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7 International Day Trips You Can Take From Dubrovnik To Explore the Balkans

Along Croatia’s Adriatic coast, Dubrovnik is a 13th-century city reborn thanks to extensive renovation after earthquakes and wars took their toll. Caught in the fame of Game of Thrones, the town drew well over one million tourists in 2019. The city’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site recognized for the historic preservation of its winding limestone streets, elegant baroque architecture, and terracotta rooftop houses. The most famous of Croatia’s cities is also home to top-notch seafood restaurants and boat tours to nearby islands. But the most overlooked aspect of the city is its easy access to the cross-border multiculturalism that the Balkans are known for. Exploring the re tiled roofs and turquoise waters of this region on one of the many easily accessible day trips from Dubrovnik should be a top priority next time you’re visiting Croatia.

To experience a cross-section of the Balkans’ history, cuisine, and breathtaking architecture, take Balkans road trip along Croatia’s sun-drenched coast, and even ferry ride to neighboring islands, on a day trip from Dubrovnik.

Kotor Bay, Montenegro

Photo: canadastock/Shutterstock

Distance from Dubrovnik: 56 miles

It takes 3.5 hours to reach Montenegro by road, though border crossings during the summer season can stretch to five hours. Push along the scenic highway E65, with its narrow hairpin bends and the craggy mountains of Montenegro on one side. The name “Montenegro” is said to come from 15th-Century Venetian lords, who saw the surrounding dense pine forests as giant black mountains.

The ride to Kotor Bay cuts through these narrow mountains, but you’ll get glimpses of the medieval villages located on the water during the drive. The medieval walled town of Kotor is a maze of cobbled alleyways, piazzas, cafes, jazz clubs, and tiny boutiques squeezed into lanes. The most impressive landmark is the Catholic church, a mastery of baroque-romanesque architecture, and you can also spot remains of Byzantine-style frescoes on the arches.

Park your car near the Marina Bonići, and hop on a boat ride across the Bay of Kotor to take in the views from offshore, a fresh perspective on the landscape you drove through. Afterward, head to villages including Perast Tivat, and if you’re up for a 90-minute drive, continue further to Ulcinj and Sveti Stefan. Each is a historic walled town with impressive churches, former grand palazzi, and piazzas studded with cafes and souvenir stores. Stay for an al fresco meal to experience how the architecture and culinary cultures sway towards Italian taste. Don’t leave Montenegro without hitting the beachside town of Budva. This is your chance to lounge on a beach sunbed, backed by fortress walls and citadel views, savoring Montenegrin Vranac wines and jazz.

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Photo: Cristi Popescu/Shutterstock

Distance from Dubrovnik: 140 miles

Mostar, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is approximately a four hours’ drive north from Dubrovnik. On crossing over to the Bosnian countryside, riding on Highway M6 fringed on both sides with rugged mountains, you’ll spot Bosnian-style stone houses rimmed in wooden lattice works. Pull off the highway en route to the UNESCO-listed town of Počitelj with its medieval fortress, unique townhouses, and Ottoman-style mosque. You’ll notice scars from when the Bosnian-Croat forces attacked the village in 1993, but still, Počitelj is among the most beautiful examples of a 14th-century town in the region.

Bosnia’s image in the 1990s was that of a war-torn country, though today once you enter the town of Mostar, the horrors of war are barely visible. This small riverside city of just over 100,000 people hosts many cafes, restaurants, and an open bazaar selling Turkish lamps, carpets, traditional kilim rugs, handmade laces, Persian ceramics, and copper wares. As you move throughout the bazaar you can’t help but notice the skyline dominated by minarets, yet the tallest structure is the new Catholic church and the enormous cross seen on the hilltop. The town’s key attraction remains the Stari Most ­– a 15th-century Ottoman-era bridge separating both sides of the town. In the 1993 Bosnian war, the Croatian army shelled the bridge and mass destruction came upon in the name of ethnic cleansing. Today, Bosnian Muslims and Catholics live together in relative harmony; the rebuilt Stari Most is the chosen venue for the Red Bull cliff diving sporting event, held every year in the summer. Young locals can be seen jumping off the bridge into the river below, a long-standing tradition.

After an afternoon at the bazaar, it’s time to eat. Bosnian food is a marriage of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean fare. Common dishes include ćevapi (sausage-shaped kebabs tucked inside pita bread, served with onions and sour cream), börek (flaky meat pastry), dolma (stuffed vegetable with meat), and flavored meat stews and broths. And then there’s Bosnian baklava, a sweet, flaky pastry dessert you must try no matter what you order as a main. The nooks and crannies of the old town have cozy cafes where hookah lovers are anchored throughout the day. Coffee enthusiasts should try the strong Bosnian coffee, which locals say tastes far different than its Turkish cousin but is similarly thick and bitter.

Stick around into the evening, because Mostar glows when the sun goes down with illuminated arches, brightly lit evening bazaars, and buzzing open-air cafes.

