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How to Stay Healthy Before Your Travels

Whether you’re heading away for a fun-filled family vacation, a romantic getaway, or traveling for business, it’s important that you’re in the right frame of mind, both mentally and physically. No matter where you venture, here are a few key tips on how to stay healthy before your travels… CONTINUE READING >> 

Whether you’re heading away for a fun-filled family vacation, a romantic getaway with your partner or you’re traveling for business purposes, it’s important that you’re in the right frame of mind, both mentally and physically. No matter where you venture to in the world, here are a few key tips on how to stay healthy before your travels.

Get Plenty of Sleep

Poor sleep affects a wide range of health functions, meaning it’s more important than ever that you get plenty of shuteye each night. For those who struggle to drift off, making small but subtle lifestyle changes can help aid sleep, such as establishing a bedtime routine. The quality of your mattress can also play a huge part in how much sleep you get.

If it’s time to purchase a new mattress, your best bet is to look on Presidents’ Day where you can find a range of deals and sales that can help save you money.

Regular Exercise

Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, it’s likely that you will be on your feet for a lot of your time away. Improving your stamina levels and keeping healthy and active will help you get the most out of your trip, so make sure to incorporate plenty of regular exercise into your day to day routine. For the fitness fanatics, you may already have a gym membership, however, for those who would prefer to work out alone, there are lots of exercises that you can do from the comfort of your own home.

Bring your Health Essentials with you

Whether it’s hand sanitizer or your regular vitamins, it is important to stay on track even when you’re away. You may be feeling like you’re on vacation, but your body is not. Precautionary items count as well! Such as pain relievers or aromatherapy in case of insomnia. Remember, it’s better to be a bit “too cautious” by packing a few extra items, rather than trying to find them in the middle of your trip in a city you don’t know, and probably not feeling great either.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

The last thing you want is to get sick on your travels, so following a balanced diet can act as a strong defense, helping to boost your immune system. If you aren’t sure where to start, make sure to factor in plenty of fruits, vegetables, and protein into your diet. While many of us are guilty of reaching for processed foods, the high salt, fat, and sugar content can leave you feeling lethargic and rundown, so it’s best to stick to healthier alternatives.

Keep Hydrated

Getting from A to B on your travels can take its toll on your body and mind, so make sure that you are drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Keeping hydrated can help to regulate body temperature, prevent infections, and ensure your organs are functioning properly. If you struggle to drink plenty of fluids, carrying a water bottle with you at all times can make a big difference.

Reduce Stress

While going on your travels should be something to look forward to, going somewhere new can be a daunting and exhausting experience. When preparing to head out on a trip, there are lots of factors to take into consideration which will naturally increase stress levels, so practicing relaxation techniques should be your first port of call. Deep breathing exercises can help you feel calmer and more relaxed before you venture out on your travels.

Practice Good Hygiene

Whether it’s the office coffee maker or elevator buttons, there are lots of things that we touch on a day to day basis that harbor tons of germs. When going on your travels, being in crowded areas can put you at a higher risk of getting sick, so to avoid transmission, make sure that you wash your hands properly. If you see a nearby passenger is visibly sick, try and switch seats if you can. Taking precautionary measures will reduce the risk of you falling ill on your travels.

When you are away from home, it’s only natural that you will want to see and do as much as you can. However, taking on board all the suggestions listed can help make sure you’re physically and mentally ready for your adventure ahead.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

Ten Things You Don’t Know About New York City – Even If You Live There!

Your GypsyNesters found the wild, weird and wonderful not-so-known sights, sounds and flavors of The Big Apple!

Even if you are a New Yorker –  we bet you don’t know most of these!..

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Your GypsyNesters found the wild, weird and wonderful not-so-known sights, sounds and flavors of The Big Apple!

Even if you are a New Yorker –  we bet you don’t know most of these!

The dirty patch on the ceiling of Grand Central StationThere is a dirty rectangle on the ceiling of Grand Central Station. When the ceiling of the main concourse was restored in 1994-98, a patch was left untouched to show just how filthy it had been.

It took us forever to find it, but now that we know it’s there, we can’t stop picking at it.

