Favorite Destinations and Ways to Travel Solo

Traveling solo is one of the most exciting AND scariest types of travel. The excitement comes from exploring a new area, answering only to one person, having a whole big bed to yourself, being able to change your plans in a heartbeat…you get the picture.

Yet it is scary at the same time. Who will I talk to? Will I get bored being alone? What if something happens? Will people only talk to me because they feel sorry for that “poor traveler who is all alone”.

I have found my soul needs solo travel time. It makes me a better wife, mother, and at the end of it all, a better version of myself that I like and appreciate a whole lot more. Traveling solo gives me time to be alone, to truly respect myself, and assess where I am in life. Do not get me wrong. I love traveling with friends and family, but having this time alone is invaluable.

Besides, you do not have to be all alone or all of the time, because there are different types of solo travel. You can travel by yourself to a new destination and explore on your own. You can hire local guides to show you around or maybe join a tour group. And, of course, you can always book that resort or spa for a little personal TLC.

beach vacations are great destinations to travel solo — Quiet moments during my travels.

Which brings me to what I consider the most important part of solo travel…finding the perfect destination. If it is your first solo trip, think about booking someplace you have been before so there’s a certain built-in comfort level. Resorts are also good choices, because you can choose to either be alone or be around people. And if you want to explore a destination, but are a little uncomfortable being truly solo, book a single occupancy spot on a group trip. Any way you choose, traveling solo needs to be on your “to do” list.

Here are a few favorite destinations and ways to travel solo.

SMALL SHIP CRUISES

I know what you are thinking…being on a cruise is not being alone. Oh, but it is. A cruise is a perfect way to see many places and have adventures in many ports of call. You can fully enjoy both your time alone and being with others if you choose. And don’t worry if there is a single traveler up charge. The value comes from the cruise and is well worth the extra cost.

I love the Regent Seven Sea Cruises and UnCruise due to the smaller ships and more personal touches. Plus, you are traveling with many like-minded individuals who are all doing their own thing. The smaller ships tend to attract people who are not looking for Vegas-type cruises, but are more wander-minded and true travelers.

Cruise Azores on the Regent Seven Seas Explorer for a top destination for traveling solo — The Regent Seven Seas Explorer at port in the Azores.

Small ship cruises also allow you to not have to deal with large crowds, but provide a protected environment to discover new areas. During the days, you can choose to explore with others, by yourself, or with a private guide. During the night, you can eat alone, order room service, or decide to join a group table. I highly suggest you do a good mixture of it all.

Meeting new people only enhances your travel and overall self. Traveling on a cruise solo also provides you a floating hotel so you do not have to drag your luggage from place to place in case you want to see more than one area.

When picking a cruise as a solo adventure be sure to take advantage of all the destination options. Pick someplace you have never been and someplace you might not feel as safe discovering truly alone. BUT be sure to get a nice room where you can just hang out on your balcony and enjoy yourself and the scenery.

GREECE

Greece was my first truly solo trip and most loved destination to travel solo. There are really two ways to do Greece solo. The first is to pick an island and enjoy and the second is to travel between the mainland and a few select islands. I suggest the second. Travel between the islands is not only easy, but beautiful and fun and you get to see so much more.

Fly into Athens and plan on spending a couple of nights to eat and explore. The city is very doable by foot for most must-see attractions, but I also suggest hiring a local tour guide and driver to see some special places and hear the history and story from a local. There are plenty of hotel options that are comfortable for solo travelers, but for those quick overnights I do enjoy the New Hotel.

Greece is a perfect destination for solo travelers — Breakfast with a view in Greece.

From Athens, plan a couple of island hops. If it is your first solo visit to Greece, I highly suggest Crete and Santorini. Again, both islands offer wonderful options for small boutique hotels perfect for the solo traveler. I use True Greece to help me pick just the right places to stay, because your accommodations can make or break it for solo travel.

In Crete, I prefer to stay right downtown to have access to all the shops, restaurants, beaches, and activities. In Santorini, I prefer to stay in Oia, but towards the end where it is a bit quieter. Plus the walk back is nice after a delicious dinner. Getting between the islands is fun on the ferry. Just be sure to always buy an upgraded and confirmed seat so you have space to spread out and relax. Take it all in and do it all, but stay away from the larger tours. I actually have True Greece book all of mine with private boats and guides.

You are never truly alone in Greece as the people are wonderful and so hospitable. While in Crete, the owner of the inn and restaurant invited me to have dinner with her in the restaurant’s kitchen. My driver took me to his aunt’s farm for lunch on our way back from the pottery studios in the mountains.

