Latest news with #SpanishColonial
Telegraph
12-06-2025
- Telegraph
The perfect two-week holiday in the Philippines
The Philippines, an archipelago of 7,641 islands on Asia's eastern edge, may still be off the radar for many travellers (it receives a fraction of the British visitors that neighbouring Thailand does, and fewer than both Cambodia and Vietnam), but its profile is on the rise – meaning now is the time to go. It is, of course, a long way to travel (there are no direct flights, so it'll take you somewhere in the region of 18 hours), so it makes sense to allow two weeks of island-hopping to truly absorb its ever-changing diversity. An ideal trip should include stops in Cebu and Vigan, for a taste of the country's Spanish colonial legacy, as well as a visit to the islands around El Nido, for world-class beaches and coral reefs; to Bohol, to meet tiny bug-eyed tarsiers; and Banaue, to see its amphitheatre of rice-terraces. A perfect trip should also incorporate plenty of opportunities to sample the country's meaty, soy-and-vinegar infused cuisine – unlike any other in Asia – especially in Manila, where the restaurant scene explodes with contemporary options. But the real highlight? The Filipinos themselves – the friendliest, most upbeat people in Asia. The level of English is extremely high throughout the country, so cheerful conservation comes easily, and despite having been through a great deal of hardship – colonialism, Japanese occupation, Marcos's political dictatorship – they've nevertheless come out smiling… and singing a lot of karaoke. Days 1 & 2 Cebu City Conquistadors and Catholics Aim for a flight which gets you into the Philippines' second city – located on the eastern coast of Cebu Island – by early evening (Cathay Pacific 's overnight flight from London, for example, connects via Hong Kong and arrives at 6pm). The airport is set on tiny Mactan Island, so check in to nearby Crimson Resort and Spa (B&B doubles from £151) and spend the evening relaxing after your long journey. The following morning, it's time to head into the hurley-burly of Cebu City – the country's most historic city – roughly an hour's drive from the resort. A taxi will cost you between 100-300 Philippine pesos (£1.30-4), and the drive will take you across the spectacular Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway, which meanders over the sea for 5.5 miles. Start at Plaza Sugbu, where you'll find a replica of Magellan's Cross, erected in 1515 to signal Spain's arrival, outside a cavernous 16 th -century basilica that's home to a sacred doll-like relic called Santo Niño. The Spanish got serious here in 1565 and built Fort San Pedro, though its 8ft-thick coral-stone walls now enclose a frangipani tree courtyard. For lunch, migrate to The Barracks inside Carbon Market, where hawker food stalls cook-up fresh sizzling butter crab and Cebu favourite, tuslob buwa (pork liver and brains). Each dish will cost you roughly £2-4. Walk off lunch by visiting the historic houses which survived America's 1945 bombardment (intended to drive out the Japanese) – a particularly excellent example is period-furnished Casa Gorordo, which dates from 1863, where you'll find polished mahogany floors and coral glass window (plus Bo's Coffee café downstairs, where you can pick up a reviving iced latte). Next, make time for a spot of shopping at Anthill Fabric Gallery, an emporium which showcases fine Cebuano weaving, and at Alegre, where you can watch guitars being made from mango wood. Finish on a Spanish theme with tapas at Enye, watching waiters blow-torch seared tuna steaks table-side. Days 3 & 4 Southern Cebu Island A local feast Head south for an artisan foodie day. A favoured pitstop is the city of Carcar, roughly one hour and 45 minutes drive from Cebu City, famed for lechon (whole roasted pig) and chicharron (similar to pork scratchings). Mayu Restaurant is a popular place for both, where a 500g portion of the latter (for two) costs £7. An hour further south, the coastal town of Argao reveals an imposing 1780s coral-stone church, St Michael Archangel, where the belltower once doubled as a lookout for pirates. Argao is a hub for cottage industry food producers, so make time for a visit to the family Guilang factory, which has been making chocolate tablets since 1948. It's the staple of a Cebuano breakfast of sikwate (oozingly thick hot chocolate) with sticky rice coconut triangles wrapped in banana leaves and fresh mango – and will likely be the best 60p you ever spend. Also worth a stop is Jesse Magallones, which bakes the popular fiesta cake, torta, made from tuba (coconut sap) and lard, and Leonilo Sedon, which ferments suka pinakurat hot and spicy coconut vinegar, vital to Filipino cooking. Tonight, check-in at the newly opened Cebu Beach Club (B&B doubles from £173), where 36 clifftop rooms look out