Browsing: North America

The small town of Zipolite lies on Mexico’s southwestern Pacific coast in the state of Oaxaca. A far cry from the concrete jungle of Cancun, the jungle surrounding Zipolite is real. Devoid of high-rise hotels and huge resorts, the beach is lined with cabanas and palapas and a scattering of lodgings unobtrusively tucked away in the jungle. Zipolite is a laidback, open-minded place and Mexico’s only clothing-optional beach. It’s a magnet for hippies, LGBTQ+ travelers, …

The worst thing one can do at Niagara Falls is to simply stop and look at the falls.

Niagara Falls might be an iconic North American destination, but there is so much to do here than stand and watch. The best way to experience Niagara Falls is to explore the scenery, to become part of it, to meet nature head-on. If you don’t get wet here, you haven’t gotten your time or money’s worth out …

It’s Saturday night in Montreal, and I’m determined not to slink back home until at least 10 pm. Montreal prides itself on being the fun and festive heart of Canada, and I want to take advantage. This city-on-an-island is having none of that, and celebrates about 110 festivals every year. So it’s a mathematical mystery how I’ve managed to arrive when there isn’t a single festival in sight. I’m too early for the world’s largest …

The September Alaskan air was cool but not cold. Nevertheless, I didn’t begrudge the coat I brought with me. I was too excited by what lay ahead to feel anything but anticipation in any event. It was my first trip to Alaska, and the second for my wife Judi. Today, we were going to have the opportunity for a special adventure. Our destination: the glaciers of the Knik River Valley, a mere 45-minute drive north …

Quebec is one of the safest cities in the world, especially for women, my new friend tells me.

That’s lucky, I think because I’ve just jumped into his car and we’re driving up into deserted forests. If I disappear, nobody will ever know why.

All such thoughts vanish as my impromptu tour guide Philippe Guerriere starts telling me about the battles that raged in Quebec between French and English soldiers, leaving a stunning legacy of …

Missouri is often called one of the “flyover” states. The thought is that it’s not worth an actual trip. That couldn’t be further from the truth—especially regarding St. Louis. In this city, you’ll find tons of family activities, and a lot of them are free! Many of these are located in Forest Park.

St. Louis is most known for the iconic Gateway Arch. You can see it from anywhere in the …

Whoosh – a giant burst of air breaks out of the water, and you are showered by a gentle mist that smells vaguely of salt and fish.  Immediately next to your small fishing (panga) boat, a gentle giant rises to the surface for an up close and personal encounter like nothing else on earth. 

The warm, protected lagoons of Baja California’s central Pacific coast, about 400 miles south of the US-Mexico border, are the perfect …

The town of Tequila had been on my radar for a few years, but it wasn’t until recently that I eventually made it to the fun-packed pueblo in the state of Jalisco. Often overlooked by foreign visitors, Tequila is a popular day trip for Mexican tourists who travel by rail and road from Guadalajara, about forty miles away. I decided to spend a few days in the town, which allowed me to experience the high-spirited …

It’s easy to be seduced by Oaxaca City’s abundant charms. From mouth-watering local cuisine to the streets awash with colorful colonial buildings and cacti, there’s a unique laidback vibe here, rarely found in large cities. Rich in indigenous culture, the area is famous for its folk art, particularly the vibrant hand-carved fantasy figures known as alebrijes which are produced in the surrounding villages and sold in the city. As well as the impressive Museo de …

Mankind has always sought to leave a mark on the world, a testament to our existence, beliefs, and art. Among the most puzzling and fascinating imprints of our ancestors are the ancient geoglyphs—colossal figures etched into the earth’s surface. These gigantic artworks depict a variety of figures, from geometric shapes to animals and humans, spread across diverse geographies. They are enigmatic remnants of ancient civilizations, their purpose, construction, and symbolic meaning often shrouded in mystery. …

Quebec City, the heart of French Canada, is a jewel of history, culture, and culinary delights. The city’s distinct European charm, blended with its rich heritage and vibrant culture, makes it a haven for travelers seeking a unique experience. Quebec City is located in the southeastern part of the Canadian province of Quebec, approximately 233 kilometers northeast of Montreal. It’s the capital city of the province and one of the oldest European settlements in North …

Many US citizens want to venture into a larger world than the states, and the opportunity to travel easily and passport-free is an attractive alternative. Although US citizens generally require a passport for international travel, several exceptions allow them to explore various destinations without one. These exceptions include US territories like Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, and Guam. Additionally, US citizens can visit Canada and Alaska without a …

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a vibrant, 9-Day event held annually in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It is the largest hot air balloon festival in the world, painting the sky with a palette of colors and a tradition that began with just 13 balloons in 1972. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta was born out of a birthday celebration for 770 KOB Radio. The station’s general manager, Sid Cutter, owned a hot air balloon, and the …

Iowa is often missed when picking vacation spots. Still, the Hawkeye state has much to offer, especially in these towns along the Mississippi River, often visited by domestic river cruises.

Dubuque

The Fenelon Elevator is a unique attraction in Dubuque that is nearly 300 feet long. From the top, you’ll have views of Iowa, as well as Illinois and Wisconsin. It’s open from April through November. The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium is open …