Are you in the process of planning a bachelor party for a buddy and torn between Dubai and Las Vegas? Well, gents, both cities have their unique attractions that can make your mate's send-off into marital bliss a memorable one. I love both cities and the reality is that you will be able to have a fabulous time in either destination but you need to plan accordingly because while they are both world-class party destinations... each city has its own very unique personality.

You've finally found a weekend when you and all of your buddies can get away to the lake for some R & R, away from the endless honey-do lists and invitations to brunch. The cooler’s stocked, there’s gas in the truck, and the boat’s ready to go. It should be an amazing week, with nothing to do but land that large mouth that you just know is lurking somewhere out in the lake. Except that the trip is a disaster and you come home more stressed than when you left — and bummed that it didn’t even come close to meeting your expectations.

Are you guys plotting a memorable yet respectful bachelor party in Dallas? I've got some great ideas to help you send your buddy off in style by building the ultimate "Texas Sized" bachelor party where you and the boys can live out your fantasies of being a cowboy. From big hats to big steaks to big thrills... everything is bigger in Texas and that includes bachelor parties too. 

From the moment you walk through the doors of Hotel Zeppelin you are either going to love this place or hate the incredible hipster vibe. It's just that kind of place and frankly it works in a city that prides itself on creativity and re-imagining yesterday's cool as today's chic. I've stayed in several Hard Rock Hotels and while I've never had a bad experience - these guys have done it better with a more authentic vibe.

Ever thought about combining work and vacation on a luxury cruiser? Sounds crazy, right? Well, not anymore! Picture this: you and your buddies set sail on Virgin Voyages' Ultimate Workcation Adventure. It's not your typical work trip, it's a unique mix of relaxation and productivity that's challenging the regular concept of a working holiday. Of course, for you married guys... it's probably a good idea to consider bringing your wives along... after all, as much as Virgin Voyages is our favorite cruise line for a guys trip... it's a whole lot of fun as a romantic getaway too!

Gambling is a hobby of millions of people globally. While some play once a week, others have turned it into a daily activity to unwind. However, as playing casino games is a global phenomenon, it’s possible to combine another lovely hobby with it, and that’s traveling. There are dozens of slot machine hotspots around the world. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular destinations that are well worth the visit.

Detroit... it's a city that's synonymous with sports, music, food, masculine heroes, and cars. It is your ideal place for a fun, unforgettable guys weekend on the riverfront where the cool breezes from the water keep the summer heat at bay and during the winter help to reduce the chill that Michigan is known for. With its rich sports heritage hosting legendary teams and easy accessibility via an impressive airport, Detroit promises both convenience to get to and a thrilling, legendary Motor City experience. Add to this fun mix some exciting gambling opportunities, world-class building sights, and affordable hotel stays - you're a winner with these things!

Over the past couple of decades, certain cities and parts of the country have emerged as particularly desirable. This often happens. A city or neighborhood becomes wildly popular, and a certain element settles there.

Las Vegas, with its glimmering neon lights, may seem like a playground of limitless revelry. However, the reality is quite different, particularly when it comes to the assumptions men often hold about bachelor party trips. You might think that all deeds in Vegas remain hidden, but the law would disagree, and being uninformed can lead to unwelcome surprises. As you gear up for this iconic pre-wedding tradition, it's vital to differentiate between truth and myth to avoid unexpected shocks. From the legal standpoint on public intoxication to the actual guidelines of Vegas strip clubs, we will debunk these mistaken beliefs one at a time. Keep reading because there's much you may not know.

Steam trains have a special place in my heart - as they do with millions of other guys and even some women too! These are giant hulking marvels of engineering represented the pinnacle of technology in their day but are still amazing to experience. In the age we live in where we covet silent, clean, smooth, and safe modes of transportation these great locomotives bring us back to a day when none of that was required - just getting the job done and opening up new opportunities to expand and profit.

A cruise is a fantastic setting for a bachelor party - exotic locations, budget-friendly, fantastic food, and depending on your ship, there's probably even an "all-inclusive" alcoholic beverage package to keep you busy cracking cold ones during the day and sipping scotch with your buddies at night. However, one question that I get frequently from guys who are looking to book a cruise with us is whether it makes sense to get individual rooms or try to get a big fancy suite and pack the guys in there. The answer is unique for every group I talk with, but it seems to be a topic that comes up regularly, so let's take a deeper look...

Picture this: you and your friends making your way down the Pacific Coast Highway, headed towards your bachelor party. You're a special kind of group, enthusiasts of a luxurious Cabernet Savignon, a robust hoppy IPA, beautiful beaches, weird animals, and delectable tri-tip fresh from local ranches. Well... welcome to Central Coast, California, the destination where your wine, beer, and Santa Maria-style BBQ-infused bachelor party fantasies can come to life! With our guide, you'll learn about the top wineries, breweries, and BBQ spots, all while making lasting memories with your friends. 

In recent years the cruise industry has transformed itself from a fairly niche part of the leisure industry driven more by people looking to experience something specific - such as visiting a remote island that almost nobody else ever has, or exploring rivers farther than even many of the great exploreers dared to go back in the golden years of the British Empire. These men and women were true explorers willing to sacrifice creature comforts and service for the opportunity to do something nobody else had done. Today, though, the industry has expanded, and companies like Aqua Expeditions blend the excitement of expedition cruising with the comforts of ultra-premium luxury and service.

It was a hot and humid day while driving back to Michigan from San Diego this past summer and I'd passed mile after mile of Route 66 attractions without taking a moment to stop for a break. I was on a mission to deliver a car-load of booze across country and keep it as temperature controlled as I could. In a way I felt a bit like a smuggler in one of those space games I used to play... Then I discovered that I was going to be driving right by the world famous Uranus Fudge Factory... I knew I had to stop. If for nothing else, I figured it was worth a laugh to tell Heather and Jim that I stopped to get some fresh fudge from Uranus. What I didn't expect to find was that this a surprisingly comprehensive destination filled with all sorts of double entendre, dirty jokes, and "family" fun.

Embracing Europe's diversity with a Eurail Pass is a dream come true for travel enthusiasts. Europe offers a rich tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and experiences. To make the most of your European adventure, a Eurail Pass is your golden ticket. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the intricacies of planning, exploring, and enjoying Europe with a Eurail Pass. So, fasten your seatbelts, and let's embark on a remarkable journey with Eurail Pass: Embrace Europe's Diversity with Rail.Online.

There's no shortage of amazing destinations for your ultimate bachelor party, but one place stands above pretty much everything else. The desert playground of Dubai continues to grow in popularity and is also increasingly easy to get to. This city of luxury and thrill demands respect for its customs, but won't curb your fun as long as you are mindful. From skydiving over the Palm Jumeirah to skiing in the desert, it's an adrenaline-fueled experience that will send the groom off into his new life in one of the most unique ways possible.

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delectable chocolates. But if you've planned a guys' weekend getaway to this vibrant city, there's more to explore beyond the typical tourist attractions. Dive into the heart of Brussels and experience the city like never before with these exciting activities that promise unforgettable memories.

Sometimes it is easy - you grab your bags, hop into a taxi and check into your hotel room in a new fabulous city that you've been dying to explore. Other So, let's lighten your load and make your travels a breeze!