Shkodër, Albania

Photo: Andrew Mayovskyy/Shutterstock

Distance from Dubrovnik: 110 miles

The northern Albanian town of Shkodër is a 4.5-hour drive from Dubrovnik. The crowds of tourists have recently started venturing to this long-neglected part of Europe. Now at peace and among the safest countries in Europe, the attractive city center of Shkodër is striking with its uber-cool art installations built from the very war artillery that impaired the country during the Yugoslav Wars between 1991 and 2001.

The pastel-hued buildings of the old town are reminiscent of the Venetians’ stronghold of early days. The St. Stephen’s Catholic Church, where many practice Eastern Orthodoxy and the mosque a few meters away put Shkodër at a crossroads of world cultures. The Marubi Museum opens a window into old Albania with street scenes showing the country grappling with the woes of the past: communism, conflict, and modernization. Lovers of art should visit the Venice Art Mask Factory, run by Edmond Angoni, an Albanian artisan who emigrated to Italy in the 1990s to master the Venetian art of mask-making. The Shkodër Historical Museum, in a former Venetian merchant’s house, also showcases Albanian history and culture.

The most visited destination in town is the Rozafa Fortress, located on a hillock. Scattered in Roman relics, the fortress was rebuilt by the Venetians and then the Turks. Because it is located at a higher altitude, the fortress has stunning views of the surrounding landscape including Lake Shkodra, the distant Albanian alps, and the city center.

Modern Albania’s positive vibe echoes along Shkodër’s pedestrian-friendly streets, in particular in its restaurants and cafes. Italian fare is served in most eateries in the city center, but don’t miss out on Albanian classics like byrek (a kind of sandwich in phyllo pastry stuffed with meat, spinach, and feta), baked cheese with tomatoes, lamb bake, or slow-cooked, rice-stuffed bell peppers.

Lokrum

Photo: trabantos/Shutterstock

If you enjoy leisurely walks and want to spend the day outside, this is the Dubrovnik day trip for you. Lokrum Island is easily accessible by a ferry ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Town – they leave every half hour and take just 15 minutes.

The island itself looks like a pine tree covered wilderness from afar, but when you get there, you’ll find that there’s plenty to explore, including the ruins of a monastery and, notably, the French Fort Royal Castle. Visitors are free to roam the castle, from which you can gaze out at unobstructed views of the Adriatic Sea.

In the summer, visitors to Lokrum bring their swimsuits with them. Dead Lake might have an ominous sounding name, but this secluded swimming hole is ideal for a relaxing day of sunbathing and snorkeling.

Distance from Dubrovnik: 4 miles

Cavtat

Photo: xbrchx/Shutterstock

A half hour drive from Dubrovnik, daytrippers will find Cavtat, a charming small town flanked by the turquoise waters of a harbor called Luka Bay on one side, and a mountain range on the other.

Cavtat is the epitome of a quaint European town: Visitors can wander the narrow cobblestone streets and the seaside promenade, enjoying an ice cream or a coffee with no agenda at all. A paved, tree lined path that offers ocean views and fresh air follows the Rat Peninsula for people who want to stretch their legs.

However, if you’re someone who enjoys visiting historical monuments, Cavtat doesn’t disappoint in that department either: A renaissance mansion called Rectors Palace houses a 19th-century library, and the Račić Masoluem within Cavtat’s cemetery are frequently visited locations in the town.

Sunbathers and swimmers will be right at home in Cavtat. The beaches are pebbly, but the warm waters are crystal clear and turquoise. Bring your bathing suit because you won’t be able to resist taking a dip.

Distance from Dubrovnik: 18 miles

Korčula

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Nicknamed “Little Dubrovnik,” the buildings in the town of Korčula (on an island of the same name) are decorated with the same familiar red tiled rooftops. There are no cars allowed on the cobblestone streets of this medieval town, and far fewer tourists flooding the charming town.

THere’s plenty of history to experience on Korčula. Once part of Venetian empire, and according to local legend at least, the explorer Marco Polo was born there. The house where it was rumored to have been born is still standing. The Korčula Town Museum is a much better way to learn about the verifiable history of this ancient island.

The local culture of this island is well worth exploring: Known for olive oil, wine, and fresh fish caught in the Mediterranean seas, visitors should try all three before leaving the island. Performances of Moreska, one of Korčula’s oldest traditional forms of theater involving dancing with swords, take place in the Old Town, on a public stage.

If you’d rather immerse yourself in nature, there’s plenty of opportunity to do so: It’s possible to hike from one end of the island to the other. Some people might even enjoy a donkey tour, during which tourists can ride donkeys through the island’s vineyard.

Distance from Dubrovnik: 75 miles

Koločep

Photo: AC Rider/Shutterstock

Part of the Elafiti Islands, Koločep is a 30 minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik’s port, Gruz. The island is home to just 160 people, and there are just two villages on the entire island. THis where you want to head for a peaceful retreat away from all the crowds.

The sand and pebble beaches at Koločep are equipped with lounge chairs, and clear waters perfect for snorkeling and kayaking. The most popular of these beaches is Donje Čelo.

If you’re planning to go swimming in Koločep, don’t forget to visit the Blue Cave. A natural, sandy-bottom sea cave that turns blue thanks to reflection from the water below, the cave is only accessible by swimming or by boat – you can rent one on the island.