SMALL GROUP TOURS

Sometimes I want to visit a destination that no one else in my family or friends want to, but the destination is not ideal for solo travelers. So, I will turn to a tour company that offers very specific small group tours such as Intrepid Travel. There are destinations in places like Western China, Morocco, and Africa that can be overwhelming to see and do if all alone. Like cruises, these destinations may be the challenge of your solo travel, but small group tours solve that.

Intrepid Travel not only considers the destination when planning small group travel, but also travel style preferences and real life experience. They also believe in responsible travel, which is a priority for me. Intrepid uses local guides, who are a must. They know the ins, outs, local history, and can be invaluable in navigating the landscape.

Also, I have found that as a solo traveler on small group tours, the local guides are a great resource for other places to hang out when the group is not all together. On small group tours, I have chosen to separate from the group for a bit and as long as you give the guide a heads up, they are happy.

Morocco is a great solo travel destination for foodies — Morocco for the foodie and solo traveler. Unsplash / Louis Hansel

Traveling with Intrepid has other benefits that meet my ethical travel standards. While they promote carbon neutral travel and limiting the environmental impact, they take this one step further. The company has taken a strong stance to protect the wildlife that includes no elephant rides, no selfies with sea turtles, or anything of the sort. There are so many options with Intrepid, but I would love my next small group adventure to be in Morocco with lots of food!

JAMAICA

I have spent a lot of time in Jamaica and much of it alone. I love the resorts that I can arrive at and just do nothing. I can sit on the beach, eat, spa, and repeat or stay in a smaller resort and do it all. From rafting to hiking to sailing and more, Jamaica is a vibrant destination that has something for every type of solo traveler. My favorite trips have been spa, digital detox, adventure, and culinary.

There are two not-to-miss activities when you venture solo to Jamaica. The first is to go bamboo river river rafting on the Martha Brae where you get to see the waterways of Jamaica. They will pick you up at your hotel or rental and return you after your day of exploring. The other must do is the Rastafari Indigenous Village. Of all my time spent in Jamaica, this is on the top of my list. The people are amazing and it is a true history of the culture that makes Jamaica so special.

Jamaica is the perfect destination to travel solo — Rafting in Jamaica while enjoying a RedStripe.

If you travel to Ocho Rios, I highly suggest Yaaman Adventure Park. You can join in on one of the small group tours for the day and enjoy the Flavours of Jamaica Culinary Tour. In two hours, you will even learn to prepare a traditional Jamaican meal and learn some new techniques.

One of the more adventurous, yet easy enough for all, is the Blue Mountain Bicycle Tour. You get to start at the top of the mountain, ride downhill, and on the way, see all of the different types of terrain. You can even stop for some famous Blue Mountain Coffee.

I do truly appreciate a digital and world detox and there are many locations across Jamaica to enjoy. But the number one location is the Rockhouse Hotel in Negril. The individual cliff-top cottages are located directly over the water and there are no TVs or clocks. I personally am excited to get back and check out the new spa! You are truly with yourself here and have all the amenities of world-class food and activities if you want to indulge.

I could go on and on about Jamaica and why I try to get there as much as possible. There is always something I have not done before and more amazing food to savor.

MONTE CARLO

Monte Carlo is perfect for a short solo trip or as home base while exploring Nice and western Italy. Book yourself a room at a great hotel with a view, enjoy high tea, and head out for a late dinner in one of the many food halls or local restaurants. Just be sure to get a table outside.

Walk to the Prince’s Palace and lunch at one of the many restaurants along the small streets. Wander all of the gardens and sit at night by the water watching the lights on all of the boats. If you do journey to Nice for a day and explore the city and beautiful farmer’s market, be sure to spend a day in Eze shopping and eat at Chateau Eze.

Shopping and eating in Monte Carlo as a top destination for traveling solo — Le Crystal Bar at the Hotel Hermitage in Monte Carlo.

Monte Carlo is one of those destinations you do not think about going to and staying a while, but it is perfect for solo travelers, I find the entire city well lit, easy to get around, and perfect to wander alone. It is also made for the luxury lover. You can enjoy high tea everyday at a different specular hotel, have spa treatments in some of the finest spas in the world, and then enjoy a delicious fresh-from-the-sea dinner. The art scene is rich in history and you can enjoy some of the finest in music or theatre. Plus, the casino is well worth a visit just to people watch even if you are not a gambler.

monte carlo is a great solo travel destination — Sunset in MonteCarlo – view from Prince’s Palace.

