3 Awesome Alaskan Locations for Your Next Fishing Trip

The state of Alaska has hundreds of miles of untouched natural beauty. Home to an indigenous culture and people that date back thousands of years, the Last Frontier State has much to offer those who love to fish. From Guinness record-breaking sized salmon to trout and halibut, Alaska will have you fishing from sunrise to sundown. Fishing enthusiasts can pack up the car or RV to spend the day in one of the Alaskan fishing lodges by lakes, streams, or the saltwater bay. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned fisherman, you can find the best place to toss in a line while kicking back in a comfortable lodge. Here are three awesome locations to visit on your next trip to the Alaskan wilderness.

Bristol Bay

Located in the southwestern part of Alaska, Bristol Bay is known for its canneries, thousands of red salmon, and is the home to the Katmai National Park. The area is rich in wildlife such as brown bears, bald eagles, and a human history extending back 9,000 years. Besides discovering artifacts and enjoying the beautiful landscape, Katmai is also a popular place for anglers and sport fishers looking for some quality trout fishing. The park encourages the proper catch and release techniques to ensure the local fish species can continue to thrive. Bristol Bay is also a vital part of the Alaskan ecosystem which supports all five Pacific salmon in addition to the other 24 species of fish found there. Forty-six percent of the world’s sockeye salmon is harvested here helping to create thousands of jobs and $1.5 billion for the local economy.

Sadly, climate deterioration and mining threaten the wildlife and harm potential jobs for locals. Nearby organizations and the World Wildlife Foundation have joined to continue to educate the nation on the importance of preservation for the fishing industry and other animal habitats.

Kenai River

If you love sockeye salmon, you can drop in your line off the shore of the Kenai River. This historic town, like other areas of Alaska, is known for its locally harvested salmon. You can charter a wheelchair friendly vessel to take you out for a day on the water. If you enjoy being on land, you can find a few disability-safe areas, such as a convenient metal boardwalk. Fly fishing gear might be a good choice for this location. The Russian River in Kenai is another hot spot for fly fishing. As a hook fly single area, you can find Russian River flies at your local outdoor store. There are 13 miles of river to fish in or you can simply lay back on the shore and gaze up at the Kenai mountains. Additionally, discover the many scenic hiking trails, baseball fields, and playgrounds once your day of fishing has concluded.

Saltwater fishing in Sitka

In the southeastern part of Alaska, get ready to cast your line for some saltwater fishing. If you are looking to catch a “king” of a fish, bring along some strong carbon fiber or graphite telescopic fishing rods. Make sure to pack a variety of lures which can do double duty in saltwater and bay-side fishing. You can charter a boat with some friends in Sitka, a town with strong Russian roots and plenty of things to do. Besides fishing, the island of Sitka has a diverse native history and ecosystem, including a rainforest to explore. The Sitka National Historical Park has over 100 acres of nature to venture. Take a look at photographer E.W. Merrill’s glass plates negatives and still life images of the Tlingit community. The park offers ranger-led tours of the museum during the summer. You can experience the hand-carved totem poles of the Tlingit on the site and online through a virtual tour.

 

6 Reasons Why Khao Yai National Park is a Magical Playground

Grand European estates, the American Wild West, and a Hobbiton replica are probably the last things you would think of when it comes to Thailand, but here in the Khao Yai National Park, just 3 hours from Bangkok, these are just some of the magical playgrounds you can visit and enjoy.

Officially declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Khao Yai is the third largest national park in the country, with a total land area of 2,168 square kilometers. It covers the 4 provinces of Saraburi, Nakhon Nayok, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Prachinburi. It’s also one of the most popular nature and adventure destinations in the country, thanks to its lush tropical forests, spectacular waterfalls, and incredible manmade attractions such as theme parks, vineyards, and farms.

While there are a number of first-class resort hotels in the area, budget travelers will be happy to know that there are cheap accommodations in Khao Yai (ที่พักเขาใหญ่ราคาถูก) as well. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy the magical attractions in the park. Just choose the attraction that really interests you, and skip the rest that don’t tickle your fancy. Here are just a few suggestions of places that you can visit.

Baan Suan Noi Hobbit House

The Lord of the Rings fans won’t need to fly to New Zealand to get a taste of Middle Earth, since they will also be able to experience life in the Shire at the Baan Suan Noi Hobbiton Village in Khao Yai. With costumes and props available for visitors to borrow, you can live your fantasy Hobbit life here, at least in pictures and videos that you can show to your family and friends. What’s more, you can even stay overnight in one of the charming hobbit houses, complete with circular doors and pint-sized furniture pieces.

