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Belize: The Most Underrated Caribbean Destination We’ve Ever Been To

We are going to be honest with you — Belize was not at the top of our list. And we are so embarrassed about that now. This country is STUNNING, the people are incredible, the water is that impossible blue-green color that doesn’t look real, and the food? We’ll get to the food. Buckle up because this one is a lot and you’re going to want to take notes.

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Getting There — Ocean Express Water Taxi

Once you land in Belize City, you’re hopping the Ocean Express Water Taxi to get to Ambergris Caye and honestly the boat ride itself sets the tone for the whole trip. You’re already out on the water, already seeing that color, already grinning. It’s a great start.

Money TipThe exchange rate is $1 USD to $2 Belize — so everything you see priced in Belize dollars is basically half price for you. Keep that in mind and smile every time you pay for something.

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Where We Stayed — Grand Colony Island Villas

We stayed at Grand Colony Island Villas on Ambergris Caye and loved it. Great location, comfortable, right in the mix of everything. Ambergris Caye is the place to be in Belize — lively, beautiful, and packed with things to do while still feeling laid back and totally Caribbean.

Getting around the island: Rent a golf cart from Rick’s — $50 USD for 24 hours. That’s it. That’s your transportation. You will feel like the coolest person alive cruising around Ambergris Caye in a golf cart and we stand by that statement completely.

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Deep Sea Fishing + Pier 366 at Banyan Bay — This Was UNREAL

Okay this might be the single coolest food experience we’ve had on any trip ever. Rob went out on a deep sea fishing tour and came back with fresh mahi mahi and barracuda. We then took that catch straight to Pier 366 at Banyan Bay, handed it over, and they cooked it up for us right there. Fresh-caught, same-day, cooked exactly how we wanted it.

The total bill? $30 USD. For a fresh seafood dinner that we literally caught ourselves. We still can’t believe that happened.

Pro Tip – Book your deep sea fishing tour early in your trip so you can time it with a dinner at Pier 366. This combo is one for the travel memory books — trust us on this one.

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Banyan Bay Dive Shop — Snapper, Lobster, and Cook What You Catch

We were not done catching and eating our own food apparently — because Banyan Bay Dive Shop does a snapper and lobster fishing experience where, once again, you cook what you catch. This time on a private beach. With snorkeling included. We keep saying “this was the best thing we did” and then another thing tops it. Belize keeps one-upping itself.

The snorkeling here is world-class. The reef is spectacular, the visibility is incredible, and the marine life is like nothing we’ve seen. If you’re any kind of water person, Belize is your place.

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The Blue Hole — A Bucket List Check We Won’t Forget

Amigos Del Mar runs the Blue Hole excursion and if this isn’t already on your bucket list, add it right now. The Great Blue Hole is one of the most famous dive and snorkel sites on earth and seeing it in person is genuinely surreal. The deep blue circle in the middle of the turquoise Caribbean is something you’ve seen in photos a thousand times — and it looks even more incredible when you’re actually floating in it.

The excursion also takes you to the Lighthouse Aquarium Reef and Half Moon Caye, which are both absolutely stunning. Half Moon Caye in particular is one of those perfect little paradise spots that makes you want to never leave. The whole day is just stop after stop of “wait, this is real life?!”

Don’t miss: The frigatebirds at Half Moon Caye. There’s a massive nesting colony there and watching them is completely wild. Nature doing its thing in one of the most beautiful places on the planet.

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Jet Surfing — Shoutout to Austin from Missouri!

Have you ever heard of jet surfing? Because we hadn’t either. It’s a motorized surfboard and it is absolutely as insane as it sounds. We got to try it and had the BEST time — big shoutout to Austin from Missouri who was out there with us making it look easy while we were out there making it look hilarious. Austin, you were awesome — hope the travels are treating you well!

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Secret Beach — The Name Says It All

You have to get to Secret Beach. Grab your golf cart (thanks Rick’s!) and make the trip across the island. It’s a bit of a ride but when you get there it’s one of those shallow, clear, warm-water Caribbean situations where you can walk out forever and the water stays gorgeous. There’s a Belize sign out there perfect for photos — stop and get the shot, you’ll thank yourself later.

While you’re out at Secret Beach, eat at Pirates Restaurant and Bar right on the beach. Cold drinks, fresh food, feet in the sand. That’s all you need and that’s exactly what you get.

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Belize Chocolate Company — $7.50 and Completely Worth It

Every day at 10:30am, the Belize Chocolate Company runs a chocolate-making class and it is one of the most fun and interesting things you can do on the island. For just $7.50 USD you learn about cacao, how chocolate is made, the history behind it in Belize, and you get to make your own. It’s interactive, it’s delicious, and it’s only an hour so it fits perfectly into your morning before the real adventures begin.

Go early, grab your spot. $7.50 for a chocolate class in a Caribbean paradise is obviously going to fill up. Don’t sleep on it. Best $7.50 You’ll Spend

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Food, Drinks & Nightlife — The Full Breakdown

El Fogon — If you want traditional Belizean food — and you absolutely should want that — El Fogon is your spot. Authentic, local, delicious. This is the kind of place you go to actually understand the food culture of a place and it delivers completely.

Average Joe’s — Great bar, live music, awesome laid-back vibe. Exactly the kind of spot you stumble into on a Tuesday and end up staying for four hours. Love a place like this.