Solo travel is a must for me personally. I have time to spend with myself and am able to explore new areas or revisit places I love. Whether I am on a boat, with a small group, or wandering all alone, it does not matter. Being alone gives me time to recharge, see the world only through my eyes, and not have to stick to anyone else’s agenda. I highly suggest you try it, too. Be bold. Let travel expand your horizons. Once you do it, chances are you will do it over and over again.

The Best Budget Destinations In Europe

When a friend tells me they’re going on a European tour, I generally assume they’ve been selling their organs on the internet. How else can anyone afford it? Paris, London, Zurich, Copenhagen — you’ll burn through €10,000 quicker than I can drain a bottle of cabernet.

But you don’t actually have to sell your kidneys on Amazon to fund your old world adventure. Here are 6 European destinations you can do on a budget.

1. Kyiv, Ukraine

Okay, so if you’ve been following the news over the last four years, you may be a little apprehensive about visiting Ukraine. It’s true that the U.S. State Department has issued a Level 2 travel advisory (“exercise increased caution”). But let me allay your fears: that basically just means don’t get involved in political protests and avoid wandering into the Crimea, which remains under Russian occupation. Otherwise, you’re good to go.

Kyiv is actually the cheapest city to visit in 2018! So if you’re looking to do Europe without European prices, it’s a great place to start.

Ukraine’s capital is rich with history. There are many beautiful places of worship for you to visit — St. Sophia’s from the 11th century, and St. Michael’s Monastery from the 12th. If modern history is more your bag, there’s the Chernobyl Museum, which tells the story of that infamous nuclear disaster, and the Motherland Statue and War Memorial, which commemorates Ukraine’s role in World War II. Or if you prefer a more esoteric experience, you can make a pit stop at The Museum of the Toilet’s History.

Kyiv is also blessed with many wonderful beaches, perfect for passing a low-key summer afternoon.

Keep your eyes peeled for little pieces of Viking history as well — they were the ones who actually founded the city!

Average cost per person per day: USD $49.

St. Michael's Monastery, Kiev. Blue cathedral with golden domes. — St. Michael’s Monastery, Kyiv. Pixabay / soysutano

2. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is a great bargain right off the hop, because you’re actually getting two cities for the price of one. Hungary’s capital is actually an amalgamation of two formerly separate cities, divided by the beautiful Danube River: Buda on the western side, and Pest to the east.

Buda is the more dignified, suburban side of town, with winding streets, the Presidential Palace, and the historic Buda Castle. Pest, on the other hand, is where you’ll find nightlife, entertainment, and excitement.

Not only is Budapest affordable, it’s also stable, with a low crime rate, and a welcoming population. Hungary in general is also easily navigable for visitors, both because of its extensive rail network and the frequency with which English is spoken. For all these reasons, Budapest is a popular place for foreigners to retire.

Average cost per person per day: USD $90.

3. Ceský Krumlov, Czech Republic

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, used to have a reputation as the cheapest high-quality destination in Europe. Unfortunately, that reputation attracts more tourists, which in turn leads to higher demand and higher prices. Such a pity.

But you definitely shouldn’t rule out a trip to the CR if you’re traveling on a budget. You’re unlikely to find another country with so much to see and do (and drink!) that’s also so easy on your wallet.

Ceský Krumlov offers an appealing alternative to more populous and touristy cities. It’s a small, old-fashioned Bohemian town on the Vitava River, with a population of just 13,000. What it lacks in permanent residents it more than makes up for in Baroque architecture and — like most Czech towns — cheap beer.

Tour the local castle, go rafting on the Vitava, take in a play at the open-air theatre, or stick around for the Festival of Baroque Arts in September.

Average cost per person per day: $54

Vitava River, Ceský Krumlov. — Ceský Krumlov, Czech Republic. Pixabay / LNLNLN

4. Valencia, Spain

With a population around 800,000, Valencia is Spain’s third-largest city. Still, it doesn’t get mentioned nearly as often as Madrid or Barcelona, despite its beauty, history, and affordability. Resting about halfway up the eastern (Mediterranean) coast of Spain, Valencia seamlessly blurs the traditional and the novel.

August is perhaps the busiest month in Valencia, as tourists flock to attend La Tomatina, a festival held the last Wednesday of every August in the neighboring town of Buñol. Tomatina is a giant food fight in which thousands of people throw tomatoes at one another for the hell of it. This tradition dates back to 1945.