The lions in front of the New York Public Library are named Patience and Fortitude. This is Fortitude, and the easiest way to tell them apart is that Fortitude is closest to 42nd Street. Get it? 42/fortitude?

The lions in front of the Public Library have names – and a cool way to remember them: Patience and Fortitude are the two lions that guard the entrance to the massive archives. Fortitude is pictured above, and the easiest way to tell them apart is that Fortitude is closest to 42nd Street. –> 42=fortitude!

See more about our adventures at the NYC Public Library!

Governor's Island at the beach in New York City

There’s a “tropical beach” off the coast of Manhattan. We found a place to get our feet in the sand without straying far from Manhattan! We took the free ferry ride, rented bikes and spent the day in (relative) quiet on Governor’s Island.

The island boasts a fort, an outdoor art gallery along the bike and foot paths, laid-back attitude and a sandy beach — complete with a snack shack and plastic palms.

We discovered new sides of Lady Liberty and the busy heliport across the channel. A perfect tropical getaway in the middle of the city.

George Washington lived here: The first executive mansion was at what is now the base of the Brooklyn Bridge


The first “White House” was where the Brooklyn Bridge now stands:
After looking high and low, peaking through fences and around construction barriers, we got a peek at a decrepit old inscription marking the spot of the The Samuel Osgood House, our nation’s first executive mansion.

Yes, all that is left of the site where George Washington lived and worked as our first president is a dirty old marker on an abutment of the Brooklyn Bridge.

See more about what’s left of colonial NYC

NYC pizza tours

There are tours dedicated to the history of pizza in NYC: If there is one food that screams New York City from the top of the Empire State Building, it has got to be pizza.

How did this happen? We didn’t know, but we do now–because we took a pizza tour!

See all of our adventures in New York City!

40% of the NYC subway is above ground

40% of the subway system is above ground. And it’s LOUD. The trains rumble noisily overhead — setting off car alarms in their wake, but they’re still referred to as subways.

Other subway fun facts:
-Over five million people ride on an average day.
-There are 840 miles of track.
-The deepest station is on 191st Street in Manhattan at 180 feet below street level.
-Back when tokens were still in use, thieves would suck tokens from the turnstiles with their mouths. Yuck!

Arthur Avenue in the Bronx

Arthur Avenue in the Bronx. Manhattan’s Little Italy is not the only game in town. The Bronx version might be even better. We love Saturdays on Arthur Avenue when the markets are in full swing.

Fight little old ladies for the best cuts and finest cheeses before settling down to some of the most delicious Italian food this side of the Atlantic.

Whispering Wall at Grand Central Station

The Whispering Gallery at Grand Central Station. Walk around Grand Central Station until you find the Oyster Bar Restaurant and a bunch of folks who look like they just got sent to “time out.” Were these folks exceptionally naughty? Nope, they are sending secrets to each other via the Whispering Gallery.

Whisper into one corner and a buddy can hear it behind you in the opposite one all the way across the hall! We tried it out — it really works! Kinda creepy, but fun.

The Library Hotel in NYC

There’s a hotel based on the Dewey Decimal System: Books are everywhere at the Library Hotel and, from the moment we checked in at the card catalogue-decorated front desk in the shelf-lined lobby, to the hundreds of titles in each room that correspond to its number in the Dewey Decimal System.

For example, our room, 905, is based on 900.005 in the famous library-organizing system, which is the travel and geography category. Absolutely a perfect fit for us, and we fell asleep blissfully reading of far-off places every night.

See more about our stay as Writers-in-Residence at the Library Hotel!

Batteries on the subway tracks

There are ALWAYS batteries on the subway tracks. A great mystery to us. Every station, every time. We always look and they are always there.

Why? What are they used for? Are they left over from back in the days when walkmans used AAs?

Is this where all of the “batteries not included” end up?

David & Veronica, GypsyNester.com

If you want to make your travel hassle-free and more fun, make sure to use  Vertoe which is America’s Leading Daily Luggage Storage Service with 300+ locations, Vertoe is America’s first highly rated daily luggage storage provider near you starting at $5.95/day/item. Book Luggage storage in NYC, near most happening places like Midtown, JFK airport, Port authority, grand central, Brooklyn, Penn station & more. Items are insured up to $5000. Also, read 10 tips for new york.