Rain Rooftop Restaurant and Bar — Go for sunset. Just go for sunset. The views are gorgeous, the drinks are cold, and the atmosphere is perfect. We’re talking golden hour over the Caribbean — get up there and take it all in.

Jaguars and Big Daddy’s — When it’s time to actually go out and dance, these are your spots. Jaguars and Big Daddy’s are where the nights get fun and the music gets loud. Great energy, great crowds, great time. Don’t stay in your room — Ambergris Caye has a nightlife scene and you need to experience it.

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The People Who Made the Trip — Dennis and Jose

We always say that a destination is only as good as the people you meet there, and Belize delivered on that front in a big way. Dennis Wright is a taxi driver in Belize City who is knowledgeable, friendly, and honestly just a great person to have in your corner when you’re navigating the city. And Jose, our taxi driver on the island, was fantastic — always on time, always helpful, knew everything about Ambergris Caye. These guys made logistics seamless and added so much to the overall experience. If you cross paths with either of them, you’re in great hands.

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Bonus: Go in September — Belize City Throws a PARTY

Here’s a tip that not enough people talk about — if you can time your trip for September, do it. September is party time in Belize City in the best possible way. The country celebrates both Carnival AND Independence Day (September 21st) and the whole city comes alive with parades, music, dancing, food, and an energy that is completely electric. If you want to experience Belizean culture at its most vibrant and celebratory, September is your month.

September in Belize City — Carnival, Independence Day celebrations, national pride, incredible food and music. This is Belize at its absolute best. Add it to the calendar.

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Belize moved way up our list of favorite destinations and honestly it might be climbing toward the top. The water, the food, the people, the adventures — it’s all there. It’s accessible, it’s affordable (especially with that exchange rate!), and it is seriously one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever been. Stop overlooking Belize. Book the trip. You will not regret it for one single second.

Justin and Lindsay

P.S. Dennis, Jose, Austin — you guys were awesome. Belize is lucky to have you.

P.P.S. Subscribe below for our next adventure — and book your Belize trip at EndlessTravel365.com!

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Colombia: Cartagena, Guatapé & Medellín — Three Cities, Zero Regrets

Colombia has been on our list for a long time and wow — it did not disappoint. Three very different cities, three completely different vibes, and every single one of them left a mark. We’re going to break this down city by city so you have everything you need. Buckle up because there is A LOT to cover.

Cartagena – Stop 1

Cartagena is one of those cities that just looks like a postcard everywhere you turn. Colorful colonial buildings, flowers spilling off balconies, the old walled city baking in the Caribbean heat — it’s gorgeous and chaotic and totally alive. We based ourselves at Apartamento de Pembo, which was a great spot, and hit the ground running from day one.

Food & Drinks — Cartagena Does Not Mess Around

La Brioche — Start your mornings here. Great café, great pastries, exactly what you need before a long day of exploring.

Café del Mar — Sunset drinks on the old city walls. This is one of those experiences you don’t forget. The view over the Caribbean with a cocktail in hand as the sun goes down — honestly, stop reading and just book your flight.

Plaza de Santo Domingo with Orlando — Pizza in the plaza with our guy Orlando! The energy around Plaza de Santo Domingo is electric — street performers, vendors, people everywhere. Get a table outside and just soak it all in.

San Pedro Restaurant — Solid dinner spot. Great food, great atmosphere in the heart of the old city.

Casa Della Pasta — We grabbed lunch here and also loved the hostel vibe of the place. A great stop if you’re in the area and need a break from the heat with a good bowl of pasta.

La Divinidad Smoothies — Fresh, cold, and exactly what you want in tropical heat. Find them and thank us later.

Things to Do

Walk the Old City Walls — This is a must. The walls are massive, the views are incredible, and the history is fascinating. Walk them at sunset if you can — the light is unreal.

Calle Sierpe Street Art — One of the coolest streets in Cartagena. Incredible murals and street art around every corner. Bring your camera and give yourself time to wander.

Street Market — Great for souvenirs, local crafts, food, and just soaking up the local atmosphere. Go with cash and your bargaining face on.

Day Trip Alert — 4 Islands & Snorkeling with Backpackers: We booked a day trip through Backpackers to four islands with snorkeling and it was an absolute highlight of Cartagena. The Caribbean water out there is stunning — crystal clear, warm, and full of color. Highly, highly recommend getting out on the water while you’re here.

Dinner of the Trip — Agua de Leon

Okay we need to give this place its own moment because it deserves it. Agua de Leon was one of the best dinners we’ve had anywhere. We’re talking pork belly, grilled octopus with rosemary on an open fire, and a beef hump that’s cooked for TWELVE HOURS. Twelve. Hours. It melted. We said nothing for a few minutes after the first bite. Just go.

Las Americas Hotel — A Splurge Worth Every Penny

We treated ourselves to a stay at Las Americas Hotel and we have zero regrets. Infinity pool overlooking the beach, gorgeous property, and the restaurant — Erre de Ramón Freixa — is helmed by a Spanish chef with TWO Michelin stars. Two! The food was extraordinary. One heads-up: the hotel bars close at 10pm Sunday through Thursday, so plan accordingly (they stay open later on Fridays and Saturdays). Don’t let that stop you — it’s a stunning property.

Guatapé – Stop 2

Guatapé is a day trip from Medellín and honestly one of the most special places we’ve ever been. It’s colorful, quirky, and completely unlike anywhere else. Don’t skip it — even for a day it’s worth every minute.

