8 Best Ski Resorts In Lake Tahoe

There are several types of skiers and boarders out there, and regardless of whether you’re an advanced rider looking for some seriously sick slopes, or a family looking for kid-friendly runs, Lake Tahoe has a little something for everyone.

As one of the top skiing destinations in the world, it’s no wonder Tahoe is accommodating to every type of skier and boarder. The following 8 best ski resorts in Lake Tahoe offer endless options for the bargain shoppers, the luxury lovers, the adrenaline junkies, and the first-timers.

Best Luxury Ski Resort in Lake Tahoe

1. Squaw Valley Ski Resort

Difficulty level: Advanced

For three consecutive years, USA Today named Squaw Valley Ski Resort the “Best Ski Resort” in North America, and we’ll tell you why. Squaw Valley Ski Resort in the Lake Tahoe region sees over 300 days of sunny blue California skies each year, topped off with abundant snow and epic scenery.

One lift ticket for Squaw Valley will grant you access to 42 lifts, 16 bowls, and 270 trails spread throughout more than 6,000 acres. With an annual average snowfall of 450 inches, you’ll have plenty of powder to carve up!

Offering lodging for up to eight guests, The Village at Squaw Valley has endless luxury suites, including the 1,350-square-foot three bedrooms and three bath suite, fully equipped with a master bedroom featuring a king size bed, a full kitchen, fully furnished living spaces, a gas fireplace, and a private balcony.

Skiing down slopes at Lake Tahoe — Wikimedia Commons

Best Budget Ski Resorts in Lake Tahoe

2. Homewood Mountain Resort

Difficulty level: Intermediate

Homewood Mountain Resort is where the mountain meets the water, with just 280 steps between the ski lift and the edge of Lake Tahoe. At an elevation of 1,650 feet, the resort’s skiing mountain grants unforgettable and extraordinary lake views.

Named the “gem of Lake Tahoe’s West Shore” by SKI Magazine, Homewood Mountain Resort’s 1,260-acre mountain has eight lifts and 67 runs that are open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.

Homewood Mountain Resort is home to West Shore Cafe & Inn, an affordable four-star accommodation overlooking the lake on one side, and the mountains on the other. The comfortable rooms include wood furnishings and historical art with early images of Lake Tahoe.

3. Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe

Difficulty level: Beginner/Intermediate

With season passes on sale now, Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe is a blossoming icon of the Reno/Tahoe region, offering the highest base skiing and snowboarding at 8,260 feet, with its parking lots reaching higher elevations than some other resort’s tallest peaks!

Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe also prides itself on providing convenient slope-side parking lots that are incredibly close to lifts, so visitors can avoid the hassle of exhaustive hikes through villages or mandatory shuttle rides.

Wallet-friendly lodging options at Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe include Ferrari’s Crown Resort, a lakeside hotel with a fun family atmosphere.

Cedar Glen Lodge offers an array of renovated accommodations to suit a variety of tastes and budgets, with options ranging from quaint studio cabins to one or two bedroom cabin suites.

Best Resorts for the Serious Skier in Lake Tahoe

4. Kirkwood Mountain Resort

Difficulty level: Advanced

Forbes ever so eloquently described Kirkwood Mountain Resort as being “like that older brother who won’t talk to you until you’re able to speak intelligently about The Ramones or the 1996 Chicago Bulls.” In other words, “the Wood,” as locals call it, is a big-boy mountain suitable only for the most advanced skiers and boarders.

Kirkwood Mountain Resort has 2,000 feet of vertical drop and over 2,300 acres of terrain with hair-raising cornices and cliffs. With 38% of the mountain’s terrain being advanced and 20% expert, the Wood is a resort aimed at thrill-seekers and those who are willing to push the limit with their extreme sports skills.

5. Alpine Meadows Ski Resort

Difficulty level: Advanced

A lift ticket for the previously mentioned Squaw Valley Ski Resort will also get you access to Alpine Meadows Ski Resort, Squaw’s older and more rebellious cousin.

Tucked between Truckee and Tahoe City, Alpine Meadows Resort has slopes for those off-the-radar adrenaline junkies, with their 100+ trails being 40% intermediate and 35% advanced.

Alpine Meadows Resort offers 2,400 skiable acres with seven bowls, 13 lifts, and two terrain parks. Lodging at the resort comprises chalet-style lodges with approachable hospitality.

Snowboarders walking across level ground — Photo provided by Pexels

Best Resort for Beginners in Lake Tahoe

6. Diamond Peak Ski Resort

Difficulty level: Beginner

If you’re a first-time skier or boarder and are worried about the difficulty of Lake Tahoe’s slopes, fear not! Tahoe offers an abundance of beginner-friendly ski resorts, the most accommodating being Diamond Peak Ski Resort.

