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New Data Show the Best Countries in the World To Work Remote

Remote work used to be a luxury for the lucky few. People would grind for years in a job for the privilege of being trusted with a remote, work-from-anywhere position. Telling your friends you “WFH” was a brag-worthy, enviable perk. Not to take the shine off working from home in the US, but nowadays, it is as common as a positive COVID test. Partly thanks to lingering COVID-19-era work policies, and partly due to employers’ developing conception of work-life balance, and new digital nomad visa schemes, working outside the office has become the norm rather than the exception. That evolution means workers are now faced with unprecedented freedom — the freedom to travel more frequently, and perhaps take the opportunity to remote work abroad.

Compared to simply choosing a leisure vacation destination, people traveling for remote work have a whole unique set of criteria to consider. That includes the country’s COVID-19 response and public health situation, economic and social conditions, digital and physical infrastructure, and cybersecurity. Using the metrics, NordLayer created a Global Remote Work Index ranking the top five countries for remote workers. It’s worth noting that European countries make up eight of the top 10 destinations, though Singapore, South Korea, Canada, and Japan put up stiff competition. 

Germany

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Expat life in Germany comes in top in the remote work rankings, scoring highly across all four categories. This is partly thanks to its high cybersecurity score (#3) and strong economic and social conditions. Despite its many benefits as a remote work destination, it’s worth keeping in mind that Germany is still rather expensive, ranking #43 overall in cost of living. This means that budget-conscious remote workers may want to forego Germany for a cheaper destination.

Denmark

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The Scandinavian countries are famous for their work-life balance and general quality of life, but equally notorious for their high cost of living. Denmark ranks highly in its COVID-19 handling and digital and physical infrastructure, though the expense of living there may deter many travelers. In exchange for the high cost, however, you can expect to live in a safe country with great digital resources and superior health coverage. 

The United States

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Good news (or maybe bad news) for those of you living in the US. You’re already in one of the world’s top remote work destinations. Though third on the overall list, the US comes first in its handling of COVID-19 (though many would likely dispute that), making it attractive for health-conscious travelers. It also scored high regarding economic and social conditions, even if it’s only #19 on the list for cybersecurity. Cost of living is another benefit of remote working in the US. While it may seem high, it’s actually quite affordable for a highly sought-after destination. 

Spain

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While Spain ranks reasonably well in cybersecurity, economic and social conditions, and COVID-19 response, it falls somewhat behind when it comes to digital and physical infrastructure, ranked at #19. They also came in fairly low for internet quality and affordability. So while Spain certainly isn’t on the forefront of the digital revolution, its low cost of living — especially compared to Germany and Denmark — will make it desirable to many remote workers.

Lithuania

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You might not think of Lithuania as one of the best places in the world for safe internet access, but the Baltic nation came in #2 in cybersecurity. While economic and social conditions are rather low (#33), and internet quality leaves something to be desired, the internet is extremely affordable here, which might make up for some of the country’s drawbacks. Perhaps most attractive, Lithuania’s cost of living is much lower than many other countries on the list, making it a stand-out destination for remote workers.
 

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Underrated UNESCO heritage sites

You’ve heard of the Vatican, Athens, and Iguazú. Heck, you’ve probably been there. These attractions draw huge numbers of tourists each year, thanks in part to the UNESCO statuses they’ve earned for their cultural significance, natural beauty, or both. What you may not know is that there are over 1,000 UNESCO World Heritage sites around the world — and some of them come with surprisingly thin crowds.

The fact that certain UNESCO World Heritage sites have remained relatively crowd-free is not indicative of their significance or beauty. Factors like ease of access and guidebook hype can affect how popular a site becomes. But if you’re willing to travel a bit deeper, you can check out these 13 amazing and underrated UNESCO sites from Spain to Seychelles — and have the place nearly to yourself.

1. Aldabra Atoll, Seychelles

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Inscription date: 1982Why it’s underrated: Aldabra’s extreme isolation has historically kept humans from settling there, let alone popping over for a visit. Tourism remains limited and regulated through the Seychelles Islands Foundation (SIF). But you can visit, provided you get permission from the SIF, arrange your own transport, and secure accommodation aboard whatever vessel you charter to get there.When to go: April-May, October-NovemberWhat not to miss: Only select zones on the western and northern edges of the atoll are open to visitors. It’s possible to see giant tortoises in the wild in these zones — as well as a Grand Poche frigatebird colony — but there are also two giant tortoises at the atoll’s research station that visitors can approach more closely.

When it comes to African islands in the Indian Ocean, Madagascar gets a lot of attention for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife — DreamWorks even made a movie about it. But just north, roughly 600 miles southwest of the main Seychelles group in the archipelago’s Outer Islands, sits a group of four islands that make up the Aldabra Atoll, one of the largest coral atolls and least disturbed ecosystems on the planet.

Between coastal beaches, coral reefs, mangrove mudflats, scrub forests, and seagrass beds, Aldabra hosts a wide range of habitats that create a breeding ground for incredible biodiversity. But what’s most impressive is the fact that over 400 of the atoll’s species are endemic. Arguably, the most notable species is the Aldabra Giant Tortoise, whose 100,000-plus population is the largest giant tortoise population on Earth.

2. Antequera Dolmens Site, Spain

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Inscription date: 2016Why it’s underrated: Because of their recent inscription, the Antequera Dolmens in southern Andalusia are still largely unknown as a UNESCO World Heritage site to the many visitors who flock to the Alhambra of Granada or the Alcazar of Seville.When to go: April-May, September-OctoberWhat not to miss: The Menga Dolmen is one of the largest and heaviest megaliths in Europe. Calculated to weigh roughly 200 tons, it’s approximately seven times heavier than the largest megalith at Stonehenge, which is estimated to weigh about 30 tons.

Built during the Neolithic and Bronze Ages, the Antequera Dolmens are a set of three megalithic tombs — the Menga and Viera Dolmens and the Tholos of El Romeral — that collectively represent one of the most remarkable examples of European Megalithism and prehistory. They’re hidden beneath the southern Andalusian landscape roughly 45 minutes north of Málaga, Spain, but there are two natural landmarks within the UNESCO site that let you know you’re close: La Peña de los Enamorados and El Torcal. In fact, the Menga Dolmen is the only dolmen on the European continent that points toward an anthropomorphic mountain — in this case, La Peña de los Enamorados, or the “the Rock of Lovers.”

Influenced by two ancient Iberian architectural traditions, the dolmens were built to host rituals and funeral practices. Their existence helps identify a time in history when Western Europeans began constructing large ceremonial monuments. The sheer size and number of stones used to create this archaeological marvel alone make it worthy of a UNESCO inscription — it makes Stonehenge look like toy in comparison.

3. Historic Centre of Bukhara, Uzbekistan

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Inscription date: 1993Why it’s underrated: The tiled architecture of Bukhara’s mosques, madrasas, and minarets are as elaborate and intricate as anything you’d recognize from Morocco or Iran.When to go: April-June, September-NovemberWhat not to miss: About 20 minutes west of Bukhara, the Chor-Bakr memorial complex is another striking Uzbek historical site that’s been awaiting UNESCO status since 2008.

Maybe travelers miss this ancient hub of Islamic culture because of Uzbekistan’s proximity to Middle Eastern nations shown in the news for ongoing conflicts — or maybe they just can’t find it on a map. But you’ve definitely heard of the city’s most famous visitor: Marco Polo. The Italian merchant and his family set up shop here for three years due to its location along the Silk Road, which made the city an important cultural and economic hub for centuries.

While the beautiful brick Poi-Kalyan minaret, the Magoki Attori mosque, and the famous Ismail Samani tomb are highlights of 10th- and 11th-century Muslim architecture, it’s the entire urban center as a whole, one of the most complete examples of a well-planned and -preserved ancient Central Asian town, that stands out.

4. Huascarán National Park, Peru

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Inscription date: 1985Why it’s underrated: At over 22,000 feet, the national park’s namesake mountain, Huascarán, reaches the tallest point in Peru and the fourth-tallest point in South America.When to go: April-SeptemberWhat not to miss: Between peaks, the park is dotted with brilliantly blue lakes and lagoons, notably Lake Llanganuco and Laguna 69.

Once you’ve done your obligatory visit to Machu Picchu, head northwest to the striking landscape of Peru’s Cordillera Blanca, the world’s highest tropical mountain range. Here, you’ll find over 100 glacial lakes, pockets of varying vegetation, and tropical glaciers set among snow-covered mountains — specifically, the national park’s centerpiece is a cluster of 27 sky-high peaks, including Huascarán itself. The spectacled bear and Andean condor call this breathtaking UNESCO site home. With natural beauty like this, you’ll wish you could, too.