However, it’s better to come with no agenda to Koločep. Instead, spend your time wandering between the villages; the journey takes just a half an hour and you’ll pass secluded olive groves on the way.

Distance from Dubrovnik: 7 miles

Where do ferries go from Dubrovnik?

Ferries from Dubrovnik travel all over the Balkans. You can get a ferry from the mainland to the Elafiti Islands of Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan. There are also ferries to Korcula and Kolocep. There is even a ferry from Dubrovnik that will take you to Bari, Italy.

Can you island hop from Dubrovnik?

You can island hop from Dubrovnik. Ferries take tourists to nearly all the nearby islands. The Dubrovnik archipelago is easily accessible from the city’s ports, and island hopping is great way to get to know the culture of the Balkans.

What is there to do outside of Dubrovnik?

The best thing to do outside of Dubrovnik is to go island hopping. Visit Lokrum, the Elafiti Islands, and many other islands by ferry from Dubrovnik. You can also visit Mljet National Park. There is plenty of opportunity for outdoor adventure from hiking, snorkeling, kayaking. Try fresh fish, and locally pressed olive oil. Visitors to Croatia can take part in all these activities on day trips from Dubrovnik.

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How To Take Your Pup on a Luxury Getaway To the Riviera Maya

From butler service to in-room doggie dining and a poolside concierge, luxury resorts in Mexico are going above and beyond when it comes to pampering your pup these days. In the last few months, my Chihuahua-mix Poppy and I have spent weeks trawling the beach resorts along the Riviera Maya in search of the ultimate vacation catered to canines.

Although we found some hotels to be duds when it came to really digging dogs, we also found some places that Poppy gives four paws up to for the amenities and VIP (Very Important Pup) service.

Here’s everything you need to know to travel the Riviera Maya with your dog, from logistics to where to stay.

How to travel from the United States to Mexico with a small dog

Photo: Steph Vissani, Ocean Photo at Waldorf Astoria Cancun

Mexico is Poppy’s (and my own) favorite international travel destination for a mom-and-pup getaway. One of the big reasons why is how easy it is for American pets and pet parents to enter the country.

While nearly every international destination requires visiting pets to provide an international health certificate upon arrival (an endeavor that requires a visit to your vet within 10 days of departure, a signature from a second vet at the USDA and an expense of around $300), Mexico allows dogs from the US to enter with just a valid rabies vaccine.

You’ll need to bring the original, signed paperwork for the vaccine (don’t just show up with a rabies dog tag) to show to the agriculture inspector at customs upon arrival. Your pup will then be subjected to a very quick wellness exam where ears, teeth, and paws are inspected for fleas or signs of disease. This usually takes less than five minutes and is free. Once it’s done, you’ll be waved through the airport exit gate.

All in all, travel to Mexico is very easy for American dogs, so long as your pup is on the smaller side. Dogs need to be under 25 pounds and fit into an airline-approved carrier that can slide underneath the seat in front of you. Note that emotional support animals no longer qualify as service pets, so the size restrictions hold true unless your dog is a service animal that’s task trained to help you with a disability (and it is a felony in most states to lie).

You must alert the airline you will be traveling with a pet well before departure, and there’s a fee of around $200 each direction Since there are a limited number of designated seats for pets on each flight, you’ll want to tell your airline as soon as possible to ensure there’s space to accommodate you.

Mexican resorts also cater almost exclusively to small dogs, with most Riviera Maya properties requiring pups to weigh less than 20 pounds to stay. The four hotels listed here are no different.

Secrets Moxché

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The new adults-only, all-inclusive Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen Resort, about 10-minutes outside of Playa del Carmen’s bustling downtown, is where to book if you want your dog included on your honeymoon. The luxury resort is gorgeous, featuring some of the most Instagramable pools I’ve ever seen, from a deep blue cenote inspired waterhole, to a lagoon style zero-entry pool with and a sand beach, to an infinity pool that’s made for mermaid swim moves.

And there’s no need to leave the pup in the room while you head to the pool either. The pool concierge set up a chair for Poppy next to mine complete with a towel. We ordered drinks and a snack: mezcal and soda for me with a cheese quesadilla, a water for Pops and a side of beef. Her meal was delivered in a cardboard carryout box for sanitary reasons, but she didn’t care.

Secrets is an all-inclusive property, which means your Chihuahua can chow down on as much carnitas as she can swallow. For humans, the quality of the meals at the multiple a la carte restaurants (including a French restaurant, Mexican restaurant, and a restaurant with a wood-grill focus) was also excellent.

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I stayed in an ocean view junior suite on the Club Level, which also gave me access to premium services like a rooftop lounge with a restaurant and infinity pool. Poppy found her dog bed to be pretty comfy, although she still preferred nesting on the fluffy pillows with perfect thickness thanks to a pillow menu selection. Our favorite part of the room, however, was the balcony with views across the pools to the ocean. It had a shaded chaise-lounger and a soaking deep tub.