Marinilla Town — Free History Museum & A Church You Enter With Your Right Foot

On the way to Guatapé you pass through Marinilla, a small town with a free history museum that houses the largest collection of crosses in all of Colombia — over 2,500 of them. It’s a fascinating and unexpected stop.

The Capilla San Agustín church in Marinilla comes with a very specific set of rules: you must enter from the right side with your right foot first, and exit from the left. And here’s a fun one — it’s actually illegal to sell smoothies or alcohol at the vendor stand right outside the church. Only in Colombia!

Fun Fact – We love these kinds of local quirks that you’d never find in a guidebook. Marinilla is a great reminder to slow down, explore the small towns, and let the stories find you.

The Rock (La Piedra del Peñol) — Climb It. All 707 Steps.

The Rock is the main event in Guatapé and it costs about 18,000 pesos to climb — roughly $4 to $5 USD. There are 707 steps carved directly into a crack in the rock and yes, it will get your heart rate up. But the view from the top is one of the most stunning things we have seen on any trip anywhere in the world. The reservoir stretching out in every direction, the islands, the colors — it’s breathtaking. Every single step is worth it. Do not let anyone talk you out of climbing.

707 steps. About $4-5 USD. One of the best views on the planet. That math is unbeatable. Climb the rock!

Guatapé Town

After the rock, head into town. Guatapé is consistently named one of the most colorful towns in the world and seeing it in person you totally understand why. Every building is painted with intricate, colorful bas-relief panels called zócalos — each one telling a story about the family or business inside. It’s incredible to walk through.

We loved La Piedra Restaurant for lunch with a view, did some shopping through the market stalls, and finished with dessert at Dulcinea — do not leave Guatapé without stopping at Dulcinea. Trust us on this one.

Medellín – Stop 3

Medellín. We did not know what to expect going in and we left completely blown away. This city has been through things most cities never recover from — and it didn’t just recover, it transformed into something remarkable. Creative, innovative, full of energy, and deeply proud of how far it’s come. We loved every single second here. We stayed at Los Patios Hostel which was a fantastic base — great community, great location.

Hacienda Lunch — Traditional Colombian, the Real Deal

One of our first meals in Medellín was a traditional Colombian lunch at a hacienda and it set the tone for the whole stay. Hearty, delicious, generous portions — Colombian food is seriously underrated on the world stage and this meal was the proof.

Thanksgiving Dinner with Live Music

We happened to be in Medellín over Thanksgiving and the city showed up for it — live music, drinks, a full spread, and an incredible atmosphere. Celebrating a very American holiday in Colombia surrounded by good people from everywhere in the world was one of those moments that just reminds you why you travel.

Vintrash Bar — Medellín Nightlife

Vintrash was a great night out — cool bar, great vibe, exactly the kind of place you stumble into and end up staying way longer than planned. Medellín’s nightlife scene is buzzing and this place is a solid spot to experience it.

Comuna 13 Graffiti Tour with Capture Colombia — CJ Was Amazing

This was one of the most powerful experiences of the entire trip. Not just of this trip — of any trip we’ve taken. Comuna 13 was once considered the most dangerous neighborhood in the most dangerous city in the world. Today it’s an open-air gallery of extraordinary street art, with outdoor escalators connecting the hillside community, and a story of resilience that gave us genuine chills.

Our guide CJ with Capture Colombia Tours was phenomenal. He told the full story of the neighborhood — the real history, no sugarcoating — and brought us through the art in a way that made every mural mean something. We cannot recommend this tour enough.

Important note: While the transformation of Comuna 13 is incredible, gangs and drugs are still present in the area. It is NOT safe at night. Only go with a reputable guided tour during the day. Capture Colombia Tours was excellent — book through them.

The Metro System — Under $1 USD and It Goes Everywhere

Medellín’s metro system is genuinely one of the things that impressed us most about the city. Trains and cable cars connect the entire city — including the hillside communities — for less than $1 USD. It’s clean, it’s efficient, it’s affordable, and it’s a point of serious civic pride for Medellín residents. Riding it isn’t just practical — it’s an experience in itself.

Local Knowledge – Yellow license plates = personal vehicles, which can only be driven 3-4 days per week. White license plates = public transportation, which runs every day. The city implemented this system specifically to reduce pollution. On top of that, the government actively offers to relocate businesses up into the mountain areas to be surrounded by forest. Medellín is genuinely thinking about its future in ways that most cities aren’t.

El Güero — Mexican Lunch in Medellín

Sometimes you need a taco. El Güero delivered in a big way — delicious Mexican food, great spot, highly recommend for when you want something a little different from the Colombian classics (as amazing as those are).

Alborada Festival — We Stumbled Into One of the Best Nights of the Trip

In early December, Medellín celebrates the Alborada — a massive traditional festival with fireworks, dancing, drinks, and a full traditional Colombian dinner. We had NO idea this was happening when we planned our trip and stumbling into it was one of those lucky travel moments you can’t manufacture. The city was completely alive. Absolutely unforgettable.

Metro & Cable Car to Parque Arví — Free National Park Hiking

Take the metro, jump on the cable car, and ride up to Parque Arví — a free national park with hiking trails above the city. The cable car ride itself is stunning (you go right over the rooftops of the hillside communities) and the park at the top is a beautiful escape from the urban buzz. And did we mention it’s free? It’s free.

