News sites all over the world published articles about Italian villas with panoramic views of the Mediterranean on a fertile patch of land dubbed the “Earthly Paradise” for One. American. Dollar. Is this the international real estate deal of 2019? Upon closer look, you see that, yes, there is a catch.
Due to depopulation as people pick up
their things and opt for more metropolitan areas, realtors are floundering and
left to figure out creative ways to draw potential buyers back to the area for
a major revitalization. The homes are dilapidated and the catch is that buyers
must invest $17,000 towards reconstruction efforts within the first 3 years of
purchase.
“As opposed to other towns that have
merely done this for propaganda, this city hall owns all €1 houses on sale,”
says Giuseppe Cacioppo, Sambuca’s deputy mayor and tourist councilor. “We’re
not intermediaries who liaise between old and new owners. You want that house,
you’ll get it no time.”
Despite the $17k
catch, within 48 hours of the story going live, the town has been inundated
with tens of thousands of inquiries from people hoping to grab their piece of
the rural Italian dream. “The whole world has got in touch,”
Cacioppo adds. “Callers are from Europe, mainly Spain, Russia, and as far
as South Africa, Australia, USA, the Arab Emirates.” And it’s not just
individuals and tourists lured by a dream house in sunny Sicily. “A
team of US lawyers, working for an American company interested in doing real
estate business in Sambuca, wants to meet up with us,” says Cacioppo.
“A businessman from New York just called me, saying he’s flying to Sicily
tonight.
The city has a total
area of 37 square miles in the South-West of Sicily, 42.25 miles far from
Palermo, about 21 miles far from the archaeological park of Selinunte, and
about 13 miles far from Menfi, that has beaches still pristine and the Blue
Flag beach for its sea. Perched on a hill, the town of Sambuca di Sicilia is
surrounded in the North-East from hills and woods, including the towering peak
of Mount Genuardo in the South-West by the valleys of the river Carboj that
form the reservoir of Lake Arancio. The beautiful woods surrounding the town
are full of local legends and myths. The architecture is something right
out of an Italian romance novel. Originally, Sambuca was coined “Zabut,”
thought to be from the Arabic term meaning “the beautiful.” Other hypotheses
about the origin of the name go back to the Greek instrument, the Sambuca,
similar to a small harp, that reminds of the urban map of the old town, or to
the sambuco plants, spread around downstream. Sambuca is a timeless environment
untouched by the modernization of more metropolitan areas and inhabited by only
a few thousand people. It would be ideal for an international getaway and/or
real estate investment.
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Thesouthernweekend.com recently published an article about “The Grand Canyon of the South” which, before that, we had
never heard about. Upon further research, we realized that the word needs
to get out about this breathtaking beauty of a US attraction!
The Palo Duro Canyon (“palo duro” is spanish for “hard wood”) is one of America’s most
beautiful natural attractions out there, though it is little known. This
may because it’s older, bigger brother The Grand Canyon gets all the attention. The Palo Duro Canyon should not be
overlooked. It’s the 2nd largest canyon in the US, about 120 miles long,
up to 20 miles wide in areas, and boasts over 40 miles of scenic views and
hikes. Its elevation at the rim is 3500 feet above sea level and it’s
only about a 30 minute drive from Amarillo, nestled in the heart of the Texas
panhandle. In comparison, The Grand Canyon, is 277 miles long, 18 miles wide,
and 6,000 ft. deep.
Palo Duro Canyon was formed by water erosion from the Red River. The water
deepens the canyon by moving sediment downstream and wind and water erosion
gradually widen the canyon. Humans have resided in the canyon for approximately
12,000 years. Early settlers were nomadic tribes that hunted mammoth and other
large game animals. Later, various Indian tribes lived in the canyon until
1874. The State Park surrounding the canyon opened on in 1934 and contains over
29k acres of gorgeous scenery. Palo Duro Canyon State park is an excellent
outdoor classroom. School groups from across Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico
visit the park each year. Park staff offers guided educational programs (by
reservation only) for school and special interest groups. There is also a Junior Ranger program available for children ages 4-12. There are activities they must
complete and have signed by a ranger before they can receive a sleeve patch at
the Visitor Center or Park Headquarters. The activity brochure can be requested
at the Visitor Center or Park Headquarters.
The park offers a variety of activities
such as hiking, road biking, mountain biking, a scenic drive, camping,
picnicking, wildlife and wildflower viewing, backpacking, and horseback riding.