5. Kakadu National Park, Australia

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Inscription date: 1981 (extended 1987 and 1992)Why it’s underrated: It’s almost as big as New Jersey.When to go: May-OctoberWhat not to miss: Kakadu is full of natural swimming holes and waterfalls. Among the most impressive are Jim Jim Falls, the largest in the park; Gunlom Falls, a natural infinity pool; and Motor Car Falls, which is less likely to come with a big crowd of swimmers.

The Great Barrier Reef might overshadow Australia’s Kakadu National park in popularity — but not in size. At roughly 7,700 square miles, Kakadu is the continent’s largest national park, and it hosts a range of unique ecosystems, including mangroves, floodplains, and monsoon forests. The list of wildlife that calls the park home is long. It includes some 10,000 crocodiles, which is roughly one-tenth of all the crocodiles in Australia’s Northern Territory, and around 280 bird species, which is roughly one-third of all the bird species in Australia.

Cave paintings and rock carvings from the area’s original owners, the Bininj and Mungguy people, have also been well preserved within the park. The oldest can be traced as far back as 20,000 years. Members of these Indigenous groups have inhabited the region consistently for over 50,000 years. To this day, they carry on the hunting-and-gathering traditions that began in the Pleistocene Era while also helping to manage the park in tandem with Parks Australia.

6. Kluane/Wrangell-St Elias/Glacier Bay/Tatshenshini-Alsek National Parks, US and Canada

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Inscription date: 1979 (extended 1992 and 1994)Why it’s underrated: You can knock off four national parks at once.When to go: June-AugustWhat not to miss: Mount Logan, the tallest peak in Canada and the second-tallest peak in North America, sits in Kluane National Park.

If you want to see the world’s largest non-polar icefield backed by towering, snow-capped mountains, you won’t be heading to Yosemite, Yellowstone, or Banff. Instead, trek to this underrated UNESCO site comprised of four impressive national parks along the US-Canada border between the Yukon Territory, British Columbia, and Alaska. It’s one of the last places on Earth where natural evolutionary and environmental changes still control ecological processes. Populations of animals that are endangered elsewhere, like grizzly bears and Dall sheep, self-regulate and thrive in this untainted environment.

7. Historic Center of Morelia, Mexico

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Inscription date: 1991Why it’s underrated: The capital of Mexico’s Michoacán state, Morelia has a food culture to rival Oaxaca’s — so much so that Michoacán’s traditional eats earned their own UNESCO designation on the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.When to go: January-AprilWhat not to miss: Of the many mouthwatering foods you’ll find in Morelia, the city is most famous for producing sweets. In the historic center, check out the Museo de Dulce (Candy Museum) and Mercado de Dulces (Candy Market) to see — and taste — for yourself.

At the foot of the Sierra Madre Occidental range sits Morelia, a 16th-century city center that showcases a combination of Spanish Renaissance and Mesoamerican experiences. It was also one of the major centers where forces clashed during the nation’s battle for independence in the 19th century. There are over 200 historical monuments and buildings in Morelia’s historic core — including a whopping 21 churches — all constructed from the region’s characteristic pink stone. This architectural mastery makes it an underrated UNESCO site that’s a must-see for travelers visiting Mexico.

8. Wuyishan, Fujian, China

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Inscription date: 1999Why it’s underrated: Mount Wuyi, at the heart of the Wuyishan range, plays host to a sizeable and mostly intact rainforest that exemplifies the ecological variety found within the Chinese Subtropical Forest and South Chinese Rainforest better than anywhere else in the country.When to go: September-NovemberWhat not to miss: Wuyishan is the birthplace of Oolong tea, and you can see six mother trees of one of the most famous types of Oolong, Da Hong Pao, in the Da Hong Pao scenic area. After, stop by a local Wuyi teahouse to get some as a souvenir.

Mount Wuyi gives visitors a look at both the biodiversity and history of China in one package. Temples and monasteries where neo-Confucianism blossomed line the epic gorges of the Nine Bend River, and Han dynasty rulers established a prominent administrative capital in the first century BCE where an archeological site now stands.

Located in the southeast province of Fujian, the area surrounding Wuyishan serves as a refuge for ancient wildlife — notably reptiles, amphibians, insects, and plants — many of which are only found in their native China. While many travelers only see the Great Wall, the cultural and ecological significance of the Wuyishan make it worth the visit.

9. Bahla Fort, Oman

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Date of Inscription: 1987Why it’s underrated: Though the Nizwa Fort is one of Oman’s most popular tourist attractions, the Bahla Fort is just 30 minutes away and the only fort in Oman with a UNESCO designation.When to go: October-MarchWhat not to miss: Surrounding the fort are mud-brick houses arranged around afalaj irrigation channels, an ancient infrastructural system that inspired its very own UNESCO designation.

Like much of Omani history, the accomplishments of the Banu Nebhan tribe that ruled central Oman between the 12th and 15th centuries, due in large part to a prosperous frankincense trade, remains unknown to many. Bahla, the historical capital of the Banu Nebhan, and its namesake fort are testimonies to the tribe’s prosperity.

To start, the fort is large — approximately eight square miles. And its engineering is impressive, from defensive structures such as castellated parapets to the afalaj watering system that ensured both farming and daily life were sustainable. Just outside of the fort’s boundaries, the Friday Mosque and remains of a semi-enclosed souq also testify to how significant, and successful, Bahla was for the Banu Nebhan people.

10. Gulf of Porto, Corsica, France

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Date of Inscription: 1983Why it’s underrated: Not everyone who visits Corsica realizes they can visit a UNESCO World Heritage site just by driving the coast.When to go: May-SeptemberWhat not to miss: Tucked beneath the Calanques de Piana, Plage de Ficajola is a beautiful and secluded beach with red pebbles, deep blue water, and views of passing yachts.

The French island of Corsica spans 3,368 square miles, making it the fourth-largest island in the Mediterranean. Approximately 1,351 of those square miles — some 40 percent of the island — belong to the Regional Natural Park of Corsica. And roughly 45 square miles of that make up this UNESCO-listed gulf on the island’s west side, which includes the Calanche of Piana, Gulf of Girolata, and Scandola Nature Reserve.

The composition of both the land and sea that comprise the gulf helped land it on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. Terrestrially, evergreen shrubs and other vegetation are an excellent example of maquis scrubland, a biome that’s unique to the Mediterranean. Under the water, whose remarkable clarity is also worth recgonizing, myriad types of algae represent just some of the area’s spectacular marine life. Together, these conditions make the Gulf of Porto an important habitat for seabirds, such as seagulls, ospreys, cormorants, and sea eagles.

11. Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve, Madagascar

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Date of Inscription: 1990Why it’s underrated: There’s a “forest” of limestone pinnacles — and it’s as wild as it sounds.When to go: April-OctoberWhat not to miss: Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve is split between Big Tsingy and Little Tsingy. If you only have time for one, make it Big Tsingy. But be warned, walking tours of Big Tsingy are challenging — think harnesses, carabiners, and dizzying heights. One of the biggest payoffs? All the lemurs you’ll pass along the way.

Limestone is type of sedimentary rock that’s incredibly common and relatively unremarkable. But the formations they’ve made in Tsingy de Bemaraha is anything but ordinary — clusters of jagged, pointy spires that can reach heights of over 300 feet create a landscape akin to horizontal cliffs at this nature reserve in west-central Madagascar.

But that’s just some of what the landscape has in store. Within Tsingy, there’s also deciduous forests, savannas, mangrove swamps, lakes, rolling hills, and the Manambolo River that cuts through it. Several species that live in the park are only found locally — so many, in fact, that Tsingy is considered a “center for endemisim” — but lemurs and rare bird species are the highlights for wildlife lovers.

12. Hanseatic Town of Visby, Sweden

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Inscription date: 1995Why it’s underrated: Visby is located on the largest island in the Baltic Sea, roughly 150 miles from Stockholm if you were to travel straight down, where Viking history meets natural beauty.When to go: June-SeptemberWhat not to miss: After touring Visby’s two-mile city wall, its dozen-plus churches and church ruins, and the Gotland museum, find someplace to refuel with a plate of saffron pancakes. It should be easy — along with Gotland truffles, they’re a local delicacy.

Visby is the capital of Gotland, Sweden’s largest island. It was settled by Vikings during the Viking Age — go figure — and by the 12th century had become an important trading hub in the Baltic Sea. Its tenure as a trading hub lasted roughly until the 14th century, bringing with it the development of around 200 warehouses and merchant quarters.

To this day, Visby is better preserved than any other walled, medieval, commercial city in Northern Europe. It’s still a fully functioning town, but its heritage remains at the forefront of daily life. To see this underrated UNESCO site in its full glory, visit during the summertime Medieval Week, Sweden’s largest historical festival.

13. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

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Date of Inscription: 1978Why it’s underrated: Several US national parks are inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage sites, but Mesa Verde is the only one listed solely for its cultural significance.When to go: May-June, September-OctoberWhat not to miss: The 2.4-mile Petroglyph Point loop trail is the only trail in Mesa Verde National Park that showcases prehistoric rock carvings, alongside excellent views of the Spruce and Navajo Canyons.

Mesa Verde National Park is set in a scenic plateau in southwest Colorado, but it’s not the vistas that attract visitors — it’s the network of Pueblo Indian dwellings constructed between the sixth and 12th centuries around which the park’s boundaries were drawn.

In total, there are around 4,400 archaeological dwellings within the park. The most eye-catching were erected inside natural alcoves within cliff faces, though ancient villages were also built atop the mesa. And they’re no small settlements. The largest of Mesa Verde’s cliff dwellings — which total around 600 — contain as many as 200 different rooms. Among the most famous sites are the Cliff Palace, Balcony House, and Square Tower House. In addition to housing, these sites served multiple purposes, from storage to shrines to farming terraces.

At more than 8,500 feet, Mesa Verde also has value as an outdoors destination, with roughly 30 miles of trails within the park. The longest loop, the Prater Ridge Trail, spans nearly eight miles between the North and South Loops, which together showcase the scenery of the Prater and Morefield Canyons, Montezuma Valley, and the San Juan Mountains.

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Priceline Is Offering Cruise Deals Around the World for as Low as $25 Per Night Through September

Whether you’ve always wanted to get on a cruise but never had the chance or you’re a veteran cruise lover, pack your bags because it’s time to sail. Cruises are surging since pandemic restrictions have eased, and Priceline is offering amazing steals that depart from multiple ports across the United States. Whether you’re looking for a one-day or seven-day adventure, these last-minute deals for as low as $25 per night make it easy to embark to sea.

For full details, head over to Priceline’s deals page. Here are the options you can expect to find:

Priceline Caribbean cruise deals

Head to the Bahamas on a three-to-five-night cruise starting at just $27 per night on a Carnival Cruise Line. This trip embarks from Orlando and has dates year-round. When you’re not on board, get ready to explore Nassau and Princess Cays, the cruise line’s private island. Dates are available starting in August and go all the way until 2024.

If you’re looking to explore more of what the Caribbean has to offer, Carnival also has a five-night cruise leaving from Miami and headed to the Bahamas as well as Turks and Caicos. Make the most of Grand Turk Island while you are there. Rates start at just $26 per night with dates available from October to December.

A seven-day cruise with Royal Caribbean will take you across Mexico and multiple islands: the Bahamas, the Cayman Islands, and Jamaica. Starting at just $50 per night, dates run from July to October 2022.

Priceline Mediterranean cruise deals

If you’re looking to make your way around Greece, consider this 10-night cruise on Norwegian Escape through the Greek Isles, Malta, and Italy. For just $128 per night, explore Santorini, Athens and Mykonos along with Sicily, Naples, Florence, and Pisa in Italy — plus Valletta, Malta. This ship sets sail on July 24 departing out of Rome, so you’ll need to move quickly.

For another option that’s just $50 a night leaving out of Barcelona, a seven-night cruise will take you to Gibraltar in the UK, along with Marseille, France, and multiple Italian cities: Genoa, Livorno, and Rome. Regal Princess has dates from July to September.

Priceline Alaska cruise deals

If you’ve always wanted to make the trek to Alaska, Priceline is featuring a five-night Norwegian Sun cruise that journeys from Seattle to Ketchikan, Alaska, and Victoria, British Columbia in Canada. And the best part is it’s only $54 per night. Dates run from August to October.

If you have a bit more time, Holland American Line is running a seven-night cruise for only $46 a night. This trip from Washington takes you across Alaska and to Canada, with stops at Cruise Puget Sound, Stephens Passage, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Cruise Glacier Bay National Park, Sitka, Ketchikan, and Victoria in British Columbia, Canada. This trip embarks with dates in July through September.

Priceline Mexico cruise deals

Carnival is offering a four-night cruise that’s headed to Ensanada, Mexico, but you’ll also get to stop in California’s beautiful Catalina Island. This cruise is only $27 per night and has dates running from July all the way through 2024.

Carnival also has a seven-night trip available that will take you across the Mexican Riviera — Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Cabo San Lucas. Rates are only $36 per night and run from July all the way to 2024.

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5 Places Where You Can (Safely) Dive With Great Whites, Hammerheads, and More

If you look forward to Shark Week every year, you’re not alone. What started as a 10-episode program in 1988 has become a yearly phenomenon, and it’s obvious why: Sharks are a marvel of the sea. From small nurse sharks to great whites, people are endlessly curious about these spectacular creatures (even if they seem a little dangerous). The idea of getting up close and personal with sharks is so popular that there are plenty of places in the world where if you’ve ever dreamed of swimming with the sharks, you can definitely make that a reality.

We connected with Julie Andersen, PADI Worldwide‘s global director, brand, for insight on the best places around the world to dive with sharks.

Tiger Beach, Bahamas

Photo: Neil Andrea and Julie Andersen

About an hour by boat from the West End of Grand Bahama, Tiger Beach is known for reliably offering the chance to see gorgeous tiger sharks up close. Water in the Bahamas is crystal clear, and you’ll also catch views of lemon sharks, whitetip reef sharks, and, if you’re lucky, hammerheads. Even though Tiger Sharks get a bad rap during shark week, there’s nothing like swimming up to one (safely, of course). To participate, you’ll need either a Freediver or Open Water Diver PADI Diving Certification.

Guadalupe Island, Mexico

Photo: Andy Casagrande

Great whites are the sharks that everyone seems to fear more (thanks Jaws), but great white attacks are rare, with only 57 confirmed unprovoked shark attack cases worldwide in 2020. And experts agree that these sharks attack humans not because they like the taste, but because their poor eyesight means it’s easy for them to mistake you for their prey. That shouldn’t stop you from heading on this trip to Guadalupe Island, a remote archipelago off the coast of Baja California. Marvel at the different species of seals and sea lions. Then, dive into the crystal clear water and catch sight of varied fish species and one of the 170 great white sharks that wander in the area from July to November. There’s no diving certification needed to enjoy this excursion.

Shark Reef, Fiji

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If you’re PADI certified as an advanced open water diver, add a trip to Shark Reef in Fiji to your bucket list to have an experience like never before. The Shark Reef Marine Reserve’s Beqa Lagoon has earned its representation as one of the best places to see the giant bull sharks along with tiger sharks, gray reef sharks, nurse sharks, black tip reef sharks, and silvertip sharks at any of its 20 dive sites. Your visit to the reserve also benefits the sharks and the locals. The proceeds from a dive go to shark research and local fishers for lost income from no-take zones.

Bimini, Bahamas

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A trip to Bimini, Bahamas, to see the majestic hammerheads is so easy, you can make it a day trip from Miami by just catching the ferry. While hammerhead sharks may look intimidating, the truth is this species is quite shy and skittish, making Bimini a gem for how populated the area gets with hammerheads from December to March. You’ll need an Open Water Diver or Freediver PADI Diving Certification to take advantage.

Rhode Island, United States

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Rhode Island doesn’t have the year-round warmer water that the other locations do. But in the summer, the Gulf Stream moves close to shore, bringing sharks and game fish alongside it. You don’t have to leave the country or have a diving certificate to swim with the Mako and Bluefin sharks you’ll find here this time of year. Makos, often called miniature great whites, are rare, yet right in Rhode Island an encounter is within reach. You’ll be surprised how fast they move, so stay alert so you don’t miss it.

Of course if diving is not your thing but you still want a close underwater encounter, you can head to Maldives to sleep with them.

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The 7 Best Things To Do in Qatar When You’re Not at the World Cup

To many around the world, Qatar is somewhat of an enigma. The small country of 2.8 million people in the Persian Gulf is barely visible on a world map beside the hulking landmass of Saudi Arabia. Despite its size, however, Qatar is the fourth wealthiest country per capita in the world, and much like Dubai, it is a beacon of progress in the Middle East. This is partly why Qatar was chosen to host the 2022 World Cup, taking place from November 21 to December 18. The illustrious international competition might have put the tiny country on your radar for the first time, and maybe you’re even considering making the trip overseas for a match or two. The good news is, Qatar’s size isn’t indicative of its level of fun. Whether or not you’re a huge soccer fan, there are plenty of things to do in Qatar to keep you busy here when you’re not at a World Cup match.

