Travel tips • Recipe • Summertime reading suggestion
5 totally unique, off the beaten path travel destinations
1. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Ha Long Bay or Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and popular travel destination in northeast Vietnam and is known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped by rainforests. Not only that, but celebrated chef Anthony Bourdain named Vietnam his favorite pace to travel and the best food he has ever had.
2. Zalán Valley, in Transylvania, Romania
King Charles III invites you to book a stay at his royal retreat in in the Zalán Valley in Transylvania, Romania. It's true, learn more booking his cottages here. Romania is one of the safest countries in Europe and its crime rate is low, which means you can enjoy an stress-free journey in this gorgeous country. While you're there, make sure the famous Bran castle (Dracula's castle).
3. Cumberland Island, Georgia
Fifteen barrier islands line the coast of Georgia. The southernmost and largest is called Cumberland. No bridges link it to the mainland, and a lone public dock affords boats access to its shores. On the island, one-third larger than Manhattan, more than 150 wild horses roam free. Only a handful of habitable dwellings dot the landscape. Most are owned by descendants of steel tycoon Thomas Carnegie (though a few on the north end belong to heirs of Coca-Cola founder Asa Candler). Just one welcomes overnight guests: Greyfield.
4. Oaxaca, Mexico
Oaxaca, with its colonial architecture, brightly painted buildings and cobbled streets is an art and foodie paradise. Located in a mountainous area in southern Mexico, you can taste world class cuisine such as Mole (which is famous here), discover the artistry and crafts of the region and taste mezcal. This is why Oaxaca was voted worlds best city by Travel and Leisure readers.
5. Eguisheim, France
Eguisheim, France is one of the most picturesque towns in France. Located along the famous Alsace wine route, Eguishem is a charming, colorful and wonderfully preserved medieval village. It is like walking around in a museum. We suggest walking the discovery trail. which takes about an hour. You can get a map in the local tourist office.
Recipe
Italian summertime spritz
Because we will be drinking these as we sail the Island of Sardinia, we wanted to share the recipe with you so you can make some at home and dream you're in Sardinia.
Ingredients:
3 parts Prosecco
2 parts Aperol
1 splash of soda water
Ice
Orange slice, for garnish
Instructions:
Fill a glass with ice cubes.
Pour Prosecco and Aperol over the ice.
Add a splash of soda water and gently stir.
Garnish with an orange slice.
Sip, relax, and savor the taste of an Italian summer!
Summer reading suggestion
The Geography of Bliss, by Eric Weiner