PB Valley Khao Yai Winery

You’d probably be surprised to know that Thailand has a thriving winery that’s open to visitors. Go on a wine tasting tour at the PB Valley Khao Yai Winery, pick grapes from their verdant vines, and eat sumptuous meals at their in-house restaurant, all while taking in the beautiful landscapes that won’t look out of place in the great vineyards of Italy and France.

Farm Chokchai

If you’re coming to Khao Yai as a family, your kids will definitely love the fun activities in Farm Chokchai. In this dairy farm, kids will get to meet different farm animals, as well as real-life cowboys that herd the cattle. Different rides are also available here, including a fun tractor ride through the farm and a horse cart ride with a farm hand. Best of all, you and your kids can make your own ice cream using the freshest milk produced by the farm’s bovine denizens.

Primo Piazza

Get transported to Tuscany when you enter the Primo Piazza, which boasts an undoubtedly Mediterranean-inspired architecture and surrounded by lush landscapes. Here, you can feed alpacas, donkeys, and sheep, as well as take hundreds of photos with the picturesque settings. Indeed, no one will question you if you geotagged your pictures to the Italian city.

Panther Creek Resort

Fans of classic Wild West movies will enjoy this themed resort destination, set on 45 acres of land. From teepees and saloons to a real train, this resort has got everything Americana covered. They even have a show every evening that theatrically recreates grand battles between frontiersmen and Native Americans, an extravaganza that also features fire dancing and blowpipe demonstrations. Moreover, rooms that are faithfully decorated according to the theme are available for booking.

Banmai Chay Nam

Banmai Chay Nam is a museum-restaurant-hotel resort crammed with vintage knick-knacks for visitors to see. With a huge restaurant area, the place is incredibly busy, but you don’t have to get bored while waiting for your order here. Take a look around their museum that’s full of retro memorabilia such as arcade games, toys, and more. And before you leave, don’t forget to take your picture on the wonderful wooden bridge that leads to the resort hotel.

It’s no wonder that Khao Yai receives so many visitors every year. There’s always something new to explore and activities to try. Even if you come as a solo traveler or bring a large family, this park will have something magical for everyone.

 

Welcome to Prague | the Most Well Preserved Gem of European History

Prague belongs to Europe’s most beautiful cities. Since it was never bombed during the Second World War, the city’s buildings have been preserved for centuries. Straight through the city flows the Vltava river, which unites the Old Town with the so-called Lilla side via several bridges. The oldest and most beautiful, Charles Bridge, is Prague’s hallmark. Where Prague now lies, Moldova formed a battleground where early fortresses and small communities were built.

After twenty centuries of struggle for independence and forming a unique national identity, Czechs succeed, and not only that. They managed to create some decades ago the best nightlife atmosphere of central Europe along with countless cultural landmarks that simply make anyone sigh whenever someone says the cities name.

Some eight million foreign tourists annually visit this amazing city and more then half of them came exclusively for the purpose of partying. That is why Prague’s bachelor parties are some of the best that you can find in all the world. Moreover, after reviewing the stories of such visitors we can all conclude that next to the vibrating nightlife the definite addition to Prague experience are magnificent structures that will simply take your breath away. In today’s article, we will present to you the most famous places that you need to visit once you arrive for some of that famous Prague party.

Charles Bridge – Arguably the Most Beautiful One in the World

Even those who arrive for provocative and famous Prague bachelor parties go straight ahead to witness the beauty of this cultural bastion. The Charles Bridge (Karlův Most) is 520 m long and began to be built in 1357, on the initiative of Emperor Charles IV, whose bridge was named. 15 years earlier, the first stone bridge, the Judit Bridge from the 12th century, was washed away by a tidal wave. Remains of Judit are preserved in the Charles Bridge.

Even earlier bridges were built of wood, but they did not resist the high water pressure. The Charles Bridge was built in Gothic style and along the railings are 30 baroque saint sculptures, which were not added until the 18th and 19th centuries.

In the Middle Ages, the bridge was used for business, to throw down criminals in the river, towering games, etc. In the summer it is possible to walk up and admire the view from both towers. The bridge has been damaged many times, not least by the Swedes in 1648, and in 1890 it almost collapsed completely by a flood. In 1962, the bridge was closed for traffic when it became a national memorial and is now only a footbridge full of tourists, artists and souvenir vendors.