Diamond Peak’s terrain consists of 18% beginner trails and 46% intermediate trails, a much higher percentage of beginner trails than most other resorts on Lake Tahoe.

Located above Incline Village, Diamond Peak is a hidden gem in Lake Tahoe, a community-owned resort with miles of welcoming and uncrowded runs, a great option for beginners.

If you’re traveling to Tahoe with inexperienced youngsters, Diamond Peak Ski Resort has a Child Ski Center for the littlest of learners, and a great Ski & Snowboard School for older riders who require a little bit of training before hitting the slopes.

Best Family-Friendly Ski Resorts in Lake Tahoe

7. Heavenly Ski Resort

Difficulty level: Intermediate

While Lake Tahoe welcomes families with open arms, Heavenly Ski Resort goes above and beyond and is one of the region’s best family-friendly resorts.

Heavenly offers a Children’s Ski & Snowboard School, with top-notch instructors who have expertise in skiing, snowboarding, and patience. Parents will feel confident leaving their children for a few hours with Heavenly’s professionally-trained teachers, allowing grown-ups to enjoy some much-needed downtime.

This family-friendly Lake Tahoe resort even has childcare and nursery services, featuring a licensed child care center with professionally trained staff who provide quality care for your children.

During winter months, Heavenly also has an abundance of family-friendly activities to partake in, including the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster, scenic gondola ride, and various tubing experiences.

8. Sierra at Tahoe

Difficulty level: Beginner/Intermediate

Another family-friendly Lake Tahoe resort, Sierra at Tahoe is dedicated to providing fun and safety for youngsters, and the resort’s “Snowmmeliers” ensure that all beginner terrain is covered with ultra soft, full-cushioning organic snow, guaranteed specifically for families.

Sierra also features several “Slow Zones” that designate specific runs or areas as “Go Slow Areas,” marked with yellow fencing and patrolled by Ski Patrol and Mountain Safety to ensure a maximum 15 mph speed limit.

For families, Sierra recommends staying at Aston Lakeland Village, a resort offering a free daily shuttle to the slopes and a full kitchen in each unit, a great option for larger families looking to save a few extra bucks on dining.

Skier going down slope — Photo provided by Pexels

8 Great Things About Volterra, Tuscany’s Most Underrated Hill Town

If you’ve never heard of Volterra, you’re not alone. It’s a tragically underrated destination. But here are 8 reasons you’ll fall in love with the place if you take the time to visit.

You May Just Have It All To Yourself

Volterra’s old town, population 6,000, is connected to the rest of Tuscany by bus, not train. While it’s only a two-hour ride to Siena, Florence, and Pisa, Eurail powered backpackers and travellers in a rush who rely on fast connections often skip the town altogether. As a result, foot traffic is greatly reduced compared to nearby villages. In fact, visit mid-autumn and you may very well feel like you’re the only tourist in town. Just be aware that some restaurants and a few attractions close or reduce their hours come November. A late October visit is the perfect mix of convenience and quiet.

Small Town = Big Base

Despite its small size and reduced tourist traffic, Volterra makes a surprisingly good base. Occasionally, small towns run the risk of being high on charm but low on practicalities. But not in Volterra! The town center is home to pharmacies, bookstores, gourmet food shops, a Saturday morning farmers market, a movie theatre, and even a dry cleaner and self-serve laundromat.

There’s one catch, however: driving is a bit of a challenge. In fact, non-residents are not allowed to drive in the town center. If you’re arriving by car, speak to your hotel about parking arrangements. My favourite hotel, Hotel La Locanda, has a lovely location inside the town walls which is conveniently close to the northern gate, Porta Fiorentina. Here, visitors will find the best parking options.

Pro tip: Hotel La Locanda offers homemade cakes and tortes at breakfast, and, while it’s not well advertised, they will also provide delicious, made-to-order scrambled eggs!

Overlooking the roofs of Volterra — The views over the rooftops of Volterra are breathtaking.

Romance and Ruins

An evening spent strolling along Volterra’s ancient walls, gazing out over the rolling hillsides, vineyards, and manor homes at sunset will have even the most jaded traveller convinced that the romance of Tuscany has not been overrated or overstated. This is the Tuscany that every traveller dreams of!

While you’re meandering along, don’t forget to take in the view of the Roman Theater, which dates to the first century. Remarkably, it wasn’t unearthed until the 1950s. In fact, it was once the site of the town dump and centuries of garbage protected the ruins from the ravages of time!

Become Acquainted With The Ancient Etruscans

Volterra’s Etruscan Museum is one of the last remaining tributes to once was the most influential and powerful society in the world. From about 900 BC to the first century AD, everyone who was anyone was Etruscan. They were masters of agriculture, irrigation, and maritime navigation for 10 centuries — until suddenly they weren’t.