Metro + cable car + free national park = one of the best half-days you’ll spend in South America. This is why we love Medellín.

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Colombia surprised us in every possible way. Cartagena is gorgeous and full of life. Guatapé is a color explosion with a view from the top that will stop you in your tracks. And Medellín — Medellín is one of the most inspiring cities we have ever visited. The history, the transformation, the people, the creativity, the food — it all comes together into something really special.

If Colombia isn’t on your travel list yet, fix that immediately. It belongs near the top.

Justin and Lindsay

P.S. Shoutout to our guide CJ at Capture Colombia Tours — book him for the Comuna 13 tour. You will not regret it.

P.P.S. Subscribe below for more adventures, or reach out — we love helping people plan trips like this! And book your next adventure at EndlessTravel365.com!

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Dubai: Over-the-Top, Unforgettable, and We’d Go Back Tomorrow

Dune bashing, Versace brunch, indoor skiing, and a $12 meal that beats everything else — Dubai does NOT disappoint.

EndlessTravel365 · Dubai & Abu Dhabi

We’ve been to a lot of places. Dubai is unlike any of them. It’s flashy, it’s massive, it’s a little ridiculous in the best possible way — and honestly? We were obsessed. From the desert to the skyscrapers to the most insane brunch we’ve ever had in our lives, here is everything we did and everything you need to put on your list.

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Brunch at Palazzo Versace — Yes, It’s as Extra as It Sounds

Dubai is famous for its brunches and we knew we had to experience one. We chose Palazzo Versace and oh my goodness — we were not prepared. This is a full-on all-you-can-eat-and-drink house party situation. It’s exactly as over-the-top as you’re imagining. The vibe, the food, the people, the energy — it’s unlike any “brunch” you’ve ever had back home.

They also do an incredible Indian breakfast spread that blew us away. Flavors we weren’t expecting, dishes we didn’t recognize but kept going back for. If you’re only doing one Dubai brunch (and you should do at least one), make it this one.

Pro TipClear your afternoon. You’re not doing anything productive after a Palazzo Versace brunch and that is completely fine.

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Desert Safari — Dune Bashing, Sandboarding, Camels, Belly Dancing & Hookah

This was a full day and night experience and it is an absolute must-do. We’re talking dune bashing in a 4×4 — which is basically the most fun you can have while also questioning every decision you’ve ever made — followed by sandboarding down the dunes, which is harder than it looks and way more fun than it sounds.

Then comes the camel ride (check that one off the bucket list!), and as the sun goes down you head to a desert camp for a dinner buffet under the stars. The entertainment gets going after that — belly dancing, hookah, the whole experience. It genuinely felt like another world.

Don’t skip the sandboarding. Yes you will fall. Yes you will get sand in places sand has no business being. Do it anyway — 100% worth it.

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Patrick and Ricardo — The Friends Who Made the Trip

We have to give a huge shoutout to our guys Patrick (Germany) and Ricardo (Portugal) — two of the most fun travel companions you could ask for. Meeting people from all over the world is one of our favorite parts of traveling and these two made every experience that much better. You know who you are — Dubai wouldn’t have been the same without you!

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Ravi Restaurant — $12 for THREE Meals. Stop What You’re Doing.

Okay. OKAY. We need to talk about Ravi’s. This legendary Pakistani restaurant in Satwa has been feeding Dubai for decades and for about $12 you can eat three full, incredibly delicious meals. The chicken is famous for a reason. It’s simple, it’s authentic, it’s packed with locals, and it is some of the best food we ate the entire trip.

Let that sink in: $12. Three meals. Best chicken in Dubai. Ravi Restaurant, Satwa. Go. Best Value in Dubai

This is the kind of place that reminds you that the most memorable food experiences don’t require a reservation or a dress code. Just show up hungry.

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Abu Dhabi Day Trip — 100% Worth It

Dubai gets all the attention but Abu Dhabi deserves some love too. We did a day trip and it was fantastic. First stop — the Etihad Towers, which you might recognize from Fast & Furious 7. Standing there and thinking “wait, didn’t they drive a car through here” is a pretty surreal feeling.

We also loved the Hilton Beach Club out there — great spot to decompress and enjoy the waterfront. Abu Dhabi has a slightly different, more relaxed energy than Dubai and it’s a great contrast. Highly recommend carving out at least a day for it.

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Things to Do in Dubai — The Full List

The Tap House on the Palm — Great bar vibes on the Palm Jumeirah. Cold drinks, good times, awesome atmosphere. If you’re on the Palm, this is your spot.

Dubai Picture Frame — One of the coolest and most creative structures we’ve seen. It’s literally a giant picture frame and the views from the top are incredible. Do it for the gram — obviously — but also just because it’s genuinely awesome.

Mall of the Emirates — Indoor Ski Slope — We know what you’re thinking. Yes, there is a full indoor ski slope inside a mall in the desert. Yes, we skied. Yes, it was surreal and hilarious and amazing. Dubai is unreal.

Magic Planet Arcade — Great if you need a break from the heat or just want to have some fun. We turned into kids immediately. Zero regrets.

The Scene at Dubai Marina — Beautiful setting, great food and drinks. Dubai Marina is stunning and The Scene is a perfect spot to take it all in. Views for days.