When it comes to planning the ultimate guys' getaway, we've gathered nine unique perspectives from professionals ranging from Senior Editors to Public Relations Specialists. From an annual cabin retreat in Lake Chautauqua to an adrenaline-fueled bike road trip, discover the favorite activities, destinations, and companions these men choose for their ideal escape.

Are you tired of playing the same old courses? Does it sometimes feel like you can play the hole with a blindfold on since you know exactly where that bunker is and how to swing just right to avoid that oak tree on the 4th hole? Don't worry - we've got some awesome golf courses from around the world that we know will stimulate your imagination to try something new!

Ever been on the move and desperately needed to connect to the internet? Public Wi-Fi seems like a lifesaver, right? But hold your horses! Unsecured internet access during your travels can be risky. It's like leaving your front door wide open with a sign saying 'Welcome' to all online threats. Thankfully, many VPNs are here for your rescue. Be it Surfshark, ExpressVPN, Nord VPN, or Private Internet Access, these VPN providers offer you private internet access by encrypting your data and shielding it from prying eyes. Say goodbye to risks and hello to secure internet use. Let's dive into how a virtual private network can be your knight in shining armor for more than just online security while traveling.

Are you planning a solo trip to Europe? Despite recent changes to the process that Americans need to follow when visiting the continent, it still represents an absolutely fantastic destination of solo travelers and in particular single men looking for fun, food, drinks, vibrant nightlife, and other adventures. Plus, Europe is home to some of the world’s top party spots and is a nexus for other solo travelers from around the world - so that means it is plenty of easy access to affordable lodging and travel companions.

They say the journey is more important than the destination, and that's certainly true for a bachelor party road trip. Imagine hitting the open road with your best mates, creating unforgettable memories along the way. This guide will provide you with incredible ideas and essential tips to make sure your trip is the ultimate celebration.

So you're planning a bachelor party? Orlando's got you covered. It's not just theme parks and sunshine here. You'll find unforgettable party ideas, top-notch restaurants, and exciting nightlife. You might even kick off a cruise using Orlando as the starting and ending point for your maritime adventures. So, let's dive in and discover what Orlando offers for an epic send-off into marital bliss for your best bud!

One of my challenges with managing this site over the past decade is that the concept of a "guys weekend" tends to evoke images of wild, balls to the wall partying when in fact that's just one way to go. As I've gotten older however, I've discovered that many of my friends either choose not to drink, or unfortunately have discovered that they have problems with various substances. This can prove to be challenging initially when planning an awesome getaway, but it doesn't have to.

You may think you've seen it all, but if you haven't set foot in the Philippines, you're missing out on a treasure trove of experiences! Whether you are traveling solo or on a guys trip with a group of other bachelors, as a single guy, this tropical paradise offers an unparalleled blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.

So, your best buddy's getting hitched and you've been tasked with planning the bachelor party, eh? No pressure, but this is potentially the most memorable night of his single life. It's all up to you to make it epic. But where on earth do you start? Well, you're in the right place. From scoping out your guest list and their interests, to researching unique and affordable destinations, we've got your back.

We've talked in the past about how great of a city Chicago is to visit for a guys weekend getaway, but it is also a fantastic city for a romantic getaway too. From fantastic museums to some of the world's best and most creative food, Chicago is a great city to share with someone special. 

Alaska is a pretty distinct place with it's own unique native culture that often blends with a heritage of miners, gold seekers, and other colorful folks seeking a future in America's Last Frontier. Whether these words are Alaska slang, native Alaskan words that have made their way into English or phrases that combine the two, Alaskans use some of the most beautiful as well as most colorful words that you will hear anywhere on your travels. 

It's always a little sad to see summer come to an end. But just because summer is over and the kids are back in school does not mean you can't still have great weekend vacations and quality family time. Father and Son trips are something that you can do all year round. Think outside the box and take your child some place memorable. Here are six ideas for educational weekend getaways that your children will be sure to talk about for weeks to come.

Eagle-spotting is a thrilling and educational experience, but knowing where to go can be a challenge. Did you know that bald eagles are found in every U.S. state except Hawaii? This guide offers an extensive list of the best places across America to see these iconic birds in their natural habitats.

There are many options for sunny holiday breaks in Europe but there are few places you can go that still have the local and seemingly undeveloped feel of Lanzarote in the Canary Island. What was once considered a booming surf and sun vacation spot 80km off the coast of western Africa has staved off many developers thanks to a famous local artist named César Manrique. The island currently holds UNESCO preservation status, which has the fortunate consequence of maintaining an island full of stunning landscapes.

Nestled in the heart of Tennessee, Pigeon Forge is a treasure trove of family-friendly attractions that invite visitors to create a lifetime of memories. From beautiful natural vistas to thrilling amusement parks, this vibrant city offers something special for everyone... and that especially includes a father and son trip.

Imagine the open road, your son by your side, and memories waiting to be made in America's best cities. This blog uncovers 15 epic destinations that redefine the father-son getaway experience - from the majestic Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona to the jazz-filled lanes of Kansas City and historic marvels in Philadelphia. So whether you're looking for a city full of life or a peaceful retreat into nature, we've got every type of adventure covered on this list. Gear up for father son trips where bonding means exploring new sights and making lifelong memories together.

I've been fortunate to embark on countless adventures, conquering diverse terrains from driving a Baja Challenge car through Mexico to navigating an old Toyota across Java. I even joined forces with the BMW GS Trophy team for some exhilarating off-road experiences on two wheels. But let me tell you, my recent three-day escapade in Moab with the CAM Mobility crew left me awe-struck and taught me more than I ever imagined.

It's time to redefine the traditional guys' weekend. Instead of bar-hopping and adrenaline-pumping adventures, why not focus on rest and relaxation? Welcome to a world where men can bond over facials, massages, and mindfulness meditation – welcome to the relaxing guys' spa weekend! In this guide, we'll help you plan an unforgettable wellness getaway designed specifically for men who want to unwind and recharge from their daily grind.

While NHL hockey is almost done for this season, we wait with anticipation for the 23-24 season to start back up again in just a few months. As someone who is moving from a warm-weather climate (Southern California) to to the bitter cold winters in Michigan, I know that I'll be looking for some excuses to head south for a game or two. If you are in that same situation or just simply love to travel and see your favorite hockey team play in a different city, well... this article is for you.

Road trips are one of the best ways to explore Australia. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or planning an extended tour, it's easy to find amazing views and experiences as you drive from place to place. But if you want your Australian road trip to be extra special, there are some great tips that can help make sure it stands out from all the other trips you take! In this article we'll cover how to make your Australian road trip even more special, so let's get started!

Desperate to add some thrill-inducing twist to your Wild West plans? Lucky for you, Phoenix has a bucket load of exhilarating outdoor adventures awaiting exploration. Satisfy the adrenaline junkie within you with these top outdoor adventure activities in Phoenix, Arizona. From exploring the McDowell mountains on two wheels to pumping up for some off-road adventure in the Tonto National Forest, these activities will surely get your heart racing in no time.

Sports fans in Massachusetts have never been luckier! With a plethora of incredible sports venues and attractions, there's seemingly something for everyone. 

Are you looking for a getaway that will leave you feeling truly liberated by going somewhere exotic that few of your buddies have ever visited, much less considered traveling to? Then Tahiti is the perfect destination. With its crystal clear waters and exotic culture, it's no wonder why so many people flock to these tropical islands year after year. Whether your idea of freedom involves soaking up some sun on pristine white sand beaches or exploring hidden lagoons and mysterious caves, this South Pacific paradise has something for everyone. Luckily it is becoming easier to visit recently with new routes from the United States.

Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is one of the oldest cities in Europe with a history that dates back to the pre-Roman era. The city is located on the banks of the Tagus River and is known for its picturesque hills, colorful tiled buildings, vibrant street art, and historic landmarks. In recent years, Lisbon has emerged as a popular destination for travelers from around the world, offering a unique mix of culture, history, and modernity.

For nearly half a century, the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach has been an event as colorful as its surroundings. When the cars of the NNT INDYCAR SERIES and other racing organizations take to the famous city-streets-turned-race-track the weekend of April 14-16, they will be taking part in the 48^th running of what has become known as “the Monaco Grand Prix of the United States.”

Have you ever thought of visiting California and spending some quality time with your significant other? If so, have you considered the possibility of a romantic getaway to Catalina Island, one of the most beautiful and picturesque places in the entire state? Located just off the coast of mainland California, Catalina Island is an ideal destination for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Here are seven reasons why a trip to this special place might just be the most romantic getaway that you’ll ever experience.

I've visited Catalina island several times over the past decade that I've lived here in Southern California but it's been almost exclusively a cruise port as far as my experience in visiting there. I'd known about the Catalina Express for almost that same amount of time but had never had the chance to check it out until they invited me to try it out and spend a few days exploring Catalina Island.

Plane tickets just keep getting more expensive and perks that you might have enjoyed as part of your loyalty program just aren't what they used to be either. As a former Platinum AAdvantage member, I've chosen to fly as little as possible the past few years and I'm sure some of your have noticed that I've sent friends off to cover events around the country instead of myself. Unfortunately though, traveling by plane is often the only choice available if you want to get together and go somewhere epic with your buddies. So, If you're planning a guys getaway and you want to save money while traveling, here are five tips that will help you save at the airport.

What first comes to your mind at the mention of Houston - the Johnson Space Center of NASA - right? Well! That's not the only thing Houston has to offer.

If you're looking for an exciting and educational place to visit, The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is the perfect destination. This is a must-see for any man who's ever been curious about atomic power, its destructive military uses, and its benefits as a clean source of electricity for our modern society. There are few aspects of science and technology as divisive as atomic power. Still, the museum here does an excellent job of exploring its horrors and what scientists are doing to make it safer for future generations.

When you think about getting away with your male friends for a weekend, be it a bachelor party, birthday gathering, or simply just a much-needed retreat with the boys, then you’re certainly spoilt for options in Europe.

Japan is a destination that offers a unique and authentic experience for solo male travelers. A tour to Japan is a good way to deepen your spiritual practice, explore ancient culture, or simply get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Here is how you can experience the true essence of Japan through meditation, painting, and more.

The term "staycation" has been out there a lot, but I never really appreciated it until I had an opportunity to work with a local vacation rental company last month. They hosted us in Cardiff - a beach community in North County San Diego - and now I understand why this idea is so popular. Simply put, it allowed Heather and I to spend a few days relaxing in a new setting and doing things together that we might do on vacation - but without the hassles and headaches of traveling somewhere.

Are you and your buddies looking for a weekend getaway? Look no further than Sacramento, California! In this blog post, we’ll explore great road trip ideas from Sacramento that are perfect for a group of guys looking to have some fun. So pack your bags and hit the open road – adventure awaits!

On January 24, 1848, the area now known as El Dorado County was transformed from a backwater area of the Sierra Foothills into quite literally the most legendary place on earth. This is the place that ignited the California gold rush and where legends were created. Today though, while the gold found in the streams around the area is (mostly) gone, Placerville and El Dorado County make a fantastic place for your next guys' weekend getaway.

Loreto Mexico and in fact the entire Baja peninsula has been a destination for adventure-seeking men for more than a century. Whether it's fishing, hunting, surfing, or simply evading the liquor laws during prohibition, Baja has been known as the place to go and have some fun. However, what I love about Loreto is that it's quiet, safe and offers an opportunity to experience the unspoiled beauty of Baja. 

Week-long vacations are extremely popular, but they are not the only option. Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit and created chaos for the travel industry, there has been a surge in a new trend: daycations.

When it comes to bed and breakfast properties, each one is a bit unique but all of the offer an extremely personal experience that is almost akin to the proprietor welcoming you into their home. That was precisely the experience we had a few weeks ago staying at Shari's Bed & Berries in El Dorado County, CA.

One thing that I love about traveling is experiencing new and unique cultures. While this can include traveling to a foreign country or visiting a region like Southern Louisiana's Cajun Country, it also means visiting places where indigenous cultures still thrive in the United States. These people, including their art, food, stories, and traditions are more than just living history. They are continuing to shape the American narrative by maintaining traditions that in many other places around the country are long since gone. 

With the introduction of a new generation of cruise ships comes the opportunity to rethink conventions and try new things. Sometimes those innovations work... and other times they need some tweaking to get right. Norwegian Prima is a great example of this and it appears to be an indicator that Norwegian Cruise Line is moving in a new direction, where passenger comfort and enjoyment are just as important as bullet points on a feature list.

For many of us, our love of comic books began in childhood. Whether we were inspired by the daring adventures of Spiderman or the mysterious world of Batman, there was something about these stories that captured our imaginations and inspired us to dream.

Before our Alaska cruise from Seattle last month we decided to spend some time exploring Seattle and frankly I hadn't been there since I was a child and wanted to focus on the "must do" touristy things rather than get a more locals view experience like I normally do when visiting a new city. The fine folks at Seattle tourism and CityPass offered to provide us with an attractions pass that would normally cost $115 and gave us an opportunity to see many of the iconic attractions the city has to offer.

If you're looking for an amazing destination for your next guys getaway, look no further than Puerto Rico! This beautiful island offers something for everyone, from stunning beaches and world-class golf courses to delicious food and vibrant nightlife. Here are five reasons why Puerto Rico should be at the top of your list!

When most people come to San Diego, they probably think of one of maybe three areas to stay - Downtown / Gaslamp Quarter, La Jolla, or Coronado. However, there's an alternative that is perfect for your next guys trip that offers fewer crowds, lower prices, and easy access to the water. Point Loma is located right on San Diego Bay just west of the Airport and across the channel from North Island Naval Air Station so it is also extremely easy to get to.

Australia is a vast and beautiful country, with plenty of amazing road trips for guys to check out. From the stunning coastline of the Great Ocean Road to the rugged Outback highways, there's something for everyone. In this blog post, we'll take a look at five awesome road trips that are perfect for guys who love to travel!

When thinking about traveling to Vietnam, most people automatically think of the beaches in the south or a river cruise up the legendary Mekong. While these areas are definitely worth visiting, there is so much more to see in this diverse and beautiful country. In this blog post, we will explore four different cities that are perfect for a guys trip. These destinations offer an amazing mix of food, history, and culture that will make for an unforgettable experience!

Looking for an action-packed weekend getaway destination? Check out Kansas City! This city is full of things to do for guys who love adventure and testosterone. From sporting events to breweries, there is something for everyone in Kansas City. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best attractions and activities that the city has to offer visitors. So pack your bags and get ready for a weekend you will never forget!

Orlando is a great destination for a guys trip, and there are plenty of things to do beyond Disneyland's Magic Kingdom. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best places to go and things to do in Orlando when you're looking for an action-packed getaway with your buddies!

