ease. You’ll most likely experience peak fall color during a late-October visit.

Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

In the shadow of the more well-known Wisconsin resort areas of Lake Geneva and Door County is the stunning Elkhart Lake. Just an hour’s drive from Milwaukee, this lovely lake is perfect for a fall foliage getaway, since it’s smack dab in the middle of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. There’s even an 80-foot observation tower at the nearby Marsh Park that helps visitors experience the beautiful leaves from up above. You’ll fall in love with this hidden gem!

Besides these amazing spots, there are many more exceptional leaf-peeping locations in the U.S. What are some of your favorites?

Want to enjoy more fall wonder? Take one of these stunning autumn road trips. Or, for a breakdown of peak fall color by state, read our helpful article.

The Culinary Tradition Behind Chapulines: Oaxaca’s Fried Grasshoppers

One of the pleasures of traveling in Mexico is exploring local foods, and Oaxaca City, located in southern Mexico, is a top culinary destination known for its sweet mole sauces, smoky mescals (a close cousin of tequila) and savory chapulines — known to most of us as grasshoppers. Yep, grasshoppers.

Chock-full of protein, chapulines have been a menu staple in Oaxaca for at least five millennia. Conveniently, chapulines love hanging out among Mexico’s principal crops — squash, corn, and beans — and before Spanish colonizers introduced domesticated animals to Mexico in the 16th century, chapulines served as a primary source of protein for people in the region.

Chapulines from Oaxaca, Mexico. — Marcos Castillo / Shutterstock

Of course, the question on most people’s minds is What do these grasshoppers taste like? On their own, chapulines are pretty bland. However, once they are toasted or fried and seasoned with garlic, salt, lemon, and a little chili, they take on a yeasty, salty tang and have a distinctive crunch.

Zagat writer Danya Henninger described her first few bites of a chapuline taco as “tasty and interesting — think the crunch of fried chicken skin and the taste of mushrooms mixed with shrimp.” The bad news according to Henninger? “They get stuck in your teeth”

According to the Phoenix New Times, “Chapulines taste almost like salt and vinegar potato chips, but a bit wetter. There’s a satisfying crunch from the exoskeleton throughout, with a bit of tangy softness at the abdomen.”

While taco filling is a popular use for chapulines, they are also commonly served on their own as a street food or as a bar snack to go with mescal or cerveza. You’ll also find chapulines atop tlayudas, a Oaxacan pizza-style dish. Smaller chapulines are generally considered culinarily superior and are less likely to present the formerly mentioned texture issues.

Chapulines are harvested during Oaxaca’s rainy season, which runs May through October, and a good place to find them fresh is at Oaxaca’s Benito Juarez market or the Mercado 20 de Noviembre market, where indigenous women sell them by the scoopful out of giant baskets.

Oaxacans are not the only ones who appreciate the economical and nutritious grasshopper. Chapulines are easy to find in around Mexico City. In the U.S., chapulines are on the menu at a number of Los Angeles restaurants, including the popular Oaxacan restaurant Guelaguetza. At Mariner’s baseball games in Seattle, the local Poquitos restaurant serves up chapulines as a ballpark snack option. Grasshoppers also show up as a snack and garnish in both Thailand and Uganda.

Chapulines for sale in Oaxaca, Mexico. — Angela Ostafichuk / Shutterstock

For anyone who is still not convinced that grasshoppers are worth a try, perhaps a little science will help. According to the Biology Institute of the National Autonomous University of Mexico chapulines are strongly recommended for their high A, B, and C vitamin content. They are also rich in fiber, magnesium, calcium, and zinc — and don’t forget that highly digestible protein content. Chapulines are over 62 percent protein, out of which nearly 90 percent is digestible. And entomophagy — the eating of insects — is often touted as a sustainable solution to nutritiously feeding the planet in the face of our ever-expanding population.

In other words, a handful of chapulines is good for you and good for the planet, so embrace the crunch!

Fascinated by seemingly strange eats from around the world? Read about one traveler’s experience going mad for mopane worms: Zimbabwe’s most fascinating food experience.