Baku Ferris Wheel Park — Grab your ride, take in the skyline, enjoy the park atmosphere. It’s one of those only-in-Dubai moments that’s both relaxing and totally over the top at the same time.

Dubai Christmas Market — We caught the Christmas market while we were there and it was so much fun. Shopping, festive food, great energy. Don’t assume Dubai doesn’t do the holidays — they go ALL out.

Hard Rock Hilton — You already know the Hard Rock vibe. Great food, great energy, and a familiar face when you need a night that feels a little like home.

Hard Rock Hilton 360 Bar — 25th Floor: This was one of our favorite moments of the whole trip. The 360 bar rotates slowly and gives you a panoramic view of the entire city as it moves. The Dubai skyline at night from up there is genuinely jaw-dropping. We stayed way longer than we planned and we are not sorry about it.

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Dubai is one of those places that sounds almost made up until you’re actually there. And then you’re there, and it’s even more unbelievable in person. The desert adventure, the insane food scene, the skyline, the people you meet — it all comes together into something you don’t forget. Put it on the list. Move it to the top of the list. Just go!

Justin and Lindsay

P.S. Shoutout again to Patrick and Ricardo — legends, both of you.

P.P.S. Want to plan your own Dubai adventure? Subscribe below or hit us up — we love this stuff! And book your trip at EndlessTravel365.com!

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Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo: Mexico’s Pacific Coast Secret You Need to Know About

Beach, jungle, horses, turtles, and the best all-inclusive staff we’ve ever met.

Okay, we’re just going to come right out and say it — Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo completely blew us away. We had a feeling it was going to be good, but we had NO idea it was going to be that good. If Mexico’s Pacific coast is on your radar, stop sleeping on this place. Here’s everything you need to know.

Two Towns, One Amazing Destination

First things first — Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo are technically two different towns but they’re basically neighbors. Ixtapa is the resort side of things, a smaller planned town of about 3,000 people where the big hotels are. Zihuatanejo (locals call it “Zihua”) is a real, vibrant fishing village with about 80,000 residents, a gorgeous harbor, and all the authentic Mexican charm you could ever want.

The combo is honestly perfect. You get the resort comfort AND the real-deal local experience. Don’t skip Zihua while you’re there!

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The Horseback Ride at El Riscal Ranch — DO NOT Skip This

This was hands-down one of the most memorable things we have ever done on any trip. We’re not exaggerating. The horseback tour at El Riscal Ranch is an hour and 15 minutes of pure magic — you ride through a working coconut farm, through actual jungle, along a stunning natural lagoon, and then out onto the beach where you get to gallop. Like, full-on run your horse on the beach.

Here’s the thing: this is reportedly the ONLY place along this stretch of coastline that lets you gallop on the beach. When we heard that we were like, uh, yes please. And it delivered 100%.

Ask for Luis and Raymond when you book — these guys are awesome. They know every trail, they’ll match you with the right horse for your experience level, and they make the whole thing feel like a true adventure rather than a tourist activity. Ixtapa tours through El Riscal Ranch — look them up, book it, thank us later.

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Coconut Farms and Sea Turtles — Yes, Really

The main industries here are tourism and agriculture, and coconuts are a BIG deal. There are four coconut oil farms in the area and each palm tree produces around 60 coconuts every three months — which is wild when you think about it. The farms are gorgeous and really cool to visit.

But here’s what really got us: those four farms also actively protect sea turtles during nesting season. The farmers watch over the eggs and help hatchlings make it safely to the water. It’s one of those things you don’t expect to find and then you’re just standing there feeling all the feelings watching baby turtles head to the ocean. 100/10, would recommend.

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Barceló Ixtapa — The Resort That Got Everything Right

We stayed at the Barceló Ixtapa all-inclusive and honestly, we have zero complaints. The beach and water are absolutely stunning — we’re talking that perfect Caribbean-level blue-green color that you think only exists in photos. It’s real. It’s right there. We spent a LOT of time just staring at it.

The food and drinks were solid — way above average for an all-inclusive. Lots of variety, good quality, and the swim-up bar situation did not disappoint. Activities were plentiful too — water sports, beach volleyball, you name it.

Free stuff you shouldn’t miss: There’s a guided bike tour to the marina that’s completely free — get off the resort and see the area! Plus there are free shows every single night. Every. Night. Great entertainment, great vibes.

We have to give a massive shoutout to the staff. Paulina, Victor, and Eduardo were incredible — like, genuinely some of the best hotel staff we’ve encountered anywhere in the world. They went above and beyond every single time and made us feel so welcome. That kind of service makes a trip.

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Getting Out of the Resort

The Market — You have to go to the market. Great shopping (we may have gone a little souvenir-crazy) and incredible street food. Just go hungry and bring some pesos.

Restaurant El Farosar — We loved this place. Fresh seafood, great atmosphere — exactly what you want from a restaurant in a coastal Mexican town. Add it to your list.

The Cable Car — Ride it. The views over the jungle and the bay are gorgeous and it gives you a completely different perspective on the whole area. Do it for the gram. Do it for yourself. Just do it.

Pro TipThe guided bike tour from the resort to the marina is free and a great way to explore a little beyond the hotel bubble. Don’t just sit by the pool the whole time (okay, sit by the pool SOME of the time — it’s gorgeous — but get out and explore too).

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Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is on our short list of places we’d go back to without a second thought. The beach is beautiful, the people are incredible, and there’s so much more to do here than people realize. If you’ve been on the fence — get off the fence. Book the trip!