The Magnificent Old Town Square

The Old Town Square is one of Europe’s largest and most beautiful squares. It was used as a marketplace during the Middle Ages, and in 1621 was the scene of one of the bloodiest events in the Czech Republic’s history when Emperor Ferdinand’s Catholic forces executed 27 Protestant opponents.

The largest tourist magnet in the square the astronomical clock on the Old Town Hall. Every hour, Death beats in a clock, two doors open and Jesus and the twelve apostles come out. It was installed in 1410 and is the world’s oldest still functioning astronomical clock.

When the King of Luxembourg granted Prague’s residents a city council in 1338, it was decided to build a town hall financed by a tax on wine. The foundation of the town hall became a Gothic corner house that belonged to a rich merchant. In 1360 a second house was added to the town hall and in 1364 the 69.5 m high tower was built.

Astronomical Clock and the Magnificent Old Town Town Hall

In 1458, they bought a private residential building (where the author Franz Kafka lived as a child), Dům U Minuty with his beautiful Renaissance graffiti, and incorporated it into the town hall’s southern side. In 1784, Prague’s four cities (Staré Mesto, Nové Mesto, Malá Strana, and Hradcany) agreed, and the town hall became the administrative center for the whole of Prague.

During the 19th century, it was expanded several times, and after that, it has been rebuilt, destroyed and built, and now it consists of a number of colorful houses in different building styles that contain representation rooms and an art gallery. The main room is the Council Hall from the 15th century. From the tower, you can enjoy the most splendid panoramic view of the city.

Nightlife Opportunities for Unforgettable Moments

It’s simply impossible to include all the cultural landmarks of this amazing city in such a short article so we will briefly present to you nightlife options that this city proudly present. Just as you arrive you will figure out that partying out in Prague is no problem. There are many different nightclubs to choose from and the residents themselves do everything they can to create a lovely atmosphere.

They know how to fast properly. In contrast, tourists spend most of the nightlife in Prague, much like in many other places where tourists come the most. A good rule to keep in mind is that the more tourists are in the area, the more expensive the prices will be. To avoid all these tourist traps you can instead go to Zizkov.

The area is full of Czech pubs and without a lot of tourists. Here you can drink Czech beer and eat good Czech food at a cheap price. However, the menus are somewhat limited, but the food is good and well cooked which weighs up everything.

In Conclusion:

If you have never been to Prague before then book your weekend right away. Cities architectural splendor will simply stun you at every site and its nightlife circles will make you forget how old you actually are.

The Czech capital is old in the image but incredibly young in spirit and anyone who dares to step foot on its soil finds himself wishing to come back as soon as possible. Enjoy everything that this city has to offer and let it live with your mind and heart forever.

 

What To Do On a Holiday In Buenos Aires

Planning a trip to one of South America’s most romantic cities? Buenos Aires is a place with amazing food, history, architecture, and nightlife, so believe us when we say that you are in for a treat.

Below, we highlight the best things you can do on a holiday in Buenos Aires.

1) Eat all the Argentine food

It may not get the billing it deserves, but Argentine food has a richness that pays tribute to its Italian and Spanish roots. Start by snacking on some empanadas – there are many flavours, from queso y jamon (ham and cheese) to carne (spiced ground beef with olives).

For lunch, have a milanesa – made from a fillet of chicken, beef, or pork, it is pounded flat, breaded, and fried in oil. If you have the chance to do so, have a napolitana milanesa, as it is served with a helping of bolognese sauce on top.

At dinner, pick an Argentine steakhouse and prepare for one of the better meals you’ve ever had in your life.  Sourced from the vast pastures of Patagonia, the beef here is cooked over a parilla grill with sea salt and pepper being the only seasonings applied to the meat.

Once you walk out of the restaurant, it will be close to Midnight. Head to the club (or a classy lounge) and enjoy the company of lifelong Portenos. Before taking a cab back to your hotel, grab a choripan – a sausage smothered in chimichurri. This will quiet any hunger pangs so you can finally settle into a restful sleep back at your hotel.

If you choose to retire to your hotel early, though, know there are entertainment options capable of keeping you busy until it’s time to go to bed.

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2) Visit the grave of Eva Peron

A highly influential political figure and a champion of the average Argentine, Eva Peron was loved by many in this country. Succumbing to cancer at an early age, her death was a national tragedy which only cemented her politics as a force in Argentina decades after her passing.

Pay your respects by dropping by the La Recoleta Cemetery. A necropolis which houses the elaborate graves of Buenos Aires’ most famous citizens, it can be easy to miss her final resting place, as it sits amidst a series of equally impressive shrines.

