Aircon working again…Packing getting done…Three days and counting…

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The marina in Kauai, where we were picked up for a whale-watching tour.

Ah, it feels good that we have cool air circulating. I had better brace myself for the warm weather in Marloth Park, which has no central cooling and only aircon in the bedroom, which we only use at night. We have spent the past 15 months in air-conditioned comfort, and that’s all about to change.

As always, we’ll acclimate to the differences within a few days while reveling in the treasures before our eyes. It’s funny; I haven’t seen a bug in the past 15 months, and there’s another adjustment we will make, along with checking under the bed before we go to sleep for snakes or other critters. We will become more observant and mindful once we live in the bush once again.

But none of that worries or stresses us. After all, we’ve spent over four years in Africa out of the past 12 years and quickly adapted to our environment each time we’ve arrived. In a way, it’s all a part of the adventure of being in this wild place.

This morning, after making breakfast, I got to work on all the items in the bathrooms that we’ll pack in the checked bags. Gosh, I’ve accumulated a lot of stuff living in the US for so long, all of which we’ll use and most of which I can’t buy in South Africa. Familiar products and supplies we frequently use usually can’t be found there, indeed not the brands we’re used to, such as toothpaste without fluoride, antiperspirants without chemicals, and products for doing my nails.

In the past, we’d place an order and have such items shipped to us, but now, with the cost of shipping and poor delivery service in South Africa, even by UPS, FedEx, and DHL, I made a point of buying everything we’ll need for the next six months. There are no trips to Target to pick up a dozen toiletries items, and the brands generally found in South Africa aren’t the quality we’d prefer.

Of course, the cost of living is very different there, and most products there are based on economic conditions and affordability of the general population,

“The average monthly salary in South Africa is around $1,500 USD. However, the average income can vary depending on factors like job type, education level, and cost of living.”

It’s easy to see why most of the products we’re used to using aren’t readily available. Even such items as laundry soap, easily available in the US and other countries, can’t be found unless one is willing to pay an exorbitant price, for example, for Tide Pods. We can’t bring laundry soap with luggage weight restrictions, and subsequently, I try to buy laundry soap for sensitive skin, such as for babies, which we can buy. The harsh chemicals in their low-cost soap have caused us skin irritations.

All the toiletries are packed, including what we’ll need for the next few days. I took everything out of packages to save on weight. As for kitchen stuff, I am only taking a few favorite kitchen gadgets. We’ll each have two checked bags, resulting in $100 for each extra bag. Virgin Atlantic only allows one checked bag per person, even for international flights.

We’re allowed 22 pounds in carry-on items. Tom will carry the computer bag, and I’ll have my small wheeled bag and a handbag. That should work out fine.

At this point, I don’t have much more to do. Since we don’t have to leave the condo until around 7:00 PM on Saturday, we can wrap up the final packing and ensure everything fits within the weight restrictions. The packing has been relatively easy since I’ve taken my time. Tom has yet to pack his clothes. I do the bulk of the packing, and Tom does all the loading and hauling of the heavy bags.

That’s it for today, folks.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago, February 26, 2015:

The sunset progressed to this point, giving us hope the clouds would provide a fantastic view. For more photos, please click here.

We’re back!…Hot, hot, hot!…Four days and counting!…

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Unusual tree trunk at the Botanical Garden in Kauai, Hawaii.

Yesterday was a busy day. To use the food we had on hand, I made taco salads (no shell) using organic, grass-fed ground beef, two small jars of green olives, which I sliced, grape tomatoes I cut in half, one whole yellow onion chopped, diced celery, grated cheddar cheese, and homemade Greek yogurt salad dressing.

After cooking and draining the ground beef, I seasoned it with keto taco salad seasoning and one can of low-sugar tomato sauce and let it cook for another 30 minutes on low heat to absorb the flavors. Once it cooled, I put it in the refrigerator with portions to be heated in the microwave at dinner time.

There was enough meat, cheese, and vegetables to last for three nights, and we’ll do takeaway (delivered) meals for the remaining four nights. Our flight isn’t until 10:20 on Saturday night, so we’ll order food in the late afternoon to ensure we’ve eaten before the flight, which may or may not provide food on this late flight. Plus, most of the items they serve on flights aren’t suitable for my way of eating.

Once we arrive in Marloth Park on Monday afternoon, it will have been a long haul before we eat dinner again. We’ll be fine, as always. Going without eating for a day or more is not a big deal.

Yesterday, I packed most of my clothes, and we weighed my bag. It’s at the 50-pound maximum. Today, I will pack another bag of supplies. After being in the US for so long, we accumulated several items we’ll be able to use in Marloth Park during the six months there, which includes two stays, three months each, less the time we stay in Minnesota in June.