over the Camotes Sea toward Bohol Island. If you've time, end your day by swimming with sea-turtles off the white-sand beach below. Back to nature It's time to get active. Cross Cebu Island's rain-forested spine to a protected marine reserve, Tañon Strait, set in a sea channel facing Negros Island, then take a small boat to Moalboal for the unique experience of swimming with tens of thousands of sardines near Panagsama Beach. For a quirky lunch, try fish sutukil at Lola Tanciang's Seafood Paluto – the name ('su-tu-kil') is a portmanteau of grill, soup and ceviche, all prepared using the same piece of fish, typically grouper. After lunch, hike the spearmint-coloured Matutinao River to a swimming hole beneath the 42ft-high Kawasan Waterfall. Canyoneering is popular here, with excursions by Kawasan Dante's Peak Canyoneering costing £28 and including lunch. In far Southern Cebu Island, tours take guests to snorkel with whale-sharks, with trips from £23. Days 5 & 6 Panglao and Bohol Islands A little limestone brother Take the two-hour ferry or ' bangka ' (traditional outrigger boats) from Cebu to neighbouring Bohol, one of the Philippines most visited islands. Find somewhere to stay on tiny Panglao, an island which sits at Bohol's south-western tip and hosts the pick of the two islands' beach resorts. The most popular is the 88-room Bohol Beach Club (B&B doubles from £160), set on Dumaluan Beach's fine white sand (they also run diving and snorkelling trips to Pamilacan Island, to see coral gardens, turtles and spinner dolphins, from £80 per person), while the boutique Amarela Resort (B&B doubles from £113) is a more classic option and has a breezy sea-view restaurant serving Filipino fare. For sundowners, head to the neoclassical-looking Villa Umi, where there's a stylish bar right on the beach. Panglao's craggy karst limestone is omnipresent, from the 19 th -century Church of Our Lady of the Assumption (built from fossiliferous coral stone) to the island's subterranean swimming lagoons, natural sinkholes known as cenotes (the most popular of which is Hinagdanan cave – though opt for an early dip if you want to beat the crowds). For lunch, Bohol Bee Farm is a whimsical farm-to-plate restaurant with views to Mindanao Island. Its sharing farm platter (£37) features chops, baked tuna, ribs, garden salad, and paper-thin spring rolls, mostly made with local produce, which supports the livelihoods of more than 500 farmers and staff. Chocolate Hills and bug-eyed critters Spend a day exploring Bohol Island's eclectic sights. Its UNESCO Global Geopark status is spearheaded by the outstanding Chocolate Hills, 17,000 rounded coral hills weathered smooth like a basket of eggs, so named because the dry season (November-May) causes the vegetation to take on a brown hue. Avoid the coach-parties to the popular Carmen viewpoint by visiting before 8am. Equally iconic are tarsiers, tiny prosimian primates with trademark huge, wide eyes. The easiest place to spot them is at a tarsier sanctuary at Corella, where you'll see them dozing in the trees. Similarly strange are Bohol's remarkable 'dinosaur eggs', or Asín tibuók, oblong balls of salt made from tidal water and burnt coconut husks. Visit the Manongas family workshop to see their extraordinary processing of these salt eggs (and buy one for £11). A non-beach alternative to Panglao is Loboc River Resort (B&B doubles from £133) – 35 cottages immersed in riverside forest. For dinner, head to Tagbilaran for Bohol's most contemporary offering, Animula Tasting Room, which serves Filipino favourites such as beef asado with a twist, in an ultra-modern space. Day 7, 8 & 9 Palawan Island Hit the beach It's a 1hr 45 minute flight from Bohol to the West Philippines Sea's adventure playground, Palawan Island. Beach tourism's hub is El Nido, set among jagged limestone islands that are home to the silkiest beaches and priciest resorts. El Nido's 237,000-acre marine reserve is a mosaic of mangroves and corals; ideal for kayaking and snorkelling with superb diving. Lio Beach is a 4km stretch of white sand facing Cadlao Island, with plenty of upmarket food and hotel offerings. The 153-room Seda Lio Hotel (B&B doubles from £290) is backed by rainforest, with garden rooms by a large infinity pool. If you fancy a break from the meat-heavy traditional cuisine, Lio's upscale beach dining scene offers more health-conscious options, including Saboria, which serves lighter fusion Philippine cuisine, PLNT+HRVST (vegetarian-vegan) and Punta Playa, a breezy Mediterranean bistro. Two of El Nido's finest beaches are Duli – also the reserve's best surf spot – and Nacpan, 4km of golden sand facing a private island owned by boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao. Stick around for the night by booking into the 16-room Angkla Resort (B&B doubles from £333), which is built