See all of our adventures in New York City!

YOUR turn: How many did you know? Did we stump you? Have you got one to share?

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Which California Wine Region Is Right For You?

California is renowned across the globe for its wine regions, such as Napa Valley, Sonoma, and Monterey. The sunny weather and ideal climate make these exciting places to visit at any time of year…
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California is renowned across the globe for its wine regions, such as Napa Valley, Sonoma, and Monterey. The sunny weather and ideal climate make these regions exciting places to visit at any time of the year. Each destination has a different feel and offering. So if you’re considering visiting, which wine region is right for you?

Sonoma

Sonoma County, situated north of San Francisco, has a laid-back and casual appeal, and suits visitors who want affordability as well as plenty of choices. The area is relatively inexpensive compared to other wine regions. There are many smaller independent wineries that are a great value and offer tasting sessions and exciting tours.

The nearby historic town of Sonoma is well worth a visit for its culture and fantastic photo opportunities. Wine tours and festivals happen all year: Winter WINEland in January, Huichica Music Festival in June, and the Equinox Yoga Retreat with Hiking and Wine Tasting event in September.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is perhaps the most well-known of California’s wine regions. It has a broad appeal with mild temperatures and suits all types of visitors. Calistoga is a good base for solo travelers, couples, and families who want to explore the wider region. And there’s plenty to do: Take a hot air balloon ride above the vineyards, visit world-class restaurants, or head into the hills of Robert Louis Stevenson State Park.

Festivals and events are aplenty in Napa Valley. Upcoming events include the Napa Valley Marathon & Half Marathon, February Culinary Crawl, Napa Valley Restaurant Week, and Napa Lighted Arts Festival. In summer, there’s Napa Valley Jazz Getaway, Festival Napa Valley, and Napa Valley Chamber Music Festival. In this wine region, there really is something for everyone.

Monterey

Monterey County is a destination with a little of everything: world-class golf courses, family attractions, and of course many wineries. It’s an ideal spot for individuals, couples, or family and friends. The location is great for travelers who like wine shops, delicious restaurants, and even bars and pubs. A 20-mile strip of River Road is a hotspot for various drinking establishments and has a buzzing beer and spirits scene.

The critically-acclaimed Monterey Wine Festival in June is a must-visit. But many other events happen during the year, including plenty of events for live music lovers. Cannery Row near Downtown Monterey provides a spectacular view across the bay and is packed full of diners, hotels, accommodation, and bars.

Livermore Valley

Livermore Valley, north of San Jose, is a laid-back wine region popular with shoppers, hikers, culture vultures, and wine lovers. The township of Livermore is an ideal destination for quality restaurants and provides good transport links to the various wineries in the immediate area.

Del Valle Regional Park, 10 miles south of Livermore, is a beautiful and popular place to visit. The park has a visitor center and provides plenty of opportunities for fishing, swimming, boating, picnicking, and exploring the wider landscape. Livermore Valley’s relaxed atmosphere and variety of amenities make it the perfect getaway for couples and small groups.

Temecula Valley

Temecula Valley in Riverside County, California, is situated inland between the cities of San Diego and Los Angeles. The area has a historic connection for wine growing and today features many small and larger vineyards (some 30+). A backdrop of stunning mountains sets the scene for visitors who want to taste wine in style. The area is especially suited for travelers who enjoy quality boutique hotels, quiet country vineyards, and traditional architecture. Guided tours are available, as are many more activities for singles, couples, and families. Visit Old Town Temecula for a taste of the past. Try hot air ballooning, wine tasting at Wilson Creek Winery, and shop at the Temecula Lavender Company.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

Top 5 Reasons To Visit Midtown

Whether you’re planning to visit New York City for business or pleasure, the city that never sleeps has a lot to offer. From luxurious hotels to exciting attractions, Midtown Manhattan has something to suit every preference… CONTINUE READING >> 

Whether you’re planning to visit New York City for business or pleasure, the city that never sleeps has a lot to offer. From luxurious hotels to exciting attractions, Midtown Manhattan has something to suit every preference. Here are the top five reasons you should visit this bustling part of the Big Apple.