When we eventually leave South Africa, we will have to donate the items in the overflow extra bag and return to three checked bags: one clothing bag for each of us and one supply bag, our preferred maximum. When we go to the US in June for Maisie’s graduation, we won’t need to bring everything, only enough to last the two weeks we’ll be in the US.

The cooling system in the condo isn’t working. I awoke at 3:00 am from being too hot when we went to bed on Sunday night. I got up and saw the thermostat reading that the indoor temperature was 90F, 32C. Today, a repairman was scheduled to arrive at 8:30 am, and now it is 9:3,0, and no one has arrived. We’ll see how that goes.

The aircon isn’t working. When we set it to 70F when we went to bed, it was 90F when I got up sweating at 3:00 am to discover this. Hopefully, the HVAC person will be here soon.

As soon as I upload this post, I will return to work on the packing. I prefer to do a little each day rather than all at once. Gosh, it’s hard to believe we’ll be flying away in only four days!

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, February 25, 2015:

Barking Sands Beach is located on the west side of Kauai on the Pacific Missile Range Facility grounds. This beach is part of a 17-mile-long stretch that extends from Polihale Beach to Kehaka Beach, close to the end of Highway 50. For more photos, please click here.

Would you do this luxury adventure?…Five days and counting…

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A small pond at the hotel in Poipu Beach,, Kauai where we stayed on my birthday in 2015.

This 25-day Private Jet Trip Includes Stops in 9 Countries—Plus a Free 9-night Cruise…

The free pre-trip cruise features a roomy suite with a private veranda and butler service. By Rachel Chan

 Published on February 18, 2025

Here’s the link for the following article from Travel and Leisure online magazine.

Luxury tour operator Abercrombie & Kent has long set the luxury travel bar with its epic continent-hopping private jet journeys—and now it’s launching one of its best offers yet. Travelers who book the 25-day Ancient Kingdoms & Dynasties: A Journey by Private Jet itinerary will get a complimentary nine-night pre-trip cruise with its sibling company Crystal Cruises.

“This unprecedented collaboration … offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience the pinnacle of both air and sea adventures in one extraordinary experience,” said Ann Epting, Abercombie & Kent’s senior vice president of product development, in a statement to Travel + Leisure.

The free, nine-night prequel to the main event starts on Sept. 25 in Barcelona aboard the Crystal Symphony and will sail through Spain, Morocco, and Portugal, with stops in Ibiza, Cartagena, Málaga, Gibraltar, and Casablanca, before ending in Lisbon. Passengers will have the chance to enjoy the ship’s spacious Sapphire Veranda Suite, which comes with perks like a private veranda, butler service, and complimentary laundry.

Guests will then kick off their private jet journey with a night at the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon before jetting off to Fez, Morocco; Zanzibar, Tanzania; Salalah, Oman; Udaipur, India; Siem Reap, Cambodia; Luang Prabang, Laos; Istanbul, Turkey; and Malta. Some highlights on the itinerary include a chance to explore Tanzania’s historic Stone Town, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Oman, the City Palace in India, and Angkor Wat in Cambodia. At the final stop in Malta, travelers can learn the art of falconry from a local expert, tour Villa Bologna, and attend a musical parade thrown in their honor.

Accommodations throughout the trip are top-tier and include stays at properties like Raffles Udaipur; Palais Faraj Suites & Spa in Fez; Zuri Zanzibar; Corinthia Palace Hotel; and The Peninsula Istanbul—the T+L’s World’s Best Award winner for the Turkish city.

Travelers will have plenty of opportunities to learn and enrich themselves along the journey. A&K brand ambassador, who was born and raised in Portugal and spent six decades traveling the globe, will share his experiences and thoughts throughout the journey. Foreign correspondent Martin Regg Cohn will also be along for the ride, providing lectures about his time spent reporting in more than 40 countries and interviewing world leaders ranging from the Dalai Lama to Benjamin Netanyahu. Cohn says he’s especially excited to join this globe-trotting trip.

“It reminds me of what I found so appealing as a foreign correspondent—traveling to get a closer look at our cultural roots while also seeing the historical roots of today’s conflicts,” he said. To him, the itinerary is a way of figuratively “connecting the dots on the map.”

Undoubtedly, a highlight of the trip is A&K’s private jet, a 48-seat Boeing 757. (I was lucky enough to experience it on a birthday trip to Iceland in 2023.) Every passenger has a first-class, lie-flat seat with an iPad and noise-canceling headphones on board. They’ll also feast on elegant meals throughout the journey.