around a tropical courtyard, or opt for air-conditioned glamping at Nacpan Beach Glamping (doubles from £240 per person). Younger crowds might prefer the mass market beach scene around downtown El Nido, which unleashes its inner Pattaya vibe. It's worth a gawp to see the party and bar scene or get a cheap massage, and for surprisingly excellent sushi and seafood restaurants – like the earthy and inexpensive Sea Jane Resto Bar, where fish, lobster or prawns are grilled fresh, and upstairs tables overlook Bacuit Bay. Castaway Staying on a private island can be eye-wateringly expensive (even in the Philippines, where the likes of Banwa will set you back a cool £73,000 per night), but there are more affordable resorts amid the offshore limestone islands. One such option is Miniloc Island Resort (all-inclusive doubles from £733), a laid-back spot with thatched rooms (some overwater) located a 20-minute speedboat transfer from Lio Beach. It offers complementary kayaking, as well as snorkelling on a technicolour house reef which teems with tropical fish. Move over Ha Long Bay The limestone islands and pinnacles bear a passing resemblance to Vietnam's famous Ha Long Bay, albeit without the latter's armada of junk-boats. With more than one-thousand islands to explore, various companies offer boat trips which combine three or four with lunch and snorkelling. Popular routes include Snake Island (for panoramic views); Cudugnon Cave; and the 50ft-high Cathedral Cave on Pinasil Island (large enough to drive a speedboat inside); Entatula Island – which was recently cited as having one of the world's best beaches – and Paglugaban Island, for snorkelling on its effervescent coral reef. For your final night before moving on to the big city, take the opportunity to splurge at private island Pangulasian Eco-Luxury Resort (B&B doubles from £1,060), where 50 luxurious villas are immersed in rainforest and surrounded by coral reefs. Day 10 Manila Jeepneys and the world's oldest Chinatown Take the one-hour flight from El Nido to Manila, the Philippines' gloriously chaotic capital city on Luzon Island, dissected by the Pasig River. The grindingly slow road traffic is made (slightly) more bearable by the fleets of Jeepneys – colourful customised US jeeps which function as public transport, similar to tuk tuks. Much of Manila's architecture was obliterated during the Second World War, when the country was occupied by the Japanese and heavily bombed by the Americans. Nevertheless, evidence of its Spanish colonial legacy remains in the thick-walled Intramuros district, which has been largely rebuilt. The baroque Unesco-listed Church of Saint-Augustine is an original, however, having survived its blitzkrieg and now home to a fine museum of treasure from the galleon trade with Mexico (then known as New Spain). Opposite is a cosy Filipino bistro called Ristorante Delle Mitre – named after the bishops' headgear – which draws diners with its superlative chicken adobe (tender chicken marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic), the country's national dish. Head north and across the river, and you'll soon find yourself in Quiapo district, where the large market is fun to browse on foot, while the cathedral (officially called The Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno) houses the Philippines' most sacred object, the Black Nazarene statuette, which is paraded every January to crowds numbering well over a million. A short stroll westwards will bring you to Binondo, home to the world's oldest Chinatown in, where you'll find dim sum restaurants and Tao-Buddhist temples, as well as to a slither of surviving American art-deco around Escolta. It's here that you'll come upon the 1920s First Union Building, which hosts artisanal craft shops and a café, The Den, which offers excellent Filipino-bean coffees. For more war history, spend the afternoon at the American Cemetery – an hour's drive south-east, in Taguig – a sobering experience, with 16,800 marble crosses marking soldiers lost in the Second World War's Pacific theatre of war. For dinner, head to the fashionable nightlife hub of Makati, where Blackbird serves artistic pan-Asian dishes in an art-deco former American airport terminal, or to nearby Greenbelt, where Ember – the creation of the British-Filipino chef, Josh Boutwood – combines informality with fine cuisine. For drinks, head to Población district's wall-to-wall bars. Hip speakeasies include The Spirits Library, with its floor-to-ceiling bookcases of spirits, and Run Rabbit Run, a darkly lit cocktail bar. Stop by 32 nd -floor rooftop bar, Firefly Roofdeck, for magnificent night-time Manila views. End the day by checking into either The Bayleaf Hotel in the Intramuros district (B&B doubles from £97), an inexpensive four-star with excellent views of the city from its rooftop bar, or the