But there’s plenty to do in Valencia too. You can stroll around the Museum of Modern Art, a bizarre building that looks like a giant helmet sticking out of a pond. You can pray at Plaza de la Virgin, the city’s Gothic cathedral. You can take a boat trip or do some bird watching in the Albufera lagoon just outside town.

Best of all, you can take a free walking tour of the city to save even more money while exploring all Valencia has to offer.

Average cost per person per day: $86

Valencia's Museum of Modern Art building — Valencia’s Museum of Modern Art. Unsplash / Janis Skribans

5. Valletta, Malta

Valetta is the capital of the small island nation of Malta, which lies about 50 miles south of Sicily in the Mediterranean. The city as it exists today was mainly built by the Catholic order of Knights Hospitaller in the 16th century, after the island was gifted to them by the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V for the price of one Maltese falcon per year. (Not the jewel-encrusted statuette from the movie, but a literal hunting falcon!)

Valetta is one of the most culturally vibrant cities in Europe with evident influences from Italy, North Africa, and the UK. Perhaps this is why the city was named Europe’s cultural capital this year.

There is much to see and do on the various islands of the Maltese archipelago, and you’ll have ready access to the water since Valetta sits on a peninsula, almost completely surrounded by the sea. Sample the unique local cuisine, walk the walls of Valetta, or visit the ancient ruins of the Hagar Qim Temples, which date back as far as 3,600 BC.

Average cost per person per day: $88

The city skyline of Valletta, Malta — Valletta, Malta. Wikimedia Commons

6. Gdansk, Poland

Gdansk holds a unique place in world history. Not only was it the site of the beginning of World War II, it was also the backdrop for the beginning of the end of the Cold War. Gdansk is Poland’s greatest port, and was at the heart of the Solidarity movement that nearly overthrew the Communist regime in the early 1980s, signifying that the Soviet hold over eastern Europe was slipping.

Today, there is a deeply moving museum dedicated to the history of Solidarity, which will be of interest to anyone who lived through the Cold War. There is, naturally, also a superb Museum of the Second World War. Truly: if you’re a history buff, you can’t miss Gdansk.

You can also see much of interest in Gdansk simply by walking along the Motlawa River, or perusing the shops in Meriacka Street. (If you’re fond of jewellery, Gdansk is noted for its amber pieces.)

Finally, if a good spot to sunbathe is all you desire, Gdansk has you covered on that front as well. There are a number of superb beaches in the area, the best of which are Jelitkowo, Stogi, and Brzezno.

Average cost per person per day: $74

Gdansk's amazing architecture. — Gdansk’s amazing architecture.

We hope this list inspired you to get out there and explore the world — and maybe save a bit of money while you’re at it. Happy trails!

A Not-So-Scary Reason To Visit Disney World For Halloween

Disney World is well known for going all out for special occasions and Halloween is certainly no exception. Disney World breaks out the pumpkin cheer each year with Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, an event that’s fit for all ages and includes a number of special twists and treats to celebrate all things Halloween throughout the fall. If you’re looking for a reason to visit Disney World on or around Halloween, this is it.

Disney World combines the Halloween spirit with their traditional brand of Disney Magic at the Magic Kingdom Park with Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. We’ll get to the details of how to get tickets and all that in a minute. Because you do need special tickets to attend the party, but first, here’s what Disney World has going on at this year’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.

The Mad Tea Party ride at the Magic Kingdom. — Steven Diaz / WDWNews.com

Hocus Pocus Villain Spectacular

2018 marks the 25th anniversary of the popular film Hocus Pocus. To honor the event, the Sanderson Sisters will take the stage at Cinderella Castle, along with some familiar Disney villains to put a spell on their guests during the Party.

Some Spooky-Fun Twists On Magic Kingdom Rides

The Magic Kingdom throws a few twists and turns on some of their beloved attractions during the Not-So-Scary Halloween party, including live pirates that interact with guests on Pirates of the Caribbean, special lighting that offers an extra glow to the Mad Tea Party, some rockin’ music at Space Mountain and a dance party at Storybook Circus.

Costume Fun At Frontierland

There’s costume fun to be had during this party for adults and kids alike. And if you’re headed to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party with kids or grandkids in costume, you’ll want to head over to Frontierland for the Costume Promenade where prospector Cactus-Flower Cate is there to encourage guests to show off their costumes.

