My 5 Favorite Detour Destinations in Europe

I love travel; I hate crowds.

It’s a difficult time for wanderers like me given the growing popularity of international travel.

That being said, my desire to avoid crowds at all costs has taken me to a few interesting places. Sometimes, I skip a big city for a smaller one. Other times, I head straight into the Boonies.

And this isn’t unique to me.

In fact, one of the biggest travel trends slated for 2025 is the rise of detour destinations. Detour destinations let travelers skip out entirely or partially on overcrowded cities to seek out smaller and more meaningful spots.

Next year, Expedia predicts that places like Girona, Cozumel, and Abu Dhabi will start to replace the hype surrounding Barcelona, Cancun, and Dubai, respectively.

But I’d like to take you just a little bit further off the beaten path to some of my favorite and most unexpected detour destinations in Europe.

My favorite detour destinations in Europe

Skip Stockholm and go to Umeå
Skip Warsaw and go to Krakow
Skip Rome and go to Syracuse
Skip Berlin and go to Hamburg
Skip Galway and go to Killarney

My favorite detour destinations in Europe

Umeå, Sweden over Stockholm

Sunshine in the forest outside Umeå (Getty)

Located in northeast Sweden, this small university city isn’t a popular tourist stop. I only ended up here thanks to a World Rally Championship race (my partner is into rally racing) back in 2022… in February, nonetheless.

After spending a few days at the rally grounds, we took off into the wilderness to spend a few days at a rural forest resort.

Even in the dead of winter, the resort was almost full. Guests and locals alike were incredibly friendly and helpful—we even got a lightning-fast joyride on a snowmobile from a local.

We also had the chance to go dog sledding, take a forest hike to identify plants and animals, and other nature-centric adventures… again, in the dead of Swedish winter.

From small cities like Umeå, Scandinavia becomes even more accessible—even when you might assume the weather is too cold.

Tips on enjoying Umeå

Zakopane, Poland over Krakow… and Warsaw

Jaszczurowka Chapel in Zakopane, Poland (Getty)

My partner is Polish, which means we usually head to the country at least once a year and find ourselves delighted in some new, novel way.

Zakopane is a mountain town accessible from Krakow; we took a full-day tour into the mountains before spending the afternoon at a hot spring spa.

Let me paint a picture for you. A large tour bus picked us up from our Airbnb, and then ferried us into the mountains. We stopped in a small village to take some smoked sheep’s cheese (I’d sell my soul for it) before heading further into the snow-capped mountains.

We stopped at a small skiing resort where we shopped around the carnival-style stalls and games. (My man won me a fuzzy, stuffed heart that has since become chihuahua fodder.) Then came the hot springs—which were a massive outdoor pool steaming at full power while fist-sized snowflakes lazily drifted down from the sky.

*You can enjoy Zakopane as a day trip from Krakow or spend a few days in the mountain town.

Tips on enjoying Zakopane

Syracuse, Italy over Rome/Milan/Venice

Forget Rome. Forget Venice. Forget Milan and Florence and Turin. I vote you go straight to Sicily—and, once again, avoid the big cities like Palermo and Catania. Instead, head for the south to areas like Fontana Bianche and Syracuse.

Syracuse is located on the coast and includes the tiny island of Ortigia. Ortigia is home to gorgeous Roman ruins, a rocky coast with crystalline waters, and restaurants that will bless your palate.

It’s not exactly unknown to tourists, but it’s one of those places that’s gorgeous and relaxing enough that I’d battle a few crowds to enjoy.

*You can stay in Syracuse and walk into Ortigia or rent a place on the island.

Tips on enjoying Syracuse

Hamburg, Germany over Berlin

I love Berlin—and it’s hard to recommend travelers not spend their time, money, and youth in its graffitied streets. That being said, I fell in love with Hamburg when I visited earlier this year.

The city has a gritty, industrial feel while being dotted with homegrown shops of all kinds. From record stores to massive miniature museums, it’s full of surprising finds.