iconic Peninsula Hotel (B&B doubles from £165) in Makati. Day 11 North Luzon Island Sand spas and fairy-tale gorges A few hours north from Manila is little-visited Inararo, where the Melanesian Aetas people manage ancestral lands which were covered in ash during Mount Pinatubo's 1991 eruption. Subsequent erosion has sculpted the most delicately beautiful fern-cloaked gorge, a fairy-tale mile-long loop which takes roughly an hour to complete on foot. A tour of th area – with a guide and driver – costs £80 with Pinatubo Mountaineiro, including lunch, a dip in geothermal hot springs at Puning, and a hot-sand spa. Day 12 Banaue Rice, and more rice A long day's drive into Luzon's north (by private car) will take you to Banaue, where the Unesco-listed rice-terraces date back 2,000 years, soaring into the Cordilleras. Check-in at Banaue town's Grand View Hotel (B&B doubles from £63) – where rooms have wonderful views of the sweeping terraces – then head out for a bite to eat at Uyami's Greenview Restaurant, the best local outlet in the area. All dishes come with rice, and – if you're lucky – occasional cultural displays by the Ifugao people. If time allows, hike into the amphitheatre of rice-terraces at small town Batad for awe-inspiring vistas. If you'd like to spend the night here instead, opt for Simon's View Inn and Restaurant (room-only doubles from £20). Day 13 Sagada The hanging coffins Two hours' drive along dramatic mountain roads leads northwest to Sagada, a remote community of the Igorot people who for millennia (until the arrival of Catholicism) buried their dead in coffins housed within – or hanging down on ropes from – cliffside caves. Seeing them is a macabre but fascinating spectacle, and one of immense cultural significance. In town, pay a visit to a superb gallery devoted to Eduardo Masferré, one of the Philippine's greatest photographers, whose works chronicle Igorot culture. Spend the night at one of Sagada's homely and simple options, including Masferré Country Inn (B&B doubles from £46) where rooms are adorned with photographs of Igorot culture, and Martha's Hearth (room-only doubles from £40). Bana's Coffee has won international awards for its roasted coffee and has a decent menu of local produce. Day 14 Vigan All things Spanish Another four hours on the road from Sagada is UNESCO-listed Vigan, where you'll find the complete colonial core of a 16 th -century Spanish city, the exquisite architecture of which is fused with Chinese and Ilocano motifs. Wander its cobbled streets, visit historic houses, and see the archbishop's palace, then – and as the sun goes down – join the promenade in Plaza's Salcedo and Burgos. For dinner, seek out Ilocano fish sauce-infused dishes such as pinakbet, at Café Uno 's corner restaurant or Café Leona. Several classical homes offer atmospheric stays: Hotel Luna (B&B doubles from £60) is built around a pretty internal patio, while Hotel Felicidad (B&B doubles from £40) has four-poster beds. Day 15 Head to Loag Airport for the hour-long flight back to Manila, and – if you've time – end your trip with a an explosion of culinary theatre at highly rated fine-dining spot Helm. How to do it When to go Perennially tropical, The Philippines has two distinct seasons – hot and dry. The drier and cooler season – when temperatures range from 25-30°C – is between December and early May. From May to October the weather is wetter, hotter and cyclone prone, though there are fewer crowds and refreshingly greener landscapes. What to book Cost effective Bamboo Travel (0207 7209285) tailor-makes trips similar to the one described. A 14-day island hopping holiday costs around £4,195 per person, including nights in Manila, Cebu, Bohol, Sagada, Banaue and El Nido, as well as international flights with Cathay Pacific, B&B accommodation, all transfers, and guided tours. Blow the budget Audley Travel (01993 838155) offers a 17-day combined Hong Kong & Luxury Tour of the Philippines from £10,375 per person (based on two travelling), featuring five-nights at the opulent Amanpulo Resort on Pamilacan Island, private transfers, flights from London via Hong Kong, and excursions. Know before you go Rather than expensive roaming, pick up an affordable local SIM card upon arrival at Manila or Cebu Airport (a 20GB allowance lasting 14 days will set you back around £8), or opt for an eSim. Taxi journeys are inexpensive using the downloadable app Grab, which functions like Uber. Most outlets accept debit cards, but it's worth carrying a small amount of cash for those few smaller ones which don't. US dollars are easiest to exchange. The whole country has patron saint fiestas throughout the year. Bohol has one every day during May. If offered, join these open house feasts to be welcomed like a long lost relative. A quick, free e-travel declaration should be completed before arrival.