Press trips are fun but they are brutal. Most of you guys look at the fun and exotic places I go to and probably have a tinge of envy. Don't worry, that's natural - I have major FOMO when I see my friends going on trips that I wasn't invited to attend and they tell me the same is true on their end when they see my updates. One thing remains though, these are not vacations where you can kick back and relax. Instead, we have long days filled with tons of food and drinks - not all of which are what you actually would like to eat... but what the host wants to show off. That unfortunately isn't always the most healthy pattern and so here's a quick peak behind the curtain about how I manage to keep myself going when I travel on press trips.

Are you looking for the ultimate bachelor party destination? Look no further than San Diego! This city is home to some of the best breweries in the country, and there is something for everyone here. In this blog post, we will discuss how to plan the perfect brewery tour bachelor party in San Diego. We will cover everything from where to stay to what breweries you should visit. So read on, and start planning your dream bachelor party today!

Looking for a great place to stay for your next Florida guys weekend getaway? Look no further than the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island! This luxurious resort offers everything you need to relax and have a good time. From world-class golf courses to beautiful beaches, there is something for everyone at the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at what makes this resort such a great choice for a guys weekend getaway.

Casino resorts are one of the top destinations for an awesome bachelor party. While Vegas is often the first thing that comes to mind, there are some other options out there that will both allow your dollar to go further as well as frankly... can be a lot more fun. We stayed at Agua Caliente Casino Resort in Palm Springs recently and I couldn't help but think that it would be a perfect destination for a guys weekend getaway or even an awesome bachelor party.

Copenhagen, Denmark is a city that is perfect for a guys trip. There are plenty of things for men to do in the city, from enjoying some delicious food to checking out the local nightlife scene. In this blog post, we will take a look at 10 things that men will love to do when visiting Copenhagen.

A beautiful haven for nature lovers, sight-seers and outdoor enthusiasts, New Hampshire may be small in size but it has something to offer everyone. From mountain hikes, the thrill of a race, to feeling the wind rush at your face as you ski downhill, this state offers a plethora of fun and excitement that's hard to match. Come visit New Hampshire, - the northeast's hidden gem.

Planning a guys trip can be a lot of fun, but it can also be a bit daunting. There are so many things to consider! One of the most important decisions you will make is which airline to fly. With so many options available, it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. In this blog post, we will outline some factors to consider when choosing an airline for your next guys trip.

The new five-day/four-night A Polar Night adventure takes you close to the North Pole with a private tour and stay in comfort and isolation at the Juva Cabin in Svalbard, Norway. Launched by specialist travel company Off the Map Travel, the exclusive program brings adventurous travelers in search of the Northern Lights to a remote area with 24-hour darkness and a complete absence of light pollution where chances to see the Aurora are strongest. Only accessible in the snow during the winter months, Juva Cabin is the most remote comfort-oriented tourist accommodation in Svalbard.

If you are planning a trip to Las Vegas, make sure to leave time to visit some of this city’s unique museums. Regardless of your interests, you are sure to find one that fascinates you.

Fathers and sons do not always have the best of relationships. One way to repair or improve the relationship would be to take a father and son trip. California is an excellent place for such a trip. 

Planning a trip with your buddies can be a lot of fun, but it can also be a little tricky. If you're looking to head to the Philippines for an epic guys trip this year, make sure you follow our guide! We'll tell you everything you need to know about planning the perfect Philippines trip, from deciding when to go to choosing the right destination. So what are you waiting for? Start planning now and have the time of your life!

When you're traveling for business, the most important thing is to find a hotel that will meet your needs. You need a place to rest and relax after a long day of work, but you also need a hotel that is comfortable and conducive to working. In this blog post, we will look at some tips for choosing the perfect hotel for your next business trip.

This weekend I had a chance to look back at some of the fun trips that I've taken over the years and right up there in the top 20 were I discovered a pattern - I really like the freedom of going fast, getting dirty, and having fun with my friends while exploring new places. While there's an undeniable level of comfort sitting in a fully enclosed truck or SUV, some of my favorite adventures were spent strapped into a Polaris RZR.

Summertime is the perfect time for a vacation, and for many men, that means spending time outdoors enjoying activities like fishing, hiking, and camping. But what if you don't want to drink alcohol while on vacation? Are there any fun sober vacation out there for you? Yes! In this blog post, we will share some great ideas for sober travel vacations this summer that will help you have a blast without drinking. So pack your bags and get ready to have some fun!

Carnival certainly seems to be taking things in a new direction with their newest ships by building out some fantastic new indoor experiences - even as they continue to develop fabulous open air ones too. Their next ship, Carnival Celebration will continue what they introduced with the French Quarter concept but this time it is featuring a two-deck zone they call The Gateway.

Catalina Island is one of the not so hidden secrets sitting just off the coast of Southern California. Since it was first settled by wealthy industrialists it has been an escape that while only 22 miles from Los Angeles is quite literally a world away. Most visitors here will be content to simply walk around Avalon, grab drinks, and maybe just enjoy a day with their toes in the sand enjoying the crystal clear waters. I've done that... but what I hadn't done until now was had the opportunity to explore Catalina's back country in search of their iconic buffalo.

There is no better way to spend a summer day than fishing in one of our picks for the best fly fishing in the USA! Whether you are a beginner or an experienced fisherman, there is a spot for you on our list. While there are legendary fly fishing spots in Montana, Oregon, and Wyoming - even less iconic spots closer to home can offer an amazing experience. The important thing to remember here is that this is a chance to relax, connect with nature, and spend some time disconnected from the rest of the outside world. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best fly fishing places in the United States as well as why we love fly fishing when it comes to planning a great guys trip.

Hawaii is often called "paradise" and for good reason. With its stunning beaches, lush tropical jungles, and friendly locals, it's no wonder why so many people dream of moving there one day. But before you grab your flip flops and start your new life in the Aloha State, there are a few things you should know. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the pros and cons of retiring in Hawaii as well as tips for raising a family in this beautiful but sometimes challenging place.

Father's Day is coming up and if there's one thing that we know most dads want this year is time spent outside the house. Whether it is a golf trip with his buddies, a father and son trip, a relaxing spa experience, or a fun family vacation... there are options for pretty much every type of getaway in Florida!

One of the East Coast's top wine tasting destinations is nestled in the piedmont area of central Virginia. Here you will find a fantastic blend of rich history, music, restaurants, and wineries surrounding Charlottesville, VA. What most people don't realize is that this region - known to oenophiles as the Monticello AVA - is perhaps one of the most historically significant wine regions anywhere in North America. This makes a visit to Charlottesville, Virginia the perfect place to explore how old world wines and winemaking tradition have blended with new world innovation to produce very high-quality wine on local farms in this fantastic part of Virginia Wine Country.

If you’re a fan of adventure and luxury cars, this new supercar driving program is for you.  Adding the glide of a luxury electric car, you’ll travel through Norwegian fjords and the Sunnmore Alps on a supercar road trip, enjoying empty open roads and breathtaking scenery behind the wheel of an electric Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo.  The route is pre-programmed; you do the driving.

Most of the resorts in North County San Diego sit atop bluffs with the beach hard to access and often with obstructed views to boot. While Alila Marea also sits atop a bluff, it has the unique benefit of facing the miles-long South Carlsbad State Beach as well as sitting directly above the Grandview Surf Beach. This makes it one of the best located - truly beach-front resorts in San Diego and offers guests unobstructed views and relaxing sounds of waves crashing on the shore at night.