If you want to venture off property, Secrets can set up all sorts of activities (with or without your pup). To include your dog, have the concierge book a taxi to downtown Playa del Carmen. Stroll along the famed 5th Ave and you’ll find shops like Somos Perros (where profits benefit street dogs) that cater exclusively to furry friends.

Secrets Moxché: Carretera, Cancun – Chetumal KM 294, Corasol, 77714 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico

Waldorf Astoria Cancun

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We visited the Waldorf Astoria Cancun just two weeks after it opened in November 2022. The most luxurious brand in the Hilton portfolio, the Waldorf is extremely small dog-friendly and Poppy was treated like royalty for her entire stay.

Upon checking in to our deluxe ocean front king room, we discovered a handwritten welcome note, homemade treat amenity, size-appropriate toys, and the only dog bed that Poppy has ever loved – she forewent the human bed to spend hours on it. We decided to order room service for breakfast the next day and I was impressed with the dog menu’s variety. There were four options ranging from chicken nuggets to yellowfin tuna, beef and veggies to meatballs.

Photo: Steph Vissani, Ocean Photo at Waldorf Astoria Cancun

The Waldorf is a sophisticated resort with impeccable style. The lobby dazzles with the brand’s signature clock along with elegant lighting and a bold gold, silver, and blue color scheme. My room featured a furnished balcony that Poppy enjoyed sunbathing on along with a plunge pool that’s easily accessible from the shower via a glass sliding door.

Property amenities include two angular swimming pools and three jacuzzis along with more chairs on the resort’s narrow beachfront. Dogs are welcome to sit by the pools, they just can’t jump in. There are also three restaurants and a spa. Malpeque is the signature restaurant and serves a seafood focused menu. Chaya serves international and Mexican fare three meals a day. I especially loved the crab benedict with fresh meat (not a crab cake) at breakfast.

If the Waldorf is a little to posh for your liking, check out its sister property, the Hilton Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort on the same grounds. Opened in 2021, it is also dog-friendly and offers a more affordable stay. The food at the Hilton is very good for an all-inclusive and Poppy absolutely loved the carnitas tacos.

The rooms are also high quality, although the ones facing the sea are much nicer than the jungle view abodes. For romance, book a room with a swim-up balcony and sunset views or an ocean-front suite with panoramic views from a wrap-around balcony.

Waldorf Asotria Cancun: 1E, Carr Federal Libre 307 Cancun-Tulum, UPE 248-868, 77580 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

Hotel Xcaret Arte

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If your dog demands butler service, then you’ll want to book the Hotel Xcaret Arte, where guests (and their VIPs) are assigned a personal butler at check-in. An all-inclusive, adults-only resort, Hotel Xcaret Arte pays homage to Mexican artists throughout its 900 suites as well as its public spaces.

Hotel Xcaret Arte’s dog beds stand out even among dog-focused hotels. We were greeted with a small dog sized teepee inside of which was a comfy pillow bed and a toy. Poppy loved running into the teepee and kicking up the bed before laying on it.

Booking this resort offers free access to all the Grupo Xcaret theme parks. Some, like Xcaret, are kid-focused, but others, like Xel-Ha and Xplor, are more adult oriented with activities like snorkeling or floating down a river with stops for jumping off a 16-foot cliff or zip-lining that ends with a splash in the park’s inlet. All the parks have a serious focus on sustainability, which is another plus.

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It was easy to spend a day out at the parks and not have to worry about Poppy needing to go out or being bored thanks to the butler service. My butler team came and walked Poppy upon request as well as just spent some time with her in the room. Because I was in constant touch with the butlers via WhatsApp, and they sent pictures, I felt comfortable with the service.

Back at the hotel, there’s an amazing beach area with clear turquoise water. A lagoon area where you can take a kayak or SUP board out is accessible from the beach. Hotel Xcaret Arte also has 10 restaurants onsite with food from around the globe. The oversized swimming pool with a swim-up bar is another perk.

Hotel Xcaret Arte: Carretera Chetumal-Puerto Juárez, Km. 282 L21-3 Colonia Rancho Xcaret, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico

Nizuc Resort

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Located on a lovely stretch of white sand beach in Punta Nizuc, removed from the chaos of the Cancun hotel zone, Nizuc Resort & Spa is an award-winning, luxury property that is perfect for active woofers as well as people. The grounds are sprawling, which is great if your dog likes to walk, as the resort amenities, are quite far removed from the rooms. If your dog isn’t up for much walking, golf carts can ferry you back and forth.

Poppy loved the giant monogrammed biscuit that awaited her when we got to our room. And I loved the thoughtful service touches like a framed photo of Poppy and I that was printed from one of my social media accounts and placed on the bedside table. There is also a doggie room service menu here with three different meal selections.

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The room itself is enormous, with a bathroom that doubles as a changing area with space for suitcases and a large closet along with a rain shower and separate soaking tub. Rooms also feature ultrahigh ceilings and floor-to-ceiling sliding doors opening onto a large balcony with a plunge pool and two sun-loungers with thick cushions. Poppy adored hanging out here, taking a chair for herself, then protesting when I insisted it was time to explore.