Once there, though, slip a red rose through the grates on the door of her tomb, as this is a tribute many locals pay to this beloved figure.

3) See the Argentine Capitol and the Pink House

Buenos Aires is filled with gorgeous buildings influenced by French, Italian, and Spanish architects. However, its primary political buildings definitely take their inspiration from America’s equivalents, as the Argentine Capitol and the Pink House definitely bear resemblance to their counterparts in Washington DC.

Officially known as the Palace of the Argentine National Congress, tours are run inside but are given in Spanish only (note: take lessons beforehand), but the building is so gorgeous, it won’t matter if you don’t understand what is being said.

At the east end of Avenida de Mayo, you’ll find the Pink House, which is the official residence and workplace of the Argentine president. Want a tour of the interior? They are available on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays – register online beforehand to avoid disappointment.

5 Party Spots Around the World

If one of your favorite parts of traveling the world is getting to party the night away in some of the world’s hottest party spots, continue reading to discover 5 party spots which are well worth adding to your bucket list.

5 Party Spots Around the World:

  1. New Orleans, Louisiana

While New Orleans is known for its colorful Mardi Gras parades and parties, New Orleans is a party hot spot all year long. If you are keen to explore New Orleans world famous nightlife, your first stop should be Bourbon Street, which is known for its French-inspired architecture as well as its multitude of bars, nightclubs, and jazz lounges. If you’re looking to spend a few days partying in a city which never sleeps, you’ll find yourself at home in New Orleans. Which is definitely the party capital of the USA.

  1. Amsterdam, the Netherlands

While Amsterdam may be best known for Party Casino bonus its Venice like network of canals and it’s notorious Red Light District, Amsterdam also happens to be home to some of Europe’s hottest clubs. Examples of some of Amsterdam’s most popular clubs, which are packed from wall to wall with tourists and locals include Panama, which is located on the waterfront and frequently attracts world-class European DJs and AIR Amsterdam. The latter of which is a purpose built, state of the art dance club.

  1. Hong Kong

If you’d love to tick partying in a VIP club in Asia off your bucket list, it’s well worth purchasing a plane ticket to Hong Kong, which boasts some of the most luxurious nightclubs and bars in Asia. Examples of a few of the nightclubs which are well worth visiting on a whirlwind trip to Hong Kong include Volar, which boasts not one but two different dance rooms and is known for hosting Hong Kong’s hottest after parties and Play Club. The latter of which boasts a massive 6,000 square dance floor and has attracted A-list international artists such as Skrillex and Afrojack.

  1. Monaco

While Monaco is located on the Southern coast of France, Monaco is technically a principality and its own country. Monaco is known as a playground for the rich and famous, so if you’d love to be able to party with A-list movie stars and famous athletes, it’s well worth jetting away to Monaco. As after spending your days sunbathing on Monaco’s picturesque beaches you’ll be able to dance the night away at one of Monaco’s hottest clubs.

If you’re keen on exploring Monaco, it’s also worth dressing up to the nines and visiting the historic, glamorous Monte Carlo Casino. Inside the opulently decorated casino, you’ll find a theater and a ballet theater as well as a world-class casino. Just be sure to dress smartly as the Monte Carlo Casino enforces a strict dress code.

  1. The French Alps

After a day spent skiing or snowboarding down a plethora of slopes, you’ll be able to visit a wide variety of chic nightclubs and bars. Examples of which include Mooserwit Bar, Krazy Kanguruh, and the La Folie Douce.

So what are you waiting, simply choose your favorite party hot spot and start planning your next international trip.

 

Hong Kong’s Enduring Appeal As The Jewel In Asia’s Crown

Hong Kong has long since been a destination for Americans, both for those seeking a vacation and those who want to start a new life here. The city offers the best of both worlds. As well as great culture and great food, this gem on the banks of the Pearl River Estuary also provides the comforts many westerners love, including shopping malls, good food, and much more. This article will explore some of the top reasons why people from the west just can’t seem to get enough of Hong Kong.

Schools and education

International schools in Hong Kong are particularly strong, and they give kids a chance to benefit from a global, cosmopolitan culture and learning environment while also providing western curriculums to keep them in a harmonized mode of study in case they move on to a different country in the future. Another advantage of the high-quality international schools here is that they help students to settle in without straying too far from what they’ve become accustomed to. Many international schools are English-speaking, for example, which means that if your children want to learn other Hong Kong languages such as Cantonese, then they can do so at their own pace without affecting their wider education.