Meet The Isle Of Mainau: Germany’s Enchanting Flower Island

There’s no shortage of beauty on the Isle of Mainau in southern Germany. To your left, you might find a sea of vibrant tulips; to your right, gigantic trees. All around you, the sweet scent of fresh flowers perfumes the air.

The Isle of Mainau is nestled on Lake Constance in southernmost Germany. The lake borders Switzerland and Austria.

The island has something for everyone — interesting history, ethereal foliage, and establishments that serve traditional German food. That the Swiss Alps are nearby is a plus, but they pale in comparison to this island — a botanical garden that seems straight out of a daydream.

The gardens on the Isle of Mainau. — Mario Krpan / Shutterstock

The History Behind The Beauty

The recorded history of the Isle of Mainau dates back to as early as 15 B.C., when historians believe the island operated as a naval base for the Romans.

Gardens began sprouting up in the early 19th century when Hungarian Prince Esterhazy brought in trees and exotic plants. In the mid-1800s, Grand Duke Fredrick I of Baden commenced the long process of transforming the island into a flower paradise.

The island has been a work in progress since then. Countess Bettina Bernadotte and Count Bjorn Bernadotte — descendants of the grand duke — maintain Mainau today.

Guests admire the flowers on the Isle of Mainau. — Polina LVT / Shutterstock

A Day At The Island

Whether it’s June or January, something almost otherworldly is in full bloom on the island.

Mainau has dozens of flower gardens with dahlias, rhododendrons, hydrangeas, roses, peonies, lilies, and more. The gardeners go all out to create kaleidoscopes of flowers — in April, one million flowers of every color imaginable are in bloom. Can you smell the flowers, or is it just us?

The collection of trees on Mainau is as impressive as its varieties of flowers. The arboretum on the island has 250 types of trees, including 50 sequoias and redwoods. After exploring the gardens, stroll through the second-largest butterfly house in Germany, where you can spot 120 species from around the world.

Inside Restaurant Comturey on the Isle of Mainau. — Isle of Mainau

When you’re ready for a nice meal, there are a handful of options to choose from. Restaurant Comturey is known for food native to southern Germany. Schwedenschenke, as the name implies, serves Swedish-style cuisine. If you’re looking to soak in the best views of the lake, look no further than Rothaus-Seeterrassen. If none of those are making your taste buds tingle, don’t worry — there are cafes, bistros, bakeries, and even a beer garden where you can refuel before you continue your adventure through the botanical garden.

The flowers are certainly something to behold, and the events and festivals are, too! The island hosts a variety of unique events every year. For example, you can attend a traditional Swedish Midsummer Festival with music, dance, and food every June. Before you go, make sure to scope out the list of events for more information.

A giant flower peacock on the Isle of Mainau. — Preisler / Shutterstock

Know Before You Go

The flower island is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, and visitors have several options when it comes to accessing the island. Mainau is connected to the mainland by a pedestrian bridge. If you want to drive, you can park your car, walk over the bridge, and end up right on the island. You can also access Mainau by bus or boat.

There are two tourist seasons on the island: spring to fall and fall to spring. March to October is the busy season with admission priced at 21.50 euros for adults. From October to March, tickets are 10.50 euros for adults. If you don’t mind the crowds and price, spring to fall is arguably the best time to visit. Fall to spring is inexpensive, but you might miss some of the most exquisite flowers.

A bronze sculpture on the Isle of Mainau. — toriru / Shutterstock

There’s enough to explore on the flower island to fill up a day, but if you prefer to spend part of your day exploring the rest of Lake Constance, consider going on a group tour of the Isle of Mainau. You’ll learn about the rich history of the island in under two hours. After, make the most out of your day at the lake by visiting Meersburg Castle, the Stilthouse Museum, and Lindau Harbor.

Since the ever-so-lovely Lake Constance borders Switzerland and Austria, it’s a great stepping stone if you’re traveling south. If you plan to visit Switzerland, don’t miss our insider tips on how to spend a day in Bern.