Justin and Lindsay

P.S. Want more travel inspo? Subscribe below or contact us — we love helping people plan amazing trips!

P.P.S. Book your next adventure at EndlessTravel365.com!

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A Week in Little Lenggries

When deciding what to do after our Italian tour, we remembered that our friend from Colorado moved to Lenggries, Germany (about an hour south of Munich) with his family. They generously offered their home to us, so we decided to have ourselves a small town, German experience. Here’s a glimpse of our week there!
Day 1 – German Sport Class. On average, 12 kiddos and their parents attend what we think of as PE on steroids, once a week. After a casual warm-up of running sprints, we played a very interesting form of dodgeball mixed with basketball. You try to throw a stability ball into a box to score a point while the other team tries to throw medicine balls at the stability ball to keep it from getting in the box. Now, one might think this sounds fun, but Lindsay’s eyes were wide the whole time waiting for an injury – her background is in recreation and this is nothing like the games that are allowed in the US. It was organized chaos at it’s finest.
Day 2 – We took a walk around the town. Our friend pointed out some great shops, bakeries, and restaurants and even taught us how to order a few things in German since no one really speaks English in Lenggries. From there, we headed to the kids school where we helped teach English. We told the story of the Christmas tree and had the students answer questions in English. When the kids got home from school, they proceeded to make us puzzles out of paper and they put on a play for us as well! So fun!
Day 3 – We drove up to the Bad Tölz Christmas market, a German tradition! We loved seeing a smaller, less touristy version of the Christmas markets. So charming and fun!
Day 4 – Our friends left Germany to go back to Colorado for Christmas. We borrowed their bikes and rode around town until we found a snow covered bike path the on Isar river. Not easy to maneuver without snow tires. We made the best of it and found a beautiful spot by the river and set up our Madera hammock for some R&R.
Day 5 – We spent Christmas day inside cooking, relaxing, and working. In the evening, Lenggries had a fire pit and Glühwein for the town, so we decided to check it out. It’s not a German Christmas without the Glühwein!
Day 6 – We took the train up to Munich for the day to explore. We found the big Munich Christmas market, which is definitely a site to see! After the market, we hopped over to the ice skating rink and had a delicious bratwurst and bier! After that, the rain came, so we decided to see the new Star Wars movie at Mathäser, which luckily had the English version! *Note – the Munich train station has inexpensive luggage lockers, so you don’t have to lug bags around in between trains.
*A final note – the train to Lenggries from Munich splits into two separate trains. Make sure you get on the right one, otherwise you’ll be headed to several other small towns that don’t speak English. If you speak German, you’ll be fine. We, however, do not speak German, so this gave us slight anxiety on our way. Thankfully, we picked the right train car!
Germany is magical this time of year and full of yummy food! We hope you get to visit one day! We can’t wait to go back and see more! Prost!
Enjoy the ride,
Justin and Lindsay
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beyondBeanie

AWESOME NEWS!

We have teamed up with beyondBeanie – a social fashion brand that combines fashion with solidarity to help change lives. Every time you purchase an item from us, you are empowering an artisan and helping a child in need.

You are also supporting the work of a talented artisan in Bolivia who proudly hand-signs her creation and whom you can meet and greet through our website or even in person if you ever travel to Bolivia.

At the present time, beyondBeanie is collaborating with 23 artisans from El Alto, La Paz and Cochabamba, who have the privilege of working from home which allows them to earn a living without having to disattend their children and families.

CLICK HERE to start shopping and helping out kiddos in need!

Enjoy the Ride,

Justin and Lindsay

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3 Days in Venice

Venice, or Venezia, is one of the most unique and charming places we visited in Italy. We also think we got lucky going in the winter when it’s not tourist season. Here is our 3 day itinerary for this floating city!

Day 1

First off, our hotel was incredible. Hotel Casa Nicolò Priuli is a 4-star place that we got 60% off thanks to our travel membership. We actually saved more than we paid for the entire stay.

Do yourself a favor and take a boat tour with Alilaguna to Murano, Burano, and Torcello. Murano is famous for glass – and we aren’t talking windows or mirrors. We are talking true art masterpieces.  We were able to witness an expert glass blower make a beautiful blue and silver horse. Truly a mesmerizing art. Burano is famous for lace and these amazing, colorful houses. Perfect spot to take photos for the Gram. Torcello is a tiny island with old ruins, quaint little shops, and if you’re lucky, you’ll get to hear the church choir singing.

Day 2

We roamed through the alley ways until we found Piazza San Marco or St. Mark’s Square. You’ll find one of Italy’s most beautiful churches (it’s on most top lists) and a hell of a lot of pigeons. Justin loved playing with them, Lindsay was not impressed.

From the Square, we wandered over to Dal Maro. This is literally the best pasta, aside from the homemade meal we had in Imperia with Lindsay’s family. Dal Maro is literally just a kitchen and a counter top, where maybe 10 people can stand inside. The line in usually down the block, which is how you know you’re in the right place. All the pasta comes in Chinese take out boxes. It’s so fresh, so delicious, and so necessary when in Venice.

Obviously, the major thing people do is take a gondola ride. While we find the attraction overpriced (about $80 per person), it’s a Venice staple. And if you get a good guide, you might learn some things about the city as well. We learned that Venice has 118 islands, 400 bridges, and 150 canals and our guide floated us past Marco Polo and Casanova’s houses. If you’re on the trip with a significant other, it’s good luck to smooch under any of the bridges.