USA Today
17-03-2025
- USA Today
These Florida family vacation ideas prove there's something for everyone
These Florida family vacation ideas prove there's something for everyone Show Caption Hide Caption The Bucket List Family gives five tips for traveling with kids The Bucket List Family sold everything to travel around the world. Here are their tips for traveling with children. It's not hard to see why Florida is one of the most popular family vacation spots in the country. Miles of Atlantic and Gulf coastline, world-class beaches, theme parks galore, incredible natural sights – with so much to do, it's no wonder families return to the Sunshine State year after year. I've made Florida my home for 20 years and I still haven't experienced it all, but it has given me the chance to explore beyond the beaches and theme parks when it comes to family vacations. Don't get me wrong: The beaches and theme parks are great. But the truth is that whether you want a Florida beach vacation, a theme park trip, an equestrian escape, a quick city detour before a cruise, or something entirely different, you can find it in Florida. Here are the top 10 destinations I recommend for memorable family vacations for different ages and interests. FUN FOR ALL AGES: 101 fresh new family vacation ideas to make 2025's trip the best you've ever had 1. Anna Maria Island My blood pressure immediately drops whenever I drive onto Anna Maria Island. If you want a Florida beach vacation with a bit of a throwback vibe, this place delivers. The Gulf Coast barrier island took a bit of a beating during the 2024 hurricane season, but its resilient spirit got it on the road to recovery quickly, and it's visitor-ready. Expect to log lots of hours at the beach here, and you can make that time even more relaxing with a setup from AMI Cabanas, which donates a portion of every reservation toward manatee conservation efforts. There are lots of ways to get out on the water, from fishing charters to kayaking tours. And when you're hungry, family-friendly eats can be found all over the island, from all-you-can-eat pancakes at Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe and burgers at Skinny's Place to the made-to-order goodies at The Donut Experiment. ▶ Where to stay: Book one of the two-bedroom suites at Waterline Villas & Marina, Autograph Collection for plenty of room to spread out and a central island location. Or stay steps from the sand at retro-cool Mello on the Beach, which offers one- to three-bedroom rentals with kitchens. 2. St. Augustine Dubbed 'the nation's oldest city,' St. Augustine is a great getaway spot no matter the time of year. During the holidays it's aglow with millions of lights, but it's just as picturesque in other seasons. That's thanks to the Spanish Colonial architecture found throughout the historic downtown, including along Aviles Street, the oldest street in the country. A visit to Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is a must, where you can tour the oldest masonry fortification in the continental U.S. Kids will enjoy learning about the residents of the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, sipping from the Fountain of Youth, and climbing the 219 steps to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse. (They must be over 44 inches and able to climb the tower on their own.) If they like spooky stuff, one of the many ghost tours of the Northeast Florida city will be right up their alley. (My teenager still talks about one she took.) And eating lunch at one of the grass huts perched over the water at the Conch House Restaurant is a Florida vacation experience the whole family will remember. ▶ Where to stay: Book a family suite with bunk beds at Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort, and you can easily add some beach time to your experience. Or stay at Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront, which puts you right in the center of the historic downtown. 3. Naples Naples may be known as something of a swanky spot for retirees, but it's also a great place for a family vacation. This Southwest Florida city is home to attractions like the Golisano Children's Museum of Naples (CMON), Shy Wolf Sanctuary, and Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, which are perfect for kid-friendly outings. There are lots of ways to enjoy and explore the outdoors here, which starts with the area's many picture-perfect Gulf beaches. But make time to experience places like Audubon's Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary and Big Cypress National Preserve, which play a part in the ecosystem of the Everglades. The Nature Center at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida has a touch tank and play zone that's great for little kids, and there are all kinds of boat and paddling tours to get the family out on the water. ▶ Where to stay: LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort offers a prime beachfront location and a regular schedule of family activities like pool games and weekend 'kids' s'mores hour.' Or go all out with a stay at the recently refreshed Ritz-Carlton, Naples, where the Ritz Kids program features nature-focused activities created in partnership with the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. 