Boo-To-You Halloween Parade

As you might expect, Disney World throws a special parade for the Halloween party, featuring A-list Disney appearances by the likes of Mickey Mouse, Peter Pan and other familiar characters, as well as dancing ghosts and the Headless Horseman.

Trick Or Treating

Candy! Who doesn’t love candy at Halloween (or any other time of the year, for that matter). Well, it wouldn’t be Halloween without trick or treating, and Disney World’s event won’t let you down. Disney promises plenty of sweets (including allergy-friendly options!) for trick-or-treaters during the event.

Happy HalloWishes Fireworks Show

Just as it wouldn’t be a Disney event without a parade, the same could be said for their fantastic fireworks displays. The Happy HalloWishes fireworks extravaganza lights up the sky during the Halloween Party, promising spooky music from Disney’s Villains.

The Magic Kingdom during Halloween. — Ali Nasser / WDWNews.com

How To Plan Your Trip

It’s, Well, Not So Scary

If you’re looking for a full-on scary production, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party probably isn’t your cup of mad tea. This event is designed for all ages, including little ones. (Try Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights if you’re up for a more scary affair).

Event Tickets Are Required

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a ticketed event, which means that even with your park pass, you’ll still need to purchase a ticket for the Halloween Party. The cost for tickets starts at $75 for adults and $70 for children ages 3-9, if you purchase them in advance. Day-of tickets step the price up to $85 (adults and $80) for kids.

It Doesn’t Happen Every Night

The Halloween Party only happens on select nights. Space is limited, so you’re advised to get your tickets ahead of time to ensure you’ll be able to attend during your visit. Here are the dates for 2018, and note that the price for a ticket varies by event night:

August 17, 24, 28 and 31
September 3, 7, 9, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28 and 30
October 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30 and 31

As you can see from the above dates, the Halloween season has technically started at Magic Kingdom, so if you’re already set to get your pumpkin on, there’s no time like the present. But the Halloween party runs all the way through Halloween proper, October 31, so if you’d rather wait until later in the fall, you have that option. (Get tickets here.) It’s also well worth noting that this Halloween event overlaps a bit with Epcot’s Food and Wine festival, which begins August 30 and runs through November 12, 2018. So if you’re considering a fall trip to Disney World, you’d have the opportunity to check that out as well.

Trying to figure out how to budget for a Disney World vacation? Find some helpful tips here.

5 Beautiful Places To Vacation In The Fall

“Nobody on the road, nobody on the beach
I feel it in the air, the summer’s out of reach.”
— Don Henley, The Boys of Summer

It may be poor form to mention, but fall is on its way. Soon the forests will set themselves alight in a funeral pyre of tangerine and magenta, the grandkids will be filling their pencil cases, and the key lime pie will be replaced with pumpkin.

While some may lament summer’s end, the autumn has its own charms. Here are five beautiful places to admire the changing fall landscape before the chill of winter sets in.

In the US: Maine

If nothing else, Acadia National Park seals the deal for Maine as probably the best place in the U.S. to take in the fall colours.

Acadia is located predominantly on Mount Desert island, but this is no desert. The park’s granite peaks offer the perfect vantage point if you love a good view. You can stand on a hill and watch the rich, rippling blanket of woodland rolling out beneath your feet, or hike its well-trod carriage trails beneath the canopy.

But Maine’s attractions are manifold. It’s also the perfect state to canoe or kayak — and what better way to see the forests than by paddling through them? If you love quaint inns, Maine has you covered there as well, and there are plenty of lighthouses dotting the Atlantic coast, all the more evocative in autumn.

View from a granite lookout over autumn forest, Maine's Acadia National Park — Maine’s Acadia National Park.

In Europe: Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is one of the old world’s best-preserved medieval cities. It’s like time somehow missed this place, with its swan-filled canals, stone bridges, storied churches, and centuries-old manor houses covered in vine growths. Once one of the wealthiest mercantile centers in Europe, the city has retained plenty of the splendor of its privileged youth.

Bruges (and Belgium in general) is badly underrated as a tourist destination. But to the extent it is overcrowded, summer is the busiest time of year. Fall is a shoulder season, making it an ideal time to visit. If you have a passion for bygone eras, or just want to see Bruge’s vines change color against the bold palette of its historic townhouses, spend September in Belgium.

Houses and church along the canal, Bruges — Bruges. Pixabay / pixel2013

In the US: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina

Not just a national park spanning a mountain range and bleeding into two states, The Great Smoky Mountains are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Part of the world-famous Appalachian Trail also winds its way through the park.

