Best Summer Vacation Destinations

This summer, get your adventure on! There’s plenty of great deals to be had if you know where to look. To help you get packing, here’s a list of this summer’s best budget travel destinations, courtesy of the travel writers of forbes.com.

San Antonio, Texas

From strolling along the San Antonio River Walk to chasing thrills at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, there’s plenty of fun and food to be had. Whether you’re craving Tex-Mex or authentic Mexican food, San Antonio has it. Also visit San Fernando Cathedral, which hosts nightly light shows at no cost. If you find yourself visiting San Antonio during the weekend, be sure to wander through the farmer’s market at the Pearl Brewery.

Puebla, Mexico

Puebla is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it’s easy to see why. Architecture lovers could spend days exploring the historical center and marveling at what seems like an endless number of churches.

Despite this being Mexico’s fourth largest city, you’ll hardly see any other tourists. It’s one of those cities where you can just soak in the tranquil atmosphere. The region is known for its mole sauce, so be sure to sample when visiting.

Hawaii

Flights to Hawaii from the mainland are generally pretty cheap, especially in the past few years. Although it isn’t the most inexpensive when you arrive, it’s well worth it because you get the South Pacific feel with the comforts of the United States—and a shorter plane flight. Check out Maui, and the little visited island of Lanai. For golf lovers, the Four Seasons at Lanai is recommended.

St. Helena

Saint Helena is a volcanic tropical island in the South Atlantic Ocean, 2,500 miles east of Rio de Janeiro. While a trek to get there in the middle of the South Atlantic Ocean, it’s a relatively cheap destination once you arrive.

This off-the-beaten path location offers great hiking, fascinating English mixed with island culture, good food and even the world’s most remote golf course. The airport alone makes it worth a visit as they basically shaved down a mountain to make it possible. St. Helena is probably not on your short list but it should be on your bucket list.

Province of Laguna, the Philippines

The Philippines is already popular because of its white sand beaches in Palawan, Cebu or Boracay; the surfing in Siargao, the mountains in the north but Laguna Province is less well known.

If you have a few days stopover in Manila, make sure to visit the Province of Laguna. It has hot springs as well as San Pablo City, also known as the City of Seven Lakes. Most of these attractions are easily accessed by car rental or taking the local public transportation called tricycle, which costs less than $10.

Agra, India

Home to the Taj Mahal, Agra is on many traveler’s lists. And although it costs around $43 to enter, the surrounding area is relatively inexpensive. It is definitely a well-known destination, so if you want your Taj Mahal shot, be sure to go in the morning. Considered to be the jewel of Islamic art in India, it was built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his wife—possibly one of the most extravagant declarations of love in history.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

There is no city in the world as intoxicating as Buenos Aires. The streets are lined with grand European-style architecture, cozy cafés and endless parks. The staples of life in this budget-friendly city are steak, wine, empanadas and ice cream. Three cheers for the Southern Hemisphere.

South Africa

Prepare to be blown away by the beauty of South Africa. It’s a very diverse place in terms of its nature, people and activities.  One day, you may be hiking up a mountain and the next, diving with sharks in the Atlantic Ocean. You’ll be surprised by the extreme low cost of Uber and transport there. The food is also fairly inexpensive, as well as delicious.

Zanzibar

Zanzibaris are so much fun and friendly. While there are expensive resorts there, you can still find some inexpensive bed and breakfasts and hostels in Stone Town that allow you to be right next to the Indian Ocean, where all the excitement, and restaurants are.

Armenia

Set in the Caucasus Mountains, Armenia is a hidden gem that’s still untouched by mass tourism, and yet has so much to offer: rich history, wineries, impressive landscapes, ancient monasteries and breathtaking mountains as far as your eyes can see. The capital, Yerevan, is a lively city with wide avenues, delicious restaurants, museums and street markets selling local handicrafts.

Outside of the capital is picturesque nature. You can pay a visit to the oldest winery in the world in Areni, stop by stunning monasteries, or check out the oldest cathedral in the world in Etchmiadzin.

Serbia

Serbia is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. It’s one of those places that has such an amazing energy that it leaves you wanting more. In the bustling city of Belgrade, there’s something happening every hour of every day. The streets are filled with amazing restaurants, cute cafés, bars and clubs. The friendly locals are always out and about. You will find people of all ages enjoying the outdoor cafés and drinking rakija (the national drink of Serbia). The restaurants have a great mix of both local and international dishes and are great for trying new dishes. Try the komplet lepinja, cevapi and karađorđeva šnicla. The nightlife in Serbia is one of a kind. There are floating bars and clubs along the Danube riverbank. Parties go on till the early morning hours.

Transylvania, Romania

Home to myths and some of the world’s most hospitable locals, Transylvania is a budget traveler’s dream destination. The stunning Carpathian Mountains offer the perfect backdrop to one of Europe’s often overlooked regions.

Guests can experience Romania’s roots free of the mass commercialization, and the high prices, that we see in more popular European destinations. From sampling local dishes like ciorbă, mici and palinka, to skiing in Sinaia, you’ll have a wide range of budget-friendly activities to keep you entertained.