The Westgate

When you need to find the perfect place to stay for your trip, The Westgate NYC Hotel is an excellent choice. Not only is it within walking distance of many attractions, but it also features an in-house restaurant and plenty of amenities to keep you comfortable. As New Yorks Historic Midtown Manhattan Hotel, The Westgate provides 24/7 front desk service for guest convenience.

Times Square

Whether you want to get some shopping in or attend a Broadway play, a visit to Times Square can make your dream a reality. As a cornerstone of the city, Times Square is always crowded and well lit so you’re sure to find something exciting. If you’re planning a trip around the holidays, stop by the iconic New Year’s Eve celebration to ring in the new year with locals and tourists alike.

Fifth Avenue

Every shopping enthusiast dreams of having a spending spree on Fifth Avenue. From clothes and accessories to jewelry, the items offered on Fifth Avenue are luxurious and high-end. Manhattan’s shopping district is home to many stores, including those listed below.

Vuitton
Tiffany & Co.
H & M
Cartier
NBA store
Gucci

Empire State Building

Get a breathtaking view of the city from the top of the Empire State Building. Tour the exhibits on the second floor to experience unique history and culture and then began your ascent to the top. Stop at the 86th floor to see the partial views but make sure you go all the way to the 102nd floor to get the full effect. Afterward, make sure you visit our gift shop and Visitor’s Center for a souvenir.

Rockafeller Center

If you’re planning a holiday trip to New York City, you can’t miss the annual Christmas tree at Rockafeller Center. During the rest of the year, climb to the top of the observation deck to get a bird’s eye view of the city. The attraction features a variety of exhibits each year, so make sure you tour them to learn more about the history and culture of the city. Restaurants and numerous stores make this attraction ideal for families.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

The 4 Best Locations in Italy for Landscape Photography

Whenever someone asks the professional photographers for landscape photography, they recommend Italy. If you have ever traveled to Italy then you will know why…
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Are you looking for some great landscape photography spots from world-class locations? Whenever someone asks for the opinion of professional photographers who specialize in landscape photography, they often recommend Italy. If you have ever traveled to Italy in any capacity, then you would have already known about the rural and coast part of the country. Moreover, this country offers photography opportunities 365 days per year. There is no specific month to visit, as there is always a place to capture some great landscape photographs. If you interested in travel photography and planning to go there in August then Rome is the best place. Venice is also a nice location but you should avoid in the winter, as there is a risk of flooding at this time of the year.

Following is the list of 4 best locations in Italy for landscape photography. I know, it is not complete – no list ever is – but in my opinion, these are the best spots for photo enthusiast and you should put them high on your bucket list.

Cinque Terre

If you want to step back in time then Cinque Terre is the best place to visit. It consists of five towns which make it one of the best places worth your visit. Considering visiting the five villages of Manarola, Riomaggiore, Vernazza, Monterosso, and Corniglia. To get there, you’ll need to catch the regional train. Spend a few days here to capture snapshots & grow your collection. You can either choose to take a section of trails or hike the area to discover some great views of ancient villages. If you are the kind of person who does not like to travel around hundreds of tourists, then visiting Cinque Terre is a good choice. But, remember to visit in autumn or winter, you will not be disappointed.

Modern and Ancient Rome

Italy has one of the finest trains and flight connections in the world. You can easily catch a cheap flight to Rome, which is one of the biggest cities in Italy & well worth your travel. It is typically effortless to capture some excellent photographs of central Rome during the day. I also recommend that you go out during the day and try to capture the random moments of this vibrant city until the night falls. Don’t forget the numerous monuments, ruins, etc.

Venice

Venice is another great place to visit in this country. You will not be disappointed as this place offers some excellent opportunities for landscaping photography. The most appropriate time to explore this specific location is in September. Because it is the time for annual gondola regatta, one of the most spectacular events in Europe. You will surely come back home with some amazing landscape arts. St. Marks Square, the Jewish quarter, and the Islands are not the only places to visit in Venice.  Finding a hot spot in this city for landscape photography is very easy.