Today, the greatest concentration of Etruscan artifacts lies in Volterra’s Etruscan Museum. It’s heavy on elaborately carved funeral urns and light on modern curation and English language descriptions, but there’s something about it that is captivating. How did these pillars of industry and the arts become a footnote in history, their language obliterated and culture lost? And what lessons can the empires of today draw from the Etruscan’s demise?

Etruscan sculpture remains behind glass — Wikimedia Commons

All In For Alabaster

Volterra is the world’s alabaster capital. The town is filled with workshops and galleries, featuring everything from modern art to household accessories. For centuries, artisans have shaped this persnickety material into altarpieces, carved busts, and even razor-thin window panes. You can learn more at the Pinacoteca and Alabaster Museum, see craftspeople at work at workshops across the city, and pick up souvenirs just about anywhere. Take care to respect signs discouraging photography at some shops.

If you’re dreaming of taking home a bespoke alabaster souvenier of your own, I’m a fan of La Bottega Toscana, a small shop specializing in easy to pack items like earrings and picture frames as well as olive wood kitchen products.

Volterra Is A Foodie’s Dream

It might not have the culinary chops of Florence or Rome but Volterra is one of the best places in Italy to eat authentic Tuscan food. The combination of fewer tourists and a close-knit community means that restaurants cater to the local population’s tastes and budgets. At La Carabaccia, located close to the Etruscan Museum, the menu changes daily and sticks to the kind of old-fashioned Tuscan recipes you’d find in a grandmother’s home. Local cheese and cured meats compliment mains like lamb stew, beef rolled around root vegetables and cooked with tomatoes and beans, and homemade noodles tossed with minced chicken and spices. A jug of the house wine rings in at just a few Euros.

At La Vecchia Lira, eating as the locals do is highly recommended. Come lunch, construction workers, retirees, and busy families choose from a variety of hot main dishes and sides, which the staff divvy out cafeteria style. Grabbing a takeout container is a popular option, and frugal-minded travelers could easily have a hearty meal for under €10. If you do opt to eat in with the a la carte menu, be sure to wander towards the back to look at the dessert case!

If you’re craving hot, cheesy comfort food, Ombra della Sera serves up the best pizza in town, as well as gigantic calzones. Selection is generous, the atmosphere is very kid friendly, and you can even call ahead to order some take out — perfect for tired road trippers keen on a night in.

It’s A Frugal Foodie’s Dream Too

Some things in life feel too good to be true, but the Italian custom of aperitivo isn’t one of them. Imagine a delicious, filling, happy hour buffet that’s entirely free and you’ll start to get the idea. Every evening, many Italian bars and cafes put out a small spread of completely free delicacies to encourage visitors to stay and linger over a drink or three. And for a small town, Volterra has a great aperitivo scene.

My personal favourite spot was VolaTerrA (yep, those oddly placed capital letters are indeed part of its name). There I munched on savoury toasted crostini, mozzarella and tomato salad, wedges of focaccia baked with herbs and pizza-style tomato sauce, and veggies with dip. In fact, I loved it so much I dropped by several nights in a row! Glasses of local wine rang in at just €5 and the staff couldn’t have been more friendly or welcoming. For travellers keen to augment the aperitivo offerings, their small a la carte menu of Tuscan dishes contains a respectable amount of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan offerings.

Volterra, like many Tuscan towns, is a bit more sedate at night, especially in the offseason. Making friends with the staff and locals at an aperitivo hotspot is a good way to pass chilly evenings and make some great travel memories.

Volterrans Are Proud, Friendly — And Rebellious Too

While most visitors come for much more ancient history, relatively recent events are equally intriguing and reveal a lot about Volterran character. In World War II, the occupying Nazi forces demanded that Volterra’s 2,000-year-old Etruscan archway be destroyed and reduced to a pile of rubble in order to slow down the Allied forces. However, proud residents found an alternative way to save it and managed to convince the Nazis to give their idea a try.

Working tirelessly through the night, town residents ripped up paving stones and plugged the gate, transforming the void into a solid, impenetrable wall. The precious arch was saved, without raising the ire of Nazi command, and undoubtedly countless other irreplaceable landmarks were protected from the scars of war. This independent streak and pride of place is part of what makes Volterra so irresistible — and such an unforgettable destination.

Looking for places to stay? Here are our picks for Tuscan hotels to stay in.

5 Best Day Trips Outside Of Tokyo, Japan

If you’ve had enough of the chaos and crowdedness in Tokyo and want to see some of its surrounding areas while avoiding other tourist traps like Kyoto and Osaka, the following 5 day trips from Tokyo will get you out of the city and into some more relaxing, picturesque, and authentic Japanese regions.

Mount Fuji in Japan. — Aeypix / Shutterstock

1. Mt. Fuji

Arguably one of Japan’s most iconic destinations, Mt. Fuji is located just about two hours southwest of Tokyo and is the nation’s tallest mountain.

