5 Seemingly Far-Away Destinations That Are Actually Pretty Close
Illustration by Erik Mace for Yahoo Travel.
A lot has changed in travel over the years: The advent of technology has digitized boarding passes; advances in air travel have allowed us to reach corners of the globe with even more ease, and hotels aren’t the only places to spend the night (thanks, Airbnb).
But a new report suggests that despite all the changes over the past five decades, one thing has stayed constant: the total number of trips people take in a year. What’s changed about those trips? The distance. We’re traveling farther than ever. In fact, the miles we’re jet-setting have doubled since 1965.
The good news: Taking international flights and crossing time zones doesn’t have to be daunting. In fact, finding yourself in a seemingly far-away place can be as easy as takina a direct flight — assuming you pick the right destination.
Here are trips that will leave you feeling worlds away — without all of the baggage that comes with traveling.
If you live in Los Angeles … go to Kauai, Hawaii
If you’re in L.A., the lush tropical island of Kauai is practically in your backyard. (Photo: iStock)
Although arguably the most naturally beautiful Hawaiian island (think: dramatic cliffs, tropical rainforests, and secluded beaches), the “Garden Island,” as it’s called, is easily overshadowed by more commercial Oahu and Maui. But because it’s just a six-hour nonstop flight from LAX, it is time for Left Coasters to cross Kauai off their bucket lists.
Related: Off the Grid: Discovering the Real Hawaii
Explore the Na Pali coast and if you’re up for it, hike the grueling but rewarding (oh those views!) Kalalua Trail — 11 miles of rugged coastline. Calmer beachgoers will enjoy Hanalei Bay, and if golf is your game (or if you want a spa day), stay on the south side of the island at the newly opened Lodge at Kukuiula. It’s a little pricey — two-bedroom cottages start at $1,000 a night — but it’s one way to gain access to the world-renowned golf course and spa without owning a mega-mansion in the area. Eat at Lava Lava Beach Club, the first toes-in-the-sand dining experience on the island.
If you live in New York City … go to Toronto, Ontario
The fun and fabulous city of Toronto is just a short flight away from N.Y.C. (Photo: iStock)
Since the Women’s World Cup left Canada this summer, many eyes are still looking toward the Northern border. And for good reason: Even though you’ll need a passport and you’ll land in another country, Canada’s quirkiest city is just a 90-minute flight from Manhattan.
Related: Toronto: the Ultimate Mother-Daughter Weekend Getaway
Adventure lovers will love the Edge Walk at the CN Tower — an outdoor walk around the circumference of the roof of the city’s tallest building. And foodies should set their sights on the Junction neighborhood — Toronto’s up-and-coming, funky food and drink standout. While decorated chefs are no rarity in the city, the Junction — once an area avoided by careful travelers — is now packed with edgy new eateries, organic markets, and craft breweries like India Ale House. Fun fact: The area used to be dry! Don’t miss unique specialty stores like Bunner’s Vegan & Gluten-Free Bake Shop and the organic butcher shop Gourmeats.
If you live in Boston … go to The Azores
The crazy beautiful Azores islands are actually much closer than you think. (Photo: iStock)
Those in the 617 no longer need to choose between the beach vacay of the Bahamas and the historical lure of Europe. SATA Airlines flies directly from Boston’s Logan International Airport to the Azores — a shockingly untouched group of Portuguese islands just as rich in awe-worthy views (the Red Bull Cliff Diving Series used the bluffs for competition) as well-preserved streets and monuments.
Related: 11 Reasons the Azores Should Be Your Next Trip
Try the island of Terceira (about a 4 ½-hour flight from Beantown). It’s a mix of the cosmopolitan and traditional, and the so-called cultural heart of the Azores. Scuba dive shipwrecks, explore the jungles, and don’t miss a Dona Amélia cake at the bakery O Forno (made from local ingredients like corn flower, raisins, sugar cane molasses, and cinnamon). If luxury is more your style, the first five-star hotel on Terceira is the Angra Marina Hotel.
If you live in Miami … go to Cuba
Forget South Beach! Head to the colorful city of Havana instead. (Photo: iStock)
For years, Cuba — just about 330 miles from Miami’s tip — seemed a world away. But with relaxed travel restrictions to the once forbidden Caribbean isle, travelers of every kind can soon look forward to strolling the streets of Havana carefree. In May, Carnival is even starting a cruise service from Miami to the island. Go before it becomes a tourist trap and soak in all of the activities.
Related: Watch Old-School Cubans Try American Candy for the First Time
In Havana, eat at La Guarida — it’s hidden up a winding staircase in Havana and is frequented by celebs and royalty alike. Stay at Hotel Palacio del Marques de San Felipe y Santiago de Bejucal, situated in walking distance to everything in Old Havana. One of the bartenders, Andrés Piñon, is the second-place winner of the international cigar sommelier awards. Huddle up to the bar with some good questions.
If you live in Philadelphia … go to Bermuda
Trade in the Philly cheesesteaks for piña coladas on the beautiful beaches of Bermuda. (Photo: Getty Images)
Just off the coast of the Carolinas, many don’t realize how close Bermuda really is. In just about two hours, you could go from a landlocked U.S. metropolis to a friendly, beautiful British island.
Home to the 2017 America’s Cup, it’s a hotbed for ocean lovers: 21 cozy square miles boast 75 miles of dramatic coastline. Shop at Dockyard (a short ferry ride from Hamilton), walk the quaint fishing village of Flatts, and get a history lesson in St. George’s on the other side of the island.
Two Fairmonts on the island — the Southampton and the Hamilton Princess — offer everything guests of all kinds could ever want. The former is a city-style hotel a stone’s throw from shops and restaurants with a luxe pool looking over the bright blue waters of Hamilton harbor. The latter? A sprawling resort perched high atop a hill with an award-winning spa and pink sand beaches.
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