Colorado is known world-wide for its excellent ski resorts, but you don't have to wait for cold weather to visit this amazing state. Outdoor activities abound all year long. Let's take a look at some of the favorites among adventure seekers.

While themed hotels rooms are a great way for couples to escape the ordinary and have a romantic retreat, there are also some great options out there for booking an entire home that features a unique theme. Not only do these properties have fun themes ranging from a medieval castle to a Balinese escape but they are also more private than a themed hotel room at a hotel. Additionally, they are more immersive since the experience begins the moment your pull up to the property, instead of just once you step through the door.

Most people do not automatically think of Ecuador when they consider visiting South America. However, Ecuador is a country worthy of touring, especially for its outdoor activities. 

There’s almost no bad time to visit London and explore this amazing city with someone special. While London isn't known as a romantic city like it's sister across the channel is but when you peek beneath the rigid British facade you'll discover that this city is every bit as romantic as New York or Paris.

Princess Cruises hasn't been at the top of our list of cruise lines to feature here but I think that's about to change. We tried a Princess Cruise last month from Los Angeles to explore the Mexican Riviera - Cabo, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlan, and we had a great time. From celebrating National Margarita Day with a margarita crawl through the ship to late night trips to the Chopsticks Noodle Bar and even some time spent placing wagers via their mobile sports book, there were some cool experiences that we haven't had on other ships before.

If the image that comes into your mind when I mention the word "hostel" is some sweaty and cramped communal living arrangement then what I'm about to share with you will change your mind forever. While there is certainly a wide variety of properties that refer to themselves as hostels, the industry has changed quite a bit since I first considered them as a starving college kid many years ago. Let's take a look at some unique properties run by Hosteling International USA that will surprise you.

Are you thinking about an Alaska cruise this year but are overwhelmed with all the options? You are not alone and that's why we've come together with our blogger friends to prepare some tips to help!

For folks outside of the Baltimore / DC area, the notion of this area as a great destination for a sports-themed guys getaway may be an odd one to consider. However, while the region is overshadowed by legendary sports cities like New York, Boston, Chicago... or even Cleveland and Tampa... this is one of the best places in the entire country for sports lovers.

Valentine's Day is obviously an annual excuse to focus on love and romance, the reality is that any time of year is a great excuse for a romantic getaway. When it comes to the best vacation spots for couples, there's a lot of great options and it is really up to you to make sure it is the perfect fit for the two of you. Here's our picks for some of the most romantic destinations to take your wife this year!

We’re kicking off our effort to help highlight and support tourism destinations that we love with a conversation about different aspects of Alaska Tourism featuring some of our favorite blogger / influencer friends. You can join us here on the blog - don’t forget to scroll down for the giveaway! - as well as on social media as we post photos and discussion questions with some of our favorite Alaska tourism destinations and tour operators.

Riviera Maya is a popular holiday destination located on the south eastern coast of Mexico's Yucatan. Whether you are seeking to visit Mayan ruins or relax on the white sand beaches, there is something for everyone here. In fact, one of the reasons it is such a great location is that unlike other island paradise locations in the Caribbean, there are plenty of day trip excursions and adventures you can take here that go well beyond simply soaking up the sun with a drink in your hand. If you’re thinking about visiting the Riviera Maya for your next trip, here are a few tips and tricks on what to look out for, when to go, and where to go.

Minivans aren't sexy or cool... right? Well not exactly. While minivans of your youth were more focused on utility than comfort, technology and design, today's current generation of minivans - especially the 2022 Toyota Sienna are a different breed. While utility is still paramount, minivans are truly my top choice of vehicle for long road trips where you'll be riding only on paved roads. Just because the roads are paved though doesn't mean you can't have a great adventure though and that's what we did while exploring Southwest Florida Everglades with a Toyota Sienna.

We're celebrating National Vacation Day today. It's been more than two years since the pandemic interrupted our normal plans for getting out of the house and exploring the world so I think it's about time to get back out there. To celebrate and help everyone think of some great vacation ideas we're joined by some of our blogger friends sharing their "dream vacation" ideas and travel advisor, Heather from Flow Voyages is even sponsoring a giveaway to help.

Las fall I spend five weeks traveling around south Florida and I stayed in a wide spectrum of properties from exclusive luxury beach resorts to contemporary business hotels but I didn't expect Lani Kai Island Resort to be my favorite spot. While anyone can build a fancy resort with the toppest of top tier amenities, it takes something special to develop a beach resort that captures the soul of the community and entices visitors to return - generation after generation.

There are loads of hotels in Las Vegas and many of those are located along the famous Las Vegas Strip. I've had an opportunity to visit most of the flashiest ones over the past several years (and I've even stayed in some of the worst) but for some reason Tropicana escaped me. This is remarkable when you consider that it is located in the perfect spot - close to the airport and the new Allegiant Field as well as walking distance to events across the street at MGM Grand like MMA Fights, Boxing, and concerts and other entertainment events.

Dallas is more than "just a city" it is a unique geo-political destination that like Los Angeles would be better thought of as a collection of smaller cities surrounding a central point. That might be a weird way to look at it but while I once looked at "Dallas" as a place to go for a guys getaway, I've started to think of the destination in terms of cities like Fort Worth, Irving, McKinney, Allen, and Lewisville instead. Not only would any of these destinations make for a great excuse to get a taste of Dallas... but even folks who live in the metroplex can easily travel to someplace new for a sort of guys getaway staycation experience.

Europe is the perfect destination for a summertime road trip adventure. The lush green fields, snow-capped mountains, quaint villages, vineyards, breweries, and historic castles make it easy to see why this region has been a tourist destination for centuries. If you're looking for something new to do during your next vacation or time off from work, consider planning a European road trip! In this post we will cover road trip ideas in Europe that are perfect destinations for adventuresome travelers looking to do a Euro road trip to experience both the history of Europe and enjoy some modern-day luxuries.

Paradise Coast is the very south western corner of Florida including Naples, Marco Island as well as inland areas such as Everglades City. It is a literal paradise destination for a guys getaway if you are looking for craft beer, fresh seafood, fishing, golf, beaches, and adventure exploring the natural environments ranging from lagoons to Everglades.

Airboat tours are THE iconic way to explore the Florida everglades and frankly I learned a lot more about the environment than I expected from the tour during our time flying across the water and weaving between clusters of mangrove trees. Wooten's is the original Southwest Florida Everglades airboat tours, established in 1953, and is unique since it sits on 253 acres of private land that apparently the national park service is trying hard to acquire so that it can be preserved.

Mindful Adventure Travel Specialist Recal Travel harnesses the power of adventure, nature, and mindfulness coaching to help travelers recalibrate with curated, retreat-style trips. Recal’s 2022 adventures are like no others, including unique ingredients such as Quiet Parks, Dark Sky Reserves, and Breathwork. These innovative journeys come at a time when people need it most.

You're finally going on your Route 66 Road Trip! You're excited, but you know that the best part about a road trip is picking out the perfect classic car to take with you. There are many different factors to consider when choosing a vehicle for your journey. In this blog post, we will talk about how to pick the perfect classic car for your Route 66 Road Trip and make sure it's ready before you go!