Many flock to the area for unique bird watching experiences. There is a
Wildlife Viewing Blind located behind the Palo Duro Trading Post that provides a quiet place to watch birds. A water feature is in
place along with feeders. Photos are posted on the walls for those who need
help with identification though, any of the trails throughout the park have the
potential to be excellent bird watching spots.
Summertime temperatures can be brutal in the canyon. Temperatures often range from the 90s to 115 degrees. It is always advisable to engage in activities in the morning or late evening due to the high heat. Make sure you and everyone in your party stays hydrated and does not overextend themselves physically. Do not attempt the very long trails in the high heat of the day. For those unable or unwilling to view the canyon by foot or horseback, there is a scenic drive of about 16 miles that takes you to the floor of the canyon and that features beautiful views of the scenery.
The park also allows special events
though they must be reserved, scheduled, and approved by the park ranger.
The park has been a breathtaking venue for many “I Dos” as it offers
awe-inspiring views and scenic spots to exchange vows.
Post-New Year’s Day January travel
plans are ALWAYS a good idea. Prices have dropped, lines are shorter, and
deals are abundant. Not to mention, more travel is a pretty standard resolution
for many people, so why not get started ASAP? Depending on where you
live, you are probably looking for a change in climate. In other words, if you
live in Denver, you most likely aren’t looking to go somewhere snowy. Wendyperrin.com compiled the following list and we couldn’t agree more-
these are some of the very best destinations for the month of January no matter
what you have in mind for a vacay. Click here for the full list.
1. Rocky Mountains
Yes, you can plan a casual expedition
over organic burgers but these lands are far from tamed. Vast mountain ranges
remain unscarred by roads or summer homes, largely thanks to the USA’s
brilliant public lands system. This is America’s playground, where
there’s still plenty of wild places to be wild in. Walk in solitude amongst
aspens and pines. Open yourself to the serenity of a clear mountain lake. Push
past boundaries as you summit a mountain. Take in breathtaking views as far as
the eye can see. Watch spectacular sunrises over rocky mountain peaks.
Connect with nature doing a variety of activities: mountain climbing,
hiking, camping, fishing, and hiking to breathtaking views of jagged peaks,
glaciers, and high-mountain lakes. A visit to the Rockies is sure to reset you
for a wonderful 2019. Try the conveniently located Prestige Rocky Mountain Resort. The property also includes several restaurants, a
hair salon, spa, indoor swimming pool and athletic center. Guests are also
encouraged to borrow their complimentary bikes, sporting equipment, board games
and beach toys for added enjoyment.
2. Costa Rica
The perfect place to enjoy lovely
tropical beaches, grand adventures, the wonders of nature, and unique culture;
all the necessary components of an ideal vacation. No wonder thousands have
made Costa Rica their top travel choice! Costa Rica extends from the
Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea, and its distance is just at 200 miles. La
Amistad International Park (PILA) is not only the largest natural park in Costa
Rica but also the only bi-national park, created by the governments of Costa
Rica and Panama in 1982. It could explain the name La Amistad, which means
friendship in Spanish. The total portion of protected land in both countries
covers a great variety of humid, rain and cloud forests in the Pacific and
Atlantic sides, as well as indigenous towns. The isolation of the region,
thanks to the difficult geographical conditions, has allowed enormous
cultural richness and extraordinary natural habitats. Species in great danger
of extinction such as the jaguar live in the park as well as a great variety of
wildlife including 400 species of birds, 263 species of amphibians and reptiles
and 213 of mammals. Many other species are found only in this giant rainforest.
Experience the Four Seasons Costa Rica as your launching pad into boundless adventures. After a day of
zip lining, surfing or hiking a volcano, return to our tropical retreat for
farm- and -sea-to-table dining, refreshing swims or relaxing spa treatments.
With customized itineraries for families and couples alike, experience “pura
vida” at Peninsula Papagayo.
3. Florence, Italy
Florence is the capital city of the
Italian region of Tuscany. It is the most populous city in Tuscany and
considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, and has been called “the
Athens of the Middle Ages.” The city attracts millions of tourists each
year and is popular for its culture, Renaissance art and architecture and
monuments. The city also contains numerous museums and art galleries, such as
the Uffizi Gallery and the Palazzo Pitti. If your jam is art and architecture, this is the place for
you- it has been ranked by Forbes as one of the most beautiful cities in
the world. Fashion your passion? Florence is the leader in Italian
fashion and is ranked in the top 15 fashion capitals of the world. Right
in the middle of a park is the wonderful Hotel Villa Betania. It is well quiet and private and an ideal site for
those who prefer to relax in an elegant, calm atmosphere, yet it is walking
distance to many of the top attractions It has only 20 rooms and is family
managed.