It might be our number one pick, except that it’s the most visited national park in the United States, with more than 10 million guests every year.

There are hikes for walkers of all abilities, skill levels, and ranges of interest, camp sites, and plenty of history and geography to take in. With more than 850 miles of trail and unpaved road, you won’t have a hard time finding the perfect hike for your group — or idyllic places to stop and take a photograph of the autumnal reds and oranges mingling with the iconic fog that lends the area its name.

But be forewarned: that fog brings plenty of precipitation with it. This one of the most humid and rainy regions in the United States. If you’re discouraged by inclement weather or the probability of encountering other hikers, this may not be your stop.

Fall in the Great Smoky Mountains. Wikimedia Commons

In Europe: Bavaria, Germany

Autumn in the south of Germany is the perfect time and place to get lost on an alpine trail, explore a medieval castle, or sample enough beer and bratwurst to make you need a larger pair of lederhosen.

Probably the best way to explore Bavaria in the autumn is via car. You can use Munich as a home base — and cross Oktoberfest off your bucket list. Plus there are plenty of other fall festivals in Southern Germany, all within reasonable driving distance. Best of all, the alps are only two hours away by car. The sight of the leaves changing in the mountains is one that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

If you’re a fan of architecture, you’ll also find lots to tickle your fancy — Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Palace, and many more.

In the US: Southern California

Okay, so maybe you’re into the whole fall foliage thing, but not so excited about the fall temperatures. Good news: much of California remains quite warm (i.e. 80 F plus) right through October, so you can enjoy some autumnal sights without having to don your down jacket.

If you’re a wine connoisseur, fall is actually the perfect time to visit Napa Valley. The summer crowds clear out, and you’ll have more one-on-one time with the people who make your favorite vintages. Plus you’ll be treated to the gorgeous site of grape leaves changing hue. Why not skip the crowds and the trees and have the run of America’s premiere wine region this fall instead?

Napa Valley in the fall, leaves changing colors — Napa Valley in the fall. Wikimedia Commons

Wherever you’re off to this fall, we hope you get a chance to explore the magic of nature’s most dramatic transformations!

7 Historic Places To Visit In Savannah, GA

The mid-Atlantic is chock full of American history. Boston, New York City, D.C. — all beautiful and interesting locales. But if you’re looking to up your travel game and explore more of how the United States came to be, consider scooching further south to the historically rich city of Savannah, Georgia.

Savannah was colonized by the British in 1733. With blocks and blocks of preserved plantation-style homes centered around beautifully manicured historic squares, it is a place to slow down and savor. You will absolutely fall in love with the old-fashioned charm of this city. It has been dubbed ‘the Hostess City of the South’ for good reason, and it’s bound to make an impression.

As you walk the streets, you’ll be sheltered from the southern sun by hundred-year-old oaks dripping in Spanish moss. You’ll be greeted by monuments, fountains and some notable statues along the way.

Due to its age and historical significance, Savannah will be of natural interest to students of history. Situated on the Atlantic Ocean, at the mouth of the Savannah River, it became an integral part of both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars.

Here are just a few of the must-see historical sites Savannah, Georgia has to offer.

Forsyth Park

First on our list is Forsyth Park. Its iconic fountain adorns many of the postcards tourists send home, and draws them in to take photos and stop for a spell. This fountain is the centerpiece of the park, but luckily not the only great thing about the area. It was erected in 1858 and interestingly enough, was ordered from a catalogue!

Covering 30 acres, the park hosts a children’s play area, walking paths, and a fragrant garden for the blind. It’s a great place to explore, kick up your feet, and snap a few photos.

White marble water fountain with statues shooting water surrounded by shrubs, Forsyth Park, Savannah — The fountain in Fortsyth Park. Wikimedia Commons. Thumb image credit: Miguel Vieira/Flickr.

American Prohibition Museum

Savannah has no open container laws, so you often are encouraged to take your drink to go as you tour the city. Enjoying one of the city’s classic drinks, Chatham Artillery Punch, allows you to literally drink in some history.

Learning more about local drinking habits, you realize how fitting it is that Savannah is home to America’s only Prohibition Museum. Inside, there are 13 different galleries in which to learn about the driest years of America’s History.

The American Prohibition Museum is located in the City Market area, which is also a worthy quarter to tour in its own right and the ideal spot to hunt for souvenirs to take home.

River Street

Located down the hill (and some steep, old steps) from the dripping green squares, you can spend an afternoon touring historic River Street and enjoy the views of the Savannah River and the port.