The entire trip (including the cruise) runs from Sept. 25 to. Oct. 28. Prices start at $147,950 a person based on double occupancy, with a $7,498 single supplement—50 percent off the standard fee. Check out A&K’s website for more details or booking. You can also reserve your spot by calling 800-554-7094. (We do not receive commission or compensation for posting or purchasing this tour).

This package sounds fun but doesn’t fit into our budget. However, we’ve found many affordable cruises that offer multiple ports of call, enabling travelers to visit many parts of the world and fulfilling many of our travel goals.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, February 23, 2015:

Upon closer inspection of a rooster’s foot in Kauai, we saw how dangerous these spurs could be. Undoubtedly, roosters know how and when to use these. We kept our distance, although he was a friendly fellow. For more photos, please click here.

New fears of flying…How can we avoid terror in the skies…See video below…Seven days and counting…

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This is the Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge, which is located near the condo we rented in Princeville, Kauai, for four months in 2015.

Experiencing a fear of flying, especially after recent aviation incidents in 2025, is entirely understandable. While air travel remains statistically one of the safest modes of transportation, the clustering of events can heighten anxiety. Here are some strategies to help manage this fear:

1. Understand the Nature of Recent Incidents

Experts explain that the recent series of aviation accidents is due to “random clustering,” where multiple incidents occur in a short period purely by chance. This can alter public perception, making air travel seem riskier than it statistically is. Despite these events, air travel remains the safest mode of transport.

2. Educate Yourself on Aviation Safety

Gaining knowledge about aviation safety can provide reassurance. Understanding the rigorous training pilots undergo and the strict maintenance protocols aircraft follow can help alleviate fears. For instance, pilots are trained extensively to handle various in-flight situations, ensuring passenger safety.

3. Practice Anxiety-Reduction Techniques

  • Implementing relaxation strategies can be beneficial:
  • Controlled Breathing: Deep, rhythmic breathing can help calm the nervous system.
  • Mindfulness and Meditation: Focusing on the present moment can reduce anxious thoughts.
  • Visualization: Imagining a successful flight and arrival at your destination can create a positive mindset.
  • These techniques can help manage anxiety before and during flights.

4. Limit Exposure to Distressing News

Continuous exposure to news about aviation incidents can amplify fear. Consider moderating your consumption of such news, especially before a flight, to maintain a calmer mindset.

5. Seek Professional Support

If your fear significantly impacts your life, consulting a mental health professional can be beneficial. Therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) have been effective in addressing phobias, including the fear of flying.

6. Engage in Pre-Flight Rituals

Some individuals find comfort in personal rituals before flying. For example, a traveler shared her practice of using holy oil to bless the plane before boarding, which provided her with a sense of control and peace. While such rituals are personal and may not appeal to everyone, they can comfort some.

7. Focus on the Purpose of Your Trip

Shifting attention to the positive reasons for your travel—such as visiting loved ones, exploring new places, or professional opportunities—can help divert focus from anxiety and remind you of the benefits of flying.

Remember, while recent events can be unsettling, air travel remains exceptionally safe. Implementing these strategies can help manage your fear and make flying a more comfortable experience.

For additional expert advice, consider watching the following video:

It’s not possible for us, with the upcoming two travel days to South Africa, not to be somewhat concerned. However, we both will rely upon statistical data to provide peace of mind and reduce anxiety. We will be in the air for almost 24 hours with multiple layovers. Worrying for such an extended period is pointless.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, February 22, 2015:

This guy explained the roasting process at the Kauai Coffee Company. For more photos, please click here.

Fantastic birthday…Eight days and counting…

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We spent a few days at Poipu Beach in Kauai, which we visited ten years ago on my birthday, staying in a lovely hotel.

Yesterday, we had a wonderful day on my birthday. The day was light and fun as we chatted on the phone with several friends and family members. I was thrilled to see messages from many worldwide readers, musical messages, and online cards.

I even received a thoughtful snail mail paper card from friends Kathy and Don in Hawaii, whom we will see in Marloth Park in a few weeks. We all arranged our visits to South Africa to coincide, and we’re so excited to be able to spend time with them and our other countless friends in the magical place.

At 4:15, an Uber picked us up and drove us to Richard’s home. We then took off in his vehicle to drive to Texas Roadhouse, where the four of us had drinks and a delightful dinner. We love that place! They certainly give their customers plenty of fresh, well-prepared food with many sides. Tom loves their buns but doesn’t care for the honey-cinnamon-sweetened whipped butter. He had no trouble getting regular butter after asking the server.

After dinner, we returned to Richard’s home to watch the second half of the US/Canada hockey game. Then, we sat at the dining table and played an entertaining board game, Mind the Gap, a generational trivia game. We laughed the entire time we played. When we said goodbye to the two of them, I felt a twinge of sadness, knowing we may not return to Nevada for a few more years with our upcoming busy world travel itinerary. But, as always, we’ll stay in touch.

