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In Fort Worth, you can explore many museums that are world-famous for the beauty of their architecture.

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Is Traveling Really Worth It (Answered)

By: Author Valerie Forgeard

Posted on Published: January 18, 2022  - Last updated: July 1, 2023

Categories Travel , Self Improvement

You’re probably wondering if you should take the plunge or stay in your comfort zone. I traveled for over 16 years and have met people who loved it, but also some who just wanted to go home from the moment they left home.

Some want to explore the world on a solo trip, family travel, start a business (e.g. digital nomad, travel blogger), etc. No matter what your reason, the question of whether travel is really worth it’s normal if you’ve never done it before. I’d say it depends on your personality and what you desire. In this article, you’ll find some important pros and cons of traveling.

Advantages of Travel

As someone who’s traveled extensively, I can tell you that travel has a lot of benefits. Aside from seeing the most beautiful places in the world and learning about different cultures, travel gives you many benefits that will change your life. Even though these “benefits” may not affect your travel life, they’ll take you much further in other areas of your life.

It Opens Your Mind

Traveling the world is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and that’s how it should be treated. You have the chance to create lasting memories that will stay with you forever.

A road trip opens your mind and allows you to see the world from a new perspective. It not only changes your perception of things but also your overall outlook on life.

It changes the way you perceive things because you can see what’s going on in other countries and cultures. When you finally visit another country, you’ll notice little details like the architecture that you didn’t notice before. You’ll start to look at people differently, which in turn will stimulate your creativity.

It’s the University of Life

The more you travel, the more you learn, the more you understand yourself and the world around you.

When you travel, you gain knowledge in different areas like history, culture or languages and even local cuisine if you want! You can read books, or see other countries on social media, but nothing beats first-hand experience if you want to learn something new.

You also gain confidence in your ability to handle a situation, even if it’s difficult and uncomfortable at times. You learn from your mistakes and from the mistakes of others. It’s always good to be a little afraid of what might go wrong. That way you’re careful and always on guard when you travel.

You Get to Know New People

Traveling gives you the opportunity to meet new people from different countries and cultures, especially if you’re on a solo trip. You can learn from them about other places or even taste their traditional food. When you travel, you’ll find that there’s always something interesting to do.

One of the best things about traveling is that it’s a great way to connect with people who share your interests. When you travel, you get to meet people who also like to travel. Plus, you can bond with them through your shared interest in travel. The best part is that they’re from other countries and will teach you about their country and help you understand it better.

People from other countries are also curious about your culture. When they see how you live, they’ll want to know more about it. They’ll ask you questions about your way of life and what makes your country unique. You can use this as an opportunity to tell them about your faith and tell them more about your culture. If they like what they hear, they may even visit your country one day.

Traveling Lets You See the World With a New Perspective

By taking a road trip, you get to know the world and the people in it better and understand how it works. It helps you understand others better and the world in general.

It helps us understand how different perspectives work and how valuable diversity can be. To really understand what’s going on out there, you need to step out of your comfort zone and see what life is like outside of your current reality. You won’t truly understand the world and others until you leave your own bubble.

Traveling is also about discovering yourself; it’s about learning who you’re and where you come from. You’ll see how diverse the world can be if you travel enough. Through it, you’ll also learn to appreciate the things you take for granted at home.

Traveling also teaches you about other cultures and allows you to learn things you couldn’t learn in school or college; it’s a great way to gain knowledge.

You Learn to Appreciate Things

As a traveler, you learn to appreciate the little things in life. When you’re away from your family or friends, you realize how important they’re to you and appreciate them more when you’re back together.

Traveling helps you get out of your comfort zone. Your mind opens up when you travel as you learn about other cultures and places. This can make you appreciate everyday things like a sunset or a good meal with your loved ones in a new way.

If you don’t like to travel, as mentioned above you’ll appreciate your home and the people around you more than ever before.

Either way, traveling will make you realize what’s really important to you.

Disadvantages

International travel isn’t for everyone, especially for those who opt for long term travel and solo trips.

You’re Far Away From Home

It’s easy to get homesick at first, especially when you’re traveling to a place that’s very different from home.

Traveling to a new and exciting place can be stressful, but when you’re away from your own home, you may find it even harder to relax. The key to a less stressful trip is to remember that homesickness is only temporary.

The best way to deal with homesickness is to remember that your trip isn’t permanent. While you’re away, you’ll have great stories and experiences to tell about when you get home. And while you’re traveling, you’ll meet interesting people with whom you’ll have even more fun than you’d have if you’d stayed put.

Lack of Comfort

Have you ever thought about how much you suffer from discomfort while traveling? Yes, traveling may feel like a dream, but the reality isn’t always, especially if you’re traveling on a budget.

If you’re from England and you’re traveling to, say, New Zealand or San Francisco, convenience is probably not a big problem, but if you’re traveling to Russia or Canada in North America in the winter, it’s going to be freezing cold. While the scenery is beautiful and fascinating, it can also be unpleasant and uncomfortable. Make sure you plan for appropriate clothing.

Or if you’re traveling to tropical places like South America or Southeast Asia, you’ll be confronted with mosquitoes.

I’m not saying that your dream trip will be ruined by mosquitoes or cold weather, but if you don’t know how to deal with them, they may ruin part of the fun of your trip.

Mosquitoes are common in tropical areas like South America or Southeast Asia, where they breed in shallow waters and form colonies near them, just waiting for fresh blood – and you’re probably the perfect candidate! They can carry several diseases, some of which are deadly.

Before your trip, also make sure you’ve received all your vaccinations.

If you’re traveling on a budget, bedding (such as your mattress) can also be a hazard. It’s a good idea to check reviews on Trip Advisor before booking.

Personally, I’ve always put travel first and have ended up in many places that most travelers wouldn’t go, sometimes even without drinking water or electricity, but that’s a personal choice because travel is a passion for me.

It’s Expensive

Travel is one of the most rewarding and life-changing experiences a person can have, but it can also be expensive. If you’ve ever wanted to see the world and explore faraway places, you know that travel isn’t cheap.

If you’re toying with the idea of traveling, you need to be aware that you’ll have to make certain sacrifices, as most travelers tend to go over their budget once they’re on the road.

The Reality Is Different From What You Imagined

It’s pretty impossible to depict the entire experience of a trip in one photo. The reason is that we, as viewers, don’t see the whole picture.

We only see the picturesque view from our hotel window or the beautiful sunset that appears on the horizon as we stroll down a street. We often forget all the inconveniences of traveling: getting up at 6 am to catch a flight and being at the airport 2 hours before, jet lag after crossing multiple time zones and difficulty sleeping in a foreign bed, no internet connection, and limited cell phone reception, difficulty communicating with locals, etc.

Language Barrier, Noise, Smells, Etc. Can Also Be a Challenge.

Traveling to a new destination can be an exciting experience. But it’s also important to be aware of challenges you may not expect. While these challenges may not apply to all travelers, it’s worth considering them before traveling.

Related: What Is Your Favorite Travel Destination and Why

You’re Leaving Your Environmental Footprint Behind

There’s no doubt that the tourism industry is a major contributor to the world’s carbon footprint. It’s responsible for 8% of all global emissions.

Every time you take a flight, you contribute to greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. For example, if you fly from New York to Los Angeles, you contribute about five pounds of carbon dioxide per person. That may not seem like much, but when you consider how many flights most travelers take in an average year, it can add up quickly.

Traveling by air is more popular than ever. As we become more aware of the environmental impact of flying, many people are wondering what they can do to reduce their carbon footprint when traveling by air. There are some simple actions you can take to reduce your environmental footprint when traveling by air:

Check the airline’s environmental policies before booking a plane ticket. Some airlines strive to be more environmentally friendly than others. If you want to go green, you’ll have to do a little research, but it’s worth it in the long run (eg: United Airlines).

To help you do that, Airline Quality Rating publishes an annual report that shows the environmental impact of airlines around the world. If you’re traveling in the United States, you can find out which airlines are the most environmentally friendly at www.airlinequalityrating.com . If you’re planning a trip abroad and want to reduce your environmental footprint as much as possible, you should choose an airline that you know is committed to reducing its environmental impact.

Travel Plans

When I first started traveling, before the internet and social media came along, all I needed was a plane ticket and travel insurance and never had to worry about travel plans.

I remember the first time I traveled to Southeast Asia as a solo traveler, I booked my train at the last minute, exchanged American traveler’s checks at the bank, and had the money for a month to cover all my expenses. The accommodation was always booked on the spot at the last minute. Everything was different.

These days, there’s a lot to do for your travel plans.

Budget From the Beginning

The best way to avoid spending money on your trip is to plan ahead and create a budget for everything you’ll spend money on during the trip.

This includes lodging, food, and travel expenses like plane tickets. If you’re planning a long road trip, make sure your budget is enough for at least two months, or you could run into financial trouble before you reach your destination.

Make a List of Travel Needs

Before you buy anything for your vacation, you should make a list of things you absolutely need and things you’d like to have. If you need it on the trip, buy it, but if not, leave it there, because many people forget about these things when they return home and then have to buy them again.

Organize Your Transportation

One of the best ways to save money when traveling is to choose the right time of year. You may want to visit your favorite city in the winter, but that’s also the time when most people travel, so prices will be higher. If you plan your trip as close as possible to the main holidays, you can find cheap airline tickets and hotels.

Searching for flights through flight comparison sites can help you find cheap flights (eg: Scott’ s cheap flights, Skyscanner). These sites search several dozen airlines, so you can get more than one quote from different airlines. Some sites even let you choose a specific airline, which usually offers cheaper fares.

If you’re planning long-term travel, sometimes you can earn airline miles with the same airline, and when you reach a certain number of miles, you can get travel rewards (discounts) on airline tickets.

Make sure that the cost of your airline ticket doesn’t exceed the value of your vacation. If you buy a plane ticket that’s too expensive, it’s likely that you’ll spend less money on sightseeing and other things than if you’d bought a cheaper airline ticket.

You should also check train costs, rail passes (eg: if you’re traveling to Europe, there will be the Eurail pass which is a Global Pass lets you travel in these 33 countries), and public transportation so you can plan better your budget.

If you travel to London or New York, the subway can be expensive, and it’s good to know in advance how much you will spend on public transportation. In some capital cities, public transportation is more likely to be bus or train, for example, Wellington (New Zealand).

Book Your Accommodation

Especially if you’re traveling in the high season, you should book your accommodation in tourist areas in advance.

Do Your Administrative Tasks

Have a copy of your airline tickets, health and travel insurance, etc., and keep them in a safe place so you can easily find them if they’re lost or stolen. Also, make sure your travel credit card insurance is up to date in case you get robbed.

Check with your bank to see if your credit card insurance covers international travel. For example, if you’re traveling with an American Express credit card, you should check what kind of travel insurance it offers. You should also find out about foreign transaction fees so you can better manage your money abroad.

Make sure you don’t share your personal information with anyone (eg: credit or debit card).

Learn About the Culture

When you go abroad, it’s a good idea to understand the country you’re landing in – not only for yourself but also to make your stay enjoyable for the locals. Learning about their culture and speaking at least a few words in their language can make your international trip much more enjoyable and interesting.