Also, the food was delicious. As someone from the Midwest, I think I’m geared to enjoy a hearty, wintery meal. If you’re the same, you won’t go hungry in Hamburg. (The same is true in Poland and Sweden—these countries know how to survive winter.)

Tips on enjoying Hamburg

Killarney, Ireland over Galway

Coloured Rowing Boats, Killarney (Getty)

Killarney might be one of my favorite places on the planet. I’m partial to electric-green forests, which were on full display during my visit.

Between the charming and cobbled streets of Killarney’s center to its lichen-covered forests, it felt like a piece of Ireland from a fantasy.

That being said, I still recommend you spend a few days in Galway. I really enjoyed the picturesque city and its vibrant feel; it’s a great place to land before setting off for more rural escapes like Killarney.

Tips on enjoying Killarney

My Top Pick for a Romantic Retreat This Winter: Wolf Cove Inn

Ask any avid traveler what their favorite type of trip is and I bet they have an immediate answer.

For me, it’s romantic getaways.

First, because I’m in a long-term relationship—and romantic getaways are one way to keep the love alive. Second, I’m an introvert who isn’t always interested in exploring and adventuring. Third, adventures for two are easy to organize and book.

Does the recipe sound appealing to anyone else? The promise of alone time, a cozy setup in the middle of winter, and a calming escape.

If it does, I have good news for you: Dozens of bed and breakfasts specialize in these types of romantic, midwinter getaways.

If you’ve got a little time to spare over the next two months and a lover to impress, then I’ve got a hidden gem that’s worth booking immediately.

Welcome to the Wolf Cove Inn in Poland, Maine. This cozy little spot has been on my radar since it was recommended last year… and I’m starting to get antsy about planning my escape.

In terms of romantic retreats, it’s pretty unbeatable at any time of year. But during the cold winter months, the Wolf Cove Inn’s charm factor gets turned up all the way.

New England locals—take note, this affordable spot offers endless ways to enjoy the winter with your lover. And even if you’re not local, keep this bed and breakfast bookmarked—it’s well worth the wait.

The short of it: Why Wolf Cove Inn is my winter romance pick for 2024-25

The grounds at Wolf Cove Inn (TripAdvisor)

What makes Wolf Cove Inn such a stellar choice for a romantic retreat? I’ll get into the nitty-gritty below covering the inn’s romantic packages and offers.

For now, let’s zoom out a little bit.

The first reason Wolf Cove Inn stands out is its historical appeal. The inn dates back to 1894 when it was built as a private four-bedroom cottage. Since then, the grounds’ various innkeepers have gone to painstaking lengths to preserve and celebrate the inn’s history.

Second, it’s got a spa and sauna. That’s an important note given the Wolf Cove Inn’s northern location—you’ll get extra care and TLC when you visit in winter thanks to its gorgeous sauna and spa services. I think that bodes well for romantic trips, too.

Lastly, I’m in love with how much pride and care the Wolf Cove Inn puts into their packages, holiday parties, seasonal offerings, and activity lists. It’s a dynamic inn that lets guests take full advantage of their escape, whether they want a nice bottle of champagne, an ice bath treatment, or even a prenatal massage.

*I feel like this is a good point to leave a disclaimer: This article isn’t sponsored by Wolf Cove Inn. I’m just really impressed.

Best programs and offers at Wolf Cove Inn for a romantic retreat

The sauna spa at Wolf Cove Inn (TripAdvisor)

Holiday Romance Retreat Package

A two-night escape that includes a pizza dinner for two, special keepsakes, fire & ice sauna experiences, and bed & breakfast each morning.

Winter Wonderland Escape Package

A three-night package that includes a pizza dinner for two, special keepsakes, breakfast in bed each morning, fire & ice sauna experiences, and priority check-in and check-out.

Winter Retreat Extended Stay Package

A four-night deal that includes a pizza night special, special keepsakes, breakfast in bed each morning, multiple fire & ice sauna experiences, and multiple optional deluxe add-ons.