Matera

Another ancient town that you must visit for photography. It provides many hot spots to capture stunning landscape photographs. It’s a magical ancient place that lies in canyonlands. You should add Matera into your to-do list.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

Simple Steps on How to Become More Focused in School

All students go to school with one goal in mind: clear their courses successfully and graduate with good grades. By increasing your focus, you can catch up with your coursework and begin seeing an improvement in your performance… CONTINUE READING >> 

All students go to school with one goal in mind: clear their courses successfully and graduate with good grades.

Most times, this proves easier said than done.

It’s not uncommon for students to lose focus, start recording bad grades and eventually bemoan their lackluster performance.

This situation is, however, easy to turn around. By increasing your focus, you can catch up with your coursework and begin seeing an improvement in your performance.

Here is how.

Identify Distractions

This should be the first step in your recovery efforts.

The reasoning behind this is simple.

Identifying what went wrong in the first place allows you to move forward with consciousness regarding where you went wrong.

You can, therefore, identify red flags more quickly and avoid them to ensure you do not fall off track again.

Without doing this, it becomes much easier to fall into bad habits again a few semesters down the line and it becomes a vicious cycle.

Therefore, start by figuring out what distracted you in the first place and how to ensure this does not happen again.

Avoid Multitasking

Research has shown that the human brain is not at good at multitasking, as previously thought.

In fact, findings have shown that multitasking can cut down productivity by 40%.

This comes down to the ability to focus.

Students are most effective when they focus on one task at a time.

To be more focused in school, work out a work schedule that allows you to handle one task at a time. For example, let reading time remain just that. Try not to read while you respond to emails or as you prepare a meal.

Similarly, try to work on one task to completion before picking something else up. Cutting tasks short to pick something else had huge time costs as well.

If you need to multitask stems from having too much to handle at once, then consider engaging a homework service. In this way, delegate some of your workload, and focus your efforts on what’s left.

Unplug Social Media

You will find that you absorb concepts better when you allow yourself to be engaged with your content. This is both in class, on private study time and in study groups.

However, you might find yourself missing large tracts of information in class because you wanted to respond to a quick text or email.

As useful as technology is, it can also disrupt learning if you allow it to.

If you find it hard to resists, make a point of switching your phone off during all learning engagements. You can then check it for important messages during your short breaks.

Leverage Technology

Technology helps you learn more engagingly and interactively. If monotony makes you lose focus, technology is indeed the way to go.

Technology uses gamification, simulations as well as videos and other visuals to teach content.

These are more engaging than a class lecture or going through piles of class notes. This, in turn, makes learning more fun and helps you focus and engage with the content more profoundly.

Take Short Breaks

Short breaks have been proven to increase productivity, reduce stress and increase focus in students.

Granted, this is not always possible in the lecture hall. It is, however, possible for your private study time.

If you have hours of study to do, break it up into several blocks, and take a break after each block.

Note that the brain is never idle. Even though you might take a walk or a mug of coffee during your break, your brain will still be busy at work trying to synthesis what you have just learned.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

Delve Deeper: Tags

Peculiarities of Company Setup in Dubai

Company formation in Dubai is a goal for every business owner since the company setup in any other country is probably not so luxurious and prestigious as in the UAE…
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Company formation in Dubai is a goal for every business owner since the company setup in any other country is probably not so luxurious and prestigious as in the UAE. However, for most entrepreneurs, this goal remains just an unrealized wish because they believe that the registration process is too complicated. Undoubtedly, it provides a lot of pitfalls, but if you have a detailed plan of action, you will achieve success.

Choose a Suitable Location

Each emirate has its peculiarities of business registration and regulation. Therefore, it is advisable to learn these details before selecting the best location. In case you decided to set up a local company, you need to find an investor who will own 51% of shares. The process of registration is rather complex, and it requires you to follow certain regulations regarding a license, taxes, visas, and so on. If you wish to simplify the company setting-up process, select one of the available free zones that are the most suitable for your type of business. These zones were developed in the UAE specifically for foreign investors, and they offer more profitable conditions.

