Paradise doesn’t have to have a passport! For that matter, paradise doesn’t have to involve a tropical getaway with a beach and ocean! What is your vision of paradise? For your vacation experience, it is all about creating your own unique and amazing journey. Think about the future memories you want to have! Do you love the idea of cities with all of the high energy and excitement? Or, are you more of an outdoor adventure seeker? Are you a spa lover looking for your quiet Zen experience? Are you looking for foodie and wine paradise?
Here are a few ideas right within the continental US that are outside of the box that most think of as “paradise”, but if done right, can truly be your own unique experiences.
Santa Barbara, CA –Santa Barbara can truly be a unique and romantic getaway, even just for a long weekend. Santa Barbara has coined itself “The American Riviera”. Did you know Santa Barbara has its own wine trail? Culture, farm-to-table cuisine, outdoor adventure, unforgettable romance, shopping, and sightseeing, are just a few more of the experiences in this great location.
Scottsdale, AZ – Spa, golf, shopping, hiking and adventure are just a few ideas for this great destination! How about a hot air balloon ride? Do you like horseback riding? Did you know there are a couple of casinos in Scottsdale? You also won’t go hungry in Scottsdale! Yes, Scottsdale is widely considered by most to be dessert area, but you can also go rafting, tubing, and participate in other water sports in the immediate area.
New York City – Truly the city that never sleeps and there is truly something for everyone! Do you love the theater? Do you love good food? Do you love live entertainment? Do you love shopping (both high end and street shopping!) Do you love parks and quiet walks? Do you like sports or outdoor activities? The list of options for New York City can go on and on! There are so many ways to create your own unique NYC experiences.
Miami Beach, FL – A city with a unique vibe all its own that has it all. If you are looking for beach and water, you can work on your tan, swim, surf and Jet Ski in the warm and crystal-clear Atlantic waters. South Beach is the place to see and be seen, it is a favorite among models and celebrities. A couple of my favorite recommendations are the Miami Beach Boardwalk and Lincoln Road.
These are just a few of the amazing destinations right here in the USA. There are many others in this great land of ours!
If you want to get that tropical paradise feeling without your passport, there are a few great destinations that will be perfect for you!
The Hawaiian Islands – With 5 islands to choose from, your perfect island experience awaits you. Each island has its own personality and distinctive experience. Rich in history and culture, with beauty that can’t be adequately described, there is an island just waiting to be experienced! While the islands are a good year-round destination, it does have a “wet season” and a “dry season” to consider when planning your Hawaii experience.
Puerto Rico – Puerto Rico is a US Territory and no passports are required for US Citizens. Make no mistake, you will definitely feel like you are a world away! Puerto Rico is the perfect blend of colonial Spanish culture, natural beauty, and contemporary lifestyles. Visit historic Old San Juan, awe-inspiring rainforests, coffee plantations, historic forts, or a rum distillery. Take a swing at world-class golf, played amidst lush greenery or try your luck in one of the casinos. Explore endless stretches of pristine white beaches where you can snorkel, sail, fish and surf.
US Virgin Islands – St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, a chain of 3 islands each with their own unique personalities and experiences. Each island is beautiful and unique in its own special way. Each island can be an independent destination, or you can combine them for a true Caribbean sampler. Generally speaking, the best time to visit the US Virgin Islands, and of course peak travel season for the islands, is December – April, but it is a great year round destination. The average annual temperature on the islands is 75°- 84°F. Hurricane Season is June – November with peak season being mid-August through mid-October. December – February fall to the cooler side and are slightly windier. Since the islands are a US Territory, the unit of currency is the US Dollar. While there is a wide range of accommodations throughout the islands, all-inclusive resorts are not commonplace.
I hope this has helped you to think about your idea of paradise in a bit of a different way! Remember, your vacation experience should be just that – YOUR vacation experience. It shouldn’t be what you read online, in a book, or what your friend did; it should be your unique experience that will create your future memories!
Happy travels.
Kelley