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8 signs that travel is on the verge of a booming comeback – Business Insider

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Breaking Down the Pros and Cons of Using a Travel Agent

You're convinced that having a travel expert by your side will be useful. But how do you go about knowing when and how to book with them?

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

Confession: I’m a big fan of travel agents (whoops, sorry, travel advisers ), even though I could technically book all my trips through websites and apps. And despite the fact that many of us might consider this industry old-fashioned and out-of-date, research shows that travelers, and millennials in particular, are once again turning to these specialists to help plow through TripAdvisor detritus. If you’re wondering: how much does a travel agent cost, and why would I book with one anyway? Read on.

How to Know If You Need a Travel Agent

Once you’ve come around to the idea of hiring a travel agent, ask these three questions before booking:

• Is this a domestic trip or one that involves traveling to a part of the world you’ve never been? If it’s the former you don’t need a travel agent.
• Can I get a better deal by using a travel agent? (This question requires you pricing out your trip with and without one.)
• Is this a big-budget, special-event kind of trip? If the answer is yes, go with a travel agent.

The Pros of Using a Travel Agent

They can find crazy deals..

This is literally their job. If they have been in the travel business for many years, they likely have supplier relationships in place that can help leverage better deals for you. Many travel agents specialize in locations (i.e., cruise vacations in Europe). Some travel agents offer package deals, with more savings passed on to you then booking the trip on your own—that is good news to your wallet.

They will be your advocate.

One of the best ways to utilize a travel agent is as an advocate should something derail on your trip. They can help you with lost luggage, in the case of natural disasters, if you get stuck in a location before your trip, etc. They are there to help you get your trip back on track.

They’ll take care of the little things.

I love my travel agent, and I love all the extras she provides when we use her services for a trip. For instance, when we traveled to the Bahamas, she made sure there was a nice bottle of champagne and strawberries in our room on our arrival, and she also upgraded our room free of charge. While this certainly is not a guarantee when you use a travel agent, there are a lot of added-value extras you can expect when you use a travel agent. Why? Because travel agents know you don’t have to use them to book your trip, and they want to say thank you.

They’re true experts.

Most travel agents have been working in the industry for years now, and it’s their job to stay on top of travel trends and upcoming hot destinations. When I spoke with my travel agent about a trip to Europe recently, she offered a few alternate destinations. I was not thinking about the destinations she suggested, but the alternatives offered great activities, culture, food, interesting boutique hotels, and more options for less money than my original destination.

They don’t usually cost extra.

It’s a myth that working with a travel agent will automatically cost you more; most get paid via commissions from the hotel or outfitter. Sure, some travel agents do charge a fee for putting together an itinerary, but most will credit you that fee if you end up booking the trip through them. Make sure you know all the potential fees before you use a travel agent, and do not hesitate to negotiate away.

The Cons of Using a Travel Agent

They’re not going to help with cheaper airfare..

Back in the day, you would use a travel agent to book every aspect of your trip. However, with so many options to find low-cost airfare, like Google Flights , Scott’s Cheap Flights , and  Skyscanner , booking your own flights is easy and cost-effective. Most travel agents cannot score discounted flights, and many travel agents will not even bother. Follow these tips on how to find the cheapest flights possible , instead.

They’re not you.

This may seem obvious, although it’s still important to consider. A travel agent not only finds you the best deals, but they also offer suggestions for activities, restaurants, and more. This is great if you’re someone who doesn’t like to research these things, but you run the risk of working with someone who doesn’t get your personal preferences (maybe they lean toward road tours rather than technical singletrack). Do your own research first, and come up with a list of activities that you want to do. Once you have that list, pass it along to your travel agent to see if they can rustle up any deals as they book.

How to Find a Great One

One of the best ways to find a reputable travel agent is to get referrals from your friends and family. Anyone that has used that travel agent for a previous trip and enjoyed their service is someone worth checking out. As with anything, I always suggest talking to at least two different travel agents to see who you feel most comfortable with. Remember, they are there to work for you.

Know your travel budget before you reach out to a travel agent. Likely, this will be the first question they ask you and will help steer them toward the best destinations for that budget. If you are traveling somewhere that’s specialized, like going on that once-in-a-lifetime African safari , find a specialist that knows that region inside and out. They will usually have the best deals and relationships with hotels and activity companies in that area.

How Much Does a Travel Agent Cost?

Usually, the cost of hiring a travel agent to organize a trip for you is fairly minimal. Many agencies charge a flat fee of around $100, and others may charge a certain small percentage of your trip. Most of their take-home profits come from the hotels, wholesalers, resorts, and businesses they work with, but be sure to as your travel agent about fees upfront and before you start working with them to plan your next dream vacation. (No one likes hidden fees and surprises.)

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Puerto Rico’s southern coast is the island’s best-kept secret

Take it from a guayama native: the caribbean coast is worth exploring from end to end.

The scenery starts to change when you leave the tall hotels and tapón (traffic jam) of San Juan behind.

Head south on Route 52, and you will start seeing the lush green mountains of Cordillera Central. As you approach the southern coast, the dense vegetation transforms into clusters of cactuses and shrubs, painting an arid landscape against the distant view of the Caribbean Sea.

Ranging east to west from the town of Yabucoa to Cabo Rojo, the southern coast of Puerto Rico is rich in culture, food, beaches and nature. But beyond all the tangible attractions, locals say the spirit of hospitality makes the place unique. “Our greatest asset is the people, who make people feel at home,” says Milexys Rosado Romero, the owner of Hacienda Tres Casitas , a farm stay in Cabo Rojo.

I learned this growing up in Guayama, where neighbors traded mangoes for papayas. My parents were always inviting people for coffee, or my dad might arrive home with a bagful of fresh seafood he got from a friend he ran into at the beach.

Unfortunately, no reliable public transport options exist, so renting a car is the best bet to reach the smaller towns and unspoiled beaches. Highway 52 traverses the island from north to south, taking you from San Juan to Guayama in around 90 minutes, depending on traffic, and to Ponce in two hours or less. Highway 2 takes you west to Cabo Rojo and up the western coast, and Route 3 takes you along the eastern coast with scenic ocean views of Patillas and Maunabo.

If traveling during the fall, you may catch surfers in Guardarraya Beach in Patillas. It’s hard to get lost as you can easily find lesser-known beaches via Google Maps, with good cell coverage throughout the region.

Many of the lodgings offered on the southern coast, from the luxury Copamarina Beach Resort to the kid-friendly Combate Beach Resort , have been owned by local families for generations. Farm stays, small inns known as paradors and vacation rentals dominate the accommodations, making for a relaxed scene.

I recommend visiting from Wednesdays to Sundays for a livelier scene and more dining options; earlier in the week is perfect for having the beaches all to yourself.

Low-key beaches in Cabo Rojo

Even the Caribbean Sea beaches on the southern coast of Puerto Rico are in chill mode, more relaxed than their choppy Atlantic Ocean counterparts in the north.

With small waves and shallow waters, Combate Beach, on the southwest corner, is ideal for families. Make it a day-long affair with a passion fruit mojito at Annie’s Place with picturesque sunset views.

For a more rustic beach experience, go to Playa Sucia, one of Puerto Rico’s southernmost beaches. While there, hike the trails leading to El Faro de Cabo Rojo and Puente de Piedra for 360-degree views of a colorful mix of Caribbean blues, sandy-colored rocky enclaves and green mangroves along the coast. Walk a mile and a half north of Playa Sucia, and you will encounter the Salinas de Cabo Rojo, with colorful yellow-shouldered blackbirds flying over the pink salt flats.

Boquerón is a neighborhood known for its stands of local fish, oysters and clams. You can also take a dip at its small sandy strip. The neighborhood is vibrant, with music blaring throughout the many kiosks and beachside restaurants, most specializing in seafood. You don’t have to go far inland to find roasted pork at Camino Los Charros. Rosado also recommends La Catumba Lechonera among the many restaurants that specialize in pork.

Restaurants on the rise in Guayama

“Guayama esta pegao” — in style, according to what I’ve heard from many friends across the island.

A coastal city on the southeastern side, it is known for having a charming plaza (town square) with homes and buildings dating from the 1800s. One of these historical homes houses Gallo Pinto , a restaurant by chef Ángel David Moreno Zayas that has become a destination with dishes like grilled oysters, bone marrow with beef tartare, and fried red snapper.

“I’ve worked in many kitchens in San Juan and the mainland United States, but I wanted to open my restaurant in Guayama,” says Moreno Zayas of his hometown. “It started as a casual place because we were recovering from the pandemic, but now we’ve incorporated more fine-dining elements, and the reception has been spectacular.”

After a feast at Gallo Pinto, one must save room for ice cream at one of Guayama’s classic spots, Rex Cream. Owned by Chinese-Cuban immigrants, the Louke Chang family, it’s a mandatory stop. A scoop of salty-sweet corn ice cream with a generous sprinkle of cinnamon is perfect for a walk along the plaza.

At Pozuelo, a fishermen’s neighborhood beyond the city center, go to El Arcoiris for one of my childhood favorites, the octopus salad with a side of tostones. Or bite into a crispy alcapurria — a fritter made of banana and root vegetables — at El Fogón de Susa as you stroll along the beach.

You can find one of the most impressive wine lists in the south at Prime Market , where local couple Laury Cordero Sabater and Antonio Palau transformed an old home along Route 3 into an ample outdoor patio with a menu specializing in steaks.

Art and culture in Ponce

It’s hard to find Puerto Ricans prouder of their hometown than Ponceños. I’m not disputing their pride, because the city has so much to offer, especially in terms of arts and culture.

“Start with a walking tour of the city center of Ponce to learn about the history of Ponce and gain an orientation of the city,” says Melina Aguilar Colón, the founder of Isla Caribe tours. “One of the sights not to be missed is the Parque de Bombas de Ponce,” she said. Initially built in 1882 for the Exhibition Trade Fair, the Ponce firehouse is a symbol of the city; the distinct red-and-black-striped facade was an inspiration for the Ponce flag.

After walking through the city center, go for cocktails along Paseo de la Salsa Cheo Feliciano, named after the pioneering salsa singer José Feliciano. At El Marlin 107, William Collazo, a big name in Puerto Rico’s cocktail community, mixes drinks with tropical infusions like coconut water, guava and mangoes. On the weekends, expect live music along the street where you can test your salsa skills. For dinner, head to Chef’s Creations, where you catch chef Jorge Rivera cooking over a wood-fired grill in his restaurant’s patio.

Although the city has suffered structural damage during Hurricane Maria in 2017, followed by an earthquake in 2020, Ponce has focused on reconstruction and updates to many of its cultural institutions. The Teatro La Perla, a cultural hub for performance art, is set to reopen in 2025 with plays and musical performances. The Art Museum of Ponce , home of the iconic “Flaming June” by Sir Frederic Leighton (which is currently on loan to the Royal Academy of Arts in London), recently reopened its doors after extensive repairs.

Ponce is also considered the birthplace of plena music, one of the traditional sounds of Puerto Rico. Deeply infused with African beats, plena tells the story of the Puerto Rican people from the early 1900s. You can learn more about plena and other Puerto Rican music like bomba and danza at the Museo de la Música Puertorriqueña, a small museum in the city center.