The buildings along the river were originally cotton mills, but have since been converted into shops and restaurants. (You absolutely must stop in and try a sample of the pecan pralines at Savannah Sweets!) Near the end of River Street, you can shop the booths of local artists at the River Street Marketplace for some unique finds. Or, if shopping isn’t your thing, you can catch a ride on the Georgia Queen or Savannah River Queen steamboats for a scenic detour.

River Street Candy Store marquee with flags, Savannah GA — River Street, Savannah GA. Wikimedia Commons

The Savannah History Museum

The Savannah History Museum is located in the Central of Georgia Railway Train Shed. Battlefield Memorial Park lies just across from the museum, the site of the Battle of Savannah during the American Revolution.

The Museum spans the history of Savannah, from 1733 all the way to the present day, even featuring some newer pieces of pop culture. If you are a movie fan, you can see the bench where Tom Hanks delivered his famous “box of chocolates” line in the film Forrest Gump. You can also spend some time learning about the founder of the Girl Scouts, Juliette Gordon Low, who was born in Savannah.

Bonaventure Cemetery

While it might seem odd to suggest you visit a cemetery during your visit to Savannah, this one is a must-see for visitors. Bonaventure Cemetery is ranked fourth among Savannah’s 200+ tourist sites by TripAdvisor for good reason, as it’s rich in history, beauty, and mystery.

The preservation society offers free guided tours the weekend of the second Sunday of the month. Tours are held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, and at 2:00, 2:30, and 3 p.m. on Sunday. However, you can also hire a guided tour with a local company for a variety of times and dates during the week to fit your schedule.

Apart from the gorgeous shade of ancient oak trees and the ubiquitous Spanish moss, the cemetery is dotted with unique and breathtaking memorials for its residents. It’s quite literally a hauntingly beautiful place! While you’re here, you can also visit the graves of musician Johnny Mercer and author Upton Sinclair to pay your respects.

The “Bird Girl” statue, made famous by the book and movie Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil is no longer located in the cemetery due to its notoriety; it can now be found in Savannah’s Telfair Museums. But there is still plenty to see during your visit to Bonaventure that will make it worth the trek!

Statue of woman on top of grave, Bonaventure Cemetery Savanna Georgia — Bonaventure Cemetery. Flickr / jmd41280

The Telfair Museums

You’ll get great value from your visit to the Telfair Museums! With the purchase of one ticket, you gain access to all three museums and you can spread your visits out over a week.

The Jepson Center opened in 2006 and houses many unique art exhibits and educational opportunities, with over 7,500+ square feet of gallery space. You can spend time exploring the community gallery, education studios, terraces and interactive art exhibits.

The Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters is the site of one of the only intact urban slave quarters in America and provides a unique look into life before the Emancipation Proclamation.

Included in your ticket is access to the Telfair Academy, which opened to the public in 1886 as the first public art museum in the South. It also is the first museum in the United States founded by a woman.

Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum

Given the mantle of Georgia’s “Official Civil Rights Museum”, the Ralph Mark Gilbert is named in honor of the late leader of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Dr. Gilbert is remembered as the father of Savannah’s modern day Civil Rights Movement, and this museum pays tribute both to him and the movement he helped shape.

During your visit, you will learn about the recent and ongoing history of the Civil Rights Movement in the south as you tour the three floors of photographic and interactive exhibits.

There are so many amazing historical sites in Savannah. Your visit will undoubtedly leave a lasting memory after you depart. You’ll be in awe of the city’s beauty, both natural and architectural and it’s history will stick with you.

Have you visited Savannah? What are your favorite places to visit? Let us know!

Just How Bad Is Travel For The Environment?

If you have the time to travel to another continent quickly and inexpensively, why wouldn’t you explore the world?

So many people in the highest income countries have been bitten by the travel bug, especially now that digital devices keep us tethered to our work and families wherever we may be. But questions loom when travel affects the people and the places we visit. Travel can degrade locals’ standard of living as valuable resources are turned over to tourists, foreign workers come in to work for much smaller wages, and natural wonders are overrun with sightseers.

That’s fairly micro, but there’s nothing minor about it.

New findings on the impact of global tourism are chilling. Dr. Arunima Malik from the School of Physics at the University of Sydney went beyond carbon dioxide emissions from airplanes and automobiles to consider other “significant contributors” that add to tourism’s effect on the environment. Her team studied tourists’ consumption in 160 countries, including eating out, shopping, transportation, hotels, and other accommodations.

