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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Sunsets, Serenity, and Sweet Moments in Branson
Nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, Branson, Missouri, offers a romantic escape for couples craving togetherness and charm on their next vacation. Lauded for its scenic beauty and live entertainment, Branson blends small-town warmth with memorable experiences.
Connect with Nature and Each Other
Kick off your romantic sojourn with a sunset cruise on Table Rock Lake, which came in first on Travellersworldwide.com’s list of the 14 Best Lakes in the U.S. in 2025. Covering more than 40,000 surface acres, the lake’s serene surroundings create an idyllic setting for connection, with birds soaring overhead and the water gently lapping you both into a state of relaxation.
The manmade Table Rock Lake meanders through Ozark’s tree-cloaked mountains. Shop, Dine, and Pamper
Branson’s historic downtown is ideal for couples to explore hand in hand. Browse the unique items at Dick’s Old Time 5 & 10, one of the few extant nickel and dime stores left in the U.S.; stop by Mochas and Meows, Missouri’s first permanent cat cafe, for a hot cup of joe and the chance to pet and adopt an adorable feline; or enjoy a candlelit dinner at Chateau Grille, an elegant setting for indulging in mouth-watering dishes as the sun sets over the lake. And what better way to rejuvenate than with a couples’ massage at Spa O2? Complete with relaxing music and soft lighting, it’s been rated No. 1 among Branson’s top spas and wellness centers on Tripadvisor for the past nine years.
Branson Missouri’s downtown provides picturesque waterfront views. Love in the Limelight
If you and your significant other appreciate arts and theater, Branson unlocks a world of fantastic opportunities. With well over 100 shows on offer — from soulful country crooners and comedy acts to dazzling theatrical performances — it’s no wonder the city has often been called the Live Entertainment Capital of the World. And no romantic retreat to Branson is complete without riding the beautifully lit Branson Ferris Wheel at night, on which you can cuddle up and take in panoramic views of the city.
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The Adventurous Side of Williamsburg
The historical treasures of Williamsburg, Virginia, are undeniable, but the region also offers access to pristine nature areas where you can enjoy some outdoor adventure during your stay.
Hike, Bike, and Paddle
The James River is a gateway to all sorts of activities. Head to James City County Marina for a 10-mile kayak trail around Jamestown Island, home of the first successful English settlement in North America, dating to 1607. Prior to the English, the Powhatan used the island for hunting grounds due to the plentiful animal life. Today, the best chance for spotting wildlife, including majestic bald eagles, is with an early morning departure. If you’re not feeling the paddle, you can pedal, with bike rentals available in the park. Choose a 3- or 5-mile one-way loop along a cycle-friendly lane to enjoy similar views to what the early settlers might have witnessed.
Across the peninsula, York River State Park offers more than 40 miles of trails with varying degrees of difficulty for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The park on the York River is a Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, preserving its natural waterfront environment. The park also offers salt- and freshwater fishing spots and a boat ramp to get further into the river.
Meanwhile, the popular 52-mile paved Virginia Capital Trail that runs between Richmond and Jamestown is frequented by hikers, cyclists, and runners. Mile Zero is at the Jamestown Settlement park, and the trail passes through natural areas and historic plantation homes all the way to Richmond.
Photo courtesy of Visit Williamsburg
Photo courtesy of Visit Williamsburg
Photo courtesy of Visit WilliamsburgWilder Rides
Nearby Busch Gardens offers all the familiar theme park attractions with a European feel. The Loch Ness Monster, the park’s classic roller coaster, got a full restoration in 2024, ensuring the double-loop will continue to thrill for years to come.
Another fan favorite, The Big Bad Wolf, was retired in 2009, but its successor will be unveiled in 2025. The Big Bad Wolf: The Wolf’s Revenge is a family-friendly inverted roller coaster that will bring the total number of roller coasters at the park to nine.
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Water’s Edge in the Canary Islands
Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, offers a memorable escape for anyone longing for leisurely, sun-kissed days on the beach. With daytime temperatures ranging from the 60s to 80s year-round and striking natural landscape, the island provides just the right blend of tranquility and revelry.