Mt. Fuji attracts hikers from across the globe, and although this active volcano may seem like a challenging feat, it only takes the average person between 4-8 hours to complete. Not as bad as some may suspect!

Getting to Mt. Fuji from Tokyo

There are several ways to reach Mt. Fuji from Tokyo, with the most popular being bus or train.

There are highway buses that leave from Tokyo Station to Kawaguchiko Station and cost around $16 USD each way. You can book your reservation for a one-way ticket here, and purchase your return ticket here.

Another popular option to get to Mt. Fuji from Tokyo is by train. Travelers can take the JR Chuo Special Rapid Service to Mt. Fuji for around $22 USD each way. The train ride lasts around 2 hours and 40 minutes.

Insider Tip: If you want to climb Mt. Fuji, make sure to plan your trip to Japan at the beginning of July up until the end of August. The mountain’s climbing season is very short!

Red gate at the Hakone Shrine in Japan. — Giantrabbit / Shutterstock

2. Hakone

Just an hour south of Tokyo lies one of the most scenic day trips from the capital city — Hakone.

Part of Japan’s Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Hakone is known for its picturesque views of Mt. Fuji. If you don’t have enough time to make the more than two-hour trek to Mt. Fuji but still wish to catch a glimpse of Japan’s tallest mountain, then Hakone is a great alternative day trip.

For a unique activity in Hakone, be sure to make a pit stop at Amazake-chaya, a rustic little teahouse known for its warm, sweet, nutritional rice drink called amazake, paired perfectly with some homemade mochi, or sticky rice cakes.

Getting to Hakone from Tokyo

Getting to Hokane from Tokyo is made easy by taking the Odakyu Line from Shinjuku Station in central Tokyo.

For a more economical option, travelers can take the express train that transfers at Odawara Station, or ride on the limited express Romance Car for an extra $8 USD.

The big Buddha in Kamakura, Japan. — SATHIANPONG PHOOKIT / Shutterstock

3. Kamakura

A seaside Japanese city just south of Tokyo, Kamakura was the political center of medieval Japan, which has since been converted into a modern-day resort town.

Kamakura’s most prominent landmark is indisputably the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in temple, a nearly 40-foot tall statue that survived a 15th-century tsunami and is a must-see when taking this day trip from Tokyo.

Besides Jotoku-in, Kamakura is overflowing with dozens of Buddhist Zen temples and Shinto shrines, such as Engaku-ji, Zuisen-ji, and An’yo-in.

Getting to Kamakura from Tokyo

The KR Yokosuka Line connects Tokyo Station directly to Kamakura Station. The trip takes just under an hour and a one-way ticket costs around $8 USD.

The cheapest way of visiting Kurakama is by Odakyu’s Enoshima Kamakura Free Pass, which includes round-trip service from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo to Kamakura, along with unlimited usage of the Enoden train for a total of $13 USD. The Enoden train is a private railway in Japan, connecting Kamakura to Fujisawa, another noteworthy and charming town to visit when taking a day trip from Tokyo to Kamakura.

The Toshogu Shrine in Nikko, Japan. — Luciano Mortula – LGM / Shutterstock

4. Nikko

A stunning and quaint mountainous town, Nikko is an ideal day trip for those who want to venture outside of the urban sprawl of Tokyo without having to travel too far.

Nikko is situated less than two hours north of Tokyo and is part of the Nasu volcanic zone in the Tochigi Prefecture.

Nikko’s shrines and temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with Toshogu being Nikko’s most iconic landmark. Toshogu is a famed Shinto shrine constructed in 1617 as a memorial for Tokugawa leyasu, the founding ruler of Japan’s Edo period.

Getting to Nikko from Tokyo

There are several ways to reach Nikko from Tokyo, but the fastest and most efficient is by taking either the Yamagata Shinkansen or the Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya Station.

After arriving at Utsonomiya Station, transfer to the Nikko Line (orange) and get off at Imaichi Station.

Kusatsu Onsen in the Gunma Prefecture. — Rockzheart / Shutterstock

5. Kusatsu Onsen

If you’re looking for a relaxing day filled with plenty of pampering, take the less than four hour train ride from Tokyo north to Kusatsu Onsen.

Kusatsu Onsen is a hot spring resort located in the Gunma Prefecture, a popular tourist destination and day trip from Tokyo. It is one of the three most popular Onsens (hot springs) in Japan. Its 13 public baths are free for both locals and tourists and are managed by the townspeople themselves.

Getting to Kusatsu Onsen from Tokyo

There are two trains that will take you from Tokyo to Kusatsu Onsen, including the JR Limited Express and the Shinkansen.

The JR Limited Express leaves from Ueno Station, takes about three hours, and costs $53 USD for a one-way fare; the Shinkansen bullet train leaves from Tokyo Station, takes roughly two hours, and costs $72 USD for a one-way fare.