El Bosque dry forest and bioluminescent bays

According to Aguilar Colón, “everybody knows about El Yunque rainforest, but nobody talks about El Bosque Seco de Guánica, the dry forest on the island’s southwest coast.” I agree.

One of the things that makes Puerto Rico unique is the contrast of ecosystems in a relatively small island. Walking along the trails, you will notice the different varieties of cactuses, Guayacán trees and mangroves as you get closer to the shoreline. Birdwatchers will rejoice with the sights of sparrow hawks, hummingbirds and brown pelicans. The dry forest is one of the island’s hottest places, so ensure you bring plenty of water and sun protection.

Next to Guánica, in the neighboring town of Lajas, there’s another natural phenomenon. La Parguera is home to one of the three bioluminescent bays of Puerto Rico. Because of overpopulation, it’s not as bright as in Vieques, but it’s still worth a trip if you’re in the area.

The local dock offers boat rides, and you can also find kayak tours taking you deeper into the bay for better views. Beyond the bay, the Parguera is known for its bustling scene on the weekends with plenty of bars, restaurants and bands.

Jessica van Dop DeJesus is a travel and food writer, digital content creator and the author of “ The Dining Traveler Guide to Puerto Rico .” She divides her time between Brussels, D.C. and western New York. Follow her on Instagram @diningtraveler .

Where to go

Our favorite destinations: These 12 destinations are at the top of our wish list for where to go this year, without crowds. In 2023, we explored an Alaskan bear paradise, Brooklyn’s famous pizzerias and a hidden gem in Italy, among other highlights ..

Travel like a local: Residents share their favorite places in our top city guides: New Orleans , Rome , Tokyo and Mexico City .

National parks: This comprehensive guide has details on all 63 U.S. national parks. For a deep dive into five of the most well-known, you can listen to the Field Trip podcast . Then explore tips from locals for visiting Yosemite , Glacier and Everglades .

Tales from the road: Dolly Parton has opened a new resort at her theme park complex in Tennessee, while “Fixer Upper” stars Chip and Joanna Gaines have a new hotel in Waco . Road-trippers may be just as excited to see the cartoon beaver at Buc-ee’s , and bargain-hunters should consider a stop at the Unclaimed Baggage store in Scottsboro, Ala.

The 10 Best Travel Umbrellas, Tested & Reviewed

By Claire Volkman

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The one thing that I absolutely never forget to pack: a travel umbrella. No matter where I’m going, except for the Wadi Rum or the Sahara Desert maybe, there’s bound to be some inclement weather. Rain, sleet, thunderstorms; no destination is without them. Having an umbrella on hand allows you to keep your travel plans intact, and even see the sights in some places without all the crowds.

However, the task of picking an umbrella is about as daunting as picking a suitcase . With about a million options to choose from and all of them claiming to be “the best travel umbrella,” it’s no wonder so many just pick the cheapest option and go. However, not all umbrellas are created equally—as anyone who has found themselves with one completely inverted during a torrential downpour will tell you. Below, we’ve rounded up the best of the best travel umbrellas, keeping features like durability, wind-resistance, and size in mind.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Discover the best travel umbrellas:

• Best overall: Weatherman compact travel umbrella
• Most compact: Davek The Davek mini
• Best for cities: Amy's Automatic umbrella
• Most affordable: Repel windproof travel umbrella
• Most durable: Blunt Metro umbrella
• Best splurge: Pasotti Tropical umbrella
• Most lightweight: Totes mini manual umbrella
• Best patterns: Rifle Paper Company umbrella
• Most wind-resistant: Davek Elite umbrella
• Most sustainable: Totes recycled canopy umbrella

Best overall travel umbrella

Why we love it : Sturdy, wind-resistant, lightweight, and incredibly compact, the Weatherman travel umbrella is undeniably the best on the market. This umbrella has a serious fanbase, with hundreds of nearly perfect reviews on Amazon. It is surprisingly lightweight, and can easily fit in a carry-on or tote bag . It has an automatic open and close feature, a reinforced fiberglass base, and a water-resistant, Teflon-coated fabric. Plus, it shields winds up to 45 MPH and is tough enough to withstand even the heaviest of rainfall.

Worth noting : There aren’t many things to complain about this umbrella, however, it is a bit pricey coming in at $69. However, with a lifetime warranty, it’s well worth the splurge.

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 38"; Closed length: 12" Weight: 0.85 oz. Carrying sleeve included: Yes

Most compact

Why we love it: When they say mini, they mean mini. The Davek Mini is so small and compact that it fits in the palm of your hand. Measuring less than 7 inches when closed, you can easily stash this umbrella in your carry-on, backpack , or even a jacket pocket. Plus, it weighs less than a pound, making it almost unnoticeable when not in use. Made from reinforced fiberglass, it also comes in 10 bright colors so you can coordinate your umbrella with the rest of your outfit.

Worth noting: Because of its size, the canopy doesn’t provide overwhelming coverage. Additionally, it’s not built for extreme storms and functions best in light showers.

Dimensions : Open diameter: 38"; Closed length: 7"

Weight : 0.8 oz.

Carrying sleeve included : Yes

Best for cities

Why we love it : With a sleek and stylish small wooden or plastic handle, this lightweight umbrella features a wind-defying 8-rib canopy that’s also UPF 50+ certified, meaning it provides adequate sun protection, too. Small enough to walk down the busy streets of Chicago during a rainstorm without the awkward “bump and sideswipe,” it fits easily in a work tote, briefcase, or backpack. Plus, it features an automatic open and close, and comes in over a dozen bright and bold patterns and colorways, making it easy to stand out in a sea of black and blue canopies. It also comes with a five-year global warranty and is pretty affordable at only $40.

Worth noting: It’s small enough to fit in your hand, which means the canopy doesn’t offer premium protection in heavy rainstorms.

Dimensions : Open diameter: 38.1"; Closed length: 21.6"

Weight : 0.76 oz.

Most affordable

Why we love it : You can’t go wrong with this incredibly durable, lightweight, and affordable Repel travel umbrella. With over 36,000 4.5-star Amazon reviews, this is an overwhelming crowd favorite among travelers, worker bees, families, and everyone in between. I tested the durability during a heavy summer rainstorm in Chicago, and it stood up surprisingly well thanks to its 9-rib canopy, heavy-duty Teflon-coated fabric, and non-slip rubber grip. Plus, the automatic open and close feature makes it super easy to go in and out of buildings and restaurants without getting soaked or stuck. Another thing to note was how well it stood up to Chicago’s infamous winds—not bending, flipping, or even flapping during big gusts. The best part? It’s only $27 on Amazon and comes in 10 colors.

Worth noting: We didn’t find any problems with the umbrella, but some reviewers found that it didn’t stand up to heavier winds and isn't as lightweight as other comparable brands.

Dimensions : Open diameter: 42"; Closed length: 11.5"

Weight : 0.93 oz.

Carrying sleeve included : No

Most durable

Why we love it : This heavy-duty umbrella stands up to even the strongest rainstorms, and offers supreme coverage thanks to its patented wind-tip rounded edges, which work like mini umbrellas. It’s also built with a 360-degree spinning canopy which prevents it from breaking when dropped or knocked over. It’s extremely wind-resistant and has been tested to withstand the winds and rains of a category one hurricane. It’s also made from rip-resistant pongee fabric that is also super quick to dry, so you can easily go back indoors without needing a plastic cover.

Worth noting: This umbrella only features six ribs, which means it's smaller than Blunt’s other umbrellas.

Dimensions : Open diameter: 39"; Closed length: 15"

Weight : 0.85 oz.

Best splurge

Why we love it : If looking chic is just as important as staying dry, this is the umbrella for you. Handcrafted by Italian umbrella maker Pasotti, the canopy will stop people in their tracks—with a beautiful tropical pattern in sage, gold, and dark green. When I was walking in downtown Chicago, I had four people stop to ask me about this umbrella (and then a few ask to buy it from me). Although I originally gravitated to this umbrella for its looks, the functionality is why it’s my absolute go-to. The canopy extends 102 centimeters and has a 93 centimeter shaft, meaning I’m not going to get pelted by rain when it’s windy (which is everyday in Chicago).

Worth noting: At $275, this is by far the most expensive on the list.

Dimensions : Open diameter: 40"

Most lightweight

Why we love it : They weren’t kidding when they said this is one of the most lightweight umbrellas on the market, weighing only 8 ounces. Small enough to fit into most purses , carry-ons, totes, and computer bags, this umbrella doesn’t take up any more space than it needs too. One drawback with the size is that you need to activate the canopy manually (no quick release button). However, the handle is sturdy and the canopy provides ample coverage for most light-to-moderate rain storms. I love the fact that it comes in multiple colors and patterns, and the price makes it easy to stock up on a few (only $25 at Amazon).

Worth noting: Due to the size, it’s not super wind-resistant and wouldn’t be a great pick if you’re facing a heavy downpour or storm.

Dimensions : Open diameter: 43"; Closed length: 11.2"

Weight : 7.8 ounces

Best patterns

Why we love it : If you’re someone who buys a bottle of wine based on the label, these umbrellas are for you. Known for its bold, whimsical, and delicate patterns and floral designs, Rifle Paper Company’s umbrellas are true works of art. Each umbrella also features a sleek wooden handle and an automatic open/close feature.

Worth noting: This is not the umbrella to buy if you’re looking for durability, extreme wind resistance, or more bells and whistles. This basic umbrella provides decent coverage in light rain, but isn’t meant for heavy winds or downpours.

Dimensions : Open diameter: 43"; Closed length: 11"

Most wind-resistant

Why we love it : There’s a reason 81 people have given this umbrella a nearly perfect rating on Amazon—it actually holds up. Sure, it may be a splurge at $159, but it is well worth the price tag when you see how it holds up. Surprisingly compact, the canopy extends 50 inches, giving you extreme protection against even heavy rains. Plus, it’s small enough to fit in a carry-on, backpack, or large tote bag. The fabric is 201-thread count, making it luxurious to touch but also extremely powerful against rain. The best feature is the wind-tension frame system, which can withstand heavy winds and prevent inversion. We tested this against a very blustery 55 MPH wind day in Chicago, and there was barely any flapping or movement at all from the tough canopy.

Worth noting: It’s expensive, but comes with a lifetime warranty and replacement guarantee.

Dimensions : Open diameter: 50"; Closed length: 35"

Weight : 1 lb.

Most sustainable

Why we love it : Shopping sustainably is more important now than ever, and that extends to umbrellas, too. Tote’s recycled umbrella is made from 100 percent Recycled PET plastics, equating to about 7.5 recycled water bottles per umbrella. The handle and strap are also made from all renewable resources, like bamboo and hemp, and the production process uses less water overall. In terms of coverage, the Pet umbrella features Tote’s patented NeverWet invisible coating allowing the rain to drip off the umbrella 4 percent faster, leaving you with a drier umbrella once indoors.

Worth noting: Its compact design makes it easy to travel with, however, doesn’t provide a ton of additional coverage beyond your person.

Dimensions : Open diameter: 43"; Closed length: 11.5"

Weight : 1.15 lbs.