4. Nicaragua
The country has three regions which
vary greatly in weather, geography, and population. These three areas are the
Pacific Region, Central Region, and the Caribbean Region. Visitors to
Nicaragua are able to enjoy the natural beauty of dozens of volcanoes, rivers,
and lakes, as well as two oceans. Nicaragua is an ideal place to visit for
anyone looking for something uniquely different and adventurous.
Nicaragua’s nickname is “The Land of Lakes and Volcanoes” and it’s easy
to see why: it’s dotted with bodies of water and volcanoes that you are able to
experience in a variety of different ways: by foot, boat, air, even riding
animals like donkeys and horses. The options are as endless as Nicaragua
is beautiful. Retreat to nature, the jungle, and the beach at Costa Dulce Eco-Resort and Retreat Center. Costa Dulce has become one of the premier wellness centers
in Central America. It consists of eleven individual Bungalows, two yoga shalas,
sea turtle hatchery, spa, surf school, food garden, and a restaurant.
Life is short: eat the cake, wear the swimsuit, buy the shoes, travel as much as you can, TAKE THE TRIP! 2019 could be your year; one full of new experiences and adventures that keep being put off in the name of work, kids, responsibilities. Lucky for you, Forbes has compiled the ultimate 2019 travel bucket list and we condensed it to our top faves. If you take any trips on this list it is sure to change you internally and bring you on the wildest ride of your life. Keep reading!
1. African
Safari: East Africa’s Mara, Crater & Serengeti Migration
The definitive East Africa adventure,
this superb 8-night luxury fly-in safari combines the four most celebrated game
reserves in Kenya and Tanzania. The tour encompasses the vast open plains
of Kenya’s Masai Mara, the delightful diversity of Tanzania’s Lake
Manyara, the extraordinary Ngorongoro Crater, and the rolling grasslands of the Serengeti. Arguably the most
spectacular game viewing itinerary in Africa, this is the journey of a
lifetime. Ideal for seasoned travellers and first timers alike, this
wildlife and gourmet adventure combines easily with a romantic Indian Ocean
island getaway to make a perfect honeymoon itinerary.
2. The Northern
Lights
The most reliable chances to see
Alaska’s northern lights (also known as the Aurora Borealis) are in Fairbanks, and above the Arctic Circle. The aurora belt in Alaska’s great Interior and Arctic regions is
among the most active in the world, and there are few other places on earth so
suited for an Aurora Borealis vacation.
While there are no guarantees that the northern lights show will happen on any
particular night, Northern Lights trips are typically best made in late fall
and winter/early spring, though they can be seen throughout the winter months
on nights with clear skies. If you visit Alaska in November, December or
January, you will experience a very short period of daylight providing a unique
experience in the high northern hemisphere. In February and March, there
are longer daylight hours for you to enjoy with evenings that still offer
maximum viewing chances. No bucket list is complete without experiencing
Alaska’s Northern Lights!
3. Maldives
A 45 minute seaplane ride away from Male International
Airport is Adaaran Prestige Water Villas located on the exclusive Meedhupparu Island in Maldive’s Raa Atoll Area. This is frequently the site of
filming when the movie calls for a tropical oasis. And tropical oasis it
is! Despite its remote location, this resort features an outdoor pool, private
spa baths, personal butler and chef service, not to mention the air-conditioned
over-water villas are built over the Indian Ocean with glass panel floors. Each
room boasts all the technology that one would need such as flat-screen TVs, DVD
players and high-speed internet access. Make sure to take advantage of an
in-room massage and fitness center. Bathrooms come with a hot tub. Water sports
activities and diving are offered. International fine dining is available on
the 5 restaurants on the island. Guests repeatedly rate this resort higher than
it’s competitors.
4. The Grand Canyon
Vast and stunningly beautiful, the Grand Canyon is easily one of the
world’s most famous landmarks and a natural wonder you have to see to believe.
277 miles from end to end with mile high rocky crag walls stretching from the
top of the craters to the canyon’s floor, it is truly a sight to behold.
