Vacation Ideas
The world is your oyster when it comes to vacation destination possibilities. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway with your significant other, a trip with friends, or a family vacation, there is a perfect destination for you. And, with so many amazing places to see, the hardest part might be narrowing down your choices! If you are dreaming of a luxury beach vacation, there are plenty of amazing places to choose from. If you would prefer to explore an iconic city, there are many options for that as well. No matter what your vacation dreams are, there is a perfect place for you to make them come true. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s plan your dream vacation today!
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Get Outdoors in Utah
Originally known as a mining boomtown, Park City, Utah, is enjoying new prosperity as an outdoor adventure capital. Located about 40 miles (64 kilometers) from Salt Lake International Airport, Park City is an accessible spot for nearly any mountain activity.
Winter brings beloved annual events to Park City, like the Sundance Film Festival in late January and the Freestyle International Ski World Cup in early February. The latter is a free event, during which you can watch elite athletes ski moguls and perform aerials on the racecourse from the 2002 Olympic Games.
Whether you love skiing, tubing, snowshoeing, hiking, or biking, Park City’s endless outdoor pursuits will keep you and your crew busy.
Skiing and Tubing
Utah is famous for skiing, and its slogan, “The Greatest Snow on Earth,” refers to its legendary powder — with snow dumps of 12 inches (30.5 centimeters) or more often falling in 24 hours. Park City’s slopes offer incredible runs for skiers of every ability level. The city boasts two large ski resorts, so there’s plenty of space to spread out across the mountains.
If you’d rather slide than ski, head to one of Park City’s tubing hills, where you’ll find multiple lanes with varying levels of high-speed thrills. Instead of climbing to the top of the hill, sit on your tube and get towed so you can ride down again and again and again.
No matter the season, you can savor a walk in the woods on Park City’s beloved hiking trails. Flat paths through town provide an easy hiking and snowshoeing introduction, or you can challenge yourself on big mountain climbs with unreal peak views. Try Armstrong Trail for a summer stroll or take a winter walk in Daly Canyon to learn about Park City’s mining history.
Biking and Fat Biking
Park City is known for mountain biking, but pedaling doesn’t have to pause when the snow falls. You can rent a fat tire bike and ride easy routes like the Historic Rail Trail or Round Valley all winter long. Bonus: This terrain is just as fun to ride when the snow melts. If you’re new to mountain biking and want to learn the basics, you can take lessons from outfitters in town.
Want to venture beyond Park City? Head toward Little Cottonwood Canyon to explore iconic Snowbird Ski Resort. Located about 40 miles (64 kilometers) from Park City, Snowbird offers incredible winter skiing plus summer hiking and biking. The resort’s family-friendly mountain coaster and alpine slides are popular during the summer.
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Capture the Spirit of Spain
Beyond the sea and sangría, Costa del Sol and the region of Andalucía have a truly adventurous spirit at heart. Take a walk on the wild side in Málaga along the 5-mile (8 kilometers) Caminito del Rey trail. Meandering along cliffs, canyons, and valleys, and with a section of the walkway suspended 328 feet (100 meters) over a steep cliff face, this trail — believed to be the most dangerous pathway in the world prior to its restoration — is an exciting hike for adventurous souls.
Looking for another epic Mediterranean adventure? Adrenaline junkies can try out canyoning with South Coast Adventures. Your day may include a multitude of plunges into the Guadalmina River, swims through sections of the canyon, and plenty of amazing natural sightseeing — this is an exhilarating experience that you’ll certainly be talking about over that glass of sangría later in the evening.
The King Walkway (El Caminito del Rey) is built into the side of the gorge of the Gaitanes (Desfiladero de los Gaitanes) Natural Area, near the village of Ardales, Málaga Province, Andalucía, in Spain.
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St. Maarten and St. Martin’s Sandy Shores
Half Dutch and half French, the Caribbean island of St. Maarten/St. Martin has two distinct vibes with one shared attraction: beautiful beaches that offer something for everyone. The island boasts more than three dozen sandy strands, so you will likely never run out of new places to explore during your vacation. Here’s a look at some of the best-known spots:
St. Maarten (Dutch Side)
You can choose your own adventure at Mullet Bay on St. Maarten’s west coast. Catch some waves on a surfboard or boogie board, grab a meal or cocktail at the trendy Kalatua beach restaurant, or find your own quiet stretch of sand for the ultimate in relaxation.