She got over it fast, however, when we reached the beach. As a Chihuahua, swimming isn’t Poppy’s favorite sport, but she does like to dip her paws into the sea every so often. The beach at Nizuc is soft, white sand and the water is shallow, clear, warm, and, best of all, calm, making it a great place for small dogs to get over any water fears. We also took a kayak out, which Poppy really enjoyed. Afterwards she ran zoomies on the sand for an hour straight before passing out on an umbrella shaded beach chair for a well-deserved snoozle.

Nizuc Resort: Blvd. Kukulcan Mz 59 Lote 1-03 Km 21.26, Nizuc, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

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Troll’s Tongue Is Norway’s Most Dramatic Rock Formation – and You Can Hike To It

If you think the otherworldly rock formations of Vermilion Cliffs National Monument are impressive, wait until you get an eyeful of Trolltunga, AKA Troll’s Tongue, a spectacular jut of rock located in Norway.

The pointed rocky outcrop of Trolltunga protrudes from a cliff at an altitude of 2,300 feet above Ringedalsvatnet lake. Legend has it that the rock formation is the result of an overconfident troll who thought that unlike other trolls, the sunlight would not turn him into stone. Sticking out his tongue in defiance and mockery, the troll was petrified as soon as the sun rose above the magnificent landscape of this corner of Norway. The more scientific explanation is that Trolltunga is the result of glacial erosion that took place thousands of years ago.

While the views from the top are breathtaking and the photo opportunities are exceptional, getting to Trolltunga is not easy. There are three trails that lead to the rock formation, all of which are challenging as they involve steep climbs and slippery terrain. Even experienced hikers should come prepared with proper gear and clothing.

Trolltunga hike

The main trail to Trolltunga starts from the P2 parking lot in Skjeggedal. The round-trip hike from P2 is 16.7 miles and takes between eight and 12 hours. The hike from P3 Mågelitopp (upper parking lot) is 12.4 miles and takes between seven to 10 hours. The hike from P1 in Tyssedal is the most difficult; it is 23.6-mile-long and takes around 15 hours.

If the parking lot from which you want to start is full, you can park at one of the other two and get a shuttle bus to the trailhead you prefer. There is also a shuttle bus from the nearby town of Odda where many hikers stay before and after the hike.

No matter what trail you choose to get to Trolltunga, know that between October 1 and May 31, you can only hike under the supervision of a guide. Between June 1 and September 30, it is highly recommended to hire a guide, especially for beginner hikers. Skilled and experienced hikers may go on their own if they wish to do so.

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This Floating Bar in the Turquoise Waters Near Fiji Is Only Accessible by Boat or Jet Ski

Maybe this bar in Fiji is called Cloud 9 because it’s as close as the people who visit will ever get to heaven on Earth. No matter the meaning behind its name, Cloud 9 bar is well worth a visit: It floats in the middle of the ocean in Fiji , and offers a luxurious experience in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

The Cloud 9 bar in Fiji is a bar that floats in the middle of the crystal clear, turquoise waters that Fiji is known for. The bar is two levels, offers a fully stocked bar, and serves pizza. The bar sometimes hosts a DJ, so expect a party atmosphere. Given the location and space, it might not be rowdy but probably won’t be totally low key either.

Cloud 9 also offers 30 and 60 minute jet ski and island tours, which take people to the secluded tropical islands around Roro Reef, including the uninhabited Modriki Island. You can also book a parasailing tour in advance.

Guests are permitted to jump off the bar into the turquoise waters below, so swimming off Cloud 9 is encouraged. You can also rent snorkeling gear for $15.

If you’re hoping to simply relax while sipping a tropical cocktail, the bar is outfitted with comfortable deck chairs and chaise lounges where guests can take in the turquoise waters and endless horizon.

Where is Cloud 9 bar

The Cloud 9 bar is on a secluded stretch of ocean surrounded by small islands and coral reefs. The exact location is the Vanua Malolo waters on Ro Ro Reef. The island to bar is Denarau, and it’s probably easiest to get to Cloud 9 from there unless you’re staying at a nearby resort.

How to get to Cloud 9 bar

The bar is about a 45 minute boat ride from Port Denarau, one of the most bustling tourist hubs in Fiji. The bar recommends booking one of the official transport boats from the port directly to the bar. These ferries depart at 9 am and 1 pm, and return to the port at 2pm and 6pm, your group could easily spend the day at Cloud 9.

If you’re staying at one of the resorts, including Funky Fish resort and Malolo Island Resort, you can take a 10 minute speedboat ride out to the bar. Guests are also welcome to arrive by jet ski or sea plane.

There is no entry fee, and the bar does not take cash.

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Stop for This Legendary Burger Inside an Authentic Wild West-Style Saloon

On a lonely stretch of Highway 50, in the middle of desert, there is a shack on the side of the road that serves a dish that has become legendary: It’s the Middlegate Station monster burger.

Middlegate Station is located along a desolate stretch of desert road on Highway 50, known as America’s “Loneliest Road.” And this isn’t an exploration: Around 17 people live in the town of Middlegate. The building has an interesting history, too: According to Travel Nevada, Middlegate Station was erected in 1806 as a stop along the Pony Express (a short lived mail delivery service).