4. Gainesville Gainesville is home to the University of Florida, but it's much more than just Florida Gator Country and a hotbed for college sports. The area has a number of parks and preserves that are definitely worth a visit, like Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park, where you can descend into a sinkhole, and Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, where you might spot wild-roaming bison and horses if you're lucky. The Cade Museum for Creativity & Invention will inspire future inventors and tinkerers, while Kanapaha Botanical Gardens includes a children's garden and the state's largest public display of bamboo. You can see everything from bald eagles to white-throated capuchin monkeys at the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo (the only zoo on a college campus accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums) and learn about the area's agricultural past at Dudley Farm Historic State Park and Morningside Nature Center. ▶ Where to stay: Gainesville is home to many well-reviewed chain hotels with suite-style accommodations ideal for families, like SpringHill Suites Gainesville, Drury Inn & Suites Gainesville, and Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Gainesville. 5. Miami For big-city vibes to go along with your beach time, head to Miami. There's always a lot going on in this vibrant Southeast Florida metropolis, from sporting events to musical performances. There's also lots of family fun to be found here at spots like Miami Children's Museum and the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, which has both a planetarium and an aquarium. At the Shark Valley entrance to Everglades National Park, you can climb the observation tower for amazing views or walk, bike, or take a tram tour to spot wildlife along a 15-mile loop road. Or you can have wild encounters of a different kind at Zoo Miami or Jungle Island, where you can book visits with lemurs, capybaras, and other creatures. There's almost too much to do in the Miami area, which means the kids should never be bored. ▶ Where to stay: Loews Miami Beach Hotel caters to families with amenities like a kid-sized breakfast buffet and a super-cool kids club featuring activities curated in partnership with the Miami Children's Museum and the Frost Museum of Science. JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa features a seriously fun water park with seven waterslides, a lazy river, and the first-ever FlowRider Triple in the nation. NO SNEAKY FEES: Hands down, these are the very best all-inclusive resorts in Florida for families (updated for 2025) 6. Amelia Island One of my favorite Florida vacation spots, Amelia Island, makes for a relaxed beach vacation with a little bit of Southern charm. Located about 30 minutes from Jacksonville in Northeast Florida, the island's got something for beach lovers, history buffs, and fans of the outdoors. You can stay along the Atlantic Ocean or in downtown Fernandina Beach, and either option is a winner. I recommend a boat tour along the local waterways (which also gives you a peek at Georgia's Cumberland Island), a visit to Fort Clinch State Park overlooking the St. Mary's River, strolling and shopping in downtown Fernandina Beach, and burgers at Tasty's. The interactive 'pirate ship' at the Amelia Island Museum of History was a big hit with my daughter when she was young, as were the mini-golf courses in the area. ▶ Where to stay: Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa has all the ingredients for a great family vacation, from a setting right on the Atlantic Ocean to amenities like a family pool and splash pad, an on-site nature center and mini-golf course, and multiple kid-friendly restaurants. 