Fort Worth   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Jeremy Woodhouse | Getty Images

Why Go To Fort Worth

Fort Worth is often overshadowed by Dallas , or grouped together with its eastern neighbor under the broad "Metroplex" label. But this city in North Texas has an identity all its own – one that's not necessarily interchangeable with Dallas. You'll get a taste of Fort Worth's Western heritage at the Fort Worth Stockyards , once a pivotal stop for 19th-century cattle drives along the historic Chisolm Trail that now holds a year-round rodeo and twice-daily cattle drives for visiting tourists. You'll also experience this heritage at the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame , which celebrates the women who shaped the West, including Annie Oakley and Sacagawea, with interactive exhibits and historic artifacts.

When you're ready to sport your own pair of cowboy boots, head to Sundance Square . It's named after the Sundance Kid, the famous partner of the outlaw Butch Cassidy, who often gathered in the square at its saloons and gambling halls. Today, the square is a shopping and dining hub.

While exploring the area's cowboy roots is undoubtedly a top draw , it's not the only thing the city has to offer. The city's Cultural District is home to five acclaimed museums, including the Kimbell Art Museum , where you'll find the only Michelangelo in the Americas and the artist's first painting, "The Torment of Saint Anthony." Plus, you'll want to wander the acres of gorgeous plants at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden or relax around the Fort Worth Water Gardens . So, kick back and stay a while. Fort Worth's just getting warmed up.

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Best of Fort Worth

Best hotels in fort worth.

• # 1 in The Ashton Hotel
• # 2 in Hotel Drover, Autograph Collection
• # 3 in Kimpton Harper Hotel.

Best Things to Do in Fort Worth

• # 1 in Fort Worth Stockyards
• # 2 in Sundance Square
• # 3 in Fort Worth Zoo

Popular Tours

Billy Bob's Texas Honky Tonk Dinner and Photo Package

(50 reviews)

from $ 51.00

Bikes and BBQ: Electric Bike Tour of Fort Worth

(47 reviews)

from $ 140.00

Stockyards History Tour Fort Worth Pub Crawl

(142 reviews)

from $ 45.00

Fort Worth Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Fort Worth are March to May and September to November. Both comfortable seasons bookend the city's scorching summer, when high temperatures rest in the 90s and families capitalizing on the school break crowd top attractions . The cheapest time to visit is in the winter, from December to February. Though the city's winter temperatures aren't as frigid as other parts of the U.S., lows can still dip into the mid-30s. You'll likely score affordable rates at area hotels during a winter trip, except if you visit during the annual Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, a weekslong event that features everything from tractor parades to Western music and roping classes.

Weather in Fort Worth

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Plan a winter visit The city hosts its annual Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo over the span of several weeks in mid- to late January and early February. In addition to horse and livestock shows, the event features music and comedy performances, competitions, contests and kid-friendly games, rides and exhibits, not to mention plenty of cowboy hats.

Consider a daytrip to Dallas Dallas sits about 35 miles east of Fort Worth and makes for a great daytrip thanks to top attractions like the Sixth Floor Museum and Dealey Plaza , the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden .

Swimming is prohibited at the Fort Worth Water Gardens Though the water gardens feature several reflecting pools (that look tantalizingly refreshing during the city's sweltering summer months), swimming or wading is not allowed.

How to Save Money in Fort Worth

Take advantage of free attractions Many of Fort Worth top things to do don't charge an admission fee, including the Kimbell Art Museum , the Fort Worth Water Gardens and the Amon Carter Museum of American Art .

Pay a visit to the Fort Worth Stockyards For a dose of quintessential Texan culture, head to the Fort Worth Stockyards for its twice-daily cattle drives. Cattle drives take place at 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m., and no fees or reservations are required.

Ditch the car and hop on The Dash The Dash is an electric bus that offers convenient service between downtown Fort Worth and the Cultural District, the home of top sights like the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame and the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History . Tickets cost $2 for a one-way ride, or $5 for a day pass.

Fort Worth Stockyards pays tribute to Fort Worth's Wild West heyday with daily cattle drives and plenty of restaurants.

Explore More of Fort Worth

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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Fort Worth Travel Guide

An in-depth guide to making your Fort Worth trip memorable & fun!

Here is a Fort Worth travel guide to help you journey through the city and find fun things to do in downtown Fort Worth.

Fort Worth, located in North Texas, is the 5th largest city in Texas, just short of 1 million in population, and one of the fastest-growing cities in the Lone Star State. Fort Worth is also known for its history, art, culture …and cowboys (the real ones)!

Today, the city has become known for its eclectic mix of restaurants and live music venues but has never veered from its cowboy culture, rich history, and good vibes – a great mix in my book!

The Dallas-Fort Worth area is full and wide with towns in between and shares some of the same glory – DFW Airport and the Dallas Cowboys! Here is Texas Travel Talk’s Fort Worth Travel Guide.

John Wayne Museum at the Fort Worth Stockyards

1. City of Fort Worth

The Ultimate Fort Worth Travel Guide

The city of Fort Worth is home to Texas Christian  University (TCU), Pacific Railway, Fort Worth Convention Center, American Airlines, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Texas Wesleyan University (TWU), many tourist attractions, entertainment venues, and the oldest zoo in Texas.

2. Must-sees in Fort Worth

15 Things you can’t leave Fort Worth without seeing.

• A longhorn – they are beautiful creatures.
• Longhorn cattle drive (every day at 11:30 am and 4 pm.)
• Billy Bob’s Texas – kids can go in during the day.
• A gunfight (it’s fake)
• A real cowboy – (see a cattle drive – cowboys lead the herd)
• Trinity River (Paradise Island is a good place)
• The beautiful Fort Worth Courthouse
• John Wayne Museum in the Stockyards
• A rodeo at the Cowtown Coliseum
• Stockyard Station
• Buc-ee’s (I-35 & Hwy 114)
• Sundance Square during the holidays
• The General Store (Stockyards): A Texas souvenir store.
• Fort Worth Water Gardens – free and beautiful
• Joe T. Garcia’s (a Fort Worth restaurant icon) – cash only – no credit cards

Barbara Case from Pixabay

3. Fort Worth’s Neighborhoods

Explore Fort Worth’s Best Neighborhoods

Top attractions in fort worth.

• Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District.
• Fort Worth Zoo.
• Kimbell Art Museum

Fort Worth Botanic Garden

• Fort Worth Water Gardens
• Amon Carter Museum of American Art
• Sundance Square

Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

1. downtown fort worth.

There are many great things to do in downtown Fort Worth. Panther Island on the Trinity River can be accessed downtown. Rent a kayak or another water sport, and listen to live music on the weekends. Eat good food and have fun. Downtown is entirely walkable, with many restaurants, hotels, bars, and shops.

• Sundance Square

Sundance Square is a 35-block commercial, residential, entertainment, and retail district in downtown Fort Worth, Texas. It is a walkable part of downtown and a hip place for the whole family to spend the day and night. It sets itself apart from the downtown area. Parking is plentiful; some sites are free to park if you get there early. Otherwise, there are parking garages that may or may not be free to park. They used to be free.

This area also includes many restaurants with patio seating overlooking Sundance Square Plaza (an excellent place for people-watching), many on the square, and all walkable.

• Sid Richardson Museum

A museum located in historic Sundance Square that features paintings by Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell and other late 19th and early 20th-century artists who worked in the American West.

• Bass Performance Hall

Catch a play or see The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra.

• Fort Worth Water Gardens

Next to the Fort Worth Convention Center, you’ll find beautiful water gardens that are free to walk around.

More places worth noting downtown:

The Bookstore Bar and Cafe T&P Tavern The Attic Bar & Bistro – Fort Worth Wild Salsa The Bearded Lady Texas Jamm Band BBQ

2. Stockyards National Historic District

The Fort Worth Stockyards is a historic Fort Worth district established in 1849. It’s home to the Fort Worth Cattle Herd – a cattle drive that takes place twice daily, except Sunday, right on E. Exchange St. The drive begins at 11 am and 4:30 p.m. each day and lasts about 30 minutes. The street is blocked off from cars, and visitors can watch from the sidewalk alongside the herd as it passes through the street.

The Stockyards National Historic District is a significant part of Fort Worth and my favorite area to take friends to when they visit. The Stockyards is home to rodeos, museums, the twice-daily cattle drive, the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, and Billy Bob’s, among others.

You’ll also find plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars all up and down Exchange St. and Main Street.

3. Fort Worth Cultural District

The Cultural District is a collection of museums and theaters in Fort Worth. It is home to the Will Rogers Memorial Center * .

• National Cowgirl Museum Hall of Fame *
• Modern Art Museum Texas
• Omni Theater *
• Fort Worth Museum of Science & History *
• Fort Worth Botanical Gardens – one of the top 10 botanical gardens in Texas **
• Japanese Gardens **
• Lower Rose Gardens **

Casa Manana

* All four places are within walking distance from one another.

** The three gardens are right next to each other, and you can pay one price to see all three.

4. Near Southside Fort Worth

A historic, mixed-use district located just south of downtown Fort Worth.

Restaurants on Magnolia Avenue include many cuisines on our continent:

• Flying Carpet
• The Radler Biergarten
• Gus’s Fried Chicken
• Paco’s Mexican Cuisine
• Salsa Limon
• Yucatan Taco Stand
• Shinjuku Station
• Spice by Thai Select

This restaurant list came from Visit Fort Worth’s online newsletter for May 2023.

5. Historic Camp Bowie District

Red brick roads, businesses, restaurants, shops, and more.

6. West 7th

Dinner at Joe T. Garcia’s is a must. Cash only – no credit cards or checks. Yes, this is true. It’s been that way since day one of opening.

7. North Fort Worth

Tanger Outlet Mall – various outlet shops, boutiques, name-brand stores, and more. There is a farmers market every Saturday morning, many events, awards programs, and more.

Texas Motor Speedway – A busy place for race fans and many events throughout the year. Lots of restaurants near TMS .

Buc-ee’s on I-35 & Hwy 114 – Everyone’s Beaver is now in Fort Worth.

Alliance Shopping Center (both sides of I-35) – Lots of shops, Target, Costco, restaurants, Kroger, etc.

All attractions are located off I-35.

4. Seasonal Events in Fort Worth

There Is Always Something Happening In FTW

• Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (early February) – A legendary event since 1896.
• National Day of the American Cowboy – July
• Main Street Fort Worth Arts Festival
• Fort Worth Opera Festival
• Red Steagall Cowboy Gathering & Western Swing Fest
• Lone Star International Film Festival
• Mayfest – first weekend in May at Trinity Park

Fort Worth Botanic Gardens

5. Planning Toolkit for Fort Worth

Everything you need to know about visiting Fort Worth

• High season – Summer
• Weather – relatively warm to hot, but can get down to freezing, and sometimes below.
• Average flight price – $398 – January is the cheapest month to fly into DFW.
• Average hotel price – $212 per night
• Travel restrictions – none

• Getting to and from Fort Worth

There is no shortage of ways to take you to the city – by plane, train, automobile, and bus. Public transportation is available in the city. Fly into DFW Airport. It’s an easy drive from Dallas.

• Things to do Near Fort Worth Train Station

Taking the train to Fort Worth is an option, too. TEXRail goes to the city from the DFW Airport. Amtrac transports people to the train station in Fort Worth at 1001 Jones St. Look for the soaring clock tower the train station is known for.

Sundance Square and the Botanical and Water Gardens are near the train station.