At around 11:00 pm, we ordered another Uber at half the price we’d paid earlier during rush hour and returned to our condo. We never fell asleep until around 1:00 am, and I awoke around 7:00, feeling tired and too lazy to get out of bed. I lingered until 9:00 am and finally got up to shower, dress, and make bacon and eggs for breakfast.

Today is an easy day. We are heading out for dinner tonight, most likely to The Pub, which is located at the bottom of one flight of stairs from the floor on which our unit is located. The exit, with a keypad entrance code, is a short walk down the hallway. It takes about two minutes to walk to The Pub.

This morning, I wrote to Louise asking her to get three bags of pellets from the pellet guy who comes to her offices weekly, two bags for us, and one for Kathy and Don. Also, she will get us a few groceries for our first morning’s breakfast and repellent, which I apply three times a day. Although it’s heading into winter there soon, there are mozzies year-round, which, of course, are worse in the summer months,

We don’t use malaria medication since we are there too long. It’s unhealthy to take that medication for extended periods since it has some side effects. However, using repellent several times a day on exposed skin is a necessary precaution and works quite well. While using it, I rarely get bitten. On the other hand, Tom never gets bitten, even without using repellent around the clock. On humid “buggie” nights, he may put some repellent around his neck and ankles.

We constantly change into long pants when sitting outside at night. Even when it’s hot, I wear long pants or jeans. The less DEET one uses, the better, and I don’t want to be lathering the only repellent that works for me on my legs three times a day. Skin products are easily absorbed into one’s system. I’ve read that people with blood type O, which I am, are more prone to mosquito bites. Tom is type A.

That’s it for today, folks. We’ll be back with more as we approach our departure date.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, February 21, 2015:

This rooster in Kauai wanted to jump into the car with me after I’d made clucking sounds. For more photos, please click here.

Celebrating my birthday today…So grateful for this life…

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Pretty flowers by the sea in Kauai, Hawaii.

If anyone had asked me what I anticipated as my life as I turned 77 years old, I’d never imagined I’d be getting ready to pack to leave for Africa in nine days.

Instead, I imagined living in Minnesota, perhaps in a retirement community with Tom, surrounded by seniors like us, socializing, visiting the doctor once a month, cooking for guests, and frequently visiting family. Sure, I may have been active with hobbies, various activities, girl’s lunches, dining out with Tom, and frequent walks in the neighborhood.

We’d entertain frequently, and I’d try new and interesting recipes and prepare beautiful place settings for our guests, as I’d done in our old lives. We’d attend various events for our teenage (and older) grandchildren, four now over 18, and make a fuss over holidays and birthdays.

It would have been a good life.

But this life??? It’s made of dreams I never understood or fathomed in decades past.

First, I never expected to be in love at 77 years old. How odd that sounds! But I am as attracted to Tom today as I was 34 years ago when we met in 1991. The magic is as alive today as it ever was, if not more, when we’ve filled our hearts and minds with a plethora of outstanding, unique, and adventurous experiences in the past 12-plus years of world travel, which began when I was 64 years old (four months shy of 65). Tom was almost 59 (two months shy of 60).

After a one-hour break from posting to chat with our dear friends Rita and Gerhard, who called to wish me a happy birthday, it’s time to work out and get on with my day. We’re heading to Richard’s home around 4:15 and then to dinner with him and his girlfriend. There’s nothing I’d rather do to celebrate my birthday!

Thanks to our dear readers and friends who’ve wished me a happy birthday. You all mean the world to me!

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, February 20, 2015:

Upon entering the state park, we still have several miles to drive to the lookout point. The fog was dense, and we couldn’t see much. For more photos, please click here.

Major flight discounts…

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Today’s flight discount information is from today’s Travel and Leisure online magazine, which can be accessed from this link.

“Southwest Is Giving Away Its Coveted Companion Pass—But You Have to Act Fast

The deal ends February 20. By Michael Cappetta

 Published on February 19, 2025

A low-cost carrier still spreads love while Valentine’s Day may be over.

Southwest Airlines recently announced the “bring a friend for free” promotion, which provides travelers who complete several tasks with a coveted Companion Pass or free ticket for a second passenger.

The airline offers a limited-time companion pass for travelers who register on its website and purchase a roundtrip or two one-way flights by February 20, 2025, at 111:59 pm CST. The flights must be completed by March 31, 2025. Once the two criteria are met, the companion pass will be issued and available between August 7, 2025, and October 8, 2025. Travelers can book the flights with either cash payments, Rapid Rewards points, or the new Cash + Points option.