7. Orlando No list of Florida vacation ideas is complete without Orlando, the theme park capital of the world. And there will be new thrills to experience when Universal Orlando Resort's Epic Universe opens in May 2025. New things are coming to Walt Disney World Resort and SeaWorld Orlando in 2025, too, to go along with all the old favorites. There's more to Orlando than just theme parks, of course. Pedal a swan boat at Lake Eola Park, get hands-on at Orlando Science Center, or stroll amid the plants and trees at Harry P. Leu Gardens. The city also has lots of cool neighborhoods to explore, like Thornton Park with its historic homes and tree-lined streets and the Mills 50 District that's known for its street art and fabulous food scene. ▶ Where to stay: With close to 500 hotels and resorts in the Orlando area, you have lots of choices. The best bet is to pick a hotel close to where you'll be spending the bulk of your time that fits your budgets and needs. Do you want a hotel with a cool pool area, a budget-friendly option near the theme parks, a hotel with great food, or a property offering residential-style lodging? 8. South Walton Many of the 16 beach neighborhoods in South Walton look right out of a movie. In fact, one was the setting for "The Truman Show." Any of them would make a great home base for a family vacation in this scenic Northwest Florida locale. There are 26 miles of white sand beaches and turquoise water to explore in South Walton, along with four state parks, a state forest, and four snorkel reefs. You'll also want to plan a paddle in the rare coastal dune lakes found here, the only ones outside of New Zealand, Australia, Madagascar, and the Pacific Northwest. The kids will love doing a donut tour of the area, and you can take your beach time to the next level with sandcastle lessons or a custom beach bonfire. ▶ Where to stay: The WaterColor Inn & Resort in Santa Rosa Beach borders one of the area's dune lakes and has a stretch of private beach, a beach club with three pools, and the Camp WaterColor recreational amenity with two more pools, waterslides, and a lazy river. RIGHT ON THE WATER: 10 Florida beach resorts that are all about family fun 9. Florida's Space Coast Just about an hour from Orlando, Florida's Space Coast is a stellar family vacation spot. Literally: It's the home of America's manned space program, and the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex provides awe-inspiring ways to learn all about it. If there's a launch taking place during your visit, you'll likely be able to see it from your hotel or other spots around the area. And for more high-flying fun, a visit to the Valiant Air Command Warbird Air Museum delivers. Of course, there's plenty of action on the ground in this region along the Atlantic Ocean on Florida's east coast, which includes places like Cocoa Beach, Melbourne, and cruise ship departure spot Port Canaveral. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge – one of the last places on Earth astronauts see when they launch into space – offers great bird watching, and the Cocoa Beach Pier is a legendary surf spot. Boat and kayak tours are another way to get out on the water, and you can even kayak through the Brevard Zoo. ▶ Where to stay: Hampton Inn & Suites Cape Canaveral Cruise Port offers free breakfast and a good location for exploring the Space Coast. Best Western Cocoa Beach Hotel & Suites provides easy access to the beach and family suites with kitchenettes. 10. Sebring There was already a lot to like about Sebring, a lakeside locale in Central Florida's Highlands County. 'The City on the Circle' exudes a Stars Hollow type of charm, with a local soda shop and annual soda festival and restaurants like Faded Bistro & Beer Garden, where you can dine under the stars. It's also home to Highlands Hammock State Park, one of the oldest state parks in Florida, where many rare and endemic species can be observed. Sebring International Raceway draws fans of fast cars to the world-famous 12 Hours of Sebring event every year, and Lake Istokpoga is a great place for fishing and airboat rides. And the city recently got a glow-up as the star of season three of HGTV's Home Town Takeover, which debuts in March 2025 and will likely showcase even more reasons to put Sebring on your vacation radar. ▶ Where to stay: Seven Sebring Raceway Hotel offers suites with views of the track's famous hairpin turn, plus amenities like an outdoor pool. Budget-friendly Tru by Hilton Sebring is well-situated for exploring the area and includes free breakfast with your stay. From beaches to theme parks, the best Florida family vacations prove there's something for everyone originally appeared on More from FamilyVacationist: The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author's and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY. and are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology, we review and select family vacation ideas, family vacation spots, all-inclusive family resorts, and classic family vacations for all ages. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators, tour operator reviews, tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations. If you buy an item through a link in our content, we may earn a commission.