The gargantuan Colorado River follows a swift course southwest. There are
tons of ways to see the canyon and a variety of places to stay such as Historic
lodges, hotels and even rugged campgrounds, but be sure to book early as
internationally, it is one of the top visited places. You can even choose
to see the canyon from the air by booking a helicopter tour!
5. Great Barrier Reef
Encompassing around 3,000 individual
reefs and almost 900 islands and cays, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s most unforgettable natural treasures.
With an unparalleled array of marine life such as thousands of different
varieties of fish, birds, and clams, hundreds of types of birds, seaweed, and
turtles, it’s understandable why snorkelers and certified divers often place
the reef at the top of their bucket lists. Since experts expect that the reef
will be hugely negatively impacted by external causes such as climate change in
the next decade, there’s never been a better reason to plan a visit to this
natural wonder.
Around the globe, different cultures celebrate New Year’s Eve in unique ways. This holiday is a great excuse to travel, both at home and abroad. Some celebrations deliver strange twiststhat can leave other cultures scratching their heads. But regardless ofcultural differences, I believe we should all be happy and bring the noise inour own time and own way. Nevertheless, it’s fun to celebrate all theinteresting ways people will be ringing in the New Year around the world. Setthe stage for a memorable New Year’s by partaking in traditional celebrationsaround the globe — in December and throughout the year. And who knows? Maybe we can find something fun to adopt into our own personal traditions. Read this article for even more New Year’s traditions.
New York City
One of the most classic New Year’s
celebrations in the U.S. takes place in New York City. The Big Apple toasts the
New Year in a variety of ways, from the ball drop in Times Square to special
multi-course dinners from the city’s best celebrity chefs. Traditional
celebrations include a big countdown at midnight. Add a special touch to your
trip by browsing BedandBreakfast.com for a great local B&B with a hearty New Year’s Day brunch.
Chinese Lunar New Year Many Chinese children dress in new clothes to celebrate the Lunar New Year. People carry lanterns and join in a huge parade led by a silk dragon, the Chinese symbol of strength. According to legend, the dragon sleeps for most of the year, so people incorporate firecrackers in their celebrations to keep the dragon awake. In the Chinese calendar, each of the 12 years is named after an animal. 2018 was the Year of the Dog and people born this year have the following character traits: Faithful, courageous and clever, dogs make great leaders and are good at keeping secrets. But they’re quick to find fault and can be distant. According to legend, Lord Buddha asked all the animals to come to him before he left the earth. Only 12 animals came to wish him farewell, and as a reward Buddha named a year after each one.
Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur In September/October, Jews believe thatGod opens the Book of Life for 10 days, starting with Rosh Hashanah (the Jewish New Year) and ending with Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement). Jews try to atone for any wrongdoing and to forgive others during these days, the holiest in the Jewish year. A “shofar” (a ram’s horn trumpet) is blown before and during RoshHashanah and at the end of Yom Kippur.
Songkran In Thailand, on April 13–15, a funthree-day water festival marks Songkran, the Buddhists’ celebration of the newyear. Wet parades with huge statues of Buddha that spray water on passersby area part of this cleansing tradition. In small villages, young people throwwater at each other for fun and attempt acts of kindness like releasing fishback into rivers. At Songkran, people tie strings around each other’s wrists toshow their respect to their fellow man and community. A person can have as manyas 25 or 30 strings on one wrist, each from a different person. The strings aresupposed to be left on until they fall off organically.
Scotland
Several fire festivals occur all over
Scotland for their New Year’s celebration but the most famous of Scotland’s
many New Year’s Hogmanay fire festivals is the one in Stonehaven, where right before midnight a parade of
trained professionals swing balls of fire over their head and then toss them
into the sea. The tradition dates back over 100 years, and many believe
it’s based on a pre-Christian ritual meant to purify and ward off evil spirits.
Some believe that its timing with the winter solstice signifies that the
fireball actually symbolizes the sun.
The Thingyan water festival takes place
in mid-April and marks the arrival of Thagyamin, a celestial Buddhist figure,
on Earth with the firing of many water cannons. The streets are usually flooded
with sprinklers and people celebrating, and the soggy celebrations last until
New Year’s Day. The water is meant to “wash away” the bad luck
and sins of the previous year, and to begin anew through this cleansing ritual.
Looking for a way to warm up your winter wonderland? Lots of people choose to forgo icicles and flurries and opt instead for a warm, bikini-clad holiday. If this is you, you’ve found the Holy Grail of travel blogs although this one has some great suggestions as well. Leave the parka at home and get your AC ready! Read on for the best tropical winter escapes and remind Santa to bring his shades when dropping your gifts this year.
