Destinations Archives - Page 2 of 11 - Encompass The World Travel

Snapshot: Aruba

Situated just 15 miles north of the Venezuelan coastline, Aruba is one of the southernmost islands of the Caribbean. The “A” of the “ABC Islands” (along with Bonaire and Curacao), the island is known for its pristine white sand beaches that remain cool beneath your feet, steady trade winds that propel wind-powered watersports, and an enticing dining scene to treat your taste buds. For these reasons, the aptly nicknamed “One Happy Island” welcomes approximately 2 million tourists annually. Who Should Visit Travelers visit Aruba for its steady sunshine and pleasant mix of relaxation and soft adventure. It’s especially popular for…
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A Month in Portugal

Stephanie, our social media manager and writer, recently returned from a month in Portugal with her husband and 7-year-old daughter. With its history (geographic borders defined in the early 12th century, a long list of contributions to global exploration, incredible cathedrals), people (a friendly and peaceful population that is family-focused), and culture (beautiful sites and cities from north to south), Portugal captured our family’s interest as a place to spend some extended time. Planning a month-long visit became a part-time job, and even our 7-year-old was involved with the arrangements. Beyond my experiences studying abroad in college, this would be my…
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Snapshot: Kauai, “The Garden Isle”

When travelers daydream about Hawaii, the island that usually most captures this vision is stunning Kauai, also known as The Garden Isle. With its lush green landscapes, scenic coastlines, jagged cliffs, and tropical rainforests with cascading waterfalls, the oldest Hawaiian island truly feels like paradise. Who Should Visit While Kauai caters to all travelers, those who enjoy outdoor activities will feel most at home on this island. People who want a less touristy vibe (no high-rise resorts here!), appreciate time spent immersed in nature, enjoy the peace of a rural setting, and want an island that buzzes with local charm…
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9 Must-Do Activities on An Alaska Cruise

As many travelers have realized, viewing Alaska’s vast beauty and diverse wildlife by ship is an essential experience to truly immerse oneself in the stunning landscapes of The Last Frontier. Many of the world’s top cruise lines have developed Alaska cruise itineraries that keep passengers coming back again and again, offering specialized dining menus, educational lectures with special guests, and unique onboard activities. In fact, there is now an abundance of itineraries and excursions available for Alaskan cruising. Perhaps it’s the myriad of options, combined with its captivating landscape, that keep Alaska tourists coming back for more. Here are 9 must-do…
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Alaska’s Big Five and Where to Spot Them

From seals to arctic hares, Alaska is home to a diverse range of animals that thrive in its vast swaths of untouched land, which includes seven of the twelve largest National Parks in the United States. Many travelers make the trip to the Last Frontier to catch glimpses of Alaska’s remarkable wildlife, the most notable of which are collectively referred to as the “Big Five.” What are Alaska’s “Big Five?” Originally the term Big Five referred to five large land mammals that were difficult to hunt, but today they are the five animals that visitors are most lucky to spot…
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