• Fort Worth Bus Station

Greyhound Bus enters the town at the Fort Worth Central Station at 1001 Jones St.

• Find the perfect stay in Fort Worth.

From cozy, traditional BnBs in historical neighborhoods to mega-hotels featuring the latest modern amenities, Fort Worth has many accommodations to choose from.

6. Once you’re in Fort Worth

Getting Around Fort Worth

This trendy city has public transportation options to whisk you around – from taxis to Ubers.

Renting a car and driving around Fort Worth

Wheeling your way around in a rental allows you to explore the city on your own terms. You control your schedule from the comfort of a family van or a red-hot convertible—your choice—with many rental companies to choose from.

Driving in the city is excellent—no fast-paced drivers like in New York.

Diverse flavors from every corner of the city

Fort Worth tantalizes taste buds with mouth-watering street food, local treats, and sweets, and it’s a destination renowned for its world-class culinary connoisseurs who consistently dish up five-star fare. You’ll find American food, Mexican flare, and all international cuisine everywhere you go.

Fort Worth is very diversified.

7. Things to do

Fort Worth Travel – The Ultimate Family Destination

Fort Worth has plenty of child-centered activities, from live plays to animal encounters at the zoo, dedicated children’s museums, childminding services, and full-of-fun kids’ clubs. Here are some of the favorite places to visit among locals and tourists.

Casa Manana is a great venue for the family to enjoy live entertainment.

Omni Theater

A 3-D or 4-D theater that makes you feel like you’re actually in the movie. It features many films about science, art, history, and adventure.

Fort Worth Zoo

It is an amazing place to see hundreds of species worldwide and participate in lots of fun learning activities. The Fort Worth Zoo has been ranked as the #1 and #2 zoo in the nation by USA Today.

Dicky’s Arena Concert Hall

Dicky’s Arena concert hall is a great venue for seeing live music and other performances.

It offers over 2,500 species of native and tropical plants in its 21 specialty gardens.

Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame

Preserves and promotes the heritage of Texas—many stories of the old cowboys who used to roam the area.

Bass Performance Hall

Bass Performance Hall provides a variety of entertainment, including Broadway musicals, stars from the classical music world, popular music concerts, comedy shows, family events, and more.

Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge

It is dedicated to conservation through education, research, and advocacy and provides opportunities for recreation, environmental education programs, nature-based volunteer projects, and wildlife rehabilitation for injured or orphaned animals.

Fort Worth Museum of Science & History

This museum features hands-on experiments and activities that will teach you about science. Kids love it here. I would take my toddler here at least every other month when we had a museum pass. It’s worth the $75 or $100 bucks for a pass.

The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth is the largest in Fort Worth. It features over 20,000 pieces, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs. The museum has several different exhibits that change throughout the year.

Texas Motor Speedway

Texas Motor Speedway is a popular speedway. It boasts a reputation as one of the fastest circuits in the country and hosts two NASCAR races and a popular round of the IndyCar Series.

Trinity River

The Trinity River area is an excellent place to visit, no matter what time of year you’re in the city. It’s located just south of downtown and has plenty of green space for walking and biking, with lots of wildlife to spot along the way.

To get there from downtown, head south on Main Street (US 183) until it ends at Houston Avenue; turn right onto Houston Avenue, then left onto Berry Street, which leads straight into the park grounds.

Fun Things to Do in Downtown Fort Worth

So much love in the downtown area. From the Fort Worth Water Gardens to walking around Sundance Square to seeing a show at Bass Performance Hall and perusing Sid Richardson Museum, you’ll never tire of things to do. Also, there are plenty of restaurants within walking distance.

There are 12 TX Travel Information Centers Locations in Texas, with three closest to Fort Worth – Gainesville, Denison, or Wichita Falls coming from Oklahoma on I-35 North. There is also one in Amarillo coming from Colorado/New Mexico. If you’re coming from the south or Texas Hill Country area, stop at the one in Austin.

I hope you found this Fort Worth Travel Guide worth your while. Please let us know if you need to know anything to have a wonderful trip in Fort Worth.

If you’re in the area during the fall months – check out fall family activities in Fort Worth – most are in October & November when autumn hits us here in Texas! If you’re in Fort Worth for an extended period of time and looking for a getaway from the city, there are multiple things to do away from Fort Worth – you have to research, and you’ll find plenty.

Happy Fort Worth Travel!

About Kim Croisant

Kim Croisant is a freelance writer and owner/writer at Texas Travel Talk and a native Texan living north of Fort Worth. When not writing about travel destinations (not just in Texas), restaurants, and hotels, she is most likely juggling family life, caring for her mother, and raising her grandson. She loves red wine, chips & dip, and travel magazines. Follow her on Instagram @texastraveltalk.

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Tampa: a guide to the overlooked city in Florida worth exploring

What to see and where to go in and around Tampa

It’s this combination of compelling history and a new and fast-paced evolution that makes Tampa such a great place to visit. As does its role as a jumping-off point for fantastic outdoor activities on the magnificent Gulf of Mexico beaches nearby, including swimming in hot springs near manatees, kayaking and riding an airboat through the mangroves.

Tampa also has a super-modern and efficient airport that doesn’t suffer the immigration queues of Orlando and Miami (and that has an increasing number of direct flights from the UK with airlines including Virgin Atlantic ). This means that as well as coming to Tampa for a brilliant city and beach break combo, there’s the option of building on a side-trip to the world’s theme-park capital just over an hour away for the perfect three-in-one holiday.

What to see and do in Tampa

Still gritty in places (something that’s part of its charm), this fast-changing city at the heart of Florida’s Gulf Coast is centred on its modern four-kilometre Riverwalk lined by repurposed and contemporary architecture and lovely public spaces. Prominent among them is Armature Works, formerly a streetcar repair and storage barn, that's now chock-full of alluring bars and restaurants including sleek M.Bird with glittering city and river views from its rooftop.

It’s also in this district, Tampa Heights, that you’ll find Ulele, a restaurant named after the Native American daughter of the chief of the Tocobaga tribe. Ulele is unique in that it serves native Floridian fare based on indigenous ingredients and incorporating Native American influences – standouts include okra fries, Barbacoa-grilled Gulf oysters, pan-seared pompano fillets, jalapeno vodka cocktails and crafts beers from its own on-site brewery.

Indeed, Tampa is an epic city for foodies, with other highlights including Goody Goody, one of America’s first drive-in restaurants now reborn as a modern diner with classic American decor and dishes such as sublime breakfasts of giant buttermilk pancakes. Goody Goody is run by the fifth-generation Gonzart family, who also own Ulele as well as Florida’s oldest restaurant, the iconic Columbia, which serves Cuban sandwiches, its famous ‘1905’ salads and plenty more besides in a vast, extravagantly tiled venue occupying a whole block in Ybor City.

Tampa’s historic Latin Quarter, Ybor City, is the real highlight of any visit here. It's famous for its lively, even often rowdy, bar and nightclub scene, but by day it’s a charming, calm spot to wander around, with Cuban artisans still hand-rolling cigars as they have since 1885 and a free-roaming wild chicken population. To make the most of it, join a guided outing with Ybor City Walking Tours and learn about how this fascinating neighbourhood became a magnet for immigrants from Cuba, Spain, Germany, Italy and Eastern Europe. Also, don’t miss a ride on the free historic wooden streetcar back from Ybor City to Downtown.

Great day-trips and overnighters from Tampa

Crystal River (75 minutes north of Tampa)

Defined by its vast bodies of water, this compact city sits on Kings Bay with its 70-plus hot springs providing a winter refuge for Florida's manatees. It’s such an important spot for the survival of these placid creatures that it’s been designated the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge – the only refuge in the USA dedicated to preserving a single species. You can swim in the hot springs near these docile creatures, using the ‘freeze and float’ method should they inquisitively approach you, with firms such as Salty Siren Tours & Charters .

Another warmly recommended local boat trip in the area is an eco airboat ride with Ozello Keys Pontoon Tours , taking you through the backcountry of the tiny islands into the Gulf of Mexico. Along the way you’ll see the fertile feeding grounds of manatees, dolphin, alligators and tropical birds, and may also snatch shoreline sightings of turtles, otters and wild boar.

Back at the hot springs, you can even earn your fins as a mermaid with family-run firm Crystal River Watersports , who teach both women and men to learn to swim like sirens, clad in fabric tails. If it sounds niche, it’s also great fun, strangely freeing (and easy) and all part of the quirky ‘Old Florida’ feel of this part of the state.

The same goes for the Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter , with live mermaid shows in the same place where Eric Ducharme creates silicone tails for both celebs such as Lady Gaga and everyday folk who yearn to be mermaids. You can even stay in a mermaid-and-manatee themed B&B here, the charming Crystal Blue Lagoon Bed & Breakfast right on a hot spring with manatees and dolphins swimming by.

All this fun in the water works up an appetite that you can satisfy in fantastic local restaurants such as the New Orleans–themed Seafood Seller & Cafe with its Cajun-style dishes including alligator mac and cheese, Sadie's Corner Kitchen with its homemade lobster bisques, crab salads and more, and Vintage On 5th including Deep South dishes in a renovated 1940s cottage-church.

Florida’s Adventure Coast: (1 hour north of Tampa)

As the name suggests, this is a place for more outdoor fun, and much of that takes place in hot springs. The weekend-long Sirens of the Deep Camps at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is another chance to learn to swim like a mermaid, although most people come simply to marvel at the daily mermaid shows that once drew the likes of of Elvis Presley. If that’s all a bit kooky, head out on the Weeki Wachee River in a transparent kayak or on a SUP paddle board with Get Up and Go Kayaking – preferably at sunset, which is one of the best times to see wildlife including turtles, manatees, dolphins and stingrays.

Weeki Wachee and neighbouring Hernando Beach (not actually a beach but a network of canals) is also a fun place to go out of an evening for a feel of the authentic Florida, with great restaurants and bars such as The Lazy Lizard, with its comfort food such as fried pickles and its live music and dancing, while Neptune’s Grotto Old Florida Adventure Retreat is an eccentric place to stay.

Anna Maria Island (1 hour south of Tampa)

With few visitors from overseas, this barrier island curling out in to the Gulf of Mexico feels like a great alternative to the Florida Keys. It’s classic beach holiday territory and the perfect place to end a road trip along the west Florida coast before returning to Tampa: it has a few vintage shops to browse, but life here is all about lazing on the sand or by the pool and feasting on fantastic seafood in gorgeous venues such as The Sandbar, with its sustainable, farm-to-fork ethos and glorious sunset views, and The Rod and Reel Pier perched out over the water, with incredibly good-value classics.

That said, don’t miss a nosey around Bradenton , of which Anna Maria is a part. The mainland capital of Manatee County, Bradenton has lots to detain you, including The Bishop Museum of Science & Nature with its manatee rehabilitation centre, its own Riverwalk, the Robinson Preserve with its rare wildlife including roseate spoonbills, wood storks, white pelicans and bald eagles, and the Village of the Arts live-work community of brightly painted historic cottages housing award-winning restaurants, boutiques, at galleries and studios, and healing arts centres.

Where to stay in and around Tampa

Part of Marriott’s luxury JW brand, JW Marriott Water Street is an exceptional hotel with lot of outdoor space including a pool with city views. Rooms are airy and modern and there’s a spa and two restaurants with locally inspired dishes.