Southwest says it will email qualifying passengers to notify them they have completed the tasks and add the companion pass to their Rapid Rewards frequent flyer account. The companion fare is free when the primary traveler books a ticket; however, the companion is still responsible for paying taxes and government fees.

While the travel period is limited, it could help passengers save on late summer vacations or early fall getaways. The companion pass period is also during the travel industry’s ‘shoulder season’, an off-peak time when hotels and attractions offer discounted rates for travelers.

Southwest’s website mentions, “Traveling is more fun with a plus-one. “Take a friend or Family Member with you on your next Southwest flight when you earn a Companion Pass.”

Southwest offers a full-year companion pass to travelers who fly 100 one-way flight segments or have earned 135,000 points in a calendar year. The airline also offers the companion pass through certain spending thresholds on their credit card.

Frontier Just Launched New Routes to Miami, Las Vegas, Austin, and More—With Deals From $19

By Michael Cappetta, Published on February 19, 2025

Booking a summer vacation just got cheaper.

Frontier Airlines recently announced 14 new or expanding routes, including the Boise, ID (BOI) relaunch and Spokane, WA (GEG). The airline will also expand service in Austin, TX (AUS), Aguadilla, Puerto Rico (BQN), Las Vegas, NV (LAS), Miami, FL (MIA), and other markets.

In celebration of the new fares, Frontier is discounting one-way tickets as low as $19 on bookings made before 111:59 pm on February 24, 2025. The tickets can be purchased for travel from May 15, 2025, to August 18, 2025. Travelers should be aware there are several blackout dates, and the tickets do not include perks such as seat assignment, carry-on luggage, or checked baggage, all of which require extra fee payments.

From Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) in Austin, TX, the airline will begin service to Miami International Airport (MIA) and Philadelphia Airport (PHL) on May 22, both operating three times a week. In Music City, Nashville International Airport (BNA) will also begin service to Cleveland, OH (CLE), three times a week on May 23.

On the West Coast, Frontier will begin a new route from Las Vegas’ Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) to Tucson, AZ (TUS) on May 22, 2025, and also a new daily service connecting Chicago O’Hare Airport (ORD) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

“With new affordable travel options across the continental U.S. and Puerto Rico—which join our already expansive network—budget-savvy consumers will be able to do and see more for less with Frontier this year,” Frontier Airlines’ Vice President of Network Operations and Design, Josh Flyr shared in a statement to Travel + Leisure. 

The flights will begin service gradually, rolling between May 15, 2025, and May 24, 2025. The airline shared with T+L that they expect these to be full-year routes, with seasonal adjustments as needed. The May takeoff makes them perfect for travelers looking to book a summer vacation or early fall trip.

Australia Flights Are on Sale for Less Than $800 Roundtrip With American Airlines—How to Book

The deals end on March 2. By Brandon Withrow, Published on February 19, 2025

American Airlines is making getting to Australia more affordable with a new deal.

A flight to Australia is a long haul, so it’s nice when it isn’t a long haul on your pocketbook. For a limited time, American Airlines is making a roundtrip flight to Sydney, Australia, from the US starting at $899 and one-way flights starting at only 30,000 miles.

The promotion from American’s deal advertises a roundtrip starting price of $899, but T+L spotted some even lower flights. For example, a flight booked from Los Angeles (LAX) to Sydney on March 1, 2025, came in at $796 per person, and a roundtrip flight from Chicago (ORD) to Sydney came in at $852 per person.

There are some important restrictions for this deal. Flights are valid for reservations between February 17, 2025, and March 2, 2025. Travel must be from the United States to Sydney (SYD) and booked for the following dates to get their special prices:

  • January 15 to July 13, 2025 F
  • July 24, 2025, to December 5, 2025
  • December 23 to December 25, 2025
  • January 15 to July 13, 2026.
American says some limited stopovers are allowed, but it will affect the flight cost. Basic Economy seats remain non-refundable. Seat assignments are only made at booking, and upgrades may not always be allowed.

If you redeem miles for their one-way, 30,000-mile offer, availability is limited, and only valid fUS US flights to Australia are available in the 48 contiguous states. The offer is only for those reservations made from tUS.S. between February 17 and April 17, 2025, and for returning to tUS.S. between February 17 and April 1, 2025. Travel dates from tUS.S. should be between March 10 and April 17, 2025, and returning to tUS.S. between March 5 and April 1, 2025. Stopovers cannot be combined with this offer.”

Although we won’t be taking advantage of any of these deals due to our pre-existing itinerary, we felt it was important to share them with you. (We do not earn any compensation for promoting these airlines).