George Town, Penang, Malaysia

A mixture of cultures, cuisines and architecture come together to create an atmosphere that on paper shouldn’t work but somehow does. Chinese, Indian, Malay and British influences can be seen at every turn you make in this Penang Island UNESCO World Heritage Site. What makes George Town stand out are the quarters that make up the city, each one boasting a distinct community and history, all linked together by the beautiful street art found throughout. With a diverse population, beautiful culture and amazing food, George Town is a perfect addition to anyone’s travel bucket list.

Moscow, Russia

Moscow, like the rest of Russia, has a stereotype of being a bitterly cold destination. That is true during the winter months, however during the summer, you can expect steady sunshine and clear skies so put on your shades, grab a bliny and wander around the Red Square with ease.

Taipei, Taiwan

The capital of Taiwan is growing in popularity in East Asia but often goes unnoticed by the masses. In comparison to Hong Kong or Tokyo, think of Taipei as the quieter kid on the block. With some of the best food markets in all of Asia, buzzing shopping districts like Xiamen and the stunning nearby Yangminshan National Park, Taipei offers something for everyone. Pro tip: Taipei won’t break the bank but don’t expect it to be as cheap as Vietnam.

No matter where you decide to vacation this summer, whether within the US or abroad, let Hoyt Livery get your whole family to the airport and back home. With family-sized luxury vans with room for everyone’s luggage, Hoyt Livery can get you there safely, comfortably and in style.

Source: forbes.com

NYC in Bloom: Spring 2019 Events

Spring is here and NYC is blooming with fun and exciting events. To help you welcome the warmer weather, here are some of the best spring events going on in the city over the next few months.

Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival

When: Easter Sunday, April 21, 2019, starting at 10am.

Where: The parade marches north on Fifth Avenue starting at 49th Street up to 57th Street. For the best view, station yourself at St. Patrick’s Cathedral (Fifth Avenue between 50th and 51st Streets).

This Easter, do something fun and different and stroll along Fifth Avenue during one of New York’s most beloved processions. The Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival is an Easter tradition where outlandishly decorated hats are the stars. All bonnet-wearing revelers are welcome to stroll along Fifth Avenue and take part in this whimsical event, then sit down for a delicious Easter feast at one of the city’s best restaurants.

Tribeca Film Festival

When: Thursday, April 25 to Sunday, May 5

Where: Regal Battery Park, Cinépolis Chelsea, Beacon Theatre, SVA Theatre and the festival’s own Tribeca Festival Hub, with rare exceptions.

Film buffs, Robert De Niro and co-founders’ 18th Annual Tribeca Film Festival once again shines a spotlight on local indie features, documentaries, foreign films, the latest from big-name talent and the greatest from up-and-coming filmmakers.

Buy tickets at the official festival website. Prices ranges from $25.94 to a cool $356 for special gala events. You can also purchase passes for individual days or the entire festival. Visit the official site for details.

Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival

When: April 27, 2019, and Sunday, April 28 from 10am to 6pm each day.

Where: Brooklyn Botanic Garden (990 Washington Ave, Brooklyn). To get there on the subway, take the 2/3 train to Eastern Parkway/Brooklyn Museum.

To honor the end of Hanami, the Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival NYC is one of the city’s prettiest spring festivals celebrating the best and most beautiful elements of Japanese culture.

Watch and take part in activities while being surrounded by gorgeous, pink-petal trees at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, including Taiko drummers, samurai-sword masters, J-rock bands and stand-up comics on the festival’s two stages. You’ll also find a Japanese tearoom, art gallery, and a mini flea market with mouthwatering Raaka Chocolate, wall scrolls, silk wraps and a profusion of pretty flowers.

What’s on at the New York Botanical Gardens

When: Now through May 19

Where: 2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY 10458-5126

Spring is a spectacular time at the NY Botanical Gardens! Featured events and exhibits include: The Orchid Show: Singapore (through April 28), Orchid Evenings for 21 plus (through April 27) The Garden Furniture and Antique Fair (April 11-14), National Citizen Science Day (April 13), Earth Day Weekend (April 20-22), Lilac Weekend and Plein-Air Invitational (May 4-5), Mother’s Day Weekend Garden Party (May 11-12), Spring Uncorked (May 18-19) and running through the summer, and The Living art of Roberto Burle Marx (June 8 through Sept 29).

Fleet Week in NYC

When: The 29th annual Fleet Week in NYC will take place from May 22 to May 27

Where: New York Harbor, Pier 92 in Manhattan, USS The Sullivans Pier in Staten Island, Military Island (Broadway and 7th Avenue between 43rd and 44th Streets), Eisenhower Park, the Flagship Brewery and the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Memorial Monument.

Ahoy, sailors! This seven-day celebration to honor the members of the United States Navy, Coast Guard and Marine Corps is a weeklong bash that starts with the Parade of Ships—a flotilla of visiting vessels and tall ships that cruise along the Hudson River—and continues with military demonstrations, a Memorial Day ceremony and more.

Participating Fleet Week ships can be viewed at Pier 90, Pier 86, Intrepid Air and Space Museum, Brooklyn Cruise Terminal and Homeport Pier on Staten Island. Other activities include guided tours, displays, demonstrations and musical performances.

Enjoy your springtime travels into the city and let Hoyt Livery do the driving. With luxury vans big enough for your whole family or group, relax and enjoy your day! Remember Hoyt’s Here!

Source: Timeout New York