The Main Features of Ajman Free Zone

Ajman free zone, located not far from Dubai, is one of the safest and the most attractive areas for company registration in the UAE. This fact can be explained by a large number of benefits for foreign business owners:

Absence of income taxes;
Complete ownership of the company’s shares without a local investor;
Advantageous zone location;
Low prices for a visa;
• Ajman free zone trade license cost (if you deal with a consulting agency, the price will start approximately from $9,000);
Quick registration process (it usually takes no more than one day);
Data confidentiality guarantee.

Ajman free zone is more suitable for the owners of small and medium businesses. Due to its comfortable location, this area is more preferable for setting up a trading or industrial company.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

What Makes a Great Empty Nest Destination? Here are our Suggestions!

With the children raised and off on their own, many of the obstacles that hindered our ability to travel extensively have disappeared, but there may be some new challenges.

The key for us empty nesters is to decide what we are seeking when we travel, then match the destination to our desires.

If we plan ahead for our levels of comfort, cost, and activity level, checking most anything off the… CONTINUE READING >> 

What makes a great empty nest vacation?

With the children raised and off on their own, many of the obstacles that hindered our ability to travel extensively have disappeared, but there may be some new challenges.

The key for us empty nesters is to decide what we are seeking when we travel, then match the destination to our desires.

If we plan ahead for our levels of comfort, cost, and activity level, checking most anything off the old bucket list becomes possible.

Roughing It – Without Roughing It

Biking The Grand Canyon

Just because we might not get excited at the prospect of roughing it like a Boy Scout anymore doesn’t mean nature’s wonders have to be off our list.

There are plenty of spectacular offerings in the great outdoors that are easy to visit.

At the top of that list are many of our National Parks.

Flying over the rim of the Grand Canyon in a helicopter!
Flying over the rim of The Grand Canyon in a helicopter.

We aren’t talking about sleeping on the ground in a pup tent either, a number of our most famous parks have fantastic lodges. Yellowstone, Yosemite, The Grand Canyon, and Glacier National Park all have incredible historic hotels set right in the heart of breathtaking scenery.

Buffalo at beautiful Yellowstone National Park
Buffalo at Yellowstone National Park.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park

These offer all the modern amenities in a perfect combination of rustic and elegant.

Most also offer shuttle bus service to all of the iconic attractions that are as reliable as Old Faithful.

The Grand Canyon, and Glacier National Park can even be reached by train. After all, Mother Nature prefers her visitors bright eyed and bushy tailed, not worn out from driving.

Quite a few State Parks also offer accommodations, some on a par with their national big brothers, such as Starved Rock in Illinois, or Fall Creek Falls in Tennessee.

Cruuuuuisin’
Cruising in Hong Kong
Sailing out of Hong Kong

Cruises can be another great way to travel in style and see places you’ve always dreamed about.

It’s like bringing your hotel with you while seeing a glacier in Alaska, sailing the Mediterranean, visiting The Great Wall of China, or cruising the great rivers of Europe.

If it’s near the water you can see it on a boat, and avoid all of the hassles of packing and unpacking along the way.

Safety at Sea: What the newest ships are implementing

Cruising through Budapest at night! Spectacular!
Cruising through Budapest at night! Spectacular!

Hint: It is best to avoid booking during Spring Break if you want a little peace and quiet by the pool. We made that mistake a few years ago. But the libation-soaked scholars turned out to be good for a little comic relief from time to time!

Size DOES Matter
Sunset in St. Augustine, Florida
Sunset in St. Augustine, Florida
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe, New Mexico

Smaller cities that have a ton of attractions within a central location make for great getaways.

Two of the oldest settlements in America fall into that category, Santa Fe, New Mexico and St. Augustine, Florida.

Both have restored historic downtown areas that are easy to walk around and packed with great shopping, eating, and some of the oldest structures in the country.

Savannah, Georgia
Downtown Savannah, Georgia
Shrimp and Grits and fried okra in Charleston, South Carolina
Shrimp and grits with fried okra in Charleston

 

For Southern charm, the Lowcountry cities of Savannah, Georgia and Charleston, South Carolina are unmatched.

The Spanish moss-draped trees along the boulevards and squares, restored waterfronts, and classic colonial homes can be magical, with much of the allure of New Orleans… minus the happy hedonistic insanity.