The Middlegate Station bar and restaurant is what people in Nevada call a Sagebrush Saloon, a historic bar usually on a dirt road that harkens back the history of America’s Wild West. Outfitted in 19th century wooden planks, Middlegate Station is one of the places that Americans seeking their fortune in the country’s early days might have passed through.

The Bureau of Land Management eventually purchased the building, and restored it into the motel and restaurant it is today. There’s also spaces for RVs and a nearby campground. These days, the restaurant is known for its monster burger – a culinary creation so big, most people can’t even get their entire mouth around it.

A pound of ground beef split into two patties is topped with piles of lettuce, tomato, and onion, then stacked on sourdough buns bigger than the average adult’s open palm. The massive burger is then topped with two onion rings held up by toothpicks with olives in the middle to give it a set of bulging eyes. Remember, this is the monster burger.

The Middlegate Station monster burger is large enough that even picking it up is a challenge, but if you can finish the whole thing, you get a t-shirt in return. So if you need to refuel on a Nevada road trip, or you want a peek into what a saloon from Old West might have looked like, add Middlegate Station to your itinerary.

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Dive Into the Turquoise Waters of Flinders Rock Pools, Just Outside Melbourne

Flinders is a small, charming seaside fishing village, where tourists gather to explore the tide pools and swim and snorkel at Ocean Beach. Located on the Bass Strait coastline, Flinders is a haven for marine life. Tucked away in this area, a short drive from Melbourne, are a series of secluded natural ocean pools that resemble tropical swimming holes, called the Flinders rock pools.

What to do in Flinders, Australia

The town of Flinders is about an hour and a half from Melbourne by car, and is home to two marine national parks, Mushroom Reef Marine Sanctuary (a rocky beach with tide pools and a reef where families can explore and observe marine life including anemones and sea stars) and Mornington Peninsula National Park.

Photo: FiledIMAGE/Shutterstock

Snorkeling, sailing, and catching the squid which are abundant near the beach are favorite activities at Flinders Pier, in town.

For adventurers looking for a short hike and spectacular views, Flinders Blowhole is another natural phenomenon in the area. A wooden boardwalk leads down to the turquoise waters of a cove surrounded by cliffs and a rocky beach. Water doesn’t spout out of the blowhoe, despite the name, but powerful waves crash against the exposed cliff sides, spraying jets of water into the air.

Photo: FiledIMAGE/Shutterstock

Nestled among the cliffs at Cape Schanck, just a short walk from Ocean Beach, to get there, head to Blowhole Track on Borneo Road. There’s a car park where the views are enjoyable, but a wooden boardwalk leads down the beach and cliffs for an even better look at the ocean; some people even climb up to the top of Elephant Rock to feel the full force of ocean. Just wear a waterproof jacket as you’re likely to feel the ocean spray.

What are the Flinders rock pools?

It might sound cliche, but the Flinders rock pools really are a hidden gem – the pools not well known by anybody but locals and concealed within an unmarked landscape of grassy hill sides. But once you find the path down the rock pools, the journey is well worth it.

The Flinders rock pools are naturally formed swimming holes situated among the rocky beach. The waters are so turquoise and clear they look almost tropical. The pools are protected by natural rock walls which keep the rough waves from harming swimmers. The result are peaceful naturally formed pools of sun-exposed water with unobstructed views of the ocean just beyond the rocks.

The best time to swim is at low tide, otherwise the whole beach is submerged under water.

Where are the Flinders rock pools?

People who have been to the rock pools before say to drive down Borneo Road, you’ll run into a small parking area between Punchbowl Road and Keys Road. This where you will start your journey to the rock pools. If you’re having trouble finding it, try inputting Cairns Bay Walk into your GPS. The drive is about a half hour from Flinders.

Once you park, look for the sign that reads “Walking Track – Cairns Bay,” which will point you in the direction of the paths which will eventually lead you down to the beach. There is no sign announcing that you have arrived at the rock pools, but there is a  wooden staircase leading down to the beach. You can traverse the rocks below or take narrow dirt paths through the beach.

Because the rock pools are such an isolated stretch of road that isn’t clearly marked, the beach is secluded and quiet and free from crowds. Resist showing off your adventure to friends or social media, to preserve the peaceful nature of this swimming spot.

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Why the Albuquerque Balloon Festival Needs To Be on Your 2022 Travel List

The Albuquerque Balloon Festival is one of the most unique and memorable travel experiences for any outdoor enthusiast. This annual event draws thousands of visitors from around the world who come to witness the colorful hot air balloons fill the sky with color. Whether you are looking to enjoy an exciting adventure or just relax and take in the sights, a trip to Albuquerque is sure to be full of wonder and beauty.

Planning your Albuquerque balloon festival experience can be overwhelming, but there are several key elements that must be considered when creating your itinerary. First, you will need to decide what type of transport you would like to use for getting around Albuquerque during your stay. Many travelers opt for car rentals as it gives them more freedom over their schedule and lets them explore the city at their own pace. However, if you prefer to take public transportation there are several bus and train options available.