Beach Time
Whether you prefer to spend your time sipping cocktails until sunset or exploring bucolic cliffside shores, Tenerife has a beach calling your name. Sun worshippers will delight in the gentle golden sands of Playa de las Teresitas, while the volcanic black beaches around Puerto de la Cruz or the light-tan beaches of La Tejita make for an even more colorful backdrop. Crowds flock to Playa del Duque for its wide beach and calm waters, so get there early for a yoga class and to claim a prime lounger and umbrella. If you enjoy more active pursuits, travel via boat to the protected waters of Los Gigantes, named for its giant cliffs, to spot dolphins and whales and, if you’re so inclined, to snorkel or scuba.
Views for Days
Teide National Park is a must-see for its rugged, geological formations. It’s also home to Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide — soaring more than 12,000 feet. The park offers the perfect combo of easy walking paths and panoramic coastline views for those who enjoy nature walks without having to overexert themselves. For even more dramatic views of the sea, drive a series of switchbacks through the Macizo de Teno mountains to the storybook village of Masca, where you will be charmed by its white stucco and red-tile roofed buildings set amid lush vegetation.
Local Eats
For a taste of the coast, Tenerife offers a wide range of restaurants and chiringuitos (beach bars) serving fresh, local seafood and traditional Canarian dishes. Try papas arrugadas, small potatoes served with chili pepper garlic sauce at Arcón Tapas, or enjoy the freshest seafood and harbor views at Tasquita del Puerto. The island is also known for its Indigenous wine varietals, such as Malvasía Aromática (white) and Listán Negro (red), that you can sample at spots like Bodegas El Sitio while savoring Atlantic Ocean views.
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The Dreamiest of Beaches on Kaua‘i
Laid-back Kaua‘i is renowned for its jaw-dropping scenery, lush jungle interior, and sleepy surf towns, but a visit would be incomplete without serious beach time. Powdery white and southerly Po‘ipū Beach Park offers plenty of amenities — lifeguards, restrooms, and picnic tables — and something for everyone: a natural wading pool for young swimmers, bodyboarding and surf breaks for the adventurous, and the chance to spot endangered monk seals and, from December through April, migratory humpback whales. Plus, the popular Spouting Horn blowhole is just a few miles down the road. It’s definitely worth a stop to see this ocean geyser that can shoot up to 50 feet (15 meters) high.
Farther west, Polihale State Park is home to the longest beach in Hawai‘i, its golden shores spanning 17 uninterrupted miles (27 kilometers). It’s also one of Kaua‘i’s most remote stretches — accessed by an unpaved road — so it’s ideal if you’re looking for deserted island vibes. The sunsets here are incredible and you can see the northern tip of Ni‘ihau, known as the Forbidden Island, offshore. Just be sure to pack your own snacks and beverages.
Set against a dramatic mountain backdrop, Kaua‘i’s North Shore is home to a handful of must-see strands. The crescent-shaped Hanalei Beach, with its golden sand, typically calm blue water, and the 300-foot-long (90 meters) Hanalei Pier, is as picturesque as it gets. And it’s close to downtown Hanalei, where you can do a little shopping and enjoy a casual meal when you’re ready for a break from the sun. In terms of unspoiled natural settings, Hā‘ena Beach Park might rival nearby Hanalei — but it’s usually less crowded, so you’ll probably find more space for your beach towels while you splash and snorkel in the clear waters of Maniniholo Bay among vibrant tropical reef fish. And just a mile (1.6 kilometer) farther west, you’ll find Ke‘e Beach and the trailhead for the Kalalau Trail, a challenging 11-mile trek (18 kilometers), one way, along the Nāpali Coast that provides the only land access to the fabled Kalalau Beach.
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Mexico’s Pearl of the Pacific
Mexico is known for its beautiful beaches, but Mazatlán, the Pearl of the Pacific, is quite unlike most other coastal spots. It’s not a resort town that exists because of tourism, but rather a coastal city with a rich history and strong sense of self. Visitors to Mazatlán can easily immerse themselves in the local culture, while still enjoying the peacefulness of the rolling waves and the warmth of the golden sands.
Exploring Old and New
The two main districts to visit are the Centro Histórico, also called Old Mazatlán, and Zona Dorada, the Golden Zone. In Centro, colorful 19th-century architecture sits on cobblestone streets, along with landmarks that have inspired works of literature. You can explore on foot or catch a ride in a pulmonía, a high-speed golf cart or converted truck bed that serves as Mazatlán’s signature form of transportation.