The Expressway bus is the most affordable option, leaving from Shinjuku Nishiguchi Bus Terminal for approximately $30 USD each way, though with a longer travel time of around four hours.

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo for a day or two, we hope we’ve given you some tantalizing possibilities! If you’re interested in more articles about Tokyo travel, check out Traveling To Tokyo, Japan: What To Know Before You Go and 10 Great Things To Do Outdoors In (And Around) Japan.

Why Chefchaouen, Morocco Should Top Your Bucket List

It’s been over four years since I visited Chefchaouen, Morocco, or “Chaouen,” as locals call it, yet the experience remains an evocative memory that surely won’t fade anytime soon. When I think about the time I spent in Morocco, a smile subconsciously appears on my face, and I find myself feeling incredibly nostalgic for a place that made me fall head over heels in only a short 72-hour period.

I visited Morocco while I was studying abroad in Spain, and without knowing what to expect from this North African nation, I was incredibly taken aback by its beauty, culture, history, and people — especially in Chefchaouen.

While Marrakesh, Fes, Casablanca, and Tangier are undeniably Morocco’s most popular tourist locales, Chefchaouen is an off-the-beaten-path destination offering a more authentic experience that is hard to come by when traveling in the country’s major cities. If you really want to get a feel for what Moroccan culture is like with less commotion and more tranquility than other cities, book a trip to this colourful city now.

Here are 8 reasons that Chefchaouen, Morocco should be at the top of your bucket list.

It has a unique history…

The history behind the name "Chefchaouen" is interesting enough, with the root word “chef” deriving from the Arabic word “to look,” and “chaouen” meaning “peaks.” These words describe the city’s location between the protective “peaks” of the Rif Mountains. Thus, a direct translation of the word Chefchaouen means “look at the peaks.”

Chefchaouen’s history began shortly after the Portuguese conquest of Morocco in 1471 A.D., directly following the conquest of Ceuta, a Spanish autonomous city on the north coast of Africa.

The town then expanded with the arrival of Muslim and Jewish refugees from Granada in 1494; they built much of the town’s architecture that still remains today.

Large mural of Chefchaouen's history, Morocco. — Chefchaouen’s unique history is depicted on a large mural outside the medina. Photo Credit: Alexandra Mahoney

…and is nicknamed the Blue City

Chaouen’s most prevalent feature is undeniably its blue-washed streets, walls, and buildings, a fact that makes this charming Moroccan town a popular destination for experienced travelers looking to go off the grid.

There are many different theories about the history behind Chaouen’s distinct blue hues. When I visited, locals told me that, though the hues were apparent in the 15th century, they became more vibrant and visible in the 1930s in order to welcome Jewish communities who were fleeing the Nazis during WWII.

According to Business Insider, the city got its distinctive color in 1492 when it received an influx of Jews escaping the Spanish Inquisition, who brought a tradition of painting buildings blue.

Regardless of the reason, Chefchaouen’s blue hues are what gives it character and beauty like no other city in the world.

Blue houses line the streets in Chefchaouen. — Chefchaouen’s streets are lined in blue. Photo Credit: Alexandra Mahoney

It has a bustling city center…

Though Chefchaouen has a small population of fewer than 43,000 inhabitants, the city center, known as a medina in North African towns, is bustling with locals and tourists shopping for quality goods, feasting on delicious Moroccan cuisine, and simply strolling through and gazing upon the city’s mesmerizing blue-washed buildings and streets.

Chefchaouen boasts one of the funkiest and most laid back medinas in all of Morocco, giving visitors a nice break from the chaos found in larger Moroccan cities. If you want to stay in the heart of the medina while traveling through Chefchaouen, book a room at Bab El Ain, a popular historical landmark and hotel.

Insider Tip: When you exit the medina and walk uphill past Hotel Atlas (one of the city’s largest buildings that can’t be missed), there’s an obvious trail that takes you up a hill to a lookout point with stunning views of the Rif Mountains.

Chefchaouen's bustling medina, Morocco — Chefchaouen’s bustling medina. Photo Credit: Alexandra Mahoney

…and endless friendly faces

One of the things I remember most about Chefchaouen is how welcoming its people were. Though there were instances where I was reminded that this was, in fact, a conservative Muslim nation, the people in Chefchaouen always made us outsiders feel welcome and at home, and I couldn’t believe how often I was greeted with a smile, friendly handshake, or kisses on the cheek (from other same-sex locals).

While I was in Chefchaouen, I was working on a school project with young Moroccan locals and had the pleasure of being housed by a local family. I couldn’t keep track of how many times they asked if I was comfortable, or how often they did everything in their power to make me feel at home.

I remember listening to one of my classmates tell the Chefchaouen locals we were working with that the only way our trip could have improved is if we were able to stay longer, and it was clear that everyone agreed. The warmth and hospitality we were given by the people here made our experience an unforgettable one.