Go dune bashing

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Dune bashing probably conjures images of swinging a huge wrecking ball through mounds of desert sand, but it’s not quite that extreme. In Qatar, dune bashing means riding along the dunes and bracing yourself for all the bumps that come with it. It’s not exactly a Mad Max-style, life-or-death proposition, but it’s still quite an adrenaline rush. Tour operators will usually pick you up right at your hotel and bring you into the desert for the thrill ride. Many even choose to extend the experience by camping in the desert – either in glamping-style luxury or in a self-pitched tent. Either way, a desert excursion is an absolute must for any visit to Qatar.

Visit a museum

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Those interested in Qatari culture will find no shortage of museums in the country, particularly in Doha. The Museum of Islamic Art is one of the most popular museums in Qatar, containing Islamic patterns, jewelry, textiles, and calligraphy from three continents. Many of the items date all the way back to the 7th century. There’s also a restaurant with an outdoor terrace on the top floor of the museum, with stunning views of Doha. The National Museum of Qatar is another museum you should visit in Doha. Looking like a spaceship crossed with a blooming flower, the museum tells the story of Qatar’s development from the desert to the contemporary age, and is perhaps the best way to learn about Qatar’s history.

The East-West/West-East installation

Photo: Davor Flam/Shutterstock

In the Brouq Nature Reserve, about 30 miles northwest of Doha, you’ll find Qatar’s best-known art installation, created in 2014 by sculptor Richard Serra. The East-West/West-East installation is composed of four pillars, each 50 feet tall, lining the desert corridor to the sea. The height of the plates represents the height of the old sea levels. The area is now immensely popular with visitors, particularly those interested in art and culture. A Fatbike tour is one of the best ways to see the installation, with tour companies operating off-roading adventures into the desert.

The Pearl

Photo: Leonid Andronov/Shutterstock

The Pearl is an artificial island 1,100 feet off the coast of Doha’s West Bay Lagoon. The pinnacle of luxury and extravagance in Qatar, The Pearl is defined by its expensive townhouses, resorts, beaches, upscale restaurants, and entertainment venues. It will be composed of 13 islands once construction is complete, making it one of the largest real estate developments in the Middle East. The Taliamare Beach Club at Qanat Quartier Beach is one of the most luxurious places to stay on The Pearl, as well as the Marsa Malaz Kempinski hotel, located on its very own islet.

Katara Cultural Village

Photo: Sven Hansche/Shutterstock

Those looking to dive into Qatari culture can’t skip the Katara Cultural Village. Also known as the “Valley of Cultures,” the village opened in 2010 as part of the Doha Tribeca Film Festival, and remains immensely popular with visitors. In addition to hosting festivals like the Traditional Dhow Festival and the Palestinian Heritage Festival, the village is home to several international restaurants and kiosks, beaches, and a maze of passages and waterways often utilized by artists and filmmakers. There’s also an opera house, which the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra calls home, and an outdoor amphitheater overlooking the sea.

Watch a camel race

Photo: OSTILL is Franck Camhi/Shutterstock

If World Cup soccer matches don’t quite stoke your enthusiasm, how about camel racing? About an hour from Doha, in Al Shahaniya, camel racing is the big draw, and it’s one of the most beloved events among Qataris. Camels run at speeds of up to 40 mph in short sprints, and are ridden by remote-controlled robot jockeys dressed in colorful racing clothes. A traditional sport of the country’s sheikhs, it’s now a popular public event, with tracks holding tournaments every Friday from November to February. Even if there are no races going on when you visit, the public is still allowed to stop by and observe the camels in training.

Barzan Towers

Photo: Photo Play/Shutterstock

Built in the late 19th century as watchtowers, and renovated in 1910, the Barzan Towers are located about 12 miles from Doha, and were originally meant to protect the Rawdat valley. At 52 feet tall, they’re built with coral rock and limestone—a traditional Qatari design—and are arranged in the shape of a “T.” The towers now function as a museum open 24-hours to the general public, and serve as a vital educational resource for learning about the history of Qatar and the cultural importance of state monuments.

More like thisUnique experiences you should try when visiting Doha, Qatar

How To Crush Miami’s Frost Museum of Science in One Day

Like so many things in Miami, the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is made to be photographed. America’s most aesthetically pleasing science museum is chock-full of Instagrammable moments, from its sprawling top-floor view of turquoise waters and glimmering towers, to its underwater windows bathed in soft blue natural light.

But unlike a lot of pretty things in Miami, the Frost Museum has substance. A lot of it. Part aquarium, part science museum, it can teach you more about the ecology and evolution of South Florida in a few hours than some locals learn in a lifetime. And while it’s easy to get caught up in its beauty, taking time to delve into the Frost Museum’s exhibits can be just as memorable. We took a deep dive with VP of Animal Husbandry and Marine Conservation Andy Dehart and Director of Animal and Museum Exhibits Skip Uricchio, and they showed us how to make the most of your time at the Frost Museum of Science.

The #1 piece of advice for visiting the Frost Museum of ScienceTips for visiting the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of ScienceThe best times to visit the Frost MuseumWhere to start your Frost Science Museum visitHow long you should budget to visit the Frost MuseumWhere to eat at the Frost MuseumThe five best things to do at the Frost Science MuseumThe five areas you absolutely can’t miss at the Frost Museum of ScienceWhat you can skip at the Frost Science MuseumThe #1 piece of advice for visiting the Frost Museum of Science

Photo: Frost Science/Facebook

Since there’s a lot of ground to cover at the Frost Museum, and planetarium shows tend to sell out during busy times, you’ll want to book your show in advance, and plan your day around that.

“If you do online ticketing, you usually get the first shot at the planetarium shows,” says Dehart. “They’ll give you your choice of time slot, and what show you want to watch. And if you can get that done right out of the gate you can take your time exploring and not worry about a showtime.”

The shows at the 67-foot, 360-degree planetarium include Worlds Beyond Earth; Dynamic Earth; and Phantom of the Universe: The Hunt for Dark Matter. Admission is included in your Explorer Ticket.

Tips for visiting the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of ScienceFrost Museum tickets

A regular ticket (dubbed the Explorer Ticket) to the Frost Museum includes museum exhibitions, aquarium, live science demonstrations and one Frost Planetarium show for $29.95 for adults, and $24.95 for children between the ages of four and 11.

It is recommended to purchase your timed tickets online in advance because, as explained above, Frost Planetarium shows are limited and you would not want to miss out. Note that times tickets can only be used on the day and time you selected so don’t show up late!

Frost Museum parking optionsIf you choose to drive to the Frost Museum, you can park in the museum garage during the museum’s hours of operation (10 AM to 7 PM); however it will cost you $15 (by credit car only) and the garage fills up very quickly. There are also three nearby parking lots.The best times to visit the Frost Museum

The best time to go to avoid crowds, according to Dehart, is right around when school starts up, towards the end of August and into September. Is that also the hottest, muggiest part of the year in Miami, and may necessitate a change of shirts when you visit the outdoor exhibits? Maybe. Just stay hydrated and you’ll be fine.

As one might expect in Florida, the busiest times at the Frost Museum are around the holidays in December and January, and spring break in March and April. And if that’s the only time you can make it, both Dehart and Uricchio stressed that coming early is crucial. The museum opens at 10 AM daily, and in addition to that being the emptiest time it’s also the coolest.

Frost Science Museum free daysThere are no free days at the Frost Museum; however the following museumgoers are admissible for free:Children age three and underMembers of the Frost Museum (membership is $109 per year)First responders, active US military, and veterans with proper identificationWhere to start your Frost Science Museum visit

Photo: Frost Science/Facebook

To see the museum properly, the first thing you’ll want to hit is the Royal Caribbean Vista on the fourth floor. It looks out onto Biscayne Bay and the city skyline, and down into the aquarium’s tanks. But once you’ve had your fill of the top floor, the Frost Museum is best visited as two different spaces.

“I typically tell people to go up to the fourth floor of the aquarium, at the Royal Caribbean Vista, first, and work their way down,” says Dehart. “You’ll end up in the Power of Science, which has an aquarium component to it, then take the yellow elevators up and do the trick all over again. It’s like two cascading waterfalls.”

How long you should budget to visit the Frost Museum

Even though it’s effectively two museums, The Frost Museum Science can be done in about two and a half to three hours, even if you take your time. However, this can be extended by excessive selfie time, which will be a lot more than you think if you’re visiting with kids who own cell phones.

