 Guest Post: Lindsay Denton What are you hoping to get out of your honeymoon? That's the initial question you and your spouse need to answer when planning your honeymoon. Every couple hopes their honeymoon will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, whether they're more into adventure or sheer luxury. For some vacationers, this will be their first truly extravagant trip, and for others, it will be the culmination of years of planning and saving. The best part is that you don't have to travel too far to have the time of your life, whether you're looking for an exciting adventure, a quiet romantic getaway, or unparalleled luxury. To help you make your pick, we've consulted travel experts and found out what are the best US honeymoon destinations. The Best Destinations in the US for your Perfect Honeymoon If you want serene and romantic beaches, you can go to the Maldives. But why when you have Hawaii and its gorgeous scenery? From cheap outdoor activities to lavish spa treatments, the US offers something for everyone when it comes to honeymoon destinations. So, to help you choose a destination that is perfect for you and your loved one, we've compiled a list of the best places in the US. Hopefully, you'll be soon taking selfies with your spouse in one of these destinations soon. Napa, California The wine region of Napa promotes itself as a romantic getaway location. Indeed, it is one of the most alluring spots in the US for newlyweds. Napa's charm lies in the fact that each of the valley's communities offers a unique experience. This honeymoon is perfect for the sophisticated, food- and wine-obsessed couple, with activities ranging from farm-to-table dining to relaxing on the rooftops in downtown Napa. You can choose to stay in rustic cottages, or you can opt for a luxurious bungalow-style suite. The beauty of Napa is in the variety of options it provides. Nashville, Tennessee Nashville is a fantastic city to visit if you enjoy listening to live music. The city may be known as "the country music capital of the United States," but the country is hardly the only type of music you may hear there. Nashville is known for amazing food, so the city has a burgeoning fine dining scene with amazing options. New York City A married couple may have some of the most romantic and memorable first experiences by taking a trip to New York City. In contrast to locations where you might spend a lot of time lounging on the beach, New York City is a bit more action-packed and offers many possibilities for entertainment. The city is beautiful year-round, making it one of the best US honeymoon destinations. The winter holidays are probably the most beautiful time to visit NYC. From ice-skating in Central Park to tucking in and drinking hot chocolate in your gorgeous hotel room, December in NYC is absolutely lovely. You can't go wrong if you choose summer, either. For instance, you can plan a romantic night and take your loved one to of the best rooftop bars in NYC. Savannah, Georgia With its ancient buildings and Southern charm, Savannah is often cited as one of the most romantic cities in the United States. The fact that many of Savannah's hotels and B&Bs have special honeymoon rates for newlyweds says it all. There is no shortage of activities to choose from when planning a romantic celebration. Among the 19th-century palaces and Spanish moss-covered walls of the ancient old town, you'll find 22 town squares, each with a lovely garden area ideal for a romantic picnic with your significant other. Plus, there are fabulous restaurants you shouldn't miss out on visiting. Jackson, Wyoming Want to add some exercise to your honeymoon? Why not hit the trails in a national park? So, you might want to use Jackson as a hub. This historic western town in Wyoming is conveniently located near both Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. Both parks can be reached in less than a day's drive. In Jackson, honeymooners can choose from quaint B&Bs to luxurious resorts fit for a king or queen. Jackson is gorgeous all year round. During the colder months, couples might take a dog sled ride, or you can go on an exciting snowshoeing excursion. In the warm months, outdoor activities like white water rafting and horseback riding are more accessible. Molokai, Hawaii Located between Oahu and Maui in the Hawaiian archipelago, the island is a long cry from the typical honeymoon destination. It's a getaway from the usual tourist traps and mainstream activities you might find elsewhere in Hawaii. You and your spouse can appreciate nature in peace and quiet on these uninhabited beaches. Waterfalls and rainforests may be found deep within the island, along with hiking paths. There are plenty of opportunities to learn about the culture of the people who live there. If beach horseback riding is something you've always wanted to do on your honeymoon, you can do so at Puu'u O Hoku Ranch. The outfitter provides sunset rides with dinner for two in a natural setting. Papohaku Beach, one of the longest white-sand beaches in all of Hawaii, is located on this island, which has a total of 16 beaches. Many different types of lodgings are available, from B&Bs to luxury resorts. Which one of the US honeymoon destinations will you choose? Even though we're sure you and your loved one wouldn't have a problem with watching a virtual stand-up show tucked up in your bed at home, don't waste the opportunity to properly celebrate your love and give yourselves the honeymoon of your dreams. We hope that our article and these amazing US honeymoon destinations inspired you to do just that! Photo credit: Unsplach