Next, make sure to book your Albuquerque hotel room in advance as availability can be limited during the peak times of the year when the Albuquerque Balloon Festival takes place. Many hotels also provide discounts for booking early so it is important to plan ahead for this as well. Finally, research restaurant options that are near your accommodation as Albuquerque has some wonderful eateries that offer a variety of delicious dishes.

By taking into account these key elements, you will be able to craft an Albuquerque balloon festival experience that suits your needs and budget. With careful planning and preparation, you will be able to enjoy the beautiful sights and sounds of Albuquerque and the Albuquerque Balloon Festival.

When is the Albuquerque Balloon Festival?

The Albuquerque Balloon Festival takes place every October and draws thousands of visitors from around the world. The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Park is open to the public for free during this time, so it is an ideal time to visit Albuquerque and experience the breathtaking hot air balloons fill the sky. Moreover, Albuquerque’s mild temperatures make it a great location for hot air balloon flights year-round.

What else should I know about visiting Albuquerque?

In addition to its magical Albuquerque Balloon Festival, Albuquerque has much more to offer travelers looking for adventure or relaxation. Explore Albuquerque’s unique history in Old Town or take a stroll on the River Trail system along the scenic Rio Grande. Be sure to visit some of Albuquerque’s renowned museums such as the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History. Albuquerque also has a wide variety of outdoor activities, from biking and hiking to golfing and rafting.

No matter what type of experience you are looking for, Albuquerque is an amazing destination that has something for everyone. Create unforgettable memories with your Albuquerque Balloon Festival trip by planning ahead and making the most out of your time in Albuquerque.

Where to stay for the Albuquerque Balloon Festival

We hope you love the Albuquerque hotels we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Hotels in Albuquerque can be hard to come by during the Albuquerque Balloon Festival, so it is important to book your accommodations well in advance. Albuquerque offers a wide selection of hotels from luxury resorts and chain hotels to budget-friendly motels. Be sure to check out Albuquerque’s many Bed & Breakfasts for an even more unique experience.

For those looking for convenience and affordability, staying at one of Albuquerque’s campgrounds or RV parks is also an excellent option. Regardless of what type of accommodation you choose, Albuquerque has something that fits any traveler’s needs and budget. With careful planning and research, you will be sure to have a fantastic Albuquerque Balloon Festival experience!

Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town

Photo: Booking.com

Those looking for a luxurious Albuquerque hotel should consider Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town. This four-star, award-winning Albuquerque hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Albuquerque’s Old Town district and provides guests with modern amenities and exquisite service. Enjoy some of Albuquerque’s best restaurants right outside the door or take a leisurely stroll around Albuquerque’s oldest neighborhood. The hotel also offers two outdoor heated pools, free breakfast, fitness center access, and more so you can relax after a day at the Albuquerque Balloon Festival!

When planning your Albuquerque Balloon Festival trip stay at Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town for an unforgettable experience. With its great location, excellent amenities and friendly staff, you will be sure to have an amazing time during your stay.

Price: From $129 per night

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Albuquerque Sheraton Uptown

Photo: Booking.com

For those looking for a more upscale Albuquerque hotel, the Albuquerque Sheraton Uptown is an excellent choice. Located just 15 minutes from downtown Albuquerque, this four-star Albuquerque hotel offers guests plush accommodations and great amenities such as an outdoor pool, fitness center, and free high-speed internet access. Enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet in the morning or simply relax in your spacious room with spectacular views of Albuquerque’s skyline.

Head to the Albuquerque Sheraton Uptown for your Albuquerque Balloon Festival trip for a luxurious experience that you won’t soon forget! With its convenient location and superior service, you will be sure to have an amazing time during your stay at this Albuquerque hotel.

Price: From $119 per night

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Hilton Garden Inn lbuquerque Airport

Photo: Booking.com

If you are flying into Albuquerque for the Albuquerque Balloon Festival, the Hilton Garden Inn Albuquerque Airport is an ideal hotel to stay at. Located just up the road from Albuquerque International Sunport, this four-star Albuquerque hotel offers guests contemporary accommodations and excellent amenities such as a fitness center, outdoor pool and complimentary shuttle service to nearby attractions. With its convenient location and great value, the Hilton Albuquerque Airport is perfect for anyone looking for a comfortable and affordable place to stay during their trip to Albuquerque.

Enjoy all of the sights and sounds of Albuquerque with the convenience of staying close to Albuquerque International Sunport when booking your stay at the Hilton Albuquerque Airport. Whether you’re in town for business or pleasure, you will be sure to have an enjoyable time.

Price: From $99 per night

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This Climbing Wall Is the Tallest in the World – and You Can Sleep on It

Climbing is not a sport for the faint-hearted, but climbing this particular wall is for the daredevils only. Excalibur, as the wall is known, is a freestanding outdoor climbing wall located in the city of Groningen in the Netherlands — and it’s the tallest of its kind in the world.