Special Occasion Package—a DIY option

If you want to take control of your own romantic escape, then Wolf Cove Inn also lets you put together a special occasion package that includes sparkling wine, hand-dipped chocolate-covered strawberries, fresh flowers, and other customizable elements.

It’s Our Honeymoon Package

The ultimate romance offer—the Honeymoon Package. This offer includes a 13% discount, plus things like flowers, champagne, and chocolate treats upon arrival, breakfast in bed on the first morning of your trip, expert assistance in planning activities like dog sledding and antiquing, and all concierge services.

Romance Getaway Special

If you don’t want a specific package, you can also look around for a great special. The Romance Getaway Special includes sparkling wine, fresh flowers, and chocolate treats upon arrival, plus breakfast in bed each day. Wolf Cove Inn also lists a few suggestions regarding its most romantic rooms.

When the Clock Strikes Midnight: Weirdest NYE Traditions Around the World

I’ll never forget my first New Year’s in Barcelona when I bore witness to one of the weirdest NYE traditions out there.

I was celebrating on a rooftop with a group of friends from around Europe and South America. For some reason, the Spaniards brought grapes with them. A lot of grapes for a winter night, by my standards.

I didn’t think much of it until, as the clock neared midnight, they laid out twelve grapes. After a few questions, I learned about the Spanish tradition of eating twelve grapes at the stroke of midnight.

One grape per month. One seed, too, since seedless grapes aren’t really a thing here.

Every year, I watch in fear as someone attempts the feat.

Turns out that it’s just one of many weird NYE traditions from around the world. If you’re a traveler who likes spending those big holidays abroad, you might want to know about a few of the world’s weirdest NYE traditions.

Weirdest NYE traditions from around the world

Kissing (US)

I imagine most Americans remember at least one New Year’s Eve when they ran around desperate to find someone to kiss at the stroke of midnight. This cheeky tradition was first recorded by The New York Times back in 1893.

The tradition had gained steam after being brought over by German immigrants who would congregate on the big night, then exchange hugs and kisses at midnight.

Eating twelve grapes (Spain)

Oddly enough, Spain’s grape-eating obsession was also first recorded around the same time as our penchant for kissing at midnight. Back in 1895, a small publication explored the custom of eating twelve grapes at midnight as a way to usher in good luck and prosperity.

But it really took off in 1909 when farmers in Southern Spain had an abundance of grapes to sell—and needed to find a way to boost sales quick.

Heading to Spain soon? Make time to learn about culture with the country’s most popular tours.

Jumping seven waves (Brazil)

Brazilians who live on the coast prescribe jumping seven waves at midnight in order to bring luck and strength. This tradition comes from an Afro-Brazilian religion known as Umbanda. Jumping the waves gives honor to Iemanjá, Goddess of the Ocean, and purifies the jumper of any negative energies.

Heading to Brazil soon? Dive into culture with the country’s best tours.

A speech from a monarch… and sofa-jumping (Denmark)

Scandinavian countries are often regarded as secular paradises—but every New Year’s Eve at 6 pm, Danes sit down to watch a speech from the ruling monarch. This year, that’s King Frederik IX, who will deliver a speech to his subjects.

After that, many Danes enjoy jumping off the couch at midnight to signify a leap into the new year. Jumping the sofa might not be one of the weirdest NYE traditions out there, but a king’s speech is certainly one for the books.

Heading to Denmark anytime soon? Explore the country’s most unique tours and experiences.

Eating soba noodles (Japan)

Eating Toshikoshi soba noodles at midnight is one of the preferred ways to say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new year in Japan. In fact, there’s even a specific type of soba noodle used, known as ‘year-crossing noodles’.

This tradition stretches all the way back to the Edo period when it was said to bring good luck and health.

Heading to Japan soon? Immerse yourself in local culture with the country’s coolest tours.

Making predictions with potatoes (Colombia)

Want to predict your next year? In Colombia, you can do so on New Year’s Eve by taking three potatoes and hiding them under your bed. One you will fully peel, one you will half peel, and one you will leave whole.