Maho Beach is one of the more unique Caribbean beach experiences: This is where wheels-down jets heading for Princess Juliana International Airport make their final approach right over the sand, providing plenty of exciting moments to post on Instagram.
In St. Maarten’s capital city of Philipsburg, streets lined with historic buildings and local and international shops and boutiques connect to a boardwalk alongside Great Bay Beach. This pristine stretch of white sand boasts calm waters for swimming, a wealth of food and drink options, and even a casino, just moments away from the beach.
St. Martin (French Side)
On the French side of the island, Orient Bay, the so-called St. Tropez of the Caribbean, is well-known for its hedonism-leaning atmosphere, but that’s actually only one component of this sprawling beach. There’s also an abundance of outfitters offering some pretty epic kitesurfing, windsurfing, and parasailing, not to mention delicious food and beverages at nearby restaurants and bars.
It’s a bit of a trek to reach Happy Bay Beach, but once you get there, you’ll find an idyllic spot lined with coconut trees and devoid of crowds (unless you happen to be here during a week in mid-March when the SXM Festival for electronic music takes it over).
Grand Case is a former fishing village that is now known for its bustling French and Caribbean dining scene. Many of the restaurants are set right on Grand Case Beach and offer beach service so you can sample the local cuisine right from your lounge chair. Glass-bottom boat tours, dive excursions, and other water activities set off from a long dock extending from the beach into the Caribbean Sea.
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Bali Beckons: Serenity Now
Carefree beach days are what vacation dreams are made of. And where better to indulge in waterfront relaxation than Bali. With the spiritual essence at its core blended with an element of fun, this Indonesian archipelago has a strand of coastline suitable for everyone. Salty souls can surf the waves at Nusa Dua, in southern Bali, where a consistent ebb and flow is paired with a laid-back vibe.
Along the southwestern coast, Seminyak Beach is the place to browse beachside boutiques, wander galleries, and dine at oceanfront restaurants. For a serene ambiance, visit at sunrise. Whether you take a morning swim or simply inhale the cool daybreak air, this is the perfect time to watch the sun paint the sky in a kaleidoscope of pastel pinks and fiery orange.
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World-Class Museums in the Arizona Desert
Phoenix may be best known for its sun-baked climate, luxurious spas, and world-class golf, but it’s also the home of major museums and cultural sites. During your next visit, take in these top spots to add a little anthropological enrichment:
Interval’s Top 20
Destinations for 2024Many people come to Phoenix for its Native American and Southwestern culture — and the Heard Museum is the perfect place to learn more about Indigenous artists and their work. The museum collaborates with Indigenous tribes and artists to share the stories of their people from a first-person perspective through a dozen galleries, an outdoor sculpture garden, and free guided tours (with purchase of a ticket). Not to be missed are the exhibits of woven baskets and Katsina dolls, the Hopi wood-carved figures used to teach young girls about deities. If you’re visiting in February, the museum is the site of the annual World Championship Hoop Dance Contest.
Iconic modern architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s Arizona home, Taliesin West, was his winter base from 1937 until his death in 1959. Today, the UNESCO World Heritage site and National Historic Landmark in nearby Scottsdale is open to the public for self-guided and guided tours. The home, which seamlessly blends into its desert landscape, was built and maintained by Wright and his students — making it one of his most personal buildings. Plan to reserve tickets in advance as the number of visitors each day is limited.
The Phoenix Art Museum boasts a varied collection of art and objects but is an absolute must-see for fashionistas. The museum’s fashion holdings include more than 8,000 items from the past 500 years. There’s a special emphasis on mid-century haute couture from such designers as Balenciaga, Charles James, Givenchy, and Madame Grès, as well as avant-garde pieces from the likes of Azzedine Alaïa, Jean Paul Gaultier, and Issey Miyake. The museum’s collection is sure to inspire a shopping trip to the city’s luxury malls and boutiques.