Where to eat at the Frost Museum

Photo: Frost Science/Facebook

Just before you exit the museum, you’ll spot Food@Science, the Frost Science Museum’s café. The menu is surprisingly varied, ranging from pizzas to Mexican street corn to veggie power bowls. You can even get a little taste of the city here, with the Miami bowl and its pollo a la plancha, beans, and rice. There are also healthier options like mezze salad or beyond burger. And beer and wine, if a day chasing kids around the museum calls for a drink.The five best things to do at the Frost Science Museum1. Gaze down into tropical coral reefs from the top floor

Photo: Frost Science/Facebook

Aquariums the world over allow you to look in on the undersea world, where colorful fish swim past you behind a thick glass wall. Few, however, let you peer down into the undersea world. Standing atop Frost Science’s fourth floor, you’ll be at the surface of the Gulf Stream, a 100-foot, 500,000-gallon tank where shark fins cruise the surface with the Miami skyline in the background.

A few steps from the Gulf Stream you can look down into an artificial coral reef, meant to replicate the reef just off the South Florida shore. You’ll see into a world of colorful, tropical fish enticing you to delve deeper into the museum, and similarly see them from below.

2. Take a picture at the Oculus

Photo: World Red Eye / Frost Museum of Science

If there is one iconic, Instagrammable moment at Frost Science, it’s the Oculus. This 31-foot circular window at the bottom of the Gulf Stream allows visitors to stare up into the underwater world, where hammerhead sharks, manta rays, mahi-mahi, and 7,000 shiny bait fish make for one of the most mesmerizing views in American museums. The eerie blue lighting juxtaposed against the natural light coming from above also makes it an ideal place for pictures. And you’ll find tourists, photographers, and influencers queueing up for their turn in front of the window.

Is it a little cliché? Sure. But kinda like taking a picture in front of the Eiffel Tower in France, if you haven’t been before, you kinda have to.

3. Take a load off at the planetarium

While the Royal Caribbean Vista and the Oculus may be the social media stars of the Frost Science Museum, its most recognizable exterior feature is its massive planetarium. Its shows are all captivating and educational, but Frost’s planetarium also affords visitors the opportunity to do something else critically important: Cool off.

Miami, in case you weren’t aware, can get warm. And much of the best stuff at Frost is outside. The planetarium, however, is refreshingly air-conditioned, and the 20-25-minute shows serve as a welcomed chance to relax and recharge.

4. Pet a stingray

On the museum’s top floor, you’ll find a large tank of Atlantic and Southern rays sitting on the far eastern end, right near the wall. This is the Florida Bay Touch Experience, where kids and kids-at-heart can take their turn safely petting one of the ocean’s coolest-looking creatures. For those concerned about the ethics of touching an animal that may not have a choice, Dehart assured us the rays are only pet when they want to be.

“The experience is designed so that the rays really have to choose to be touched,” Dehart says. “It’s deep enough that people can’t just reach down and touch them. If the rays don’t want to be in that contact zone, they’re not. Some of them will, and some of them won’t.”

5. Immerse yourself in the virtual gulf stream

Photo: Frost Science/Facebook

Beautiful and massive as the Gulf Stream exhibit is, it still can’t give you a fully immersive experience inside the ocean. For that, there’s the virtual gulf stream, a 55-foot-wide by 10-foot-tall circular screen, that puts you in the middle of jellyfish, sharks, and even the occasional whale.

But this is no simple movie projection. As you move through and touch the screen, schools of fish and large creatures react to your presence, just as they might if you were swimming among them. You’ll learn the animals’ behaviors both with each other, and interacting with other creatures. The experience is made even more immersive by top-quality surround sound.

The five Frost Museum areas you absolutely can’t miss1. Gulf Stream Aquarium

Photo: Frost Science/Facebook

Standing atop the “giant martini glass” — so named because of its conical shape — might be one of the best vantage points of Downtown Miami. But the exhibit includes animals that people travel the world to see, from Eagle Rays to Hammerhead Sharks to mahi-mahi. And you can view it from three different levels throughout the museum.

In addition to showcasing the creatures that live in the current off the Florida coast, the Gulf Stream is also designed to educate visitors on the vastness of the ocean.

“We wanted to show it was kind of that wet desert, that wet kind of middle of nowhere,” says Dehart. “If you jumped off a boat on your way to Bimini halfway across, this is what you’d see.”

2. Everglades

Photo: Frost Science/Facebook

Obviously, the best way to visit the unique and heavily endangered ecosystem of the Florida Everglades is to drive about 45 minutes west of Miami to Everglades National Park. But if you don’t have that much time — or insect repellant — stepping into the fourth floor aviary and Everglades habitat is a great way to learn about it.

Through red and black mangroves you’ll spot the impossibly rare Roseate Spoonbill, once hunted to near extinction for hat feathers. Creeping through the hardwood hammock, you’ll also see baby alligators and crocodiles, as the Everglades is the only place in the world you’ll find both. There are also owls, hawks, eagles, and plenty of snakes (behind glass, don’t worry). The birds are all part of rehabilitation programs, too, meaning they were found injured in the wild and were brought to the museum to recover.

3. The Dive and The Deep

Photo: Frost Science/Facebook

Descending down from the Royal Caribbean Vista level you’ll find yourself moving deeper into the aquarium tanks you just viewed from above. The third level, The Dive, includes dozens of small aquariums showcasing fish from around Florida and the world, including invasive species like the lionfish. There’s even a Pacific coldwater tank with a little red octopus.

Drop down another level and you’re in The Deep, where the light fades away and you meet deep-sea creatures you’d never see at diveable depths. It’s also home to two of the museum’s more memorable experiences — the immersive virtual gulf stream and the Insta-famous Oculus.

4. Feathers to The Stars

Photo: Frost Science/Facebook

No exhibit at the Frost Science Museum is more thought-provoking as Feathers to the Stars, a look at how birds evolved to fly, and how humans used that evolution to propel ourselves into the sky. Inside you’ll be met with a 30-foot Yutyrannus huali, a feathered dinosaur that ultimately learned to fly. You’ll also see life-sized airplanes suspended from the ceiling, and have the chance to land a spaceship on Mars as part of the exhibit’s space section.

“Once you understand that story arc, the emergent evolution of flight of animals from dinosaurs to birds, then the evolution of flight from the Wright Brothers to the moon, it’s pretty cool,” says Dehart. “It’s probably my second favorite.”

5. Power of Science

Photo: Frost Science/Facebook

The final exhibit as you walk down to the ground floor is a masterful transition from aquarium to science museum. Here, visitors step into the shoes of scientific researchers, learning how theories are tested and experiments performed, with historic tools and interactive installations along the way. It examines four frontiers in science: Our oceans, bodies, environment, and universe. And it tells the stories of famous scientists who made breakthroughs in each.

6. Observation deck and the sun spot

Because most journeys within the Frost Science Museum start at the fourth floor Royal Caribbean Vista, few people ever visit the museum’s lush rooftop. But take the elevators up to floor six and you’ll be met with a terrace filled with native Florida beach plants, and a look at how solar energy is harnessed to help power the museum. You’ll find a good dose of Florida sunshine, so if you’re planning to spend some time up here, pack some sunscreen.

“It was originally part of our being a LEED [​​Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design] certified building,” says Uricchio. “But it’s all the native beach plants from right on the water, and we want people to see that they can have a really beautiful landscape using native plants that are more efficient.”

7. Wet Lab

Photo: Frost Science/Facebook

Hidden behind some nondescript doors on the museum’s seldom-visited fifth floor, you’ll find a sort of coral-incubation lab called the Wet Lab. Here, real-life scientists are working to restore 40 genotypes of coral, raising smaller specimens in tanks to hopefully replenish the dying reefs off Florida’s coast. “It’s kind of like the Noah’s Ark of Pillar Coral,” Dehart says with pride. While it’s not advertised as one of the museum’s main exhibits, it is open to anyone who pays admission.

8. River of GrassThis interactive children’s exhibit near the outdoor Everglades might be easy to write off as only for kids. But it can teach adults a lot. The immersive screen in the River of Grass’ main room lets visitors walk through a virtual Everglades, where Florida panthers dash by in the distance. Video-projected “water” reacts to your steps on the ground, and terrifyingly-large cartoon mosquitoes come out at sunrise and sunset, just like in the real Everglades.

Just outside, a series of interactive water features show what happens to the Everglades’ water flow when we build roads and dams. And though it’s aimed at children, it’s an important education in water conservation that anyone can benefit from.

What you can skip at the Frost Science Museum

Photo: Frost Science/Facebook

The Frost Science Museum isn’t intimidatingly huge, so there’s no reason you can’t visit everything during one visit. But if you’re pressed for time, and you don’t have kids, you can probably give the MeLab a miss. While it’s an interesting look at how bodies work, and the impact of food and exercise on your health, it’s typically packed with kids and it can get noisy.

If you do have kids, understand every exhibit in the MeLab is highly interactive, so you may end up spending a lot more time here than you’d planned. Still, younger children will probably also find this more fun than the Power of Science. Our advice is to do both, but if you’ve got little ones with a short attention span opt for the MeLab instead.