At midnight, pull one out to see what the next year holds in store for you. The peeled potato signifies prosperity; the half-peeled potato predicts normalcy; the unpeeled potato brings with it financial challenges.

Heading to Colombia anytime soon? Don’t miss out on Colombia’s best experiences.

Beating the walls with bread (Ireland)

One of the more unique traditions from Ireland is beating the home with old Christmas bread—sometimes at the stroke of midnight, but not always. This is a centuries-old tradition that brings good fortune and positivity by scaring away any evil spirits and inviting in benevolent ones.

Heading to Ireland soon? Get more out of your trip by scheduling an unforgettable tour.

The New Year vs. Lunar New Year: How Are They Different?

New Year celebrations have a universal feel to them.

After a month of religious celebrations like Christmas and Hannukah, New Year’s Eve unites revelers around the world in secular celebration.

We drink, we dance, and we scream like crazy when the clock strikes midnight. Some of us even travel across the world to celebrate abroad.

At least, most of us do.

In reality, the New Year isn’t the only ‘new year’ out there.

In the West, our perception of time is framed by the Gregorian calendar, which is used as the global standard. That being said, the Gregorian calendar is the only one on the planet that reads 2024, and other cultures that use different calendars celebrate the New Year on a different day.

While this might sound foreign to many Americans, hundreds of thousands of us also celebrate a second New Year—the Lunar New Year.

In fact, back in 2023, New York State made Lunar New Year an official public school holiday. You don’t even need to travel far to experience the magic.

Ever wondered about the difference between the New Year we celebrate in the West and the Lunar New Year? Here’s your crash course.

The Gregorian calendar, the sun, & the moon

The Gregorian calendar was created in 1582 by Pope Gregory XIII—which replaced the Julian calendar, launched by Julius Caesar back in 46 BC before Brutus got to him. (Some cultures still use the Julian calendar, including Berbers and the Eastern Orthodox Church.)

The Gregorian calendar is in use today thanks to the scope of European influence. (Or colonization, if you want to be more upfront.)

But many cultures around the world still use their own calendars to organize the year—and it’s often divided into a ‘solar year’.

A solar year is determined by the movement of the Earth around the sun—and it usually includes close observation of the thirteen lunar cycles.

That’s the easiest way to differentiate these calendars: the Gregorian calendar has twelve months because Pope Gregory thought that made sense, while lunar calendars have thirteen ‘months’ based on the moon’s cycle and lunar phases.

Are you still with me? (And are you having fun?)

How is the Lunar New Year celebrated in the US?

Dragon dance in annual Chinese New Year in NYC (Getty)

To summarize: everyone around the world relies on the Gregorian calendar because it’s accepted as the standard, but there are diverse alternative calendars based on the solar and lunar cycles around the world.

You probably already know about Chinese New Year. Chinese New Year is a lunar new year celebration that’s similar to lunar calendars used by Tibetans, Hindus, certain Buddhist groups, and even one sect of Judaism.

Lunar New Year is celebrated when the first new lunar cycle starts with a new moon. (A new moon is the absence of the moon.) It has both mundane significance—as in, the lunar cycles are just another way to tell time.

But many Lunar New Year cycles are also spiritually significant.

For example, both Hanukkah and Ramadan revolve around lunar cycles—but this is where things get complicated, as some calendars are lunisolar, meaning they change according to solar movements. Others are organized strictly by lunar cycles.

Lunar New Year celebrations worth traveling for

Manhattan’s Chinese New Year Parade (Getty)

In the introduction, I highlighted the fact that New York State recently made Lunar New Year a mandatory public school holiday. In this case, the Lunar New Year relates specifically to the first new moon cycle of the new year—usually in January or February.

That means one thing for Americans: You’ve got a second New Year to celebrate just around the corner.

Like Gregorian New Year’s parties, many Lunar New Year celebrations are about welcoming bounty, health, and positive change—which means it’s time to party!

The ‘best’ Lunar New Year celebration is the Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) in New York City—or in San Francisco.