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 Guest Post: Jesse Clark at Soulful-Travel The middle of our lives is a transition period that helps us to make sense of who we are and what our values are. It can also be a time when we start questioning our careers and motivations. There are some positive changes you can do for yourself, such as traveling more, to make looking at your future more exciting and rewarding. Here are some tips from Allen Batista Travel to make your life’s second half the best it can be. Is It Time to Start Traveling? Travel is actually good for us because it helps us to see new perspectives and learn new things. It also broadens our view of the world and helps to build meaningful relationships with others. Travelers tend to have a better appreciation for the world, which in turn helps them live in the present and enjoy the moment. Traveling is also a great way to learn about different cultures and learn from other people's experiences. But most of all, travel gives us a sense of adventure — we feel like we are living life on the edge and makes us feel like anything could happen and anything is possible. To find your next adventure, let Allen Batista Travel help you book your next vacation! Is It Time for Counseling? If your options are limited as far as finding a good, qualified therapist near you, or you don’t have time for an in-office visit, counseling is also available online. Online therapy is convenient, secure, private, and less of a commitment than in-person therapy. When you choose to see an online therapist, you'll have a wider variety of licensed professionals to choose from, save time on travel, and pay less for mental health care. Many therapists also offer quick free consultations to ensure you find the right match. Is It Time for a Career Change? Many people go through a career change at about age 40–50 for a variety of reasons. They’re bored with repetition and don’t find their work challenging. They have reached the limit of their ability to be promoted, or they dream of doing something they’ve always wanted to do. Sometimes a career change can even mean starting a business of your own. There’s nothing more satisfying than fulfilling the dream of being your own boss. Take care to moderate and check in on your stress levels, but as long as you can be happy doing what you love, it can be a wonderful mid-life choice. If you’re starting your own business, find ways to save money in the beginning. For example, instead of purchasing invoicing software immediately, use an invoice maker free online. You can quickly customize a template with your own text, colors, and graphics. When it’s to your liking, simply download it to use as needed. Is It Time to Get Serious About Your Health? In the first half of our life, we take feeling good for granted. Our bodies can overcome any amount of bad food choices we throw at them. But eventually, usually around the mid-point of our life, we start noticing the ill effects of making poor food choices. Our cholesterol levels rise, we get sluggish and tired by mid-afternoon, and our doctors tell us our lab work has come back with some results that need addressing. It’s time to get serious about our health. Seeing a registered dietician/nutritionist and bringing them your physician's findings can be one of the smartest investments you can make in your future. The better you fuel your body, the better you’ll feel. Plus, that investment will pay for itself in reduced medical costs and loss of work. To help you prioritize your health at home, invest in some kitchen tools and exercise equipment. Having these kinds of home products around will help remind and motivate you to make healthier choices. Before spending any money, take care to read unbiased product reviews online. Is it Time to Start Having Some Fun? According to multiple studies, hobbies are actually good for our mental health. They are a mentally healthy way of spending time and developing new skills. Whether it’s joining a bowling league or learning how to prepare French dishes, the middle of our life is when we should indulge in play again. Some key benefits of hobbies include:
Make Your Midlife Your Best Life The middle of your life can and should be one of the most exciting and freeing times of your life. With some sound guidance and an understanding of what it all means, they can be your happiest and most productive years yet. Kick off your midlife right with a trip from Allen Batista Travel!  By Marley Merrihew at Allen Batista Travel, Inc. Surrounded by glassy azure waters, three islands – Maui, Turks & Caicos, and St. Lucia – boast miles of beaches to relax on and cool off near the clear blue waters. Allen Batista Travel, Inc. encourages you to escape for an island getaway – enjoy whale watching to hot springs to scuba diving, and more. These tropical islands offer never ending fun under the sun that you won’t want to miss. Tropical vacation seekers must show proof of Covid-19 vaccination and/or booster shots to enter Turks & Caicos. St. Lucia does not require travelers to be vaccinated, but if you are unvaccinated you must show proof of a negative PCR before entry, and Maui doesn’t require either for domestic travelers. Maui Maui, one of Hawaii’s many islands, offers more than 30 miles of beaches to enjoy, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg – or should I say volcano? Maui’s dormant volcano, Haleakalā, stands 10,023 feet at its tallest peak and the Haleakalā National Park spans 30,000 acres. If you’re feeling particularly daring, take a bike ride down the summit, or go for a hike through the crater, or even take a horseback ride with a cowboy – that’s right, a cowboy. Paniolo, the Hawaiians’ word for cowboys, comes from the early Vaqueros on the island who referred to themselves as Españolos. Whether you’re feeling like a relaxing day with your feet in the sand, or a daring adventure with your feet in the stirrups, Maui has everything to offer. Stay at this five-star hotel, The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kaanapali, for six days and five nights where kids 17 & under stay free for $2,591 per person for double occupancy. Note: Price subject to change. Turks & Caicos Explore Turks & Caicos’ many islands and cays that are sure to leave you sun-kissed and sandy. Grand Turk, home to Turks & Caicos’ capital, Cockburn Town, boasts a plethora of activities, from snorkeling, to kayaking, paddleboarding, to whale watching, you’ll never run out of things to do. If you get hungry, head to the main island of Providenciales, known as Provo by the locals, where every Thursday there is a local fish fry, with music, food vendors, and local artists. Here, you’ll also find Grace Bay Beach, Turks & Caicos’ most well-known beach that spans 12 miles and is home to 170 species of birds as well as warm blue waters and pristine sand. Book this all-inclusive hotel, Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa, for six days and five nights starting at $2,919.50 per person for double occupancy. Note: Price subject to change. Did you know? Turks & Caicos is actually located in the Atlantic Ocean, not the Caribbean as many people think. Though they are most definitely part of the culture, the Caribbean sea is a long ways away. St. Lucia Take in the lush scenery and local history of the island of St. Lucia, home to an abundance of natural beauty. Change out your hotel bath for the bubbling hot springs found in an ancient volcano crater near Petit Piton mountain. Or, watch dolphins and whales splash among the turquoise water from a horseback beach ride. The capital of St. Lucia, Castries, is surrounded by rushing waterfalls, dense botanical gardens, and pyramid-shaped mountains rising from the sea. If these views aren’t enough, explore the city’s rich history with landmarks such as the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Derek Walcott Square, and Fort Charlotte. If you get hungry from all the sightseeing, the city’s delicious restaurants provide fresh local food, which blends African, Asian, Indian, Caribbean, European, and American cuisine. Fun Facts
Book the all-inclusive Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort, luxury included for couples, starting at $3,444.50 per person for double occupancy. Note: Price subject to change. With Allen Batista Travel’s help, you could be kicking back on one of these spectacular islands in no time. Contact us today to book your island getaway.  Guest Post: Lindsay Denton Retirement is the perfect time to travel the world and explore the places you've always wanted to. The only issue is: where should you go? To help you decide, we compiled a list of the best vacation ideas and destinations for seniors. You'll be inspired to start packing after reading about these places! USA National Parks Senior adventures that include energetic interests but don't involve lengthy airline travels have been increasingly popular among older travelers in recent years. With the recent pandemic still looming over our heads, many people, seniors included, feel the need to get out and explore the great outdoors. Seniors interested in bicycling, fishing, hiking, wilderness camping, and much more can find their next vacation spot in one of the 63 U.S. national parks. Remember that Americans over 62 can purchase the National Park Service's lifetime senior pass for a one-time price of $80. This means you can spend the rest of your life exploring all the national parks and