Plantation on Crystal River is a 27-hole championship golf course, four restaurants, an outdoor lagoon pool and a spa make this expansive resort a fun bet, as does its setting on a bay visited by more than 400 manatees a year.

Anna Maria Beach Resort , with its own gate onto the white-sand beach and sunset views, is an intimate, upmarket option combining motel-style architecture with cocooning rooms and suites and a sparkling pool ringed by lounges and cabanas for hire.

MORE HOTELS IN AND AROUND TAMPA

HOLIDAYS TO TAMPA WITH VIRGIN

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What’s the Value of Chase Ultimate Rewards Points? 

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Chase points value when booking through the portal

Chase points value when transferring to partners, chase points calculator, credit cards that earn chase ultimate rewards®, how did we determine the value of chase points.

Chase Ultimate Rewards® points are some of the most sought-after travel rewards points out there ( here's how they compare to AmEx Membership Rewards ). They are flexible, popular and valuable. But how valuable?

Based on our most recent analysis , Chase points are worth between 1 cent and 2.2 cents each, depending on how they’re used and which card they were earned with.

This wide range of values is due to the complexity of Ultimate Rewards® redemption options. Like most credit card reward points, they have a baseline value when used to either book travel directly through a portal or they can be transferred to partners. But Chase adds an additional layer of complexity by offering separate baseline values depending on the card. Let’s break it down.

» Learn more: Best Chase credit cards

In Chase's travel portal, the Chase Ultimate Rewards® points value depends entirely on which card you have — or rather, which card is associated with the points you’re using (if you have several cards).

Note: These values only represent the simplest and most direct way of using Chase points. And there isn’t any wiggle room here; you can’t search for deals that will yield more than 1.5 cents per point with a Chase Sapphire Reserve® , for example. The values are fixed when using points to book through the travel portal.

» Learn more: The guide to Chase's travel portal

There’s lots of wiggle room here. So much, in fact, that it’s hard to pin down a specific value across all of Chase’s transfer partners. Our estimate of 1 cent to 2.2 cents is based on the higher-value transfer options, but that doesn’t mean all the options are equal — far from it.

The table below shows the transfer partners for which we have data-driven point and mile valuations. In short: The estimated value of Chase Ultimate Rewards® points when redeeming with partners ranges from 0.7 cents to 1.9 cents.

Of course, the value of Chase points depends on the value of these transfer partners, but there is another factor to consider: how many high-value transfer partners the Chase Ultimate Rewards® program has. This affords more options for travel rewards hobbyists who are willing to dive into these programs and find the best deals.

Comparing Chase points to other programs with fewer high-quality transfer partners is like comparing a $100 bill to a $100 Olive Garden gift card. They’re technically worth the same amount, but one has a broader range of uses than the other.

» Learn more: How to transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards® points to travel partners

Use our Chase points calculator below to determine the value of any number of Chase Ultimate Rewards® points to dollars. This is useful for comparing the value of promotions and sign-up offers or in assessing the value of an existing cache of points.

Note: Chase's cash-back credit cards technically earn that cash in the form of Chase Ultimate Rewards®. One point equals 1 cent in those cases.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

5 points per $1 spent on all travel purchased through Chase.

3 points per $1 spent on dining (including eligible delivery services and takeout).

3 points per $1 spent on select streaming services.

3 points per $1 spent on online grocery purchases (not including Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs).

2 points per $1 spent on travel not purchased through Chase.

1 point per $1 spent on other purchases.

Through March 2025: 5 points per $1 spent on Lyft.

Sign-up bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

» READ OUR REVIEW of the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

10 points per $1 spent on Chase Dining purchases through Chase.

10 points per $1 spent on hotel stays and car rentals purchased through Ultimate Rewards®.

5 points per $1 spent on air travel purchased through Chase.

3 points per $1 spent on travel and dining not booked with Chase.

Through March 2025: 10 points per $1 spent on Lyft.

Sign-up bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

» READ OUR REVIEW of the Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Chase Freedom Flex℠

5% cash back on rotating bonus categories, on up to $1,500 spent per quarter (cash back comes in the form of Chase Ultimate Rewards®).

5% back on travel purchased through Chase.

3% back at restaurants.

3% back at drugstores.

1% back on all other purchases.

Sign-up bonus: Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.

» READ OUR REVIEW of the Chase Freedom Flex℠

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ replaced the original Chase Freedom® , but holders of the original card were able to keep using it. That card offers the same 5% in rotating categories and 1% elsewhere, but not the bonus rewards on travel, dining and drugstores.

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase during your first year, 5% after that.

4.5% back at restaurants during your first year, 3% after that.

4.5% back at drugstores during your first year, 3% after that.

3% back on all other purchases during your first year, 1.5% after that.

Note that all first-year elevated earn rates are applied only up to $20,000 in total spending during the initial cardholding year.

Sign-up bonus: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

» READ OUR REVIEW of the Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

3 points per $1 spent on the first $150,000 per year in combined spending on travel and select business categories.

1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

Sign-up bonus: Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠. .

» READ OUR REVIEW of the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Ink Business Cash® Credit Card

5% cash back on office supply store purchases and internet, cable and phone services, on up to $25,000 spent per year combined.

2% back at gas stations and restaurants, on up to $25,000 spent per year combined.

Sign-up bonus: Earn $350 when you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months and an additional $400 when you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first six months after account opening.

» READ OUR REVIEW of the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card

Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card

1.5% cash back on all spending.

Sign-up bonus: Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

» READ OUR REVIEW of the Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards

For our NerdWallet estimate of 1 cent to 2.2 cents per Ultimate Rewards® point, we factored in three variables:

The value of these points when used to book travel directly with the credit card’s travel portal.

The value of the airline and hotel points to which these points can be transferred, when applicable (based on separate analyses).

The number of top-tier travel transfer partners, as determined by our expert panel.

The overall value is determined as: A weighted average between (1) and (2), with the weight determined by (3). The program with the largest number of high-value partners receives a 100% weight on (2), and a program with zero high-value partners receives a 50% weight on (2).

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

$300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1%-5% Earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Earn 5% on Chase travel purchased through Ultimate Rewards®, 3% on dining and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases.

$200 Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.

Everything you need to know about Costco Travel — and why I love it for saving money

Costco isn't just the place where you can buy toilet paper in bulk, inexpensive gas, cheap hot dogs and gift cards. You can also book great trips via the company's online travel agency, Costco Travel.

I know, I know: At TPG, we're often staunchly against booking travel through third-party sites , as there can be tradeoffs versus booking directly. But in recent years, I've become a big fan of the travel deals I can find via Costco Travel.

When planning our annual beach trip back in 2022, my best friend found a few options for Mexican all-inclusive resorts on Costco Travel and shared the links with me. I promptly told her we'd probably be better off booking directly and brushed off the idea of booking through Costco — neither of us even had a membership at the time.

However, comparing the prices and benefits at a few of the resorts proved my initial reaction wrong.

I actually got a Costco membership to book the deal since the cost of the membership was less than what we'd save by booking through Costco. We saved around $300 on a three-night stay at TRS Coral near Cancun (one of TPG's best all-inclusive resorts in Cancun ), not including the free hydrotherapy spa circuit and the $241 Digital Costco Shop Card included in the package.

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Our stay was fantastic, and I officially became a Costco Travel convert.

If you're curious about how to use Costco Travel to find deals, here's everything you need to know about Costco Travel — and why I love it for saving money on travel.

What is Costco Travel?

All Costco members have access to the Costco Travel booking platform, where you can find and book a wide range of travel — from vacation packages to hotels, cruises and rental cars. You can even book theme park vacation packages to Disney and Universal or specialty vacations such as an African safari.

Related: Costco cruise deals: How to save money booking travel at a warehouse club

Once you log in to Costco Travel, you can search for specific dates or destinations or browse through available deals and featured destinations. I personally love perusing the limited-time deals when I know I want to plan a getaway but don't have a specific destination in mind.

Trips booked through Costco Travel are often discounted and/or include perks and benefits you may not get by booking directly or through other booking portals. Usually, a trip booked through Costco Travel will also include a Digital Costco Shop Card (essentially a type of Costco gift card) of varying value.

What travel can you book through Costco Travel?

You can book hotels, cruises, rental cars and vacation packages through Costco Travel. Vacation packages range from hotel-only offers to all-encompassing packages that include airfare, hotel stays and rental cars. You can even build your own package.

However, one thing to note is that you can't book stand-alone flights via Costco Travel. There is an option to book flights through some vacation packages, but if you're only looking for airfare, you'll want to head to Google Flights to check out your options and book.

You can book Costco Travel offers both online and by phone.

Do you have to be a Costco member to use Costco Travel?

Yes. Costco Travel is an exclusive service for Costco members.

There are two personal membership levels: Gold Star and Executive. Gold Star costs $60 per year, while an Executive membership costs $120. The basic membership will give you access to all of Costco's services, including Costco Travel, while the Executive membership also comes with a 2% reward on all Costco (and Costco Travel) purchases.

I've found that the Costco Travel deals alone are worth paying the $60 Gold Star annual membership fee, even though I don't regularly use Costco for my grocery store runs.

Check sites like Groupon for discount Costco memberships, as you can sometimes save on that rate — or get an included gift card that helps offset the cost.

Is Costo Travel worth it?

Costco Travel has its pros and cons, but there are definitely times when it's worth it.

For example, let's look at a five-night stay in Maui in early April. At the time of writing, Costco is currently offering a hotel and rental car package for Hotel Wailea, a Relais & Chateaux affiliated property and one of TPG's favorite Maui hotels .

Here's one cost comparison breakdown of Costco Travel's deal versus booking directly:

Even without including the additional benefits, you're already saving more than $400 via the Costco deal. Add in the value you get from the card, daily breakfast and resort credit (which is more than $1,000 in value if you maximize all benefits), and you're looking at $1,442.45 in savings by booking through Costco Travel versus directly.

And since Hotel Wailea isn't a member of any major hotel loyalty program, booking through Costco Travel wouldn't mean missing out on elite night credits or other loyalty program benefits.

Here's another example — this time for a Universal Orlando theme park trip from June 4-6 for one adult and two children from Houston. The total cost when booking each part (hotel, tickets and airfare) individually came to $2,701.35, while booking it as a package via Costco saved just over $300.

That's a fair amount of savings you could use for some frozen butterbeer or even a new wand inside the Wizarding World of Harry Potter .

When is Costco Travel not worth it?

Not every offer on Costco is worth booking.

For one, you won't necessarily find the same availability on Costco Travel. For example, flights booked through Costco may have some seats blocked off, and certain dates for hotel stays may be unavailable. Additionally, not all rental car companies are bookable through Costco Travel (such as Hertz*, which is my preferred rental car company due to the perks I get through my Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card ).

Plus, some hotel stays have a minimum stay requirement. If you're on the hunt for a long weekend getaway, you may not be able to take advantage of some Costco Travel deals.

Even when you do find availability, you should always price-check what you can find by booking directly or through your credit card travel portal and hotel programs.

After booking our fantastic stay at TRS Coral just north of Cancun through Costco, I looked at booking through Costco again in 2023 when planning our annual beach vacation.