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7 Tennessee Vacation Ideas Your Kids Will Love

There’s a reason Tennessee has captured the imaginations of so many songwriters and musicians. The state teems with natural beauty, history, and culture, not to mention mouthwatering cuisine. And the best way to experience all Tennessee has to offer is with the people you love.

From outdoor adventures to kid-reviewed attractions, Tennessee has plenty of options to excite everyone in your family. Here are seven Tennessee destinations in cities and towns around the state guaranteed to give your entire crew a vacation that’ll be one for the books.

1. Lookout Mountain | Chattanooga

Photo courtesy of Ruby Falls

The picturesque mountains of southeastern Tennessee wrap a protective arm around the vibrant city of Chattanooga. Take a stroll on the Walnut Street Bridge over the Tennessee River to the North Shore — it’s one of the country’s longest pedestrian bridges, erected in 1890 — on your way to nearby Lookout Mountain. Spend an afternoon here visiting Rock City and Ruby Falls, where you’ll take an elevator ride deep into the earth to view a rushing 145-foot waterfall. Prepare to stand in awe, both adults and kids — this is the tallest and deepest underground waterfall in the US that’s accessible to visitors.

2. National Civil Rights Museum | Memphis

The National Civil Rights Museum. Photo: Tennessee Tourism/National Civil Rights Museum/Isaac Singleton

Blues, barbecue, and rock n’ roll are only part of the story of Memphis. Education is the name of the game at the National Civil Rights Museum, one of the best places in the country for kids to learn about this crucial chapter of American history. The museum itself stands on a historic site, built around the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in 1968. Exhibits explore the Civil Rights Movement of the mid-1900s but also trace the story back to the 17th century and forward to today. A visit here is powerful for anyone, and both kids and adults will come away with a deeper understanding of our country.

Bonus: Your family trip to Memphis should also include a day for the Memphis Zoo. With over 3,500 animals including elephants, tigers, pandas, and polar bears, it’s earned its rank as one of the top zoos in the nation. If you time your visit right, you can attend an after-dark tour or even let the kids do an overnight stay.

3. Adventure Science Center | Nashville

Adventure Science Center. Photo: Tennessee Tourism

Science comes to life at Adventure Science Center in Nashville. With hands-on, interactive exhibits, activities and original programs, the center makes science not just educational, but also entertaining for kids and adults alike.

The onsite Sudekum Planetarium — a state-of-the-art 63-foot dome theater — will dazzle the family with shows like Nightwatch, where you’ll learn to locate and identify constellations, bright stars, and planets with your naked eye. In the 75-foot-tall Adventure Tower, you and your kids can crawl through a beating heart, generate power by pedaling a bicycle, or climb to the observation deck to catch a breathtaking view of the city.

4. Anakeesta | Gatlinburg

Anakeesta Theme Park. Photo: Tennessee Tourism/Anakeesta

Just outside the gates of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the town of Gatlinburg, a wonderland of waterfalls and mountain drives, ice cream stands, and attractions. Take the “Chondola” up to Anakeesta Mountaintop Park, a picturesque theme park that offers thrilling nature adventures like a treetop dueling zipline course and mountain coaster with a 400-foot elevation change. Kids can traverse alongside the birds on the longest tree-based skywalk on the continent, suspended some 60 feet in the air. Keep an eye out for wildlife on the forest floor below!

5. Dunbar Cave State Park | Clarksville

Entrance to Dunbar Cave. Photo: Manny_Stock/Shutterstock

This revitalized northern Tennessee town on the Cumberland River just might be the state’s hottest weekend getaway secret. Take a stroll through Clarksville’s historic downtown, filled with trendy boutiques, antique stores, art galleries, and restaurants. Then, make your way to Dunbar Cave State Park, the only publicly owned cave in the world where you can view Native American petroglyphs and pictographs dating back to the 14th century. Besides a guided tour of the caves, you and the kids can also enjoy exploring the park’s several hiking trails.

6. Ijams Nature Center | Knoxville

Ijams Nature Center Boardwalk. Photo: Dee Browning/Shutterstock

Home to the University of Tennessee, the spirited city of Knoxville combines outdoor fun with increasingly sophisticated cuisine and culture. Spend an active afternoon at Ijams Nature Center, where you can hike or bike more than 12 miles of trails or rent kayaks or canoes and explore Mead’s Quarry Lake, with its sparkling waters and dramatic cliffs. Recover from your outdoor adventure over sweet or savory crepes at The French Market Creperie (always a hit with the kids!).

7. Rugby | Northwest of Knoxville

Cottage in Rugby. Photo: Tennessee Tourism/Historic Rugby Inc.

This quiet Victorian-era village on Tennessee’s Cumberland Plateau will enchant your entire family. Kids will be captivated by a tour of the village and hearing about the wealthy second sons who moved here from England to make their fortunes — and ultimately lose them. Once you’ve explored the Victorian townscape, take the short, scenic walk to the Gentleman’s Swimming Hole on Clear Fork Creek, believed to be the oldest continuously used swimming hole in the US. Splashing in the cool waters of Clear Fork? Vacation accomplished!

Craving a Bali Beach Getaway? Consider These Alternative Islands in Indonesia

Whether planning a solo backpacking adventure or a picture-perfect honeymoon, the island of Bali continues to rank high on travelers’ bucket lists. While its beautiful beaches and verdant rice fields are worth seeing, there are over 17,500 other islands in the Indonesian archipelago, including three of the world’s largest — Java, Bali’s neighbor to the West, Sumatra, and Borneo. Stretching from neighboring Malaysia to West Papua, each island of Indonesia carries its own unique culture, customs, and cuisine to explore. While it would be nearly impossible to visit all of these islands in a lifetime, you can get started by easily hopping over to Lombok, Sumba, or the Southern Gilis from Bali via a short flight or ferry ride. Even better, visit the Bali islands of Lembongan or Nusa Penida — visible from the shores of Bali’s Sanur neighborhood. No matter which island you select, we’ve outlined why it’s worth a visit and what to see and do while there.

Lembongan

Photo: Constantin
Stanciu/Shutterstock

Part of the three islands that make up Bali’s Nusa Penida district, Lembongan, is a small island located to the Southeast of Bali and accessible via a 30-minute speedboat ride from Sanur harbor. Tickets go for about $20 one-way and you can purchase them online or at the harbor. Upon arrival, it’s easy to organize scooter rentals from one of the many local vendors who meet visitors right on the beach. Once rented, bikers used to Bali’s traffic will be relieved to encounter quieter roads and far fewer cars.

Photo: Sandy Bay

A trip to Lembongan involves days spent sunning, swimming, and dining at beach clubs like Sandy Bay or Ohana’s.

Photo: Sandy Bay

The island is popular for its snorkeling, thanks to warm, clear waters and shallow reefs at places like Crystal Bay or Mangrove Point. You can even hire a boat to shuttle you out to neighboring Nusa Penida’s famed Manta Point, where snorkelers will almost always encounter these angels of the sea gliding through the waters beneath Penida’s towering cliffs.

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

We recommend bedding down at Lembongan Cliff Villas, which offers one of the best Westerly views for sunsets over the sea and volcanoes of Bali. If you’re traveling with a large group, the newly opened beach house at Lago is among the nicest private villas in all of Bali. The property features five bedrooms, a private pool, a semi-private beach, and its own solar-powered party pontoon for some revelry on the water.

Nusa Penida

Photo: Visit Indonesia/Jerry Aurum

Photo: Visit Indonesia/Jerry Aurum

The namesake of Bali’s island district, Nusa Penida — known locally as, simply, Penida (Nusa means “island” in Balinese) — also happens to be one of Bali’s most Instagrammed locations, thanks to its surreal landscapes of jungled cliffs and picturesque, white-sand beaches.

Similar to Lembongan, Penida is a 45-minute ferry ride from Sanur Harbor at a slightly higher price, with easy scooter rentals also available upon arrival.

Photo: Denis Moskvinov/Shutterstock

Penida is ideal for thrill-seekers. Most reefs are deeper here, so underwater sight-seeing is best done by scuba, though fast currents can make it unsafe for beginners. Advanced divers will enjoy rapid drift dives, flying superman-style over colorful reefs alive with fish, turtles, moray eels, and reef sharks. We recommend Octopus Dive for its friendly staff and tasty post-dive lunch offerings. Out of the water, Penida’s dramatic cliffs make for some memorable photos. Some of its most social media-famous spots include Kelingking and Diamond cliffs and Atuh Beach.

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

After a day of adventuring, catch the sunset while enjoying pizza, beers, and board games at Amok before checking into your private tent at Autentik, a glamping resort in the jungles of Penida. Guests here are immersed in nature, without sacrificing creature comforts like AC and some of the island’s best breakfast food.