At just over 121 feet high, including 36 feet of overhang, this freestanding outdoor climbing wall is meant for experienced, independent climbers who are accompanied by someone of similar skills. Excalibur is part of Bjoeks, a climbing gym that caters to all levels, so you can practise your skills inside on the easier walls and then upgrade to Excalibur when you’re ready (give it a few months, or years.) Bjoeks offers courses, including a basic course in belaying and climbing for the novice climbers who wish to climb on their own in the future.

Bjoeks is open every day from 9 AM to 11 PM, giving climbers ample time to enjoy the record-breaking climbing wall, but it is also very accommodating for those who come from far away and want to test their abilities on the tallest freestanding outdoor climbing wall for more than one day. It lets climbers pitch their tent under Excalibur for the night for free. Even better, climbers can hang from Excalibur in their portaledge for one of the strangest vertical camping experience out there.

While Excalibur is the tallest freestanding climbing wall in the world, it has some rivals. The CopenHill power plant, in Copenhagen, Denmark, has fitted one of its exterior walls with a freakish, 279-foot-tall outdoor climbing wall, the tallest of its kind (not freestanding).

The Shanghai New World City Shopping mall in China has the world record for the tallest indoor artificial climbing wall at 168 feet high. It took the record away from Abu Dhabi’s The Summyt which measures 138 feet in height.

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How To Experience Tana Glacier, One of Alaska’s Most Spectacular Natural Wonders

Alaska is one of the few places left in the United States where the wilderness has been mostly left unsoiled by a human footprint. However, that means in these rugged landscapes, hiking and camping are best left to the experts. If you’re on of those experienced hikers, a trip to Tana Glacier in Alaska’s Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, where you walk directly on the glacier is a difficult but worthwhile excursion.

The closest town to Tana Glacier is McCarthy, Alaska, about 50 miles away. The best time to visit Alaska’s Tana Glacier is from Ju​ly to early September.

Hiking to Tana Glacier, and exploring the surrounding wilderness, might necessitate at least a 5 day trip. Only outdoors people who are experienced in hiking and camping in the backcountry should attempt the trip. Any potential visitors might also need experience in glacier camping, and should at least familiarize themselves with the appropriate gear, including an insulated sleeping pad, waterproof pants, and a down jacket.

When it comes time to actually hike on the glacier, crampons, which attach hiking boots for better traction, are a necessity. A trekking pole might also come in handy. One of the most challenging aspects of glacier hiking is navigating moraine – soil and rock left in the wake of a moving glacier. This unsteady ground makes for arduous hiking.

A hike to Tana Glacier might take you past Thompson Ridge and Juniper Island, the latter of which is situated between the point where Tana Glacier and Jeffries Glacier meet. There are all kinds of geological formations to be explored on the glacier, including canyons, valleys, and Iceberg Lake.

The terrain of Tana Glacier is a mixture of ice and snow, rock, and even patches of grass where wildflowers and other vegetation grow. Sometimes, streams of water flow over the crystal blue, almost transparent, ice of the glacier.

A hike across Tana Glacier is definitely not a day trip, and not a trip inexperienced hikers should try. However, if you are prepared to spend a week in the backcountry, camping and hiking in sometimes inhospitable conditions, this adventure is one that will stay with you forever.

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How To Experience Türkiye’s Otherworldly Pamukkale Hot Springs

In Türkiye, the town of Pamukkale is known as the Cotton Castle, thanks to the area’s natural travertine (a type of limestone) rock formations that decorate the mountains. Natural hot springs have formed within these travertine terraces, where tourists flock to bathe in the mineral rich waters.

Located just below the ancient Greek city of Hierapolis, where temple ruins still stand today at a UNESCO World Heritage protected archaeological site. Hierapolis and Pamukkale have been well known for thermal pools since at least the 2nd century B.C., and people looking for healing and relaxation have been gathering here for thousands of years.

Today, the cloudy aquamarine waters of the hot springs, which take their unusual hue from the calcium that dissolves into the water as it bubbles up from the ground, are still attracting tourists. The government of Türkiye has limited where tourists are allowed to venture to protect the integrity of terraces, but there are still a series of shallow pools where visitors can bath and take photos.

The water in the pools is shallow enough that they are safe for kids, and most bathers simply soak rather than swim. The bottom of the hot springs are covered in a chalky mud that some people like to spread on their skin, as a kind of mineral rich skin treatment.

Shoes are strictly forbidden on the terraces, so be prepared to carry them with you if you decide to explore the pools.

How to get to Pamukkale hot springs

There are two entrances into the Pamukkale terraces: One at the top of the mountain, near Hierapolis. This is the most commonly used entrance for tourists, where you can buy tickets to enter the hot springs and the Hierapolis ruins. There are also cafes where you can stop for refreshments at the top of the mountain.

There’s also another entrance at the bottom. If you’re starting from the bottom of the mountain in Pamukkale, you can hike up to the ruins of Hierapolis and pass the hot springs along the way.. The hike up the mountain is long and hot, according to people who have visited before, so be sure to pack water and sunscreen.

Pamukkale is a 25 minutes bus ride from the town of Denizli, and there are small, budget-friendly hotels in Pamukkale if you wish to stay overnight. Cleopatra’s Pool, another iconic hot spring is located in Pamukkale, so it might be worth taking a day trip to experience both.

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