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, February 19, 2015:

This was as far as I could get to the edge at the Queen’s Bath in Kauai, Hawaii, without slipping off. For more photos, please click here.
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Ten best Spring Break destinations in the US…

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This was the terrain on the treacherous walk down to the Queen’s Bath in Kauai, Hawaii, ten years ago.

We’ve never posted a specific article about Spring Break, although we’ve mentioned it from time to time. As young adults and families start planning their Spring Break vacations, here is an article from Travel and Leisure that may help determine locations that appeal to you.

We are uninterested in crowded venues, so we’ve never chosen to visit popular Spring Break locations. But many others love the excitement and fun of this festive time of the year and can’t wait to arrive at their chosen locale. The following are all US-based locations, but many other countries offer similar venues.

“10 Best Spring Break Destinations in the U.S.

From the South Carolina coast to a Utah mountain town, here are the best places to go for a spring vacation.

By

Patricia Doherty
This Canadian Resort is the Ultimate Wilderness Escape

Hilton Head, South Carolina
Photo: Margaret W/Getty Images

Depending on your travel style, defining the best spring break destinations in the United States is a personal choice. Whether you’re a family with one week to make the most of or a couple looking for a sunny reset after a dreary winter, we’ve got spring break vacation ideas for everyone in almost every region of the country.

  • Best for families: Destin, Florida
  • Best for a quiet spring break: Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina
  • Best tourist destination: Palm Springs, California
  • Best for couples: Valley of the Sun, Arizona
  • Best beach destination: Hilton Head, South Carolina

Read on to see the 10 best spring break destinations in America.

Destin, Florida

Destin and Miramar Beaches 2022 Florida July Drone Aerial Beach Gulf of mexico
WanderDrone/Getty Images

Destin (along with Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island) is a popular spring break destination for families on Florida’s Emerald Coast. Daily high temperatures in the high 60s and low 70s make the beach town a prime spot for boating, fishing, and relaxing on the fine white-sand beaches of the Florida Panhandle. Henderson Beach State Park is the perfect place to enjoy the calm waters and thirty-foot-high dunes. Still, you can take the adventure further with a snorkeling or parasailing excursion with a local company like Pelican Adventures. Bring the kids to the boardwalk to try out the zip line or rock-climbing wall at HarborWalk Adventures if they still have energy.

Where to stay: Choose from a variety of accommodations, from campgrounds in the state park to one of Destin’s best resorts, such as the luxurious and kid-friendly Silver Shells Beach Resort & Spa, which offers multi-room condos perfect for week-long stays.

Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina
Logan Mock-Bunting/Getty Images

One of the best beaches in North Carolina, Wrightsville Beach offers water sports like surfing and kayaking, beautiful nature, and coastal history. Even if it’s not swimming weather just yet, you can still enjoy being on the water with a sightseeing cruise with Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours. Fishing is also popular on Johnnie Mercers Pier, where you’ll find a tackle shop and restaurants, or take a day to learn more about the area at the Cape Fear Museum in the historic district of nearby Wilmington.

Where to stay: You could rent a beach house or get an ocean-view room at an iconic local hotel like the Blockade Runner Beach Resort.

Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs is a desert resort city in Riverside County, California.DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

Warm weather arrives early in the Southern California desert, making Palm Springs an attractive destination for spring breakers. Go to the top of Mt. San Jacinto on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway before visiting The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. Take a day to get out in nature with a hike along the Araby Trail, or stay in town and try some of the delicious dining options like Spencer’s, with its award-winning terrace, or Trio, an upscale Italian restaurant in the Design District.

Where to stay: A newly updated hotel with a strong midcentury modern aesthetic, Life House Palm Springs offers an incredibly stylish setting that embodies the classic Palm Springs vibe.

Valley of the Sun, Arizona

Phoenix, Arizona
Getty Images

“The Valley of the Sun” is a well-deserved nickname for the Greater Phoenix area, including Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, and Chandler. Even in the spring, this part of the Sonoran Desert sees temperatures in the high 70s and 80s. Lounge by the pool, take a kayak or stand-up paddleboard on the Salt River or go for a romantic hot air balloon ride with Hot Air Expeditions. Couples can make time together at one of the fantastic spas at Scottsdale’s best hotels.

Where to stay: In Scottsdale, the Mountain Shadows Resort is a hotel with stunning views, large rooms, and a historic guestbook, as seen in vintage photos of celebrity visitors like John Wayne and Elizabeth Tayor.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head, South Carolina
Margaret W/Getty Images

Hilton Head Island attracts beach bums from all over the Midwest and East Coast with its 12 miles of Atlantic shoreline. Its waters are ideal for spotting sea life with Dolphin Discoveries or collecting shells at Driessen Beach Park. There’s rarely a shortage of things to do in Hilton Head, thanks to multiple golf resorts and over 60 miles of cycling trails. The weather is warm, with highs in the 60s and 70s, but not too hot to spend entire days outside visiting the family-friendly Coligny Beach or picking up a pole and going fishing at Fish Haul Creek Park.