It has the most vibrant local markets…

Coinciding with Chefchaouen’s funky and vibrant medina, the markets located within are just as colorful and unique as the rest of the town.

Popular souvenirs, trinkets, and handicrafts found throughout the medina’s markets include hand-knitted hats, colorful mirrors, paintings, “Baja Jerga” hoodies, lanterns, Argan oil products, artisanal soaps, spices, hand-carved Moroccan furniture, and wool carpets — just to name a few.

…and the best family-style meals

Most travelers can likely agree that diving into a given country’s local cuisine is one of the most exciting parts about travel as a whole, and let me tell you, Chefchaouen did not disappoint when it came to mouthwatering, authentic eats.

There are some foods I first tried in Morocco over four years ago that I still make at home today, such as orange slices topped with cinnamon, a simple yet delicious and common Moroccan dessert.

The best part about Moroccan cuisine, though, is the way in which you eat it. When eating a typical Moroccan meal, the food will be served in large bowls and every person at the table will be handed a spoon. You are then expected to simply dig in and eat as much as you want, putting a whole new twist to the idea of family-style eating!

Moroccom food laid out on a table — Grab a spoon or fork and dig in! Wikimedia Commons

It is teeming with scenic beauty…

Situated at the foot of the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is ensconced in endless scenic beauty, with lush forests, mountaintop views, and rippling rivers.

Chefchaouen’s fresh, crisp air and natural beauty offer some great hiking opportunities for outdoorsy types, with a good mix of casual and challenging treks. Valleys, gorges, picturesque peaks, arid landscapes, and mountain streams abound in Chefchaouen and its surrounding scenic areas.

For a short hike out of the city center, Targa sits atop a hill just outside of the medina, featuring a castle and mosque dating back to the 1200s.

Picturesque views of the Rif Mountains in Chefchaouen. Photo Credit: Alexandra Mahoney

…and you can even ride a camel!

Camel rides are a popular activity found throughout most of Morocco, a unique experience only to be had while visiting North Africa.

If you want to visit Chefchaouen on a quick day trip, Camel Trek Merzouga offers camel rides from Fes to Chefchaouen with ample photography opportunities and time to stroll through the Blue City while exploring the medina and its vibrant markets.

We hope this article convinced you to take a little trip to Chefchaouen, the sapphire of Morocco!

4 ‘Sex And The City’ Locations To See In Manhattan

It’s been 20 years since Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte, and Samantha strutted into the hearts of fashion lovers around the world. The ultimate quad squad brought New York City to life in a way that no other series has matched, combining haute couture, bespoke cocktails, and relationship drama with endless laughs and not an insignificant dose of lifestyle envy.

But even with the rumoured third film being indefinitely shelved, the mania for all things Manhattan continues this year, on the 20th anniversary of the series launch. If you’re a fan of the show, these 4 locations are must-see, essential items for your “sexy” travel itinerary. But even if your interests in the show are more modest, following in the footsteps of the Sex and the City ladies will help you discover a new side to the city that never sleeps.

The actors of Sex And The City — Photo credit: Amazon

1. Buddakan Restaurant

Unassuming and understated from the outside, the inside of Buddakan is majestic, a multi-story masterpiece divided into several rooms, each with its own distinct feel. Two key scenes from the first Sex and the City movie were filmed here, most memorably the rehearsal dinner for Carrie and Mr. Big’s ill-fated wedding.

Thankfully, you don’t have to have a rich fiancé or dozens of fabulous friends to enjoy a soirée of your own here. Dinner reservations are strongly recommended for several of the rooms, but one in particular (which keen fans will recognize as the setting of Carrie’s “last single girl kiss”) is saved just for drop-ins and is perfect for cocktails, appetizers, and mingling. If you’re dreaming of a secret, sophisticated, sexy dinner stop, this is the place to go.

A cocktail glass filled with a pink cosmopolitan — Unsplash / Helena Yankovska

2. ONieals Bar

Fans of the series will recognize ONieals as the fictional “Scout” bar owned by the characters Steve and Aiden. In Sex and the City, Scout is named after Steve’s dog and the bar is located on Mulberry Street. In real life, it’s just one street away at 174 Grand St. That places it across the street from a retired police station (which is rumoured to be the crash pad of Leonardo DiCaprio and Tommy Hilfiger.) And while it can’t compete with the intrigue of will-they or won’t-they when it comes to Carrie and Aiden’s relationship, ONieals does have a bit of mystery all its own.

Legend has it that an illicit tunnel connected ONieals with the police station way back in the days of prohibition — just the thing for a little rum running! Today, all the drinks are completely above board and, yes, the staff will make you a Cosmopolitan on request. But their great wine list and craft beer selection is more in sync with the building’s character today. You should pop in for a drink if you’re in the neighbourhood.