In the Golden Zone, named for the glowing color of its sand, you will find a lively hub for all your favorite vacation activities, from water sports to nightlife. You’ll likely hear traditional (and loud) banda music from roaming musicians — it’s part of the destination’s charm.
Locally Sourced Dining and Shopping
Mazatlán is referred to as the Shrimp Capital of the World, so if there’s one dish to try, it should be that. Virtually every seaside establishment will have shrimp on the menu, as well as pescado zarandeado, a traditional style of grilled fish, usually red snapper. Centro Histórico is the spot for finer dining in Mazatlán. Overlooking Plazuela Machado, Casa 46 has both a robust menu and collection of antique decor dedicated to the city’s maritime history and past queens of carnival. Down the road, the tasting menu at ATOL changes on a daily basis, while Topolo is known for its tableside salsa service.
Mazatlán is brimming with souvenirs, between Centro’s Mercado Pino Suárez and the gift shops lining the Golden Zone — but for locally made crafts, head to Michael Gallery. With four locations throughout town, they offer a wide selection of pottery, ornaments, and glassware. And you can bring a piece of the beach home without violating Mexico’s rule against DIY shell collecting. Instead, you can choose from a selection of sustainably sourced shells at Sea Shell City, which also advocates for their conservation.
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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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Cool Off at Orlando’s Water Parks
Beat the heat with some wet and wild fun.
Summertime in Orlando means sunshine, soaring temps — and plenty of ways to cool off.
The region is home to several awesome water parks, including a brand-new romping river playland that debuted at Westgate River Ranch in June.
And for the first time since 2019, both of Walt Disney World® Resort’s water parks, Disney’s Blizzard Beach and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, will be open at the same time. Guests staying at a Walt Disney World hotel in 2025 get free admission to either water park on their day of arrival.
From fresh attractions to revamped dining and after-hours events, here’s what’s new and noteworthy at some of Orlando’s top splash zones.
Disney’s Blizzard Beach is back and celebrating 30 years with some new waterpark perks. Complementing classic rides — such as Summit Plummet and Teamboat Springs, a swirling, twirling, family-raft ride — are Polar Patios: private cabanas featuring comfy seating, towels, lockers, and a cooler stocked with ice and water, plus a personal attendant ready to help. Snack carts have been refreshed, serving warm mini donuts, pretzels, and Chicago-style hot dogs. Resort guests still get free towels, life jackets, and same-day park access on check-in day. Plus, mobile food ordering makes grabbing a bite easier than ever.
Adding to its rip-roaring, splish-splashing attractions, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon is making waves with new eats you won’t want to miss. Try the pork elote nachos, pineapple upside-down cones, and the famous DOLE Whip® Bathtub Sundae. Adults can chill with a Captain’s Mai Tai from Let’s Go Slurpin’. And the popular H₂O Glow after-hours events are back on select nights, featuring glow-in-the-dark rides, music, and shorter lines. Cabanas come with towels, a cooler, and dedicated attendants. Resort guests get free towels, life jackets, and day-of check-in admission, making it easy to dive right in and cool off.
This summer at Island H2O Water Park, near Margaritaville Resort Orlando, the Glow Foam Parties thump and radiate brighter than ever with new exclusive cabana packages, signature MarGLOWrita cocktails, and private event options that take the vibe to VIP level. The water park features over 20 experiences, including exhilarating slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and a designated children’s area. Island Nights continue on select Saturdays with live DJs, drink specials, and neon-lit fun for adults 21 and older. Family Foam Parties bring bubbly excitement every weekend in August, while Matinee Movie Mondays offer family-friendly films poolside through July. Plus, digital season pass processing makes entry faster and easier. With these fresh updates, Island H2O Water Park keeps the summer energy flowing for everyone.
Aquatica Orlando® is glowing in 2025 with the return of AquaGlow, its after-dark event on select nights, May 16 through Sept. 27. New highlights include LUMINOUS Lane, a glowing lazy river; Tassie’s NEON Twist, a color-packed slide remix; and Electric Tides, a wave pool laser party. Roa’s Rapids is brighter than ever with neon tunnels and mist. By day, enjoy plenty of loungers and some 1,000 beach chairs, shaded cabanas, beach umbrellas, misting fans, and fresh eats like Walkabout Pizza. Want VIP vibes? Book a glowing cabana by the water. This is the most vibrant version of Aquatica yet.