We love live music, so we were delighted when we found Bàcaro jazz bar that has a killer happy hour from 4-6pm. BOGO on drinks! The Venice jazz club was also an amazing find. As if we didn’t have enough pasta this day, 30 Euros each gets you a pasta dinner, bottle of wine, and live jazz music. Totally worth it, if you can find it. The club isn’t well marked and we walked past it about 3 times before realizing it!

Day 3

We visited the Da Vinci Museum for only about $9 US. This interactive museum houses several of Da Vinci’s creations that you can physically play with. We tried our hand at building a bridge using one of his architectural techniques with much success!

From there, we set out to find the famous giant hands sculpture called “Support”, created by artist Lorenzo Quinn. The human hands appear to prop up a historic hotel from falling into the water, symbolizing the threat that climate change has on history, but also the power that mankind has to stop it.

Someone we met the first day on our day trip, told us about a FREE rooftop terrace to view the sunset. Fondaco dei Tedeschi was built in 1228 and combined the functions of a palace, warehouse, market and restricted living quarters. It’s one of Venice’s most recognizable buildings, right next to the famous Rialto Bridge, which is also a must see and great for the Gram. The rooftop of the Fondaco dei Tedeschi offers 360 degree views of Venice, with the most spectacular sunsets reflecting off the water.

Venice is beautiful and we recommend visiting at least once, just don’t forget the wine!

Enjoy the Ride,

Justin and Lindsay

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P.P.S. Our thoughts go out to Venice, as they are currently inundated with flood waters.

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The Beauty of Tuscany

Florence, or Firenze as the locals call it, was one of our favorite spots in Italy. It stands out as more of a hidden gem, maybe a little less popular, in terms of bigger cities in Italy. We were able to stay in a 4-star, boutique Bed and Breakfast called Residenza Castiglioni at 33% off thanks to our amazing travel membership. This hotel was so quaint, staff was incredibly friendly and helpful, and the breakfast was delicious!

Once settled in our hotel, we ventured out in the city in search of food. We found this really amazing restaurant called Move On, which is an Italian pub with a record store vibe, right on the Duomo square. It also has an actual record store in the basement.

After recharging and regaining some energy from the pub, we began wandering down the streets of Firenze. We stumbled upon countless shops, castles, and cathedrals, marveling at the architecture and uniqueness of the city. The sunset was equally as incredible to watch from one of the many bridges throughout the city.

As it grew dark, we heard a strange noise in the distance. We started walking toward the sound and it grew louder and louder. We turned the final corner and noticed several grey-ish looking specks in the sky. Lindsay thought they were bats at first, which is terrifying, but as we got closer we determined they were thousands of birds flocking to and from the trees outside a cathedral. They left in groups and returned in groups. All the while screeching through the night. Justin got really close to one of the trees and ended up getting pooped on. The odds were never in his favor.

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The next day was Lindsay’s birthday and we decided to take a day trip to Tuscany – a bucket list item now checked off. We went with My Tours on their Tuscany in a Day tour, which included the village of San Gimignano, the Chianti area, the Medieval town of Siena, and the Monteriggioni medieval fortress. Well worth the 50 Euros each.

San Gimignano is a Medieval urban town; in fact it is a UNESCO world heritage site. You will notice dozens of towers in the architecture. We found out that the taller the tower, the more power the family had. We were able to walk up to the top of the tallest tower (55 meters) for an amazing panoramic view of the village.

From there, we hopped on the bus to the Chianti area to Poggio Amorelli for wine, olive oil, and balsamic tasting along with a traditional Tuscan lunch consisting of pasta, cured meats, cheeses and local pastries. We learned that there are certain types of olive oil that you use only after cooking, balsamic should only consist of two ingredients – grapes and vinegar, and if your bottle of Chianti doesn’t have a symbol of a rooster on it then it’s not authentic. We got to try a full spectrum of wines including their specialty – Chianti Reserve. Lindsay says it was the best birthday ever.

After our indulgence, we moved on to the Monteriggioni fortress.  Siena and Florence were rivals back in the day and the castle is said to have defended Siena against attacks. It’s very small compared to other fortresses we’ve seen, but still magnificent and eclectic.

Final stop on this tour was Siena. We went on a guided walking tour of the city center. Alice, our guide bought our small group delicious Italian cookies to try as we walked. A nice treat. We learned that the street Via Francigena goes all the way from Canterbury, England to Rome, Italy. We visited the Town Hall in the Piazza del Campo, scenery of the world famous Palio horse race.

After our walking tour ended, we have a few hours to explore on our own. We stopped in a pub overlooking the piazza and imagined the horses rounding the turns while crowds of people were cheering them on. We then wandered into the Duomo di Siena. Now, up to this point on our European tour, we’ve seen several impressive cathedrals, but this one takes the cake. As we mentioned, Italians have a way of trying to one-up each other and Siena really outdid themselves with the architecture of this cathedral. Not one inch was left without detail. The photos don’t even do it justice. Not even close. A bucket list item we didn’t know existed, but glad to add and cross it off all at once.

Enjoy the ride!