Fox News
02-03-2025
- Fox News
Travelers head to 'most welcoming cities' in America: See if yours made the list
When you're plotting your next domestic getaway or road trip in the U.S., kindness may count. recently announced the "most welcoming" U.S. cities in its 2025 Traveler Review Awards, which relied on 360 million verified customer reviews. Ben Harrell, managing director of said more than 70,000 partners have been recognized in the United States alone in this year's global awards. Hawaii; Maine; Washington, D.C.; Utahl and Idaho are the most welcoming states and districts in the United States, while the most welcoming places in the United States include Saint Augustine, Florida; Cape May, New Jersey; Newport, Rhode Island; Joshua Tree, California; and Sedona, Arizona. "Notably, St. Augustine, Florida, is featured as one of the 'Most Welcoming Cities' globally," adds Harrell. Read on for ideas on what to see and do at these destinations. America's oldest city — it's been continuously inhabited since 1565 — rolls out the red carpet for all who visit. Consider scoping out the architecture of St. Augustine's Historic District, an eye-catching assortment of Spanish Colonial, Mediterranean Revival and Moorish styles. You can also visit the Castillo de San Marcos. On St. Augustine's bayfront, you'll find a sprawling coquina stone fort designed to defend the city from foreign invaders that's complete with water vistas. It's a chance for history buffs to fixate on the fact that it's a visit to one of the best-preserved examples of 17th-century military architecture in the U.S. Other spots to see include the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum. There are also numerous walking and riding tours where you can learn about the city's history from friendly tour guides. When you need to rest, check out the St. George Inn or Marker 8 Hotel and Marina. Newport is said to be the kind of place that greets all visitors with open arms. Check out Mend Yoga, a wonderfully warm yoga spot that's owned by two sisters who also own The Nitro Bar, a popular coffee shop with two locations in Newport and one in Providence. While in town, stop by The Sailing Museum to educate yourself on one of the "Sailing Capitals of the World," and visit as many of the Gilded Age Mansions as you can (open seasonally). Some include The Breakers, Marble House and The Elms, though Doris Duke's Rough Point Museum and Rosecliff mansion are great, too. You can tour the International Tennis Hall of Fame and Touro Synagogue, a preserved national historic site that dates back to the mid-1700s and serves as a symbol of religious freedom for all Americans. It was visited by George Washington. For a place to stay in Cpae May, consider Angel of the Sea Bed and Breakfast or La Mer Beachfront Resort, two of top picks for this welcoming shore town. After a visit to Cape May Beach, you can plan a stop at Washington Street Mall, an outdoor shopping center featuring historic Victorian-era architecture, boutiques, dessert spots and restaurants aplenty. For vacationers 21 and up, venture to Cape May Winery & Vineyard, where you can savor a wine tasting or have brunch on the 100-acre farmland property. Joshua Tree is inhabited by 6,700 residents. Consider checking out Reset Hotel, slated to open in May 2025, which is just a five-minute drive to the north entrance of Joshua Tree National Park and boasts desert scenery. Some of top choices for accommodations on the market include The Bungalows by Homestead Modern and Desert Cove. You can soak up some local spirit at Pappy & Harriet's, established in 1982, which serves as a barbecue house, live music venue and roadhouse-style saloon all in one. Another option is to grab a table at Kitchen in the Desert. The fare is a blend of Caribbean and New American cuisine, and the restaurant has spacious patio seating. Sedona is said to be a place where travelers go for spiritual awakenings. Pack comfy sneakers or hiking boots when hiking anywhere in Red Rocks Country, an area of sandstone cliffs featuring hues of reds and rust. Consider a stay at L'Auberge de Sedona, a resort located along the banks of Oak Creek, which offers experiences like the Shamanic Breathwork experience, "7 Bowls for 7 Chakras" sound healing and Shamanic Drum Reiki. On these grounds, you can treat yourself to some rest and relaxation at L'Apothecary Spa, where the Chai Hands and Feet Renewal Scrub or the Infinite Love Massage will round out your time in one of the most welcoming destinations in the U.S.
Yahoo
25-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Halsey lists historic home for $5.5 million
Halsey has listed her Los Feliz Spanish colonial revival home for $5.5 million (£4.35 million). The news of the listing comes less than two years after the Without Me singer bought the historic home in September 2023. The singer-songwriter, who announced her engagement to actor Avan Jogia in September, paid about $5 million (£3.96 million) for the elegantly restored house at the time. The grand residence has certified Historic-Cultural Monument status. It was built by architect Arthur W Larson in 1928 for restaurateur Clifford Clinton, the founder and namesake of the theatrical Clifton's Cafeteria near Downtown Los Angeles, which closed in 2018. The singer's LA home comes complete with a home cinema, a swimming pool, and a bucket-load of original 1920s charm, including many Spanish Colonial accents such as a wrought iron staircase, decorative archways, vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows. Prior to buying the Los Feliz home, Halsey lived in a Calabasas mansion that she bought from Liam Payne for $10.2 million (£8 million). She lived there for two years before moving into the Los Feliz property. Last week Halsey announced her For My Last Trick tour that will kick off in Concord, California, on 10 May. "My funeral was cancelled, so I'm taking the show on the road instead," she declared as part of the video trailer.