Want all the water park fun, without having to queue for your favorite rides? Purchase a Quick Queue® pass and skip the lines.
Turi’s Kid Cove is a water adventure playground for the little ones — featuring a kid-friendly wave slide.LEGOLAND® Florida is rolling out big upgrades for little adventurers. The Joker Soaker splash zone got a colorful makeover, while the Twin Chasers slides offer a thrilling twisty ride. Splash Out delivers a 60-foot drop splash that’s sure to excite. Families can now Build-A-Raft for a leisurely float down the lazy river, and little ones will love the DUPLO® Splash Safari’s toddler-friendly slides and play areas. Hungry? The Beach-n-Brick Grill serves up tasty burgers, chicken tenders, and fresh salads to refuel your adventure.
Nona Adventure Park’s signature floating aqua obstacle course now glows after dark during LED-lit Glow Nights featuring live DJs, food trucks, and beachside festivals. Weekly themed nights might include sunset paddleboarding, karaoke, trivia, and live concerts to keep the energy high and the vibe local. The park also offers water sports camps with wakeboarding and kneeboarding instruction, making it a go-to for families, teens, and adventure seekers looking for outdoor fun beyond the usual splash zones.
Put River Country on Your Radar for Hours of Refreshing Fun
If you’ve ever thought, “I want a water park, but make it cowboy,” you’re in luck. River Country Water Park just opened at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, and it’s bringing major frontier-meets-family-fun energy to Central Florida, approximately 90 minutes south of downtown Orlando.
Set on a casual 1,700-acre dude ranch, this new splash zone leans all the way into the Western theme — think waterslides with names such as Rooster Run, Rodeo Rapids, and Stampede Falls. Rooster Run is a 281-foot open flume twisting and turning like a barrel racer. Rodeo Rapids is a colorful, enclosed tube slide that’s all kinds of fun. And Stampede Falls offers a 35-foot freefall plunge for anyone feeling brave (or mildly unhinged).
Little kids get their own space, too: a soft-surfaced splash pad full of mini slides and sprayers. Grown-ups? You’ll want to claim a lounger by the lagoon-style pool — hello, sun shelf! — or splurge on a cabana, complete with a mini refrigerator and big-screen TV.
And yes, there’s food. Barn Bites serves ice-cold drinks and snacky favorites in a rustic ranch setting that feels both kitschy and kind of perfect.
Admission is free if you’re staying at the resort, but day visitors can grab a 1-Day Adventure Pass ($34.95) or go all in with a 3-Day Pass ($84.95). Either way, you’ll get unlimited access to everything from mini golf and archery to the on-site Cowboy Adventure Park.Bottom line: Whether you’re 5 or 45, this is the kind of spot where you can cool off, kick back, and embrace your inner cowboy. Or at least watch your kids do it.
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Small Town, Big Fun in British Columbia
Historic Kimberley, British Columbia, combines the rugged majesty of the Canadian Rockies with the charms of a quaint frontier settlement. Voted Best Small Town in B.C. during a competition organized by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation in 2022, Kimberley is known for its winter activities, but still offers families plenty to do year-round.
Outdoor Activities for All Ages
The largest municipal park in British Columbia, Kimberley Nature Park and the neighboring Horse Barn Valley Interpretive Forest have more than 31 miles of hiking trails, with opportunities to explore old-growth cedar and spot native wildlife. For a stroller-friendly trek, Marysville Falls offers impressive views of a cascading waterfall from an accessible wooden boardwalk.
In colder months, Kimberley transforms into a winter wonderland, with nearby slopes receiving an average of more than 10 feet of snowfall annually. The Kimberley Alpine Resort boasts 80 downhill runs for all skill levels and boasts the longest night-skiing run in North America. For cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, the Kimberley Nordic Club offers about 21 miles of groomed trails, including accessible tracks designed for Paralympic skiing.