For northern exposure, give Corning, New York or Newport, Rhode Island a visit.

View of Salzburg, Austria from the castle
Salzburg, Austria
Ornate guild signs in Salzburg
Ornate guild signs in Salzburg

With its easy walk-through old town, Salzburg in Austria is heralded as one of the best-preserved city centers in Europe.

Once inside the walls the baroque architecture and ornate guild signs are mesmerizing, and The Sound of Music is all around… in more ways than one.

Be sure to ride the cable car up to Hohensalzburg Castle for the best possible view overlooking Mozart’s hometown.

Sunset in Puerto Peñasco, Mexico
Sunset in Puerto Penasco, Mexico

An hour south of the U.S. border and a million mental miles away is Puerto Peñasco, Mexico.  No wonder this quaint fishing village has become so popular with snow birds. Relax on the shores of the Sea of Cortez for a fraction of the cost of most Mexican resorts.

All of these small-ish burgs have a full spectrum of food and lodging choices and best of all, because they are not big metropolitan centers, these towns can be pretty easy on the savings account.

Need a Bigger Adventure?
Prague

Beautiful Prague, Czech Republic

Prague in the Czech Republic is the former capital of the Holy Roman Empire and one of the world’s great cities, yet the old center is small enough to easily navigate on foot.

Rounding every corner is like stepping into a new page of a classic story book.

We almost expected a damsel in distress or a knight in shining armor at every turn. To ensure a return visit (and you’ll want one), rub the statue of St. John on the Charles Bridge.

Newfoundland
Kayaking with Icebergs in Newfoundland
Kayaking with humpback whales and icebergs in Newfoundland.

We thought we might just spend a few days in Newfoundland.

Good thing we asked around before we went, because everyone who had been there said it takes at least two weeks to even scratch the surface.

Luckily we are empty nesters and had the time to truly explore the natural beauty and fantastic people of the island. Don’t forget to ask a local about getting “Screeched In” to become an honorary Newfoundlander.

Queensland

Veronica snorkels with a sea turtle on Lady Elliot Island, Queensland, Australia, GypsyNester.com

If Australia is on your bucket list, look no further than Queensland. Beautiful beaches, glamorous seaside foodie towns and all the fabulous marsupials you could ever want to see are there for the experiencing!

Oh, and Great. Barrier Reef. It doesn’t get more bucket list than that!

The laidback, “no worries” atmosphere of Queensland allows us empty nesters to relax — or adventure — at our own pace.

Costa Rica

View from Parador Resort and Spa, Costa Rica

If you are a nature lover and appreciate ecotourism, Costa Rica is your ultimate destination.

Costa Rica has embraced ecotourism, understanding the need to keep their beautiful beaches, national parks and treasured wildlife as pristine as possible. Plus they have tons of monkeys, and we love monkeys.

If all the ecotourism talk conjures up visions of carrying a backpack through the jungle, sleeping in tents, and living off of nuts and wild papayas, we can relate.

But there’s luxury to be found, too. We soaked in hot springs on the slopes of an active volcano, and even had a massage while watching monkeys swing through the trees at the most eco-friendly hotel we’ve ever stayed. Can’t do that in many places!

The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

The Wild Atlantic Way of Ireland

The Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland will create memories that will stay in your heart forever – the views from the edge of the world are spectacular!

Headquarter in the little town of Dingle – for Victorian quaintness, and a foodie experience you’ll never forget!


A Nod to Voluntourism

Volunteering in Africa

Volunteer vacations are a great way to see the world, help others, and grow together as a couple.

Many US National Parks have volunteer programs that offer fabulous benefits, like free lodging.

There are also opportunities abroad, like teaching English to schoolchildren in Africa, that many empty nesters find very fulfilling – including us!

By combining volunteering and tourism, you get a unique, hands-on experience that connects you to the places you visit in very powerful ways.

With the offspring grown and flown, it’s the perfect time to spread our wings, pick a place, pack those bags, and leave the nest completely empty for a while.

David & Veronica, GypsyNester.com

YOUR TURN: Have we inspired you to take an empty nest vacation? Which of these are on your bucket list? Do you have destinations to share?