A visit to the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) offers a reminder of the power of music to bring people together. The MIM boasts a collection of more than 7,500 instruments and pieces of music memorabilia reflecting the cultures of over 200 countries. The museum is a highly interactive experience: You can look, listen, and even make your own music. MIM also presents a schedule of live concerts throughout the winter, spring, and fall.
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Alpine and Après-Ski Bliss in Québec
With its 100-plus ski trails, alpine enthusiasts of all abilities can have a great time at this picturesque Laurentian Mountain location. After hitting the slopes, amble around the delightful pedestrian village. Explore stylish boutiques offering chic winter wear or acquire a taste of Québec’s rich essence with a delectable souvenir of maple syrup. In the warmer months, listen to live music echoing off the village’s cobblestone walkways for an electric atmosphere that can’t be beat.
Should you seek a change in pace from skiing and snowboarding, go on a journey of relaxation at Scandinave Spa. Let your self-care commence in the dry sauna as you soothe sore ski muscles and reach total bliss. Next, experience a refreshing cold plunge, which is believed to stimulate the immune system and improve sleep quality as well as mental health. Bring the day to a rejuvenating close with an introspective meditation and massage.
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Family Time on Kaua‘i
The oldest and considered the quietest of the Hawaiian Islands, Kaua’i offers an appealing mix of history, accessible beaches, and family-friendly outdoor activities. Here are some fun day-trips and excursions in this picturesque slice of paradise.
Hanalei Bay
Head to the North Shore for a day of family fun. The peach-sandy beach and blue-green waters of Hanalei Bay are a perfect place to take a picnic, splash around in protected shallow waters, or just lounge in the sun. When it’s time for a break, head to local chain JoJo’s Shave Ice in the center of town; all profits from these traditional treats fund summer camp spots for Native Hawaiian children.
If you have time, drive about 10 miles (16 kilometers) east to Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, and climb to the top of the old lighthouse for sweeping views and the chance to sight spouts of migrating humpback whales (from October through April). Then, wander the refuge’s grassy trails in search of rare sea and wetland birds — you might glimpse Laysan albatross, tropicbirds, red-footed boobies, and one of the largest populations of the world’s rarest goose, the endemic Hawaiian nēnē.
Līhu‘e and Waimea Canyon
In Līhu‘e, you can take a deep dive into the island’s recent sugar plantation history while floating in an inner tube down a maze of irrigation channels. During a typical three-hour tour of the former Līhu’e Plantation, your tube will follow flumes of gently flowing water corridors past jungle scenery in remote farmlands with ocean and mountain views, and through 19th-century hand-dug tunnels (headlamps provided). There are a few mini drops and quick turns to keep you on your toes — and a refreshing post-float swim in a spring-fed pool.
Winding west in your rental car, there’s much to explore. A self-drive audio tour from Shaka Guide can provide helpful background and historical commentary, as well as recommendations for the best lookouts, hikes, and stops. High-elevation forests home to native honeycreeper birds are interspersed with red rock landscapes, which open up into a mini version of the Grand Canyon. The Waimea Canyon spans 14 miles (23 kilometers) by 1 mile (2 kilometers) and drops some 3,000 feet (914 meters) down from the rim. Other highlights on this drive include a waterfall amid bright red dirt, a natural history museum with a great gift shop at Kōke’e State Park, and the misty clifftops of the lush Nāpali coastline.
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Sea Life Encounters in South Carolina
Whether you’re traveling with an aspiring zoologist or you all just love chance encounters with local wildlife, Hilton Head Island is a haven for nature-loving families. Treat the whole crew to a kayaking and dolphin nature tour with Kayak Hilton Head and look out for bottlenose dolphins as they surface the waters. There’s nothing quite like seeing these intelligent and super curious creatures in their natural environment. It truly makes for a magical moment that’ll be remembered long after the vacation itself. Time your trip with the summer season when baby sea turtles hatch on Hilton Head Island and you may be lucky enough to witness the resilient hatchlings as they make their epic journey toward the ocean. It’s another unforgettable experience that’ll be forever etched in your family travel memories.
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Spark Your Wanderlust in San Diego
Ignite your San Diego trip with a visit to the historic heart of the city: the Gaslamp Quarter, named for its signature streetlights. Here, nestled in the shadows of nearby skyscrapers, 16 square blocks of Victorian buildings house plentiful cuisine and exciting activities.