Local History Lessons
Kimberley’s colorful history comes to life at several family friendly attractions. Hop aboard the Underground Mining Railway, a train tour that takes visitors through the scenic Mark Creek Valley and into the Sullivan Mine tunnel. A walking tour of the mine’s interpretive center provides a close-up look at equipment and tools, while a former miner shares stories of the men who worked in this once active lead and zinc mine.
Located about 25 miles east of Kimberley, the Fort Steele Heritage Town recreates life in 1898 with costumed interpreters, live demonstrations of blacksmithing and other trades, and a working general store stocked with old-fashioned candies and handcrafted goods. Kids will enjoy the Clydesdale wagon tours, while a daily schoolhouse “orientation” gives them a taste of what it was like to be in the classroom during the Gold Rush.
While both Fort Steele and the Underground Mining Railway tour close for winter, the Kimberley Heritage Museum is open year-round. Packed with historical artifacts, photographs, maps, and other documents from the town’s past, the museum features seasonally rotating exhibits, sharing Kimberley’s mining history, stories of notable residents, and a taste of daily life in days gone by.
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Boardwalkin’ Along Atlantic City
Atlantic City was the home of the first boardwalk in the country (circa 1870), and it’s just as entertaining as an urban destination today as when it first wowed guests with its beachside location and fantastic attractions (hello diving horses and the Miss America Pageant).
Today, the expansive (and free) beach still delivers summer fun, and the approximately 5-mile-long boardwalk has an ocean’s worth of diversions to offer guests year-round, with casinos, live entertainment, and amusements.
Gaming and Entertainment
A visit to Atlantic City wouldn’t be complete without trying your luck at one of the nine casinos lining the boardwalk and marina, offering everything from penny slots to high-stakes poker. You can also catch big-name performers, ranging from comedians such as Kevin Hart and Jerry Seinfeld to musical acts like Rod Stewart and Alicia Keys. In addition to major concerts, the circa 1929 Boardwalk Hall offers indoor spectator sports and other special events (it’s also the home of the largest pipe organ in the world!).
Photo courtesy of Visit Atlantic City
Photo courtesy of Visit Atlantic City
Photo courtesy of Visit Atlantic City
Photo courtesy of Visit Atlantic CityClassic Experiences
For family-friendly city fun, the boardwalk’s Steel Pier has swirling-twirling rides, including a classic carousel, a Ferris wheel with Atlantic Ocean views, and the thrilling Slingshot bungee over the beach. During cold weather, visit Island Waterpark at Showboat, one of the largest indoor water parks in the country.
To experience a beloved, local landmark, head 6 miles south of Atlantic City to the town of Margate. Here you’ll find Lucy the Elephant, a six-story-tall, more than 140-year-old, wooden structure that’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Dining Scene
Dining out is a favorite pastime in Atlantic City. Celebrity chefs — including Nobu Matsuhisa (Caesars), Gordon Ramsay (Harrah’s), and Michael Symon (Borgata) — have restaurants tucked into AC’s casino hotels. You also can’t go wrong at the iconic Knife and Fork Inn, with a century of history and high-quality seafood and steaks. Angelo’s Fairmount Tavern is another local institution; it’s been serving up red sauce Italian cuisine since 1935, while Tony’s Baltimore Grill is a local favorite to grab a pizza after a night on the town.
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Discover Bangkok’s Cultural Gems
Bangkok, known as the City of Angels, is a place of sharp contrasts. Spend the daytime exploring ancient palaces and temples (such as Wat Pho, the temple of the reclining Buddha) in the old city of Rattanakosin, and nights clinking glasses in one of Bangkok’s legendary sky bars.
For the latter, make a reservation at Octave Rooftop Lounge and Bar on the 45th to the 49th floors of Bangkok Marriott Hotel. Relax, unwind, and sip creative cocktails such as Lavender Dream (a blend of gin, lavender liqueur, butterfly pea, lime, and cream) while admiring unparalleled 360-degree cityscape views.
Back at ground level, get your shopping fix at a luxury shopping mall along upmarket Sukhumvit Road, or at a floating market in nearby Samut Songkhram province. And for your foodie fix, be sure to try authentic street food — such as pad thai (Thailand’s national dish) or a sweet dessert of mango sticky rice — at one of the local markets. You can also bring exquisite flavors to life at a local cookery school, where you’ll learn how to make classic Thai dishes like green Thai curry. Most cookery sessions include a visit to a nearby market before you create and savor delicious authentic Thai cuisine.