enjoying all the beautiful horizons at a highly affordable price. The Caribbean The Caribbean is a top destination for individuals seeking relaxation, whether they choose a Southern Caribbean cruise or arrange a trip to Cuba. The powder soft white beach and turquoise-blue sea attract people of all ages, especially seniors looking to start their retirement the right way. However, if you're not a crowd fan, you should consider visiting the Caribbean in May or September/October. You'll enjoy all the beauty of the destination without the stress of the crowds. Additionally, you should plan and reserve your Caribbean holiday as soon as possible. The "last-minute deal" is a thing of the past now that the economy is better than it was a few years ago. Cruise companies are spending millions on new ships to keep up with demand, and they want to fill their ships quickly and early. The Maldives If you're seeking relaxation on a tropical island, your next choice might be the Maldives. At first glance, it may not seem like this is one of the most popular destinations for seniors, but it is. There are so many activities you can take part in, from cruises to snorkeling. Or, you can just stay on the beach all day long and enjoy the beautiful views. Most luxury retreats also have spas available to all guests where you can get pampered as much as you want. Williamsburg, Virginia There are many enjoyable things to do in Williamsburg, whether you want to play golf, visit museums, enter a walking tour, or shop. A trip to this Virginia town, which offers everything from historic architecture to reenactments at Colonial Williamsburg, can be one of the more economical destinations for seniors. Williamsburg and adjacent Jamestown provides a wide variety of prices and activity levels for practically any interest. Compared to big urban locations, the hotel price range is better, albeit the cost of event tickets can increase your overall expenses. To save money, we advise adopting senior-friendly modes of transportation, such as trains. Moreover, you should reserve accommodations with kitchenettes or refrigerators to decrease food expenditures, as well as visit off-peak or in the shoulder season, when demand for tourism is lower and, therefore, the prices have dropped. Machu Picchu, Peru An adventurous journey down the Inca Trail is the best way to get to Peru's enigmatic fortress in the Andes. But you don't have to cross Machu Picchu off your bucket list if you don't think a strenuous hike at a high altitude is for you. You may also go there by rail from Cusco, and on the route, you'll enjoy breathtaking vistas of verdant valleys and snow-capped mountains. An organized group trip can assist with planning, providing for special needs, and meeting new people. Being able to mingle with people, particularly on solitary vacations, is something we certainly view as a benefit of package tours. Tuscany, Italy Who wouldn't like to visit Italy? Think about all the beautiful scenery, wine, and pasta. Consider Tuscany if you're a retiree looking to go to this lovely and ancient nation. It might seem expensive, but prices were substantially more affordable outside of Florence. The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Florence, Siena, and other well-known sites in and around Tuscany can be just a short trip away from your stay if you plan well. Moreover, if you decide to expand your travels to the rest of Europe, Italy is a great starting point. From there, you can visit most European countries and legendary, vibrant European cities. What to do with your belongings at home? When you're taking a long vacation in another country, you might be wondering whether your belongings will be 100% safe in your home. If you aren't sure about that and can't get anyone to house sit for you, you should look into other options. For example, if you have items that require climate-controlled storage, you can rent a space like that and ensure your valuables are kept safe while you're traveling. Then, when you return, you can bring your belongings back to your home and give up the storage space until your next trip. Or you can use it to store other excess belongings such as old clothes and mementos of yours between your travels. In Conclusion After you retire, you have all the time in the world to do what you want. Whether that's a trip to an exotic destination or a national park in a nearby state is up to you. While we listed some destinations for seniors, it's important to note that you can really go wherever you want! Make a bucket list of all your ideal vacations and start ticking them off one by one. And, if after some time, you start to feel your body holding you back, you can always look for destinations that don't require lots of walking or strenuous activities. Whatever you want to visit, do it. Don't let your age stop you. It's just a number! Meta: Check out our best vacation ideas and destinations for seniors. You're guaranteed to find your next adventure here! |
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