As well, On Location Tours runs a Sex and the City bus tour that includes a stop here where participants can buy Carrie’s Cosmo for $10.

"Carrie's House" front porch — Flickr / Sarah Leo

3. Perry Street and Bleeker Street

There’s no Sex and the City location as iconic as Carrie’s stoop. The pretty brownstone on the quiet street was the scene of countless goodnight kisses and even the occasional argument-from-the-upstairs-window with sexy scoundrels like Mr Big.

True fans of the series know that the Perry Street location wasn’t adapted as Carrie’s permanent home until season three, as the first two seasons alternated with some different buildings. But both die-hard fans and casual watchers will love this quiet residential street in the West Village. You’ll know you’re in the right location when you spot the house with a chain across the front step – this is a private residence after all and eager fans should keep a respectful distance.

On nearby Bleeker Street, there are delightful small shops aplenty, including the iconic Magnolia Bakery (made famous when Carrie and Miranda noshed on the sweet treats on a bench outside). New York City is overflowing with cupcake shops, but none can hold a candle to Magnolia. Fun fact: The bench you see outside the bakery is a recent addition. The one seen in Sex and the City was a temporary prop!

The New York Plaza Hotel seen from Central Park — The Plaza Hotel, New York.

4. The Plaza Hotel and Its Neighbours

A New York icon in its own right that’s undergone a transformation in recent years, with condos now occupying a significant portion of the property, the Plaza was the setting of several memorable Sex and the City scenes.

They include Samantha’s encounter with a sexy senior in the Oak Room — complete with a cameo by Donald Trump. Outside, the fountain was the backdrop for some fashion-fabulous 80’s flashbacks in the second movie, while the adjacent Apple store (a relatively new addition) occupies the spot where Carrie was filmed during the famous opening credit scenes in her beloved tutu.

Nearby, Bergdorf Goodman’s swank department store is a fantastic destination for shopping (or perhaps window shopping if your budget is a little more frugal). It was also the backdrop to several scenes from the series, including the hunt for Stanford and Anthony’s wedding. Fans of the show (and French cinema) will want to pop into Bergdorf’s neighbour, the Paris Cinema, where Carrie went to see the film Joie For Two.

Fashion and trends are constantly changing, but Sex and the City‘s impact on New York City remains. Following in the series’ footsteps is a fabulous way to discover the city, no matter what your level of fandom.

Where To See The Northern Lights In 2019

One of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Northern Lights, also referred to as the Aurora Borealis, have been fascinating mystics and travelers alike for centuries.

This spectacular and natural light show can be seen throughout the globe’s northern regions during the winter and spring months. It’s truly one of nature’s most awesome displays, portraying an otherworldly beauty that is truly hard to describe.

If your to-do list for next year includes booking a trip to see the Northern Lights but you aren’t sure the best place to catch them, check out the following 8 options. Each offers a unique vantage point to observe the Northern Lights in 2019.

NOTE: There’s never a guarantee you’re going to see the Lights on any given night, even if you go to the ‘right place’ at the ‘right time’ and do everything ‘right’. All you can do is maximize your chances.

The Northern Lights in Iceland. — snomedia / Shutterstock

1. Iceland

If round-trip or one-way flights from North America starting from the low hundreds isn’t reason enough to choose Iceland for your Northern Lights excursion, the fact that you don’t have to travel over the hills and through the woods to spot them here might just convince you.

It is commonly known that getting to the Northern Lights sometimes involves a trek, but Reykjavík, Iceland’s capital, offers stunning views right in the city center from late September to late March.

Another ideal location to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is the Golden Circle, a popular tourist route in southern Iceland. This region is home to some of Iceland’s most impressive geological wonders, such as Thingvellir National Park.

At Thingvellir, be sure to check out Geysir, the park’s famous hot spring, or the Gullfoss waterfall. Nighttime will bring unparalleled views of the Northern Lights.

The Northern Lights over Abisko National Park. — Conny Sjostrom / Shutterstock

2. Sweden

If gazing upon the Northern Lights in a capital city like Reykjavík doesn’t appeal to you, you may want to consider Sweden.

Though it may be a pricier option than some others on this list, Sweden forces travelers off the beaten path into some of its least populated areas for the most authentic experience.

The Kiruna Lapland sees clear, starry skies, few tourists, and offers a variety of guided Northern Lights tours to choose from.

Travelers can join professional photographers and learn how to capture the beauty of the Lights on a photo tour, such as the Nightly Aurora Photo Tour in Abisko National Park. The park is considered one of the best places in the world to catch the Aurora Borealis.

The Northern Lights over Manitoba, Canada. — Ross Ellet / Shutterstock

3. Canada

Canada’s northernmost regions such as Yukon and the Northwest Territories provide exceptional views of the Northern Lights almost year round, due to their longer, darker winters and high latitudes.