Justin and Lindsay

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Italy’s Northern Coast

Lindsay’s Aunt Carol live in a small coastal town in northern Italy called Imperia. It definitely has a small town feel, everyone saying hello to one another, local businesses, everything closes when it rains, and WiFi comes on an internet stick that plugs into your USB drive. They just got a McDonald’s a few months ago! About 40,000 residents, but a quick 30 minute drive to Alassio (a popular Italian tourist town) and an hour train ride to Monte Carlo in Monaco.

This stop on our trip was welcomed as we got to spend time with family and take a short break from the hustle of our travels. Our first day we walked along the beach and grabbed coffee at Altamarea right on the water. We also walked through the marina checking out all the boats.

The next day, Carol drove us to Alassio where we walked around the pier and all the shops. A really nice town on the water if you’re looking for something lesser known and not as busy.

We drove back to Imerpia in hopes to go through Olio Carli, the area’s famous olive oil museum, but it was closed for restoration. We were able to walk through their store and sample some delicious olive oils, balsamics, and spreads. We couldn’t leave without a few tasty treats, so we bought artichoke spread, tuna in olive oil, and crackers. YUM!

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From there we went to Uncle Pino’s house where he had prepared an amazing meal of homemade pasta! A real Italian feast. Justin was in heaven as he bonded with a fellow Sicilian. We had a great time talking with Cousin Marco as well. Hoping he and his girlfriend, Alina pay us a visit in Colorado soon!

Up next was a one hour train ride to Monte Carlo. Even though it was raining we were able to see the shops, the royal residence, Grace Kelly’s tomb, the big port, and of course all the yachts. We had a delicious meal at (English restaurant) and walked through their Christmas market. We found our way up to the famous casino as well. It’s a really nice town and we would love to go back in the summer time!

As we departed Imperia, we hopped on a train to Pisa. Since we were in northern Italy it was only fitting to see the Leaning Tower! We had a blast trying to get the best photos and watching everyone else make their best attempts. We paid to go up to the top of the tower, which was an incredible view. We learned that the tower was closed for 11 years for restoration as it was leaning more and more every year. It has since been corrected so no need to be scared walking on it. Although, it does lean so it feels really weird to walk around the top. Lean with it, rock with it. After that we toured the cathedral, which was equally as amazing as the tower.

Stay tuned for the next blog on Florence and Tuscany! Cheers!

Enjoy the Ride,

Justin and Lindsay

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72 Hours in Milan

On the way to Milan we were on a train, a plane, and a bus all before 9am. But that has its advantages because we got an extra full day without having to travel. We were able to check in the Ibis Centro early and hit the ground running.

We went straight to the Duomo square where we had lunch and a glass of wine. The food was good, but it was pricey due to the location. But the view was great. The Duomo is located in the heart of Milan next to all the high fashion shopping. Lindsay had a blast window shopping and looking at all the clothes! We also got swindled by some fellas from Kenya, but we got nice bracelets out of it. Haha.

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We purchased tickets to explore all of the Duomo on our website at a discounted rate! We wandered through the inside, marveling at the architecture and all the insane details. We got a headset that guided you through all of the artwork of the building. Great history tour! Our tickets included the archaeological site that stands beneath the Duomo. Old ruins dating back to 387 AD! Very cool to see! We finished our tour with a sunset walk along the roof of this incredible cathedral! The pictures don’t do it justice! We thought the inside was brilliant, but the roof is out of the world. You can see the gothic style up close and amazing views of all of Milan! Plus it’s really romantic. A must do!

From there we stumbled upon Bianco Latte for dinner. It’s off the beaten path and had some of the best homemade ravioli and desserts we have ever had! Also, much less expensive than the city center!

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Day two consisted of a day trip with Zani Viaggi Tours to Lake Como, also booked through our website at a discount! Our guide walked us through the market and side streets pointing out a couple of cathedrals and buildings. Next, we took the funicular tram to the top of Lake Como and had the most magical view! We had a lovely glass of wine and then were allotted free time to explore. We went down to the market and got a sandwich with meat shaved right in front of our eyes! Delish! Our ticket also included a one hour boat ride around the lake. To say we got a 360 degree view of Lake Como is an understatement. We took so many pictures because it’s so dreamy. We can’t wait to go back in the summer time!

The next day we used our tickets to the Duomo to check out the Museum of Duomo art and sculptures. All included and good for 72 hours! Such a good deal! From there, we checked out the Sforza Castle! Italians don’t do anything small! Each wall of the castle extends 200 meters! Really amazing architecture! On the other side of the castle is Sempione Park, a great green space with a market and huge Roman archway called Arco della Pace, that we later found out is used both to refer to the gate proper and to the surrounding district, a part of the Zone 1 division, including the major avenue of Corso Sempione, from the 19th century!

We finished our time in Milan with a 6 hour spa afternoon at QC Teremilano. We got 25 minute massages, explored every type of sauna they had including a converted trolley car, sat in the hot pools outside staring at the old Roman arches, explored the earth/salt/rain/fire rooms, took a short nap in a “nest” to recharge, relaxed under a waterfall, soaked in a chromeotherapy tub, multiple steam rooms with aromatherapy salts, and all the food and wine you could want. They also give you robes, towels, and flip flops to use. A truly amazing experience and all for under $100 per person – all through our website! Highly recommended and we can’t even describe it well enough to do it justice.

 

Stay tuned for our next blog on the northern coast of Italy!

Enjoy the Ride,

Lindsay and Justin

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