If you’re celebrating with a family, head to Disneyland. It throws a massive New Year party with traditional Chinese fare, from dragon dances to special treats.

Holiday Hotel Programs: 5 Picks for All Types of Travelers (2024-25)

My favorite time of year might be that weird little stretch between Christmas and New Year’s.

Because traveling home for the holidays isn’t usually possible, I spend it with my partner and our chihuahua. It’s when we spend quality time together while rejuvenating from the stresses of daily life.

This year, we’re heading up to a private rental in Andorra. It has an outdoor jacuzzi where we’ll hopefully get to see some snow. There’s also a full kitchen where we can spoil ourselves with great meals and delicious cocktails.

Best of all, it’s hidden away in the forest halfway up a mountain.

We seek out these types of hyper-secluded escapes as the year comes to a close. (It’s usually the calm before the New Year’s Eve storm.) But this new tradition has come after years of sampling different holiday trips and types of celebrations.

And it’s one that we’ll probably break in favor of trying something new someday… especially if I have my way in the coming years.

What’s on my radar? Hotel holiday programs. While DIY adventures are great, they involve some legwork.

Hotels with holiday programs… not so much.

With dozens of stellar holiday hotel programs live around the world, there’s one for every traveler out there. If you’re in need of inspiration or a few great suggestions, then start with this list.

I’ve hand-selected my favorite holiday hotel programs. Maybe you’ll see me and my partner in the lobby next year!

Shortcut to the best holiday hotel programs

For couples: National Hotel Miami Beach (USA)
For solo journeys: Tropicana Los Cabos (Mexico)
For a festive atmosphere: Fairmont Chicago (USA)
For a warm holiday: Sonesta St. Maarten (Netherlands – Caribbean)
For a luxury holiday: The Vanderbilt (USA)

Best holiday hotel programs for travelers this winter

For couples: National Hotel Miami Beach (USA)

Whether it’s the holidays or not, you can expect a calendar full of unique events and programs at the National Hotel.

But let’s stay focused on what matters this holiday season: activities you and your lover will adore at this adults-only Miami boutique hotel.

There’s a Holiday Pop-Up Bar with a Winter Wonderland theme that includes a customized list of holiday-themed cocktails. Some of the proceeds also go to charity—which I love, because this is also the season of giving, after all. The on-site restaurant also has specialized holiday menus that couples can take advantage of.

Book a room

For solo journeys: Tropicana Los Cabos (Mexico)

Wellness retreats and solo trips are set to take off in 2025—I suggest getting a head start on the trends with a solo escape to Tropicana Los Cabos.

The warm weather and adorable downtown area are great for soaking up alone, while the hotel’s programs like its weekly Art Walk make it easy to make friends and truly get to know the town.

While its Artistic Oasis Package is geared toward couples and families, it’s also a pretty solid idea for a solo trip—as long as you have artistic interests, of course. The Tropicana lets you tap into your artistic side and get inspired by local and international artists.

Book a room

For a festive atmosphere: Fairmont Chicago (USA)

This alpine-inspired hotel oozes with holiday charm. From its apres-ski-inspired ambiance to its holiday packages, the Fairmont succeeds effortlessly with its goal of providing a chic, elegant holiday experience.

But it’s not just décor here—this is one of the best holiday hotel programs thanks to its menus.

The best way to get into that holiday spirit is to book an experience at the Fairmont Lodge, a pop-up that takes over the grand lobby. You can choose between three different dining and live entertainment experiences: The Spark, The Campfire, and The Hearth.

I’d go with the Hearth—it comes with fondue, S’more, and signature cocktails for a group of up to four.

Book a room

For a warm holiday: Sonesta St. Maarten (Netherlands – Caribbean)

If you want a warm holiday, you’ve got options—including the Tropicana and National Hotel. But if tropical warmth is what you’re really looking for, then head to St. Maarten.

This Dutch island is home to Sonesta, a fantastic casino-resort-spa. This pick is also great for families, as the Sonesta offers family-friendly lodging with all-inclusive programs.