While Costco had a deal available for the same resort, we happened to be booking when the resort chain was having a Mother's Day sale for anyone booking directly. We were able to try out a new TRS resort closer to Playa Del Carmen, TRS Yucatan; we saved more than $100 on an even nicer suite than Costco Travel offered by booking directly (even when considering the Digital Shop Card we would have gotten by booking with Costco).

Something else to consider when booking hotels through Costco Travel is loyalty program rewards and elite status. There are a lot of hotels available to book through Costco Travel that are part of major loyalty programs, from Hyatt Honors to Marriott Bonvoy to IHG One Rewards and more. But booking through Costco Travel — just like booking through most other third-party services such as Expedia — means you likely won't earn loyalty rewards, elite night credits or have any elite night benefits honored.

You'll also have to use Costco customer service if you run into any issues rather than going directly to the brand. This is especially important when considering booking a vacation package that includes flights, given the higher potential for delays or cancellations.

Why I love Costco Travel

I am typically a staunch proponent of booking directly, but Costco Travel is an exception. I've found that the benefits I can get by booking some trips via Costco outweigh the cons (some of which include having to go through Costco for any customer service help or occasionally losing out on elite night credits).

Digital Costco Shop Cards

My favorite thing about booking trips through Costco Travel is the Digital Costco Shop Card I get after booking. The card's value varies from trip to trip (generally depending on how expensive the package you book), but you can get hundreds of dollars back to use at Costco.

The Digital Costco Shop Cards can be used for Costco warehouse purchases (a game changer with grocery prices so high due to inflation), but you can also use them toward future Costco Travel bookings. And remember — Costco doesn't just carry bulk grocery items. You could use a Digital Costco Shop Card to buy a new flat-screen TV for movie nights and game days, a new outdoor patio setup ahead of summer or even Costco Pharmacy prescriptions.

I admittedly don't use Costco for groceries often (buying in bulk doesn't make a lot of sense for someone who lives alone), but I have used shop cards to help pay for Christmas presents and future Costco Travel trips. I've actually been looking into using my most recent Digital Costco Shop Card on a new pair of AirPods and a new TV mount for my living room.

Deals on non-points hotel stays and all-inclusive resorts

When I'm looking at booking a hotel stay at a brand like Hyatt or Marriott, I generally choose to book directly in order to earn elite night credits and points. However, when looking at properties not part of a major loyalty program, Costco Travel is often a go-to anytime I can find a deal.

Costco Travel has a nice deals section, and I usually look there first if I'm not sold on a specific destination for a getaway. While deals found on Costco generally have a narrow booking window, I've found that many offer a lot of flexibility for the actual trip dates.

A few examples of limited-time deals for January include Hotel Wailea from the example earlier in this guide, all-inclusive resorts in Mexico's Riviera Maya, and Disney and Universal theme park packages.

Simplifying group vacations

I'm often the travel planner in my friend group (which makes sense, considering what I do for a living), but not everyone is an avid points and miles user like myself. For group trips where we're splitting the cost of hotel rooms among multiple people, it often doesn't make sense to use points and miles to book.

Costco Travel vacation packages offer a way for all of us to save money, and it makes narrowing down potential destinations and hotels easier. Rather than everyone having to spend hours researching ideas and prices from across the internet — which might be my idea of a fun Wednesday night but isn't for some of my friends — I typically just send them to Costco Travel to see if any of the featured deals catch their eye.

Having reservation information for multiple aspects of a trip, such as a hotel and rental car package, makes sharing and saving the itineraries a breeze.

Bottom line

Whether or not you currently have a Costco membership, you shouldn't dismiss Costco Travel as just another online travel agency.

If you know where to look and are willing to price-check the deals you find, you can save a lot of money with Costco Travel deals. I've personally had a lot of success booking friends getaways to popular destinations like Mexico through Costco. Using the service has helped me save on other expenses with the Digital Costco Shop Card I've gotten with my bookings.

For me, the $60 annual membership fee to Costco has been more than worth it to utilize Costco Travel.

*Upon enrollment, accessible through the Capital One website or mobile app, eligible cardholders will remain at upgraded status level through Dec. 31, 2024. Please note, enrolling through the normal Hertz Gold Plus Rewards enrollment process (e.g. at Hertz.com) will not automatically detect a cardholder as being eligible for the program and cardholders will not be automatically upgraded to the applicable status tier. Additional terms apply.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

This clever travel hack lets you enjoy access to some of the world’s luxury airport lounges AND free bubbly for a right bargain

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Until now, the closest we’ve got to the feeling of luxury when flying was walking past the designer shops in the airport on our way to the loo.

But there’s a new and nifty way for us to travel in style and feel like we’re living that bad and bougie lifestyle on a budget.

Priority Pass is the world’s largest independent airport lounge access programme and basically offers you jammy discounts on over 1400 lounges across 600 cities in 148 countries.

Suffer from pre-flight nerves? The heaving crowds pouring out of every corner won’t help. But with Priority Pass , you get access to the calm and quiet lounges and get to ease in to vacation mode in style.

The lounges also offer free Wifi to keep you connected and something to eat and drink, including free alcohol in most. A complimentary glass of something bubbly? You don’t have to tell us twice.

Also, it doesn’t matter what ticket you’re flying on. You could have nabbed the last seat by the loos in economy and still be able to enjoy a feeling of decadence in the lounges.

Plus, if you arrive early you may even be able to enjoy some luxury treatments. A calming head massage before we head off? What a time to be alive.

A Standard Plus Membership is £229 per year , which works out to just over £19 a month. For that, you get ten free lounge visits and you can pay £24 per visit for a plus one.

The Standard Membership is just £69 per year and that means every visit to the lounge is just £24. Which, considering you get free Wifi and food and drink, is a straight up bargain, right?

And we also have some extra fab news as Metro readers can now get 30% off Standard and 20% off Standard Plus .

The Priority Pass has a ton of lounges across Europe, including London airports.

For instance, The Plaza Premium Lounge at Heathrow offers premium alcoholic drinks and there’s even a nap room. Seriously, a room to take a nap. It’s all we’ve ever wanted because quite frankly, life is exhausting.

Returning from a trip to the Big Apple ? JFK Airport has the Primeclass Lounge and you can tuck in to a gorgeous selection of hot and cold dishes, plus unlimited alcohol.

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Arizona's 'Wonderland of Rocks': Chiricahua National Monument celebrates 100 years

One of Arizona’s strangest, most magnificent and underappreciated places will soon celebrate a milestone. On April 18, 2024, it will be 100 years since President Calvin Coolidge established Chiricahua National Monument. The monument is celebrating all weekend with a slate of free hikes, tours and other activities. 

As an Arizona travel writer, I’m often asked about my favorite places. Where are the hidden gems? Unforgettable scenery? Best hiking? My answer to almost every question is Chiricahua National Monument.  

Located in the southeastern corner of Arizona, the 12,000-acre park turns every visitor into a geologist as they ponder an otherworldly collection of gravity-defying rock formations.

Waves of serrated stone spread across the landscape where they form rows of mute and wounded skyscrapers. Massive columns, slender spires and impossibly balanced boulders loom above the timber. The pinnacles seem endless and rise hundreds of feet, yet no two are exactly the same — like fossilized snowflakes.

Called the "Land of Standing-Up Rocks" by the Apache warriors who took refuge here and the "Wonderland of Rocks" by the pioneers who came later, the Chiricahuas gnaw the clouds with broken teeth. 

Why Chiricahua National Monument is worth visiting

About 27 million years ago a savage volcanic event lashed this corner of the world. The eruption, a thousand times more powerful than Mount St. Helens, spewed ash and pumice over 1,200 square miles. The mixture slowly cooled and fused into a tuff of rhyolite.

More eruptions followed before sputtering quiet, then the usual suspects — ice, water and wind — chipped away for a few eons of garden-variety erosion, carving the welded rhyolite into the array of exotic hoodoos that crown forested mountaintops in such a stunning fashion.

Of course, Chiricahua National Monument might not exist today if it weren’t for another force of nature — Lillian Riggs. The daughter of Swedish immigrants who moved into the area in 1888, Lillian became the strong-willed “Lady Boss” who ran the homestead as a guest ranch with her husband, Ed Riggs. She named it Faraway Ranch because it was so “godawful far away from everything.” 

The couple promoted the landscape as worthy of protection. They touted the unique beauty and constructed riding and hiking trails. They gave tours to Arizona officials and wrote letters to Washington, D.C. Their lobbying efforts paid off in 1924 when Chiricahua National Monument was established. Today the Faraway Ranch Historic District preserves several buildings spread across the lower meadows.

Arizona's 4th national park? Seeking national park status for Chiricahua National Monument

Chiricahua Mountains: Arizona's sky islands

The Chiricahua Mountains are one of the prominent sky island ranges. Forested mountaintop islands float above a vast sea of desert and grasslands, creating lush habitats where none should be. This is Arizona’s rain forest, a hotbed of life. 

You’ll find incredible diversity among these tightly stacked ecosystems. The highest concentration of mammals in the United States and more than half the species of birds in North America can be found amid the sky islands. Binoculars-toting birders travel from all over the world to add to their life lists. Many species — such as the elegant trogon and Rivoli’s hummingbird — reach the northern edge of their range here.

The mountains once provided a home for the Chiricahua Apaches. A nomadic people, they hunted game and gathered edible plants. They were fearless warriors and fiercely resisted colonization. Yet with the discovery of mineral wealth, more settlers streamed into the territory, leading to continued clashes. American troops were dispatched and campaigns were waged.

Always outnumbered, the Apaches used fighting skill and knowledge of the rugged terrain to their advantage, returning to the mountains that provided them with shelter and food. It ended in 1886 when a small band led by Geronimo finally surrendered to the U.S. Army. 

Chiricahua National Monument things to do

My first visit to Chiricahua National Monument was in 1976. I’ve been hiking here for almost half of its century in existence. I’ve pitched my tent more nights in cozy Bonita Canyon Campground than anywhere else in the state. I saw my very first rattlesnake here, and plenty more since. The Chiricahuas are the only place where I’ve seen a coatimundi, which is the desert’s oddest critter, like a lanky raccoon that has had some cosmetic work done. 

This is also the first place I ever took my wife hiking in Arizona. It was on our honeymoon. I needed her to see this stunning, startling place and if it didn’t absolutely devastate her, that would smack of the most irreconcilable of differences. We could divvy up the wedding gifts and go our separate ways. I’m happy to report that she’s still hanging around all these years later.

The 8-mile Bonita Canyon Drive provides an excellent introduction to the monument. The paved road makes a twisting climb through oak and pine woodlands with columns of stone looming overhead. There are pullouts along the way so you can stop and ogle it all. The scenic drive ends at Massai Point (elevation 6,870 feet), a high perch with 360-degree views of Rhyolite Canyon and surrounding mountain peaks. 

Chiricahua National Monument hiking trails

But like most parks, Chiricahua National Monument is best enjoyed on foot. It holds a beautiful system of trails, many interconnected, so there’s no shortage of options. Here are a few favorite hikes: 

Massai Point Nature Trail: At the end of Bonita Canyon Drive, walk around to soak up the big panoramas of distant mountains and deep-cut valleys on this easy 0.5-mile loop. The paved portion from the parking area to the exhibit building is wheelchair accessible.