Where to stay: Consider The Westin Hilton Head Resort & Spa, a grand hotel with multiple pools, private beach access, and the Port Royal Golf & Racquet Club right next door.

Park City, Utah

Park City, Utah
Getty Images

Not everyone is looking for a beach vacation, so for the powder seeker or mountain lover, Park City charms with its artsy city center and silver-mining history. Ski season typically lasts through mid-April at Park City Mountain and Deer Valley. But with spring temperatures in the 50s and 60s, it should also be warm enough — if you’ve got the right layers — for hiking, mountain biking, and strolling along Main Street. Families with kids will be happy to know there’s bowling, ice skating, zip lining, tubing, and more to keep little ones entertained.

Where to stay: Depending on where you decide to ski, you can splurge on a room at one of the resorts the Waldorf-Astoria Park City for Park City Mountain or the St. Regis Deer Valley, two Utah resorts most loved by our readers.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach, Oregon
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Early spring weather is in the chilly mid-50s at Cannon Beach, but it’s still a fun time to explore tide pools and watch seabirds. Every April, the resident puffins return to their roost on Haystack Rock after about eight months away. The beach is dog-friendly so your pet can enjoy playing on the sand or joining you for a hike. When you want a break from the chilly shore, you shop the boutiques in the charming town. Secure your restaurant reservations for the waterfront Wayfarer Restaurant & Lounge or pop into the tap room at Public Coast Brewing Co.

Where to stay: There’s a great selection of hotels here, including luxurious oceanfront properties, vacation home rentals and campsites. The Stephanie Inn is a lovely property with rooms overlooking the beach, and guests can come together for afternoon wine tastings.

South Padre Island, Texas

South Padre Island, Texas
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One of the best towns in Texas, this barrier island resort town off the southern Gulf coast is popular among college students and families alike because of its warm weather, water sports, and nature. Paddleboards, kayaks, and Jet Skis are available for rent from various shops or you can try kiteboarding with Air Padre Kiteboarding. Kids can learn about some of South Padre Island’s most-loved residents at Sea Turtle, Inc., a sea turtle rehabilitation and education center, while the college-student party crowd will be found dancing and drinking to DJ sets at bars like Louie’s Backyard.

Where to stay: There are many large resorts at this sring break destination, but if you want something cozier and maybe a little off the beaten path, you can try the Lighthouse Boutique Hotel.

New Orleans

New Orleans, Louisiana
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The Big Easy is known as a party destination, but families with kids should keep New Orleans on their spring break radar, too. The historic city has an aquarium, zoo, and several standout museums like The National World War II Museum that mix entertainment and education. In the French Quarter, you can get an education in cocktails at the Sazerac House and even though you might miss Fat Tuesday by a few weeks, you can still see the floats year-round at Mardi Gras World.

Where to stay: Among the best hotels in New Orleans, the luxuriously quirky Maison Metiér puts hospitality first with an outstanding breakfast spread and unique design touches.

Atlanta

Coca-Cola world against the Atlanta skyline
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With so much to do in Atlanta, you don’t need a beach to keep you busy when the pleasant spring weather rolls in. The Georgia Aquarium is the largest in the United States and features sharks, dolphins, sea lions, seabirds, and more. The World of Coca-Cola offers tastings and other experiences in the city where the soda company is headquartered. The Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame will delight university students, and there’s a Lego Discovery Center for kids.

Where to stay: After exploring the city, the InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta is an excellent hotel to retreat from the bustle with its heated saltwater pool and fantastic Italian steakhouse.”

Whatever location you choose, it is imperative to be on guard, protecting your safety and security, as you would in any country. When visiting pubs and nightclubs, guard your drinks with sealed lids with a straw if possible since, especially during this time, many people are drugged unknowingly while their drinks are unattended. Pickpocketing is rampant. Do not leave a public venue with a stranger; always remain in public areas. Observe fire exits and easy access to the outdoors in all public places.

In any case, have a safe and wonderful time wherever you travel.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, February 18, 2015:

Queen’s Bath in Kauai looks relatively innocuous but is known to be deadly. Many swimmers have died here because of the unexpected surf sweeping them away, especially in the rougher winter months. Getting down to the location we tackled is a very rough walk. This is the only photo we “borrowed.” All other photos are ours. Tom didn’t take the camera with him when he went down the final steps to the water while I waited behind. For more photos, please click here.

Getting things done…Gratifying, as departure time nears…12 days and counting…

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There are almost a million feral chickens and roosters in Kauai. They are everywhere!