Let's just start this post by saying that I do believe in the scientific method of review and research, trusting experts but also verifying information against those things that I know are true for my personal situation. Right now, "The Media narrative" is that cruises are dangerous, covid is spreading everywhere and cruise ships are simply disease incubators. In fact, I had a friend post just that as a Facebook comment the other day. So why then did I just spend my own money booking a seven-day cruise to Mexico?

Virgin Voyages is essentially the anti-cruise. Created by Richard Branson who had, at the time anyhow, never gone on a mainstream cruise vacation but was convinced he could introduce a product that would both disrupt and revolutionize the industry. This brash hubris has resulted in an incredibly fun experience that is truly unlike any other Caribbean cruise option available.

Half Moon Cay is one of the most beautiful private islands in the Bahamas and you can only get there when sailing with Holland America Line and Carnival cruises, so it will never be overcrowded like other Caribbean ports that you might have visited in the past. However, as nice as the white sand beaches and turquois waters are... there's actually more to enjoy here as well. Honestly though, while I had seen excursion options listed in my cruise planner before, I had never bothered to look past what I already knew I as going to love... relaxing on the beach.

For many folks that lived in urban areas prior to the pandemic, rural areas seemed like a wonderful solution to escape to. While many urban dwellers ultimately chose to escape to places like Idaho, Florida, and Texas... most of us weren't lucky enough to have the resources to completely move. As we continue to recover from the pandemic though, this choice of rural vs urban living continues to be an important issue to consider in terms of quality of life and mental health.

Holland America Line has suddenly become my favorite cruise line and I don't say that lightly. While we enjoyed sailing with them in the past, the new generation of Pinnacle Class ships combined with one of the best leaderships teams in the industry has transformed what was once considered "newly wed and nearly dead" into a vibrant and fun cruise line... while still maintaining it's heritage as one of the more traditionally styled cruise operators.

We had the extraordinary opportunity to not just do a short inaugural cruise on MSC Seashore, Miami’s newest cruise ship, but also spent an additional seven days exploring both the exclusive MSC Yacht Club experience as well as a Fantastico experience balcony cabin. This offered us a taste of both ends of the economic spectrum but the good news is that most of the great features are available to guys seeking a cruise vacation regardless of how much you spend on your stateroom.

If you think posh French hotels are just fancy and more for impressing that special woman on a romantic Paris getaway then think again. While the AM A ROCKSTAR suite would certainly be a great way to impress some ladies that I know, it would also be a perfect guys getaway or a bachelor party too.

For many visitors to Las Vegas, the strip is where it's at... some even venture downtown to explore Fremont street but there is actually much more to explore here on some fun and easy day trips. One route that I've somehow never taken the opportunity to explore is a loop that includes Valley of Fire State Park and Hoover Dam. Here's why you should check this area out too!

Like many of you guys, we've been holed up in our home area for the past two years - in fact my last major event before pandemic lockdowns was the 2020 Mint 400 in Las Vegas. It's been a long time to stay home but thankfully things in the United States are starting to get better and with vaccines and boosters available, even those like myself are getting the confidence to start traveling again. We were invited to attend the inaugural Tropicana Wine Mixer last month and while we were a bit nervous initially I was very impressed by both Tropicana Las Vegas as well as the event itself.

When you think of "wine cruises", typically you think of riverboats floating through European destinations like those along the Rhine, Rhone, and Garonne (Bordeaux) or maybe even Portugal's Doro river. However, one of the absolute best ways to experience North America's best wine regions is on a Coastal California cruise.  What we liked about sailing on Holland America Line's Koningsdam was that it created an immersive experience - on the ship, as well as in port as well.

Forest, beaches, rocky, mountainous and situated off Africa’s northwest coast, Gran Canaria is one of the most vibrant and diverse of Spain’s Canary Islands. In fact, there is so much to do and see that taking a road trip across the island is the ideal way to take it all in.

Many people dream of heading on an epic road trip. But there is an alternative to the infamous Route 66 (which you should definitely do). Some of them are far off the beaten track but have some of the best driving routes you’ll find anywhere. 

We often look at the fabled Route 66 and celebrate road-side attractions that have sadly slid into the past but the I-15 freeway between Los Angeles and Las Vegas is still growing with new roadside attractions. While the most famous ones are Alien Jerky in Baker and of course Calico Ghost Town, in recent years the tiny town of Yermo has opened a huge travel station featuring a giant ice cream Sunday... and Liberty Sculpture park memorializing and championing the human desire for freedom. 

Baja Mexico is one of our absolutely favorite places to visit and if you are looking for an awesome guys getaway filled with golf, fishing, and great drinks than there isn't much better a place to visit than Los Cabos. There's no shortage of resorts here with a wide variety of price points and amenities but Pueblo Bonito Pacifica impresses us with a wide variety of man-friendly activities beyond just the normal golf and fishing.

For those looking to explore the mysteries and rich cultural traditions of ancient - as well as modern Egypt, a river cruise is probably one of your best options. Guests will literally float down the same waterways as ancient Egyptians while stopping at bucket list sites on a daily basis while returning to the modern comfort and luxury of your riverboat each evening. With the launch of AmaDahlia there is now another fabulous option for folks looking to make this bucket list adventure a reality.

While most folks associate the Sea of Cortez and Baja California Sur towns like Loreto and La Paz as the only place you can swim with whale sharks in Mexico, these giants of the ocean are also available in the Caribbean too. Quinta Roo, Mexico resort Ser Casasandra sends us word of their fabulous package to experience this bucket list experience in style.

America was built on hard work, sacrifice, and innovation - so let's celebrate that true spirit of America with some ideas for a fall RV road trip. These are places where products and brands that made America great were - and are still - being created. From bourbon whiskey to baseball and automobiles, it's time to pack up the RV and head out for some adventure.

Island Packers is one of the most respected coastal cruise operators in Southern California. They have been offering education, recreation, and research cruises exploring California's Channel Islands since 1968. In fact, they are the official boat concessionaire for the Channel Islands National Park. This includes year round transportation to the "local islands" of Santa Cruz and Anacapa for backpackers, hikers, campers, and day trippers too. The also offer seasonal transportation to Santa Rosa Island and San Miguel Island too. Our trip was less about visiting the islands though and more about experiencing the rich marine habitat that surrounds them.

When most people think of visiting Santa Barbara, the image of a resort on the beach or something downtown within walking distance to the "Urban Wine Trail" comes to mind. We did things a bit different though and spent some time getting back to nature and relaxing in style at the El Capitan Canyon located about 20 minutes west of Santa Barbara and directly across the highway from el Capitan State Beach Park.

Love rum and warm Caribbean sun, sand, and beaches? Maybe it's time to head to the islands and check out this Rum Month package from Four Seasons Resort Nevis where you can celebrate this spirit with a variety of activities ranging from mixology classes to simply sipping a rum cocktail on the beach.

There's a reason why people still look back at the "Wild West" in a romantic sort of way and luckily for us, the Wild West isn't completely dead... it still exists in pockets around the country like Ogden Utah.

Single guys, listen up. You need to know the best cities around the world for single guys! We're not looking for just any old city -- we're talking about the hottest destinations with a high female-to-male ratio and plenty of things to do on your own or with friends. That's what this article is all about: where you should go when you want to have some fun times now that you are single again. You'll find everything from beaches in Brazil, Europe, and Caribbean to parties up north in Canada, plus so many more places perfect for making new connections. There's no better time than now to get out there and enjoy life as a single guy looking for love...or at least some great times while traveling solo.