Lombok

Photo: Visit Indonesia/Fransishu Asisi

Photo: Visit Indonesia/Fransishu Asisi

Photo: Visit Indonesia/Fransishu Asisi

Despite claiming some world-class surf breaks, beaches, and biological diversity that rivals Bali’s, the similarly sized island of Lombok remains an under-the-radar destination. That might change soon, as its word-of-mouth reputation as “the next Bali’’ continues to spread. Indeed, this year saw the island welcome its first MotoGP race on a brand-new track in Kuta Lombok, and excitement around its tourism potential — especially as over-tourism in Bali grows to untenable levels — has led to a flurry of development along its southern beaches.

Photo: Visit Indonesia/Fransishu Asisi

Photo: Visit Indonesia/Setiadi Dermawan

Photo: Visit Indonesia/Fransishu Asisi

Lombok’s size means there’s something for every type of traveler. Mount Rinjani, the third largest of Indonesia’s over 100 volcanoes, looms large on the North side of the island and is a favorite among hikers for the trail’s dazzling natural vistas — including the vivid blue Lake Segara Anak. To the South, in Kuta Lombok, yogis flock to Ashtari or eco-friendly Mana for mindful, meditative retreats. Surfers will make the two to three-hour drive from Kuta Lombok, along one of Indonesia’s most scenic mountain highways, to reach Desert Point. Its near-perfect surf break is a favorite of the likes of Kelly Slater and Gabriel Medina.

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

If you’re heading to North Lombok, grab a room by the beach at Hotel Tugu. The privately owned and designed hotel serves as an ode to Indonesia’s romantic history and culture and features a collection of local artworks and antiques throughout the property. To the South, the newly opened and well-received Amazing Lombok serves as a perfect home base for visiting the beautiful beaches of Selong Belanak and the restaurants and nightlife of Kuta Lombok.

Southern Gilis

Photo: travelwild/Shutterstock

Unlike its hard-partying neighbors to the North, the Southern Gilis are relatively unexplored and, thus, unspoiled. The lack of crowds, paired with a ban on motor traffic across the islands, make them ideal for travelers seeking some peace and tranquility.

Photo: biletskiyevgeniy.com/Shutterstock

Consisting of 14 tiny islands to the Southwest of Lombok, the three largest of the Southern Gilis are Gili Asahan, Gili Layar, and Gili Gede. There are no bridges (hence no motor vehicles), so all tourists arrive the same way — via a small outrigger boat from the main island. Unsurprisingly, the islands are a draw for nature-lovers, with activities centered around sunbathing or exploring the islands’ wealth of underwater wildlife.

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Photo: Booking.com

Some of the best snorkeling in the Southern Gilis is on the reef just in front of Pearl Beach Resort on Gili Asahan. If food is your priority, however, head to Italian-owned Gili Asahan Eco Lodge, which serves delicious and authentic pizza, pasta, and gelato. On Gili Gede, the largest of the Southern Gilis, Kokomo Resort has stylish villas and friendly staff, who will arrange a romantic dinner at the end of their pier out on the water for you. Kokomo also avoids using plastic on the property in order to preserve the island’s pristine paradise.

Sumba

Photo: Visit Indonesia/Mananga Abba

Photo: Visit Indonesia/Mananga Abba

Photo: Visit Indonesia/Mananga Abba

Even further afield and wilder than Lombok is the island of Sumba. Sumba is home to one of the world’s top-rated luxury resorts, Nihi, a fact that has contributed to its growing reputation among travel enthusiasts in recent years.

Photo: Visit Indonesia/Mananga Abba

Most beach-front hotels, homestays, and resorts, including Nihi, are along the Southern coastline, a minimum two to three-hour drive from the island’s two major airports, Tambolaka and Umbu Mehang Kunda Kijing. A flight from Bali is just one or two hours, depending on the airport, and will cost around $150 or $300. From there, the long drive winds past several local villages with distinctive tall roofs on all the buildings. The design is ubiquitous across Sumba and was built this way in order to honor the Marapu or ancestor spirits of the local villagers. While most visitors will make this long journey for the island’s beaches and surf, Sumba also has some of the country’s most beautiful waterfalls worth checking out.

Photo: Visit Indonesia/Mananga Abba

Photo: Visit Indonesia/Mananga Abba

Photo: Visit Indonesia/Mananga Abba

It’s important to note that the Sumbanese people are among the poorest indigenous populations in Indonesia, so seek accommodations that work to inject greater wealth and opportunity into the local economy. One such place is the family-owned Ngalang Kalla Eco Retreat, which is known as much for its locally and sustainably grown food as for its dramatic location. The retreat sits atop a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, yet still provides easy access to one of the island’s best surf breaks.

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This Soho Hotel Has One of the Best Pool Decks in New York City

As a regular person from New Jersey, who typically has to save up and plan meticulously before lavish vacations and even short getaways, I don’t spend a ton of time in Soho. The trendy New York City neighborhood is known for its upscale hotels, shopping, and stylish restaurants, and feels exclusive and inaccessible. But when I had the chance to stay at The Dominick hotel, a five-star hotel in Soho, I jumped at the opportunity to cosplay as a sophisticated New Yorker. And the experience was more satisfying, and more fun, than I could have anticipated.

The Dominick Hotel it should be mentioned is not in the heart of Soho, but more accurately located on the border between Tribeca and Soho. In fact, the entrance to the Lincoln Tunnel is right around the corner (which is great for me, a person arriving from the Garden State). To be clear, that doesn’t mean that the ambiance of the neighborhood is drowned out by a constant stream of traffic. On the contrary, the hotel is located on a quiet block and once you get inside the hotel, ambient city noises are muffled. It’s an immediate relief to feel secluded from chaos just outside the hotel’s double doors.

Even though The Dominick hotel isn’t in the midst of Soho, it’s still fair to say it’s centrally located. Guests can walk out the door and explore not just Soho, but the West Village and Greenwich Village neighborhoods.

In fact, once my partner and I checked in, we strapped our daughter into her stroller and walked all the way to Washington Square Park before heading back to the hotel. We settled at an outdoor table at Altro Paradiso, a chic Italian restaurant down the street from The Dominick that offers simple but refined dishes perfect for summer eating — and as a plus side, it’s across the street from a Ducati dealership so you watch people test out bikes while you sip your drink.

But no matter what you’re in the mood the eat, you have the most fashionable options at your fingertips: The Dominick is within walking distance to famous New York city restaurants, cafes, and bakeries, that both people who are visiting and who live in the city (or nearby) will want to try including The Dutch, Sant Ambroeus, Sugarfish, Dominique Ansel Bakery, and Laduree.

Okay, so the surrounding neighborhoods are a huge reason to stay at The Dominick, but does the hotel itself live up to its five-star promise? The answer is an unequivocal yes; this hotel is the epitome of luxury.

Photo: The Dominick Hotel

My family stayed in the SoHi one-bedroom suite, which features a living room and a master bedroom, as well as a bathroom with a shower and bathtub (more on that soon). As soon as we opened the blinds, we were both stunned into silence. From our room we could see all the way up to Times Square, from the living room, the skyline of Jersey City spread out before our eyes.

View from the master bedroom. Photo: Elisabeth Sherman

One thing to note for families is that if you’re staying with kids, and you have the means, you might strongly consider booking one of these suites. A sliding door separates the living room from the bedroom, so once the kids are in bed, the adults can order dinner or watch television without being disruptive. The only downside to this otherwise perfect hotel room is that, oddly, the bathroom doesn’t have a door (the toilet at least as its own enclosed space within the bathroom), so you can’t really shower or brush your teeth without disturbing whoever is sleeping in the bed.

Photo: The Dominick Hotel

Now about that tub: It’s deep and big enough to feel like a mini jacuzzi and I can say honestly that the room was worth it for that bathtub alone, especially because tubs feel like such a rare luxury in hotel rooms these days. Parents pay attention: Lounging in the tub sipping champagne is about as relaxed as I’ve felt since my daughter was born.

View from the bathtub. Photo: Elisabeth Sherman

If you plan to spend a lot of time in your room, room service is a must — though be warned that it’s expensive. Room service tends to be hit or miss at hotels, in my experience, but at The Dominick hotel you’ll get decadent bolognese, syrupy banana pancakes, and flakey croissant sandwiches that match the hotel’s opulent personality.

Breakfast. Photo: Elisabeth Sherman

And now for the hotel’s coup de grâce: Terrace on 7, which encompasses the hotel’s heavenly pool deck and restaurant, El Ta’Koy. Loungers are first come first serve for guests, but other than that, the energy on the pool deck is focused on secluded, quiet relaxation.