We are on a mission to complete as many tasks as possible before departing for South Africa in 12 days. This included completing our tax prep, which I forwarded to our accountant in Las Vegas today. Our mailing service will snail mail the tax documents to him today. No doubt, our taxes will be filed within a week, and this task will be entirely out of the way after we pay whatever tax sums we owe for this year.

I always dread doing tax prep but knew the sooner I got it done, the better, leaving my mind free of procrastinating. I am generally not a procrastinator, but “paperwork” such as this can send me on a tailspin.

Also, we found a home for the wheelchair I no longer need. The front desk staff at the Viera condo building said they could easily use it for disabled guests arriving for a visit. After checking, Goodwill had so many wheelchairs that they didn’t need more, nor would they be willing to pick one up.

We’ll have a few more loads of laundry before departing, after which we can pack. We will save that task for next week when we leave on Saturday. If we had to pack in a hurry, we could get it all done in about two hours. We’re thrilled to have so much in order already.

I placed our final grocery order for $150 this morning, which will get us through this week and next. We’ll be dining out this Thursday and Friday and thus have only six dinners to make using what we’ll have on hand, considering I have designated meals for the balance of this week. The night before we depart, we dine out in the Village if all the meat in the freezer is gone. Otherwise, we’ll make one last dinner.

Today is an easy day. Soon, I’ll start chopping and dicing for dinner, after which I’ll do my daily exercises. I am pleased to have committed to doing these daily with little need for added motivation. I can go downstairs more easily since the workouts have improved my knee flexibility. This alone is sufficient motivation. Yes, walking long distances is still challenging, but shorter distances are a breeze compared to what they were only months ago.

We have been in the US since December 2023 when we returned for medical care. Now, 15 months later, we are anxious to be on the move once more. It will be fun to rerun in June for Maisie’s graduation and to see everyone once again. However, when we leave, we won’t return until June 2026 for Miles’ graduation. From there, only time and good health will determine the future.

We hope you have a good week.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, February 17, 2015:

Tom was in deep thought while gazing at the sea in Kauai, Hawaii. For more photos, please click here.

Latest world travel warnings from the US State Department…

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A blowhole in lava rock in Kauai. A blowhole or marine geyser is formed as sea caves grow landward and upward into vertical shafts and expose themselves toward the surface.

Before we commit to traveling to a country that may be questionable for safety, we check the US Department of State for any new travel warnings we may not have known. Often, countries that have the perception of safety for traveling may be in the throes of political unrest or increased kidnapping, murders, and other heinous crimes.

Pickpocketing must be considered a possibility in every country since offenders are seldom apprehended by police or suffer minimal consequences, thus increasing the risks for tourists.

From time to time, we check the State Department’s current information for countries we’ve already planned to visit in the distant future. We may not be able to cancel plans we’ve already paid for unless the war has commenced or escalated since we made the booking, such as when we booked a cruise to Ukraine and the war recently escalated. In that case, we received a refund from the cruise line when we weren’t interested in the alternate ports of call.

Please do not assume that a cruise port of call is safe simply because the cruise line included it in its itinerary. Many crimes have been perpetrated against cruise passengers when they visit various ports of call.

Many travelers also choose to visit various well-known resorts in Mexico. However, proceed with caution when deciding to travel to many of these popular resorts, based on countless reports of serious crimes committed against tourists at these resorts and nightclubs.

As of February 16, 2025, the US Department of State has issued the following travel advisories:

Visit travel.gov for detailed information on any of the following warnings:

Level 4: Do Not Travel

  • Democratic Republic of the Congo: Travelers are advised against visiting due to ongoing armed conflict and civil unrest.

  • Manzanillo, Mexico: The city has experienced high rates of violent crime, including murders and kidnappings, leading to a Level 4 advisory.

Level 3: Reconsider Travel

  • Guinea-Bissau: Political instability and crime have prompted a Level 3 advisory.

Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

  • China: The advisory level was recently downgraded from Level 3 to Level 2 following the release of three American citizens. Travelers should remain cautious due to the potential arbitrary enforcement of local laws.

  • Ghana: Increased caution is advised due to crime.

  • Republic of the Congo: Travelers should be cautious due to crime and civil unrest.

  • Greenland: Exercise increased caution due to environmental hazards.

Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

  • Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba: These destinations are considered safe for travel with standard precautions

For a comprehensive and up-to-date list of travel advisories, visit the US Department of State’s official website.

Additionally, enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) can provide timely updates and assist in emergencies abroad.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, February 16, 2015:

A closer view of the pods growing on the above Hala Tree. In a way, it resembles a pine cone. For more photos, please click here.
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