When you are planning your bachelor party, the first question always seems to be "Where should we go?" If you want a fun night out with friends and don't want to break the bank, then this list of 10 cities is for you. From Las Vegas to New York City, these top destinations will make your trip unforgettable!

When it comes to picking your bachelor party destination, the place for the party is defined almost as much by the property as it is the location itself. While hotels and resorts can be pretty awesome and sometimes offer ridiculous amenities and themed suites etc. A vacation rental property might be the perfect choice since you can relax and enjoy yourself without any other guests to bother you and often you can take it to the next level by hiring a private chef or bartender too.

Few places on earth can lay claim to being the birthplace of some of the most influential music on the globe, but the Mississippi, Columbia and Ohio rivers takes all of the bragging rights when it comes to being the home of some of the most iconic music in history. From Tennessee southern gospel and soul to Kentucky bluegrass, the American Cruise Line Music Cities Cruise is a taste of everything legendary.

I love cruise vacations. For more than a decade it has been a way for me to see parts of the world, experience new cultures, try things I wouldn't do back home, and just generally have a great time. During the more than 20 cruises that I've taken, I've also started to feel that while different lines offer unique features that might make me prefer one over the other for certain experiences, the reality is they are more similar than they are different. To change this would take some radical thinking and a brand with the confidence and tradition to be truly innovative. There is no other travel brand that could do this like Virgin and that's exactly what Richard Branson has done. They are attempting to be a disrupter in what - until the pandemic - was a thriving industry that boasted a 7% annual growth rate, the most of any leisure travel market segment.

Santa Maria is the last of the Central Coast wine regions for us to explore and after spending a few days here, I'm ready to head back... and I want to bring some guys with me! Santa Maria is situated at the north west end of Santa Barbara County and roughly half way between Santa Ynez Valley and San Luis Obispo. On the surface, it lacks the glamour of Santa Barbara and the prestige of Paso Robles and that's why we'd passed over it so many times before, just simply driving past. However, this might just be one of the most exciting destinations when it comes to planning a guys weekend getaway anywhere on the Central Coast.

I'm guessing most of you guys love beer, I do too! Luckily, I've been blessed with numerous opportunities to visit some of the best beer cities in the country and in fact I live in San Diego - which is at the top of most lists of places for beer lovers to visit. However, these beercations are more than just hopping in the car and drinking. To make the most of your time and money it's important to plan ahead. This is your opportunity to try new things, expand your boundaries, and bond with your buddies around an awesome shared experience.

Santa Barbara's Urban Wine Trail is something that I'm honestly pretty amazed at but I didn't quite understand the diversity available here until our most recent trip. I had looked at the wineries located in their legendary, "Funk Zone" and thought that was pretty much it. However, Santa Barbara's Urban Wine Trail includes seven different areas including four downtown and in three other neighboring coastal communities.

Yosemite and the surround areas in the Sierra Foothills area of California is probably one of the most in-demand areas this summer. That's true for us as well since we're now planning a potential visit this summer. However, while it makes for a family vacation destination, it's also a fantastic area to visit for a guys trip too. We loved talking with Tony from Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism so much earlier this year that we asked him to follow-up with some advice specifically for guys planning a weekend getaway.

When planning a romantic getaway to Santa Ynez Valley wine country, several options come to mind from corporate-brand hotels to bed and breakfasts but Hotel Ynez offers something in the middle. At first glance it appears to be a renovated 1950s style drive-in motel but the new owners have taken it sever steps further than that to create an unexpectedly enjoyable oasis of relaxation at an affordable price.

With cruising opening back up this summer and fall, there are some exciting bucket list destinations just begging you to visit. While some are relatively easy to understand how to book or who to book with, others such as South American cruises on the Amazon or Galapagos are far more difficult. With regards to Galapagos cruises, this is because while there are big names such as Celebrity, Azamara, or Holland America Line, this is really a special place that deserves a special type of cruise ship, training, and planning. Let's take a look at what you need to know before booking a Galapagos cruise.

Bigger is always better... right? Well not always. Sometimes simply making things better is better and that seems to be the direction that the designers at Norwegian Cruise Line and the builders at Fincantieri who have begun building the first of six new cruise ships for the line. You already know how much we loved the last few ships in the Breakaway and Breakaway Plus class because they brought "Mega Ship" features like race tracks and VR arenas to cruising. With the introduction of Norwegian Prima the direction is decidedly small, more refined, and more luxury focused. I'm sure there are tons of new features that we can't even imagine yet that they will be announcing before it begins sailing next year, but we're already pretty darn excited about what it represents.

Alaska is a special destination for many Americans. It’s more than just lush green forests and glaciers, there’s something special and unique about the culture too. I can’t wait to visit America’s last frontier again and I hope that we can preserve its uniqueness … even if that means preserving aspects of it that would potentially raise more money.

Don't worry... I still love my big burley trucks, but EVs fascinate me. They are, without a doubt, the future of personal transportation. However, the future is here already. While it can be challenging today while charging infrastructure catches up, even in a less than ideal environment, a weekend getaway in an EV is possible. To illustrate this, Nissan sent me a Leaf S Plus and we drove up to Oceanside, CA.

With the COVID-19 Pandemic in the rear window, travel is starting to recover and there’s a year’s worth of sitting back and planning, wishing, and hoping that is now ready to get out and go again. While family vacations are probably first, guys getaways might just be next in line. Here’s some awesome blow out guys weekend ideas that we can’t wait to do this year.

Ventura California is one of those iconic Southern California "surf towns" that you probably have heard of from classic rock songs like, "Ventura Highway" or seen in countless TV shows and movies. It's essentially the bridge between the laid back country living embodied by Central Coast California and everything you think you know about Los Angeles. Personally, I've driven through here several times on my way to somewhere else but never stopped. Last week I broke that cycle and now I'm wondering why I didn't visit earlier.

Cruising is back open in Europe and while most people associate European cruises with the Mediterranean, there's more than one sea south of Europe that makes for a great cruise destination. Today, we're going to be looking at The Adriatic Sea since it is one of the fastest growing areas big ship cruises as well as small ship and even charter yachts as well.

At this point it unfortunately appears that cruising isn't going to happen this year, at least not for the big ship from Holland America Line, Princess, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Carnival. However, that isn't the end of the story. There are a surprising number of ways that you can still make Alaska your summer destination and maybe even make it better than other years when the ports and waterways are filled with cruise ship visitors. Luckily, there are small ship cruises like UnCruise Adventures, airline discounts from Alaskan Airlines, and some great lodges and rail tours to try. Or, you can just go and rent a Jeep and explore on your own! Here's why Alaska still makes a great choice to visit this year.

Camping is a wonderful way to spend your vacation and connect with nature. On the surface, simply the act of heading outdoors seems like it would be good for the environment. However, all too often I see people simply treat camping as an outdoor party and it is anything but an ecologically sound alternative to heading to a fancy resort. When done properly though, this family-friendly style of vacation can easily be a great way to spend time exploring a new area and connecting with nature as well as your companions in meaningful ways.