Job prospects

If you’re moving to Hong Kong either on your own or with your family, it’s important to make sure that you have a job in place before you make the move. The cost of living in Hong Kong is relatively high, and as a result it pays to be prepared. There are plenty of western firms with a strong presence in Hong Kong, however, so finding a job to pay your bills is often simple. The offices in the city’s skyline are filled with all kinds of global organizations which can and do employ Americans, including law firms, banks and many more, which makes it an attractive prospect for those seeking a new life beyond American shores.

Food and shopping

There’s plenty to do in your leisure time, too. Hong Kong is well known for its shopping facilities, for example. Malls like Cityplaza on Tai Koo Shing Road offer mainstream shopping names like H&M, while those like Florentia Village near Kwai Hing has more exclusive designer outlets to explore, such as Prada and Versace. And with delicious local delicacies such as wontons and fish balls on offer all over the city, foodies will also find themselves in heaven here.

Hong Kong is rightly known for being a global destination full of amazing facilities and job prospects as well as fun things to do. The city has a wide range of well-regarded international schools to help your kids settle in to their new life, as well as major companies offering work in all sorts of industries, and there’s also a top class set of shopping facilities and local cultural attractions to opt for as well. All in all, it’s no wonder that this gorgeous city state is a major hub for people from all across the western world and beyond!

13 Of The Top Things To Do And See In France

If you plan on visiting France in the near future and need a little help when it comes to putting together your travel itinerary, lodges in France has great ideas to discover a list of must-see attractions and sites to consider visiting.


The top things to do and see in France:

1. Skiing

Whether you’re an avid skier or have never put on a pair of skis in your life, it’s well worth visiting at least one of France’s world-class ski resorts. All of which offer runs to suit beginners to expert skiers and snowboarders. If you’re interested in vacationing at a French ski resort, you may be interested in visiting the French Alps. Examples of some of the most highly rated ski resorts in France include Courchevel, Les Arcs, La Plagne, Isola 2000 and Grand Massif.

2. Visit a Laduree boutique in Paris

Whilst in Paris, it’s well worth visiting one of the many Laduree boutiques in Paris, where you’ll be able to hand select a box of delicious, brightly colored French macarons. If you’ve never heard of Laduree, Laduree is a world renown French bakery which has been producing the finest macarons in Paris, since 1862.

3. Parc Asterix

While France is home to its own Disney park, Disneyland Paris, if you’re looking for a French take on an amusement park, it’s well worth visiting Parc Asterix, which is located just outside of Paris. Parc Asterix is themed around the popular French series of comics Asterix, which revolves around a plucky village of Gauls, who resist being taken over by the Romans. Parc Asterix boasts 35 thrill rides and is known for featuring several hair-raising roller-coasters!

4. The Palace of Versailles

If you’re interested in touring one of the most opulent, grand palaces in France, it’s definitely well worth exploring the Palace of Versailles which was originally built by the French emperor Louis XIII in 1624 and features sprawling gardens which are famous for their massive water fountains.

If you choose to visit the Palace of Versailles, make sure to head straight for the Hall of Mirrors, which is the most photographed room in the palace and which happens to be the room where the Treaty of Versailles was signed, by the heads of states of England, the USA, and France at the conclusion of World War I.

5. The Eiffel Tower

While most tourists, flock to the Eiffel Tower during daylight hours, it’s well worth visiting the tower after sunset as every hour the Eiffel Tower will be illuminated for a short light show. Which is well worth watching during your French getaway.

6. Puy de Foy

While Puy de Foy is marketed as a historical theme park, Puy de Foy has more in common with a living museum than a theme park and is known for its daily historical reenactments. Each year approximately 2 million domestic and international tourists flock to Puy de Foy in order to explore the park’s various sections, each of which has been inspired by a different historical period.

As examples, Puy de Foy which is located in western France offers a Viking themed area and multiple areas which have been themed around life in France, throughout the course of France’s fascinating history.

7. The Louvre

Whether or not you’re a fan of art galleries and museums, it’s worth visiting the Louvre as it is home to masterpieces from a wide array of talented artists. Examples of which include Monet, Manet, Picasso and Van Gogh.

8. Wineries

As France produces the world’s best quality wine, it’s well worth touring a few French wineries, during your trip. Better yet, on your tour, you’ll be able to purchase a bottle or case of your favorite wine, in order to take home as a souvenir. Depending on the wineries which you visit, you may even be able to enjoy lunch, with views of a picturesque vineyard. Which may include fresh local produce such as locally produced bread and cheese.