Embrace Bangkok’s status as a concrete jungle at Erawan Shrine, a sacred site surrounded by skyscrapers, or get some fresh air alongside hundreds of monitor lizards in Lumphini Park. And for some city culture and adventure combined, climb the serpentine steps up to the Golden Mount, a Buddhist temple set atop an artificial hill surrounded by shaded trees, and enjoy panoramic city views.
Local transportation is as diverse as the city’s attractions: Take advantage of the elevated BTS SkyTrain, underground MRT, tuktuk vehicles (auto-rickshaw), and the ferries along the Chao Phraya River. For a fun adventure, take a chartered long-tail boat and cruise along the city’s River of Kings. It’s a great way to gain a different perspective of the city — and is most serene at sunset.
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Making Memories on Maui
Maui, long established as a superb romantic island escape, more than lives up to its reputation with scenic drives, stunning beaches, and golden sunset cruises. Plus, there’s nothing like gentle island breezes and the sounds of the surf to accompany you while strolling hand in hand.
Peak Experiences
Start at the top of Maui’s tallest peak, the 10,023-foot-high Haleakalā, for a magical, pastel-colored sunrise unlike any other. Stick around to check out the otherworldly cinder cones, hike the 11-mile Keonehe’ehe’e (Sliding Sands) Trail, or spot the rare āhinahina plant (Hawaiian silversword), which is only found on Haleakala.
When you’re ready to head back down to earth, the Ali’i Kula Lavender farm awaits, with its rows of purple blooms making for a picture-perfect background. Don’t forget to browse the gift shop for every lavender product you can imagine, from soaps to teas to scones. Nearby is the locally owned MauiWine, where you can sample their expertly made pineapple wines. Or you can upgrade your experience with a private Friday tasting in the lush onsite gardens.
For a memorable beach day, make your way to Kā‘anapali Beach, where sunning, snorkeling, and surfing opportunities abound. Strolling along the Kā‘anapali Beachwalk provides stunning ocean vistas on one side and luxury hotels on the other. A romantic dinner at Merriman’s Kapalua, where sunset ocean views meet elevated farm-to-table plates, is the perfect way to cap off your day.
Road Trip to Hana
For even more couple time, plan a day-trip to the eastern side of Maui via the iconic winding road to Hana, a scenic drive filled with waterfalls, viewpoints, and beaches. Stop at the easy-to-access Twin Falls, then the Ke‘anae Peninsula for a picturesque lava rock coastline and a taste of Aunty Sandy’s famous banana bread. Don’t miss Wai‘ānapanapa State Park, home to Maui’s only black-sand stretch, Honokalani Beach.
Be sure to book a sunset cruise during your stay, too. An enchanting mix of local food, ocean views, golden glows, and even the occasional dolphin appearance ensure this romantic experience will be an evening to remember.
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Romantic Bliss in Palm Springs and Palm Desert
Transport yourself to the golden era of Hollywood glamour with a retro romantic weekend in Palm Springs and Palm Desert. From September through May, you can start the day with a champagne hot-air balloon outing, soaring high above the sprawling Coachella Valley. During the peaceful flight, you’ll usually travel approximately 10 to 30 miles (16 to 48 kilometers), depending on the breeze, and enjoy an entirely new aerial perspective on some of the region’s different landscapes, including the surrounding natural deserts and myriad golf courses.
Back on solid ground, palm-lined streets and mid-century modern architecture provide the setting for leisurely strolls through historic neighborhoods filled with vintage boutiques, hip eateries, and a trove of beautiful homes. History lovers will want to see sites such as the Sunnylands estate and the McCallum Adobe, which dates to 1884 and is the oldest remaining building in Palm Springs. If you’d like to take a break from the tourism centers and enjoy a quiet walk or drive through a true residential quarter — while still marveling at the area’s fascinating and varied construction styles — consider an excursion to The Mesa, Deepwell Estates, or Indian Canyons. And, of course, you can’t visit Palm Springs and Palm Desert without doing some serious shopping. The Uptown Design District and El Paseo Shopping District are both musts.