Kampot, Cambodia The provincial town of Kampot in southern Cambodia doesn’t look like much at first sight because it is small and sleepy with unpaved streets and run down buildings, but Kampot’s sleepiness is part of its charm. Traffic is light and it’s easy to get around on foot, bicycle or motorbike. Life is slow and unrushed, with hot afternoons meant for lounging in hammocks or swimming. The riverside location is at the foot of the Elephant Mountains and is a huge part of Kampot’s attraction. The river attracts everyone (both tourists and locals) at sunset for strolls. Just outside town you can swim and kayak from one of the riverside guest houses. Known throughout Cambodia as the coveted weekend getaway destination, Kampot is a much needed reprieve from the chaos of Phnom Penh. Try out one of the eco resorts like Ganesha and Eden Eco Village that line the river while secret lakes and waterfalls abound for early morning canoeing and swimming. Rent a moto and take a drive up the winding roads of Bokor Mountain or over to La Plantation’s organic pepper farm and sample some of the world’s best.
Honduras
Do you like waterfalls, scuba diving, mountains and untouched rainforests? Who doesn’t? This second largest central American country is for you. It has colonial villages (Gracias, Comayagua), ancient Maya ruins (Copan), natural parks (Moskitia), a Pacific and Caribbean coastline, and the Bay Islands. These all offer great beaches and coral reefs where snorkelling and diving are exceptional by any standard. The country is bordered by Guatemala to the northwest, El Salvador to the south and Nicaragua to the southeast. The Lodge at Pico Bonito lies in the middle of the gorgeous Pico Bonito National Park, putting some of the world’s most dazzling natural environments at your doorstep.
Mexico City
Mexico City is, and has always been, the center of Mexico in terms of population, events, politics and fun. Though it has a riddled past, these days the city is cleaning up its act. Revamped public spaces are springing back to life, the culinary scene is exploding and a cultural renaissance is flourishing. On top of all that, by somehow managing to distance itself from the drug war, the nation’s capital remains a safe haven of sorts. In the past few years, the ancient city has enjoyed a vibrant resurgence thanks to a close knit artist community and a world class food scene. Stay at the Four Seasons in the center of the city, enjoy the rooftop pool and the open courtyard, and save time in your trip to float the Xochimilco Gardens in the colorful trajineras.
Belize
Explore the ancient Mayan Ruins, an award winning historical site where you can get guided tours and learn more about Belizean history. After that, swim through translucent seas and be treated to a kaleidoscope of coral, fish, whale sharks and turtles, while divers go deeper, investigating underwater caves and walls and the world-renowned Blue Hole. With one foot in the Central American jungles and the other in the Caribbean Sea, pint-sized Belize is packed with islands, adventure and culture. Belize Barrier Reef is the second largest in the world, after Australia’s, and with more than 100 types of coral and some 500 species of tropical fish, it’s pure paradise for scuba divers and snorkelers. Add to this island life on the sandy cays, where you can spend your days kayaking, windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, swimming, fishing or lazing in a hammock, and you’ve got a perfect tropical vacation.
Oman
These picturesque deserts are like nothing you’ve ever seen before this holiday season. Explore the great canyon of the Al Hajar Mountains and rip through the dunes of the Wahiba Sands. Head into Muscat to see the traditional architecture of the Royal Opera House Muscat and Grand Mosque, and be sure to take home some of the city’s famous fragrances. Oman’s capital is very family friendly, with malls having dedicated fun zones and parks with play areas. It is, however, the beach that draws most tourists, whether it is for a picnic, to swim, a game of beach football, or just to stroll and enjoy the sunset. Water sports activities such jet skiing or banana boat rides are available at Qurum Beach and most beachfront resorts. The afternoon can be spent watching dolphins frolic in the sea, followed by a beautiful sunset Dhow cruise starting from Marina Bandar Al Rowdah or Al Mouj Muscat.
Los Angeles
For some of us, the quickest way to cure the winter blues is to go where both the palm trees and the stars are. Los Angeles has something for everyone, with 75 miles of sunny coastline, a flourishing Downtown, lifestyle playgrounds for the rich and famous, acclaimed restaurants, trend-setting art and fashion scenes, and internationally flavored neighborhoods. One of the most popular ways to experience L.A. is by enjoying free activities, such as a scenic drive or visiting top cultural attractions. Los Angeles has always been ahead of the curve when it comes to green travel, from public transit to eco-friendly hotels. L.A. Tourism celebrates the city’s incredible diversity with its LGBT and ethnic guides. And you can bring your canine companion to L.A.’s dog-friendly parks, hotels, restaurants and attractions. Whether it’s luxury or budget, family friendly or singles, L.A. Tourism has the best itineraries and guides to explore this amazing city! To relight your inner fire, jump between tanning at Venice Beach and taking in LA’s burgeoning art scene.