If craft beer is your thing, down a pint at one of the city’s 150-plus breweries, or go window-shopping on Fourth and Fifth avenues before your dinner reservation — food is something the Gaslamp does incredibly well, so be sure to get in a meal or two while in the area. We suggest Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine for steak and fresh sushi or Osteria Panevino, the Quarter’s oldest restaurant that has certainly stood the test of time.
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Beignets and Bustling City Sights in New Orleans
From distinctive delicacies to its ever-changing soundtrack improvised on street corner after street corner, this place has iconic weaved into its every fiber. Never been to the Big Easy? Start your sightseeing in the French Quarter. Here, cast-iron balconies laden with greenery overlook the happenings below: steamboat cruises chugging along the Mississippi and visitors gleefully devouring Café du Monde’s powdered sugar beignets. Half a mile (.8 kilometer) away, see the above-ground tombs of St. Louis Cemetery for a beguiling look into the residents of NOLA’s past.
If you’ve visited before, check out the city’s more serene sights: the idyllic New Orleans City Park, complete with a botanical garden and minigolf course, the jazz venue Preservation Hall, and the grandiose homes of the Garden District, to name a few.
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Colombia’s Culture Will Charm You
Skip the typical horse-drawn carriage ride and instead take an early evening sunset stroll atop the famous Walls of Cartagena. There are nearly 7 miles (11 kilometers) of defensive fortifications to explore. No matter how far you walk beforehand, though, be sure to end up at Café del Mar. The vibe at the wall-top bar is distinctly expat, so even if you and your partner are only visiting for a week, you’ll feel like true jet-setters sipping that mojito.
From Santa Marta, take a day-trip to Tayrona National Natural Park. This unspoiled swath of jungle, beach, and sea will provide the scenery and serenity to make it feel as though you and your loved one have been shipwrecked together on a deserted Caribbean coast — all without the shipwrecked part.
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Rekindle Romance in the Poconos
The Poconos was made for lovers. And while celebrating relationship milestones like anniversaries has sentimental value, why wait decades to put some quality time together on the calendar? The Poconos provides the perfect four-season setting for couples of all ages and interests looking to relax and rekindle their spark. If you’re in need of some Poconos pastimes, we recommend a trip to Mountain View Vineyard. Besides indulging in a wine tasting, the sustainable farm and eco-friendly vineyard, brewery, and distillery hosts live music and seasonal events such as goat yoga and food truck festivals. For the active or outdoorsy couple, the Poconos’ more than 250 miles of hiking trails offer time to deepen your connection with the one who matters most.
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Amigos, Meet Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta, a seaside treasure on Mexico’s west coast, is well-suited to accommodate your trip, however action-packed — or blissfully open — you envision your itinerary. To unwind and pamper yourselves, say “sí” to a group spa day at Maiavé Spa. Inspired by the Mexican goddess of agave, spa-goers can choose from a menu of treatments featuring nature’s healing powers: massages, hydrotherapy circuits, facials, and more. Wander around the vibrant Zona Romántica neighborhood, and choose from some of the city’s best restaurants. Then track down Casa Kimberly, the lavish setting of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton’s 1964 love affair. Embark on a day-trip to Tequila, where your group can dive into how the eponymous beverage is made and toast to good company. ¡Salud!
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Make Idyllic Memories in British Columbia
Add some adventure to your next gathering with a visit to Kootenay National Park. With turn after turn offering unreal glacial and forest views, just driving through the park is fulfilling … but feeling the lush earth beneath your boots will leave you transformed. Enjoy hikes — some including fossil sights — and meditative soaks in the mineral waters of Radium Hot Springs as you strengthen your bond with both your best friends forever and Mother Earth.
If your group prefers urban adventures, spend the day in Fernie for locally owned shopping and small-town charm. Stroll the Historic Downtown and browse shops like The Green Petal, an inviting flower/funky gift shop, and Beanpod Chocolate, a unique chocolate and ice-cream shop where cacao beans are ground on-site. Surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, this quaint locale is ideal for time well spent together.