Active couples won’t have any trouble filling their days either. Hit the tennis or pickleball courts together, play 18 holes (perhaps choose a challenging new course during your hot-air balloon ride!), or opt for a hike on a nearby trail for more glorious views. Trekking to the peak of Mount San Jacinto (after catching a lift on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway) and Andreas Canyon are popular routes. For the ultimate in relaxation, there are healing hot springs and rejuvenating spa treatments galore. As the sun dips below the mountains and the stars light the desert sky, savor an intimate dinner on a cozy restaurant patio.
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England for Everyone
The Lake District unfurls like a fine watercolor painting, with mountain peaks and vast bodies of water framed by dense forest and rolling green fields. And all this gorgeous scenery beckons you to explore with good friends.
For the best of all worlds, the area surrounding the pretty village of Lower Thurnham is a great place to start. Stroll the gardens at 17th-century Thurnham Hall or rent a boat to explore the Lancaster Canal, which runs through the village.
On and Off the Water
It’s a little less than 40 miles north to Windermere, England’s largest lake and a great spot for more adventures on the water. There are plenty of places to hire a kayak or rowboat, with a picnic lunch in tow. You can even take a Segway tour around the lake.
Brockhole on Windermere, a visitor center with everything from motorboats to paddleboards, is a must-visit. The variety is great if your group has different interests and abilities (a canoe race can be fun, if everyone’s up for it).
Back on dry land, the center also offers archery and clay shooting. Regroup (and argue over whose aim was best) with lunch by the lake at the cafe or indulge in a classic Cumbrian afternoon tea, complete with finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries at The Gaddum Kitchen. (Be sure to book in advance.)
The serious hikers in your party will relish the challenge of tackling Scafell Pike, the highest point in England at more than 3,200 feet. It’s just over 10 miles west from the top of Windermere (stop for a group selfie at Cathedral Cave, whose opening stands nearly 40 feet high). It’s not an easy climb — you’ll need decent walking boots and plenty of stamina — but the views from the top are priceless (as are the memories).
Vegas, U.K.-Style
If your group is also craving urban adventures, you’re in the right place. Blackpool, a coastal resort sometimes called Britain’s Vegas on Sea, is about 60 miles away. From the end of August to January, you can walk the 6-mile promenade to see the town’s famous Illuminations, an annual lights festival going since 1879. At South Pier (open from February to December), amp up the fun factor with thrill rides, breaking for fairground fare from candyfloss (cotton candy) to traditional fish and chips.
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Fun with Friends at Lake Ozark and Branson
The Missouri Ozarks sprawl across the southern half of the Show Me State, beckoning vacationers with more than 1.5 million acres (600,000 hectares) of forests, rivers, and lakes. Hiking, fishing, golfing, scuba diving, spelunking, and mountain biking top the list of outdoor possibilities. For a memorable caving adventure with your buddies, explore some Lake of the Ozarks extraordinary grottos. There are numerous cave tours available, but one of the most fun can be found at the otherworldly Stark Caverns. Here, you and your friends can descend into a darkened cave during the Black Light Tour, and using a handheld black light, witness the fluorescent glow of certain minerals. For double the fun, and a great night out, solve cryptic puzzles, find clues, and work together to see if you can beat the clock at the moonshine-themed Escape Room in the cavern.
The namesake Lake of the Ozarks in central Missouri is a serpentine body of water with more than 1,100 miles (1,770 kilometers) of shoreline. That means a lot of secluded coves for swimming, fishing, and relaxing with friends. And talking of relaxing, if you’re away with the girls, why not revitalize body, mind, and spirit with a morning yoga class, followed by a spot of pampering and TLC during a zen-inducing afternoon spa treatment. Or if it’s a trip with the guys, enjoy activities such as golfing, boating, and fishing. There are nine public boat places around the lake where you can cast a line for the likes of blue catfish, striped bass, paddlefish, and bluegill, or you can sign up for a guided fishing trip.
If you’re in the southwest corner of the state, Table Rock Lake in Branson offers all the water activities, along with the live entertainment for which it’s famous (recent concerts featured diverse music, including Quiet Riot and Travis Tritt, Flo Rida, and Nelly). Both communities boast a wide range of dining and shopping options. You simply can’t go wrong with an Ozarks vacation.