But if you want a tropical and adult escape, you can take advantage of the newly opened Ultimate Adults Only Club, which includes private accommodation.

Book a room

For a luxury holiday: The Vanderbilt (USA)

The hotels listed above are all four-star choices (except the Tropicana, which is three stars). But in terms of luxury holiday hotel programs, it’s hard to top the Vanderbilt.

That’s thanks to te interior design team at Bronson van Wyck, which flipped the grounds into a luxurious Christmas scene. The result is an unforgettable bespoke Christmas hotel experience from this Auberge Resorts Collection project.

Christmas comes alive in this 1908 Gilded Age mansion with garlands, festive ornaments, wreaths, and more. Even the themed drinks come from van Wyck’s famous lineup of Dio cocktails.

It culminates in festive dining experiences that are curated by the same design team. That equates to a fully integrated and large-scale holiday atmosphere—one you won’t find elsewhere.

Book a room

The Data Is In—These Are the Best Cities to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in the US

Most of my travel writing is qualitative, not quantitative.

The factors that make a trip memorable and meaningful aren’t (usually) driven by the number of amenities at your hotel or the number of museums you explore.

It’s about how the hotel makes you feel (comfortable, secure, and well-fed, hopefully) and what those museums taught you.

That being said, all good writers love data-driven insights. Data is useful in travel writing because it summarizes some of the more complex tidbits about planning, from budgeting for trips to estimating delays at airports.

Aside from money and timetables, I also like to use data to dig into seasonal travel trends.

At WalletHub, expert analysts regularly release travel-centric reports that compare a wide range of metrics to create rankings based on affordability, entertainment, hospitality, and more.

Where am I going with this, you might ask? Straight to the biggest party night on the US calendar: New Year’s Eve.

At the moment, all eyes are on Las Vegas NYE parties thanks to their sheer size, along with newer and trendier destinations like Nashville. But what does the data say about the best cities to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the United States?

How are cities ranked?

WalletHub created rankings across three categories, which were then weighted to determine the final list. These are entertainment and food, costs, and safety and accessibility.

The report carefully logged things like fireworks shows, music venues per capita, taxi-fare costs, grooming costs, car theft rates, traffic congestion, and more.

The best cities to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the US are safe, affordable, and offer free ways to enjoy the big night. Here’s the final rankings list.

Top 5 cities to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the US—according to WalletHub

#1 New York City. Though expensive, New York City comes out ahead thanks to its massive fireworks display, famous ball drop, a nearly endless number of nightlife venues, and walkability.

After all, who’s worried about finding a taxi when they’re only ten blocks from home?

Fireworks above Cinderella Castle (Getty)

#2 Orlando. I’m one of the first to clump Orlando into Disney World territory—but this city also has tons of nightlife options for adults.

Not only can families splurge on an unforgettable night at one of its world-famous amusement parks, but it’s also chock-full of quality shops, restaurants, and spas.

Plus, it’s NYE fireworks show is considered one of the best in the world.

#3 San Diego. I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again—San Diego is the US’s sleeper hit when it comes to culture, tourism, and independent businesses, from breweries to boutique shops.

On NYE, you also get the benefit of great, mild winter weather and a massive number of music venues… most of which are throwing New Year’s parties.

#4 Las Vegas. It’s no shocker that the US’s entertainment mecca is also one of the US’s best places to enjoy New Year’s Eve. Its Fremont area hosts a public party that stretches through the city’s old downtown.

Don’t want to party with the general public or battle through nearly half a million visitors? You have literally dozens of top-notch parties being thrown by world-famous DJs.

New Year’s day fireworks in Chicago (Getty)

#5 Chicago. I’m surprised at how often Chicago flies under the radar for domestic travelers. Not only does the city love to have a good time (from bar-hopping to cutting a rug), but several hotels and ballrooms are also putting together massive New Year’s Eve parties.

Plus, the city is home to the US’s largest rooftop bar… and yes, they’re throwing an NYE party.