9. The River Seine

If you plan to spend at least one day in Paris, it’s well worth taking a scenic river cruise on the Seine River, which runs through the middle of the heart of Paris.

10. The French Riveria

If you want to mix and mingle with A-list actors and some of the world’s wealthiest socialites, it’s definitely worth visiting the sunny French Riveria, which is located on the southern coast of France. Two of the most popular spots to visit on the French Riveria are Monte Carlo Cannes, Saint Tropez. Both of which boast world, beach class resorts which offer spectacular ocean views.

11. Arc de Triomphe

Aside from the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe is definitely one of the most recognizable monuments in Paris. The Arc de Triomphe was opened in 1836 and was built to commemorate the victories of Napolean Bonaparte. If you’re looking to locate the Arc de Triomphe, you’ll find it on the western end of the Champs Elysees.

12. The Notre Dame de Paris

The Notre Dame de Paris holds the distinction of being the most recognized church in Paris and is featured in the classic book “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” which was written by the French writer Victor Hugo back in 1831. If you’re curious, construction of the Notre Dame de Paris began in 1163.

As you walk up to the Notre Dame de Paris, you’ll instantly recognize the Notre Dame due to its distinctive medieval architecture. When you get closer to the church you should be able to recognize a few of the gargoyles, which stand watch over the Notre Dame de Paris.

13.The Place de la Concorde

The Place de la Concorde is an 18th-century plaza which is located in Paris and which was the site where countless public executions once took place. Today tourists flock to the plaza in order to view the Egyptian obelisk which stands in the plaza as well as to view the plaza’s collection of grand fountains and statues.

So what are you waiting for? It’s well worth visiting as many of the top-rated French attractions and sites listed above as possible on your upcoming trip!

 

6 Hottest Travel Destinations

Singapore
Sure, there’s the Singapore Sling, but there’s so much more on the menu here, where one of the world’s coolest cocktail scenes is emerging. Six Singapore bars made the 2017 World’s 50 Best Bars List, including Operation Dagger and Manhattan, a swanky, NYC-inspired room with leather couches and Art Deco touches. New options for sleeping it off abound, too: the Sofitel Singapore City Centre and the InterContinental Singapore Robinson Quay opened in October, and the island’s grand dame, Raffles Singapore (home of the original Sling), will emerge from a major renovation later in the year.

Nassau, Bahamas
The Bahamas’ capital city is going big in 2018: After the long awaited Baha Marresort complex finally opened its doors last year (adding a Grand Hyatt and an SLS Hotel), the Rosewood Baha Mar joins the club this spring. But even bigger news is Royal Caribbean’s 5,500-passenger Symphony of the Seas — the world’s largest cruise ship — which will set sail from Miami beginning in November and stop at Nassau during seven-night Eastern Caribbean sailings.

Catalina Island, California
It’s only a one-hour ferry ride from Southern California’s Newport Beach, but Catalina feels a world away. Spend a weekend hiking 27 miles of new trails, or flying over Descanso Beach on the new Catalina Aerial Adventure. All that cardio calls for a chocolate cone from Scoops, nestled in the town of Avalon, just a few blocks away from the ferry pier.

Perth, Australia
Western Australia’s uber-cool coastal city is well worth the journey. Downtown, the new Elizabeth Quay waterfront teems with buzzworthy restaurants, hip cocktail bars, and cool modern art installations. Elsewhere, the new Perth Stadium will bring Premier League soccer to the city this summer, and a continued expansion plan promises 13 new hotels in the next two years, including a Ritz-Carlton and a Doubletree.

Fiji
This tropical paradise of 332 palm-fringed South Pacific islands is always deserving of a spot on the bucket list, but especially now. Last year, Marriott opened its first property in the islands, the Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay, which also brought more overwater bungalows to the country. (Think traditional bures, but on stilts and with vaulted ceilings.) A Six Senses Fiji is slated to open on Malolo Island in 2018, and the eco-friendly Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji is launching new wellness retreats for 2018. Each of these resorts exemplifies exactly what travelers come to Fiji for: picture-perfect beaches, warm hospitality, excellent diving, and all the solitude your heart desires.

Papagayo Peninsula, Costa Rica
The beauty of this lush peninsula on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast isn’t leaving anytime soon — the government mandates that 70 percent of land remain protected. In December, the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo reopened after a $35 million renovation. Naturally, the luxury resort focuses on eco-friendly adventure, with canyon zip lines, volcano hikes, and catamaran cruises on the activity list.