In Yellowknife, the capital of the Northwest Territories, the auroras are visible 240 days out of the year, hence why it’s been dubbed the “Aurora Capital of North America.” For the best viewings of the Aurora Borealis, head to Yellowknife from mid-November to the beginning of April.

Yukon’s remote location and vast wilderness are great for outdoorsy types and history lovers. For the best views of the Northern Lights, channel your inner Jack London and venture out along the trail of the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898.

The province of Manitoba on Hudson Bay features planetarium sessions with aurora photography tips, along with tundra buggies that will take you out into the wild to get a closer look at the Aurora Borealis.

The Northern Lights over Rovaniemi, Finland. — macumazahn / Shutterstock

4. Finland

After the summer solstice, a majority of Finland sees days with nearly 18 to 19 hours of sunlight. Finnish Lapland even sees up to 24 hours of sunlight for nearly three months. After this period, though, Finnish Lapland abruptly switches gears and prepares for a long, dark, and cold winter.

Although endless sunlight may sound more appealing to some, Finland’s long and freezing winters make for ideal viewing of the Aurora Borealis.

Situated north of the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi offers idyllic views of the Northern Lights practically every other day, with ample opportunity for outdoor adventures such as dog sledding, ice fishing, and snowmobile safaris. Rovaniemi is even home to Santa Claus, making it an ideal destination for the whole family.

The Northern Lights over Tromso, Norway. — MRBL Studios / Shutterstock

5. Norway

Tromso, Norway appears on every single list of the best places to spot the Aurora Borealis, and we’ll tell you why.

Situated just a three-hour flight from London, Tromso is easy to get to, and, being situated in the heart of the auroral zone in the Norwegian Arctic, it’s widely regarded as one of the world’s best places to see the Northern Lights.

With more pubs and bars per capita than anywhere else in Norway, Tromso remains a popular destination not only for skywatching but for late night bar-hopping and beer-sipping as well. This lively town is a great option if you want to catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis.

Some other popular areas to see the Northern Lights in Norway include Svalbard, Lofoten Islands, Harstad, Bodo, Alta, Andoya, and Lakselv.

The Northern Lights over Nuuk, Greenland. — Vadim Nefedoff / Shutterstock

6. Greenland

Ilulissat is Greenland’s third largest city — and it’s home to only 5,000 permanent residents. This fact is indicative of how Greenland is yet another destination that will offer a more remote, authentic, and less touristy Aurora Borealis experience.

Although Greenland remains part of Denmark, the (few) inhabitants of this enormous arctic island enjoy relative autonomy.

Situated on Greenland’s western coast, Ilulissat offers accessible views of the Northern Lights, thanks to a lack of rain and low levels of wind that bring stable and enjoyable viewing conditions.

Nuuk is Greenland’s capital, largest city, and yet another ideal destination to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. In Nuuk, travelers have a good chance of seeing those fingers of light in the sky on any dark day in December or January.

While visiting Greenland, be sure to indulge in some of its unique outdoor experiences, including dog sledding, Arctic caving, and glacier gazing.

The Northern Lights over Alaska. — HelloRF Zcool / Shutterstock

7. Alaska, USA

Alaska’s cold temperatures, clear skies, and dark nights create perfect conditions for viewing the Northern Lights, with the best spots located in Fairbanks, Denali National Park, Anchorage, and Juneau.

Just 150 miles south of the Arctic Circle lies Fairbanks, an ideal viewing location due to its latitude, below the so-called ‘oval of the lights’. Fairbanks’ Northern Lights tours will take you to various viewing areas such as Murphy Dome and Chena Lake. If you want to check out the Northern Lights independently, consider renting a four-wheeler to chase them on your own.

Denali National Park is home to North America’s highest mountain peak and is subsequently a perfect place to spot the Northern Lights — where solitude, tranquility, and wilderness await.

The Northern Lights over the Russian Arctic. — Yongyut Kumsri / Shutterstock

8. Russia

Although it’s a lesser-known area to spot the Aurora Borealis, a large part of Russia lies within the Arctic Circle, making huge swaths of the country a candidate for a trip to see the Northern Lights.

The Kola Peninsula, in particular, sees over 40 days of uninterrupted night, making it a premier destination to scope out the Lights. With approximately 300,000 inhabitants, Murmansk, situated in the Kola Peninsula, is a great way in for those looking to venture into the wilderness; it also offers the cosmopolitan comforts of a larger city.

It is a rule of thumb that, in Russia’s Arkhangelsk region, the further you venture from civilization, the brighter the Northern Lights will be. With that being said, Severodvinsk is arguably the best spot in this region to catch the Aurora Borealis from September to April.

If you’re not afraid of the cold, we hope you decide to make the trek north to see the Northern Lights. It truly is a sight to behold. Happy trails!