After a year combing through the data from 2009 to 2013, a damning portrait of tourism’s full impact emerged.

The conclusion? Travelers’ collective carbon footprint is increasing by half a billion metric tons each year, currently totaling nearly 8% of greenhouse emissions around the world. That’s four times worse than originally thought.

So… what can we do to minimize the damage we do to the planet while exploring it?

Which countries lead tourism’s carbon footprint?

Even though American tourists are more likely to travel within our own country, we are still contributing the most to greenhouse emissions. Other high income countries share this dubious distinction.

What are travelers to do?

Stop feeling guilty about your wanderlust obsessions, but work to fulfill them with more care. A major part of the growth in tourism is fueled by social media. Sure, it’s wonderful to follow glowing, exotic Instagram accounts and YouTube vloggers, but look beyond the edges of the frame. Question the bigger picture before following or commenting. Why did that beautiful, skinny model drive a golf ball towards her local caddie and giggle while he cringed? What did it take for that blissfully smiling couple to hug a clearly drugged tiger? Do you really want to party with hundreds on a remote beach without considering the mess being left behind?

Cruise ship docked in harbor — Cruise ships are a major cause of tourist pollution. Wikimedia Commons

Where are your tourist dollars going?

The era of “Europe on $10 dollars a day” is long gone. Prices at the most popular destinations are pushing the cost of living higher and forcing locals to live further from city centers. That means more pollution from commuting. You can help by visiting destinations that are less impacted by tourism.

For example, fans of Game of Thrones have been over-running the medieval city of Dubrovnik, where some scenes from the show are filmed. The influx has seriously strained water resources, created noise pollution, and crowded streets built hundreds of years ago for a much smaller population. Cruise ships account for much of this traffic, and while there has been a 2% drop in the number of ships docking at the Port of Dubrovnik in 2018, the ships are larger with a 4% increase in the number of passengers.

An eco-conscious traveler could arrange to visit during the shoulder season when fewer tourists overwhelm the city, or exchange that city for another such as Split, which has Game of Thrones shooting locations as well but isn’t as busy. Look into smaller ship options and carefully navigate around river boat tours to see how many dock at villages at a time.

Cruising offers great value for money but what does it take to keep prices low? What are the conditions on board for the staff? Are they being paid a living wage? Banquets and buffets are splendid ,but are the sources of those crab legs and shrimp cocktails sustainable or do they support over-fishing and poor labor conditions?

After several scandals, cruise lines are trying to reduce their environmental footprint. But considering how the ships are built and licensed, it’s difficult for forward-thinking countries to manage and track practices. Which country is responsible for ensuring that ballast, grey and black water, chemical pollution, solid waste, and oil are not being spewed out of ships?

New technologies are stepping in to help. Wastewater and organic combustible waste can be converted into useful energy with new appliances such as the MAGS and WETT systems. Is your favorite cruise line investing in and using them? Have they installed “scrubbers” to remove sulfur, black carbon and particulates from smoke stacks?

You can do some research by clicking this link, though the most recent available information is from 2016.

DUbrovnik harbor seen from above — Dubrovnik, one of the cities most negatively affected by tourism. Wikimedia Commons

Preserving the wild world

Getting close to indigenous wildlife is one of the most exciting reasons to travel. It may take a bit of time, but verify that company standards fit with what they practice. Consider where those adorable tiger cubs come from and what happens to them once they grow up. The industry is rife with green-washing, and not everyone who appears to be wearing a white hat actually is. Ask Tourism Officials before you book your encounter. When scuba diving in glorious tropical waters, ask if the dive outfit hires local dive masters and trains them on best practices to preserve marine environments. Are dive masters empowered to reprimand customers who interfere with or hurt wildlife?

Look in the mirror first

If you love to travel, think about what you can personally do to promote conscious adventures and reduce the impact of tourism. Purchase carbon credits for your flights and transportation. There are many companies who will help you calculate and set this up such as carbonfootprint.com.

Consider the gear you use. Reduce plastics any way you can by carrying a reusable water bottle with a purification system. Much has been made of plastic straws and not using them is a step forward, but what other single-use plastics are in your life? On the road, eat locally instead of dining at international chain restaurants. Travel lightly when you pack. With less weight, you’ll reduce the amount of fuel needed to get around, especially on the road.

There’s no reason that with each traveler’s help, the next time a team of scientists looks at tourism’s carbon footprint the numbers can be headed in the right direction — down. Happy trails!