Costa Rica
December ushers in the dry season, so you can enjoy the warm weather without getting caught in a torrential downpour. There’s also a number of local festivals from January through March, perfect for experiencing the culture. Costa Rica’s beaches offer the perfect escape from noisy cities. Whether you’re travelling with friends, family, or that special someone, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay. From big hotels with comfortable facilities to ultra-posh boutique hotels, there’s something for everyone. Besides great accommodations, Costa Rica is increasingly renowned for its widely varied and delicious foods distinct to each region. One thing they all share in common is their excellent taste. Costa Rica’s beaches are surrounded by forests, and have great natural diversity. Many contain beautiful coral reefs, perfect for diving and exploring. Depending on the beach, complementary activities may include hikes to mangroves, diving, surfing, sport fishing, hiking on trails or horseback rides. With easy access to many beaches, you can make the most out of both coasts. Most have warm water throughout the year, so they can be enjoyed year round. If it’s variety you’re interested in, each coast offers different shades and textures of sand. White, yellow, gray and black beaches are the result of the constant crashing of varied seashells on coral reefs.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
December marks the off-season on Italy’s South Eastern coast. Though you won’t see temperatures as high as in June or July, you can expect days as warm as 55 degrees Fahrenheit and won’t have to deal with quite as many tourists. Magically suspended between the blue sky and the iridescent colored sea, the Amalfi coast seems to be born from the palette of a painter. It is the land where the sweet scent of lemon blossoms mixes with lush Mediterranean vegetation and the salty sea air; where the brilliant colors of bougainvillea and carnations stand out among whitewashed houses, clinging to the last offshoots of the Lattari Mounts that plunge dramatically into the sea. A vertical landscape houses a picture perfect labyrinth of stairways and alleys. The shift from the sea to mountain is seamless: the mountain sides were terraced over the centuries, shaped by human labor to create flaps of arable land and already compared, during the Renaissance period, to the legendary Hesperides by the Italian writer and naturalist Giambattista Della Porta.
Miami
Get ready for sun-filled days and temperatures on the mid-70s. Miami hosts several winter events to make sure to keep the city alive during its off season. The largest holiday theme park in the world, Santa’s Enchanted Forest is back for another season at Tropical Park. Enjoy carnival rides, shows, games, a 92-foot tall Christmas tree and more than three million Christmas lights. Ride the ferris wheel, race speedy cars, or risk it all on the “Mega Drop.” The park is open until the beginning of January. Check out the Deering Holiday Wonderland located at the elegant and historic Deering Estate located on the edge of Biscayne Bay when it’s festively decorated for the holidays and decked out in beautiful Christmas lights. Highlights include story time and photos with Santa Claus and a Festival of Trees evening stroll. Lounge on idyllic beaches, take advantage of the city’s numerous water sports and explore the famous and colorful Art Deco District.
Hawaii
When considering a vacation to Hawaii for the month of December, choosing when to go greatly impacts both costs and crowds. The first few weeks are very quiet and relatively inexpensive, while the last week — including Christmas and New Year’s Eve holidays — is a popular and expensive time. Hawaii’s weather is almost always wonderfully warm. Daytime temperatures typically reach the low 80s while evening temperatures dip in the middle to upper 60s. Even in December, tropical flowers continue to flourish as usual. You may also see poinsettia plants and shrubs growing and blooming outdoors. With the exception of Hawaii’s Big Island, December is the wettest month for Hawaii. That doesn’t mean that you’ll likely encounter rain all the time. From our experience, we’ve enjoyed some wonderfully sunny days in Hawaii in December. We do recommend that you bring a breathable, rain-proof jacket and/or an umbrella so that a passing shower typically won’t interfere with your plans for very long. Even though this time of year is one of Kauai’s busiest, but with sunny days in the high 70s, it’s worth pricier hotel rates. Don’t worry about dealing with pesky crowds: The rural island only has two highways and visitors are encouraged to travel on foot through the gorgeous, rural terrain.