Photo: The Dominick Hotel

The pool itself isn’t long or wide enough for lap swimmers or anyone else who might want to use it for exercise, so really its purpose is reserved for taking a dip to cool down, or lounge with friends while sipping a drink.

The street view is blocked by a high wall and lush greenery so you’re protected from the noise of traffic and anyone who might want to spy from the sidewalk, giving Terrace on 7 an intimate, even cozy vibe. The watermelon daiquiri and frozen pina colada just add to the overall feeling that at the pool you’re escaping from every stress of city life — here, you’re pampered and getting a little buzzed. It’s great.

There were some older kids splashing around the pool when I was there, but they didn’t disturb the energy, and I brought my daughter to the pool at one point without any awkwardness. However, the vibe on Terrace on 7 is more geared toward adults and day drinking.

Though we did pass a few other kids at the hotel, I wouldn’t necessarily say it’s a very kid-friendly environment — they don’t have cribs on hand for parents, for instance, which is an amenity I’ve encountered at many other luxury hotels. I did feel that this is a place where adults go to get away from responsibilities.

Overall, however, The Dominick is comfortable, luxurious, and quiet. It costs a lot, obviously, but every moment spent there feels like you’re getting your money’s worth. If I’m going to stay somewhere expensive, I want to feel like royalty the whole time I’m there. And at The Dominick hotel, I promise, you will.

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Where To Find the Best Beaches in Maui

Asking what the best beaches in Maui are is like asking what the best pizzas in New York City are. Sure, people (and especially locals) will have an opinion, but good luck trying to find a consensus. And the reason why is simple: everyone has different preferences. While some who head to the Hawaiian island’s beaches might want to snorkel, others might want to spot wildlife, and still others might want to catch a wave break. And experienced surfers aren’t going to always value the same spots as beginners.

This is something that Ric Rodriguez knows well. A Jean-Michel Cousteau-trained naturalist with the Ambassadors of the Environment at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, Rodriguez is deeply familiar with Maui’s beaches. It doesn’t hurt that the 54-acre resort has easy access to a number of beaches and bays on the popular leeward half of the island that runs from the northwest to the southeast.

“For me, the most quintessential Maui beach day actually starts deep within the valley, volunteering within the Ahupua’a (the Hawaiian concept that speaks to watersheds, the connection between land and sea, and our responsibility to steward the land) to restore the land to its natural state by removing invasive species,” Rodriguez says.

From there, the coastline is just across the highway — and there is a wide range of beaches to choose from on said coastline. We tapped Rodriguez to narrow down the best Maui beaches, whether your looking for what to do on your first time to Hawaii or on your hundredth time.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Matador Network: In your opinion, what side of Maui has the best beaches?

Ric Rodriguez: In my opinion, Maui’s leeward side has all the best beaches. If you want to swim, snorkel, do any number of water sports, and enjoy the beach, then the leeward, or downwind, side has the absolute best beaches to enjoy. Up in the northwest, just south of Kapalua Bay, we can find a seemingly endless string of intimate and charming beaches, bright turquoise waters, and a whole underwater world to explore just beneath the surface.

What is the best Maui beach for surfers, whether they’re novices and experts?

Photo: Zane Vergara/Dave Heath

The beauty of the entire leeward side is that, depending on the conditions of the day, you could have the perfect day for snorkeling (waves barely noticeable, water glassy and clear like a pool), the perfect day for an introductory lesson in surfing (small, consistent, and welcoming waves that are sure to grant you your first ride), and the perfect day for expert riding (epic swells, fun sets, and tons of camaraderie on the water).

For true beginners, I like to recommend Olowalu. As a long open stretch of beach, there is plenty of space to learn without fear of overcrowding. Plus, once you’re done with the surf, it’s an excellent place to chill, have a picnic, and enjoy your day. Home to some of the oldest coral reef systems in Hawaii, Olowalu packs the perfect punch for an adventure day.

What is the best Maui beach to see wildlife?

Photo: Bandersnatch/Dave Heath

In my opinion, the best beach to see wildlife is down south at Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve. As a protected land and marine site, the wildlife has the space it needs to flourish and thrive without human interference or pollution, and thus the flora and fauna are a marvel to see. Every time I’ve been, I have had the joy of observing hundreds of fish, eagle rays, and eels, and I always observe a species I’ve never encountered. It is worth the trip.

Kapalua Bay has gotten a lot of press — do you think that there’s anything that people generally miss that makes the spot so great?

There are a ton of hidden gems throughout the Kapalua Bay area. Truthfully, Kapalua’s best kept secret is our adventure program located at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua. The Jean-Michel Cousteau Ambassadors of the Environment program seeks to engage our guests very differently than the average tour on Maui. While they’re all fun, what differentiates our program is the authentic, tailored, and connected experiences that we create for each and every participant. Never exceeding a maximum capacity of eight individuals, our programs are exclusive, personal, and immersive adventures on the land and in the sea of Kapalua Bay.

What is your favorite Maui beach to snorkel at and what can people expect to see?

Photo: Ambassadors of the Environment at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

Here in Kapalua, my absolute favorite snorkel spot is Honolua Bay. The conditions can be hit-or-miss (expect some rough days on the water), but when you catch a calm day out in Honolua, the amount of biodiversity in the water is breathtaking. The bay itself is protected, both on land and sea, and thus feels much more intimate than some of the resort beaches.

Note: this snorkel is slightly more challenging, as the entry is rocky. But it is so worth it.

Are there any beaches nearby to the Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, that offer something people can’t find anywhere else?

The Napili and Honokowai beaches are all lined with mature mango trees. If you come during mango season, you can forage a few perfect mangos on your way down to the beach and have a snack from the land as you prepare to enter the water. There’s no better way to feel truly immersed in the nature than that.

What are the best beaches in Maui for families?

Photo: Circumnavigation/Dave Heath

Kapalua Bay Beach is an excellent go-to beach for families. There’s an adventure hale located on-site for gear rentals (snorkeling gear, boogie boards, SUP, and more), so you have everything you need for a day of fun in the sun. Plus, because the Kapalua Bay Shuttle does pick-ups and drop-offs, the experience is logistics-free.

Even though Kapalua Bay Beach is popular among both locals and tourists, the coral reef habitat within the protected waters is thriving and abundant — the perfect intro-level snorkel. If your family is looking to snorkel for the first time but wants some guidance and personal attention, plus the added safety of a certified waterfront lifeguard, contact the Ambassadors of the Environment program at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, to book your private Cities Under the Sea Snorkel during your stay.

What is the best Maui beach for people looking to get away from the crowds?

Most people in the area know about Kapalua Bay Beach and will spend their beach time there. What a lot of people don’t know, however, is that just south of Kapalua Bay is an area called Napili. Napili has some of the most pristine waters on island. Just an additional five-to-10 minutes south, you can escape the resort crowds and head into your own world of fun in the sun.

In your opinion, what’s the most underrated nearby beach and why?

​There are a couple of different beaches that come to mind. For one, our closest beach, D.T. Fleming Beach Park, is often written off as being too wavy or too rough. While it is often a very active ocean, there are a lot of days where you’ll find D.T. Flemings is calm — it’s days like this that I make it a point to snorkel in those waters.

With the incredible Makaluapuna Point lava rock formations converging into the clear waters on the left-hand side of the beach, the underwater landscape is other-worldly. Another underrated spot in the area is Honokowai beach. About 10 minutes south of Kapalua Bay, this area offers some of the bluest waters. Plus, there isn’t a single visit to Honokowai where I haven’t seen a number of our Hawaiian green sea turtles exploring the coastline.

How does the hotel make it easy for guests to make the most of the beach?

Our hotel has direct access to a couple of excellent beaches right from our property. D.T. Fleming Beach is closest and easiest to access, but there are six bays and beaches within walking distance or a 10-minute drive. Location isn’t the only way the hotel immerses guests in beach opportunities; the Ritz-Carlton’s exclusive eco-tourism and adventure program offers high-quality, exclusive snorkeling adventures, available for guests and non-guests alike.

Are there any beach activities that people may be less aware of than snorkeling or boogie boarding that you suggest people try?

Photo: Ambassadors of the Environment at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

One of the coolest ways to explore the coastlines of Maui is tide pooling. Because of the ancient lava flows that make up Kapalua Bay, there are a seemingly endless selection of naturally carved-out pools along the shoreline. During low-tide, these pools are exposed, and some of the coolest, hardiest, and most resilient creatures of the ocean are there to observe in their own pristine, natural, mini-aquariums.

Note that when tide pooling, it is important to only look, not touch, the creatures in the pools. Because those pools are still water for most of the day, any contaminants that enter the system have a huge effect on the critters within.

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