Sugarloaf Trail: Hike this trail (1.8 miles round trip) along a moderate ridgeline to snag the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain, one of the highest points in the monument (7,310 feet), still crowned by an old fire lookout tower.  

Echo Canyon Loop: This route uses the Echo Canyon, Hailstone and Ed Riggs trails for a moderate 3.3-mile journey through spectacular rock formations into a lush cove punctuated by a stuttering little stream that flows seasonally. Hike counterclockwise for a gentler ascent. For those who can’t manage the entire loop, you can venture to the Echo Canyon Grottoes (1 mile round trip), an exotic corridor of intimate formations.

Heart of Rocks Loop: The most striking pinnacles can be found on this short loop, a mystical stone gallery bristling with fanciful formations like Camel’s Head, Punch and Judy, Thor’s Hammer and Duck on a Rock. The easiest access to Heart of Rocks is a 7.3-mile hike that comes via a trio of trails: Ed Riggs, Mushroom Rock and Big Balanced Rock.

Other trails form loops through canyons and forests. Consult the park map for trail lengths, elevation changes and degree of difficulty to select the right outing for you.

Do you have to pay to get into Chiricahua National Monument?

No. Chiricahua National Monument is free to enter. There's a fee for camping in Bonito Canyon Campground.

What is the closest city to Chiricahua National Monument?

Chiricahua National Monument is 36 miles southeast of Willcox, Arizona. It has lodging, restaurants, wine tasting rooms, grocery shopping and other services.

Lose yourself for a while

Chiricahua National Monument is a lost land, a strange portal. It is perhaps the most exotic spot in Arizona you can reach via paved road.

When I yearn to tumble off the edge of the known world, I come here and walk among these fractured towers, these ruddy troll bones. I touch the cool skin of ancient magma. The blast furnace of volcanoes has fallen silent, replaced by a cheery chorus of birdsong trilling from the branches and echoing through a garden of stone.  

Chiricahua National Monument

Where: From Willcox, drive south on State Route 186 for 32 miles to the junction of SR 181. Turn left and proceed 4 miles to the park.

Admission: Free.

Camping: Bonito Canyon Campground has 25 campsites plus restrooms, running water and picnic tables. There are no RV hookups or showers. Cost is $20 per night. Make reservations at recreation.gov or call 877-444-6777.

Pets: Leashed pets are allowed only on the trails between the campground, Faraway Ranch and the visitor center. 

Details: 520-824-3560,  www.nps.gov/chir .

Find the reporter at  www.rogernaylor.com .  Or follow him on Facebook at  www.facebook.com/RogerNaylorinAZ .

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I’m a Travel Agent: 4 Vacations Worth the Extra Costs in Retirement

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After putting in decades of hard work, you want to be able to enjoy yourself in retirement . For some people who can afford it, that means splurging on a nice vacation. 

However, you don’t want to spend your money recklessly. If you’re going to go on expensive trips, you want to find ones that can provide a sense of wonder, excitement or relaxation that you might not find elsewhere.

With that in mind, consider the following four types of vacations that are worth the extra costs in retirement , according to William Lee, a travel agent at Chima Travel .

Themed River Cruises in Europe

Your first thought of taking a cruise might be going on a giant ocean liner, but there are more intimate options available that retirees often enjoy splurging on, such as river cruises.

“While ocean cruises are great,” Lee said, “river cruises and small ship cruises are able to offer a more personalized luxury experience. One of the biggest perks for many retirees is that the majority of the crowds on these boats are people in their age range, allowing them great opportunities to socialize and make new friends.

“Keep in mind: Some of these cruises only have 14 rooms, so there’s not many people on the cruise to begin with. The majority of river cruises only allow around 300 people on board.”

In terms of destinations for these cruises, Lee has noticed an uptick in “theme tours,” where instead of just visiting a popular port city for the sake of it, the itineraries are based on themes.

For example, some river cruise companies have leaned into theme tours such as “Tulip Time,” where Avalon Waterways takes visitors to see the beautiful tulips of the Netherlands, Lee said.

“For the romantics and the wine lovers, they have dedicated river cruises that are focused on wine,” he added. “So instead of just doing the ‘Rhine Getaway’ package on Viking, maybe you opt for the ‘Romantic Rhine for Wine Lovers’ from Avalon.”

Golf in Scotland or Spas in Finland

Golfing in Scotland and relaxing at spas in Finland are very different types of trips, but they’re grouped together here precisely for that reason. 

Lee has seen many retirees want to do these types of trips, typically with husbands wanting to golf at St. Andrews in Scotland and wives wanting to enjoy spa and wellness retreats in Finland. So, rather than have one spouse go somewhere they’re not excited about, it’s becoming more common for married couples to travel separately.

“We’ve seen a big increase in couples traveling with friends,” Lee said. “Many retirees that have been married for 30+ years are looking for experiences more akin to their desires and interests. The men and women can split into two separate groups, allowing for each person to get the experience they were looking for.”

Cultural and Historical Trips to Portugal

Portugal has risen up the ranks recently to become one of the top travel destinations, particularly among retirees, Lee said. 

Many spots throughout the country entice travelers looking for unique cultural or historical experiences. Plus, it’s a beautiful country.

“The Algarve region in Southern Portugal has some of the nicest beaches in Europe and, generally speaking, Portugal experiences great weather year round,” Lee said. “For the history lovers, Lisbon is packed with sites to see like the Jeronimos Monastery, Belem Tower and Castelo de San Jorge.

“Portugal is also big for retirees with empty nests. Portugal is a very romantic place to visit, from the soulful Fado dinners to the incredible Port wine of the Douro Valley. There’s a lot that Portugal has to offer, and retirees are really flocking there.”

The country also includes some important religious destinations.

“At our travel agency, we’ve seen many retirees come in and ask about Portugal because of the religious pilgrimages to Fatima,” Lee said. “The story goes that three little girls were visited by the Virgin Mary, who gave the girls visions. Since 1917, Fatima has been seen as an important location for Catholics.” 

Patagonia and Amazon Expeditions in South America

Europe isn’t the only vacation spot for retirees. Many also have shown interest in more adventurous trips to South America. These can provide once-in-a-lifetime experiences that are worth the cost.

“The idea is that they are getting older,” Lee said, “and, if they want to experience something a bit more physically demanding, then they should do it now.”

One part of South America that retirees have been drawn to is the Amazon.

“The Amazon is incredible because it’s really unlike anything most have done before,” Lee said. “But I think there’s this idea that you ‘rough it’ with the Amazon, which is just not the case. As mentioned before, retirees are boarding small ship luxury boats and sailing the river. Periodically they stop at these beautiful resorts in the heart of the jungle where you join up with a private guide to explore the jungle safely.”

The Patagonia region is another popular part of South America.

“At our travel agency, we’ve seen recent retirees want a mix of relaxation, hiking and breathtaking views,” Lee said. “Patagonia is great for that. One of our more popular packages includes a stay at an all-inclusive resort surrounded by the mountains of Patagonia. These resorts offer a chance for rest and relaxation at the spas but are also a short distance away from some of the more popular trails in the region.”

Justifying High Costs

While many of these trips can be pricey, especially if traveling via a luxury tour operator, Lee has noticed that rising costs have made these high-end trips more justifiable in some sense.

“A typical 10-day package for Italy is around $8,500 for two people, but that’s traveling in 3- and 4-star accommodations, no transport included, and one to two group tours,” Lee said. “Instead, you can opt for a more luxury experience and stay at a mix of 4- and 5-star properties, have a private driver, and a mix of group and private tours for around $12,000.”

If you have a relatively high travel budget in retirement, it can be worth it to opt for the luxury option.

“It’s an increase, for sure, but the cheaper path doesn’t allow for you to save enough to do two of the same trips in one year if your budget is $15,000 for travel each year,” he added. “So with that said, we’ve seen more and more people opt for the experience that is going to make them less stressed, more comfortable and generally speaking is more exciting than the penny pinching for dream vacations.”

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Top music concerts worth travelling for in 2024: The Rolling Stones, Coldplay, and more

TRAVEL TRENDS , WORLD Created : Apr 17, 2024, 00:00 IST

It won’t be an exaggeration to say that 2024 promises an exceptional lineup of concerts that invite enthusiasts to plan unforgettable journeys. With anticipation building, music lovers are eager to pack their bags and experience some of the most highly anticipated and iconic performances spanning various genres and destinations worldwide. You can still make plans to take part in some of these concerts, which are worth travelling for this year.

If you are also a music lover, bookmark this, and book your tickets now.

Rod Stewart

During an interview with People Magazine in 2023, Stewart talked about his One final tour, expressing, "I believe this will mark the final opportunity to delve into the rock 'n' roll world as I aim to transition to swing music and the Great American SongBook." So, if you are his fan, don't miss your chance to witness the live performance of this Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and legendary Grammy winner.

Before concluding his long standing Las Vegas residency this summer, he will entertain audiences across the U.S., Europe, and Asia.

Tour: 2024 Tour (February to August)

Olivia Rodrigo

Olivia Rodrigo is heading out on a tour to promote her second studio album, "GUTS." This tour will feature shows across North America and Europe, with additional performances by The Breeders, Chappell Roan, Remi Wolf, and PinkPantheress as opening acts.

Tour: Guts World Tour: (February – August 2024)

The Rolling Stones

Fans both in the city and beyond are buzzing with anticipation for The Rolling Stones' highly anticipated concert in Houston. Set to unfold at one of the city's premier music venues, this long-awaited event guarantees a night filled with unforgettable rock 'n' roll tunes and iconic performances. The band's Houston show is anticipated to be a standout moment of their tour, as enthusiasts eagerly await the chance to see Mick Jagger, Charlie Watts, Keith Richards, and Ronnie Wood gracing the stage once more.

Tour: The Hackney Diamonds Tour (April 28 to July)

Nikki Minaj

Known for her flamboyant outfits and rapid-fire rap anthems, this hip-hop sensation is set to head on a tour spanning coast to coast and across the Atlantic to Europe. Expect an electrifying spectacle featuring fresh singles from her fifth album, "Pink Friday 2," alongside a plethora of chart-topping hits like Super Bass, Anaconda, and Starships.

Tour: Pink Friday 2 World Tour (March - June)

Coldplay's live performances are celebrated for their infectious enthusiasm and sense of unity, largely due to frontman Chris Martin's charm and charisma. Each song, ranging from heartfelt ballads to exhilarating sing-alongs, is delivered with sincere emotion, which instantly creates a connection with fans that is unparalleled.

At their Lyon concert, attendees can anticipate a thoughtfully crafted playlist that will showcase the band's vast catalogue, seamlessly blending fan favourites with fresh tracks from their forthcoming album.

Tour date: June 22 - 25

Jonas Brothers

Currently on their 12th concert tour, The Jonas Brothers, consisting of Kevin Jonas, Nick Jonas, and Joe Jonas, will travel through three continents. This tour will feature songs from five distinct albums, such as Happiness Begins, The Album, and A Little Bit Longer.

Tour: The Tour (August 2023 - June 2024)

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It won’t be an exaggeration to say that 2024 promises an exceptional lineup of concerts that invite enthusiasts to plan unforgettable journeys. With anticipation building, music lovers are eager to pa...