One of the things I absolutely love about Joshua Tree National Park is that it is a near perfect spot for people to learn how to drive off road vehicles. You can dip your toes in the sand rolling along Geology Trail or get the adrenaline going in the Old Dale Mining District and still have a great time. This park is your place to advance skills at a pace that you are comfortable with and that matches personal experience and technical abilities of your vehicle. Over the years I've done exactly that, first having explored trails with a Jeep Cherokee and now, earlier this month I returned with the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon. 

Oceanside California is located right between San Diego and Los Angeles making it the perfect staycation destination to get away from the city and enjoy some fresh air and a fun surf town vibe. Over the past few years the city has seen a tremendous amount of new tourism development now it is the training grounds for the USA Olympic Surf Team. 

A few weeks ago I came across two brothers that are living the dream. They are completely consumed with promoting Canadian travel and tourism to the point where the guys bought an RV and traveled from coast to coast sharing what they discovered. Now, in addition to blogging and speaking, they run an amazing video podcast travel show where I was a guest recently. I'm sure we're going to be talking more with them in the next few months as we start to recover from the Pandemic and I know I have my sights set on a fishing trip and maybe some off-roading or even just a laid back wine trip in the Okanogan Valley as soon as it is safe to go out again!

Malaysia is a wonderful destination that should not be missed, and one way of making it an even more spectacular adventure is to make the sizzling capital of Kuala Lumpur your base. This incredible city is a treasure chest filled to the brim with exciting nightlife, delicious food and cool architecture. Travel alone, with a friend or even with your family, no one will be disappointed and there will be plenty to see and do for everyone. 

Here's our picks for the best lad's holiday destinations from around the world. When you are picking a place to go, it's important to pick something fun and exciting with "just the right amount" of debauchery to have fun - but not get arrested!

Going on a safari is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience since you’re presented with the opportunity to see some of the world’s most impressive wildlife in their natural surroundings, experience local African culture and visit some of the most beautiful places on the planet. Unlike other types of trips, planning a safari presents its own unique set of challenges, since there’s so much to see and do, and only a limited amount of time to squeeze it all in. Equally challenging is deciding where you want to go and when, as well as what to pack.

Ever considered heading to Europe for a mancation? There's an array of fantastic cities that offer just the right blend of culture and the opportunity for guys of all ages to really relax and enjoy themselves.

California is known as the Golden State for a reason and luckily there is still gold left for lucky and hardworking prospectors to find. While the gold rush is long over, that doesn't mean you can't re-live the golden days where men were men and wealth was there under your feet just waiting to be liberated from the Earth. While there are many places made famous by gold in California, we think Tuolumne County right outside Yosemite might just be the perfect spot.

Some vacations are meant to see something specific and others are meant to escape from it all. At one of the more than 100 Montana guest ranches, you can do both. While it's easy to be cynical and think of these properties as nothing more than "guest ranches" where you can go and sip scotch on the porch while watching people pretend to be cowboys for your benefit - this state has a vibrant ranching industry beyond tourism too.

Planning a trip can turn into a full-time job when it comes to getting all the boxes checked. Picking a destination is only the first step, then comes the real work of planning everything from transportation and accommodations to dining and excursions. For anyone that thinks picking the location and packing a bag is enough work to put into vacation planning, an all in one cruise experience is the perfect way to get all the best elements of the trip from accommodations to dining arranged for you. Now all that is left to do is decide which spectacular cruise to pick for your first voyage!

Much attention is paid to the dangers that women face while traveling but men face danger too, especially when traveling alone in new places. These range from environmental dangers related to traveling in physically dangerous places to societal risks created by unscrupulous people looking to prey on naive American travelers. Let's take a look at some of these risks that men might encounter while traveling, as well as what you can do to avoid them.

The possibilities seem endless when it comes to planning the ultimate outdoor adventure and there are plenty of reasons to do it. As we look back on the craziness of the past year though, sometimes you only need one reason - to celebrate simply being alive. I know that as things begin to return to normal again, I'll be seeking out opportunities to see friends again and while big fancy dinners in our favorite cities might be nice... I honestly can't wait to simply get back out on a trail and see some amazing terrain that I haven't been able to do alone this year.

Travel is tough right now. Not only do you need to take extra precautions to keep you and your fellow travelers safe from COVID-19 infection, but you, as an American, are also prohibited from visiting many places around the globe that are trying to better manage their COVID-19 outbreaks.

For many men, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a bucket list accomplishment. Unlike other destinations that you can simply buy your way to, climbing a mountain like this is an accomplishment that requires months, if not years of planning and physical conditioning. While your personal abilities and mental focus are clearly critical to success and so is the equipment, the right selection of a Kilimanjaro guide may be the difference between success and failure.

Fans of Sideways will immediately recognize the iconic "Windmill Inn" located in Buellton, CA. In the movie though, the motel that Jack and Miles stayed in was a budget property that wasn't really all that desirable. Up until a few years ago, that was still true. Thankfully the property was purchased by Highway West Vacations - known for buying affordable west coast properties and bringing them up to a level that would be considered chic while still maintaining an affordable price point.

Vineyard getaways, the kind where you actually get to stay in a room not far from the cellars, are fairly common in the wine country regions of France, Italy, and Spain. The gist of a wine resort vacation is to get the most out of your stay by combining a winery tour with tasting, gourmet dining, and the immersive experience of spending a couple of days right where the magic happens. 

Typical yacht vacations are full boat charters and those can cost 10s of thousands per week (or WAY more depending on the size of the vessel). While having an entire yacht all to yourself is clearly a luxury worth aspiring to be able to do one day, we love this idea as a way of getting a taste of luxury for an affordable rate if you are looking for a guys getaway, bachelor party, or just an excuse to be out on the water for a few days.

For Americans, the Caribbean is our playground with warm water, beautiful beaches, and free-flowing drinks that make for a great party destination. Across the pond though, our European friends have the Mediterranean. While you can have an incredible stag party / bachelor party virtually anywhere from Ibiza to Bodrum, Cyprus offers their own sort of special atmosphere that makes it a fantastic destination for an epic party to send your friend off in style.

Icy Strait Point, Alaska isn't the most well-known cruise port in Alaska, but it is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for cruisers visiting Alaska. In fact, based on what I've been reading since first introduced to it a year ago by our friends at Norwegian Cruise Line, it might just be the destination that draws you back to Alaska after you've checked the state off your travel bucket list.

Years ago I had a chance to do a road trip from Chicago to San Diego and passed through a magical area of absolute desolation and natural wonder. Unlike many other natural areas of the country, this was a land of stunning rock formations and wide-open spaces where you could really "get away" from it all. Today, this area offers a great opportunity to social distance - especially now that many families are back to school and the weather is turning a bit cooler.

For some reason, many people get confused when they visit this site and think we book travel or run tours. Quite honestly, I've considered running my own tours and we've now launched a partnership where we can sell travel too. It's not as easy, nor as glamourous as you might think though. Being a successful tour operator takes loads of time and energy as well as a bit of luck. Most of all though, as fun as it might sound to show people around your favorite places... it is still a business. Let's take a look at some things you need to know to become a successful tour operator!

The mancation is known as the lads holiday in Britain, a ritual that is followed by many teens and young adults around England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland.

Legions of men from the UK head out to Europe on their summer holidays in search of the essentials of a lads holiday, sun, sea, music, a few drinks and a selection of women from all over Europe.

While most of you think of the major lines like Celebrity, Viking, and MSC when it comes to Mediterranean Cruises, we met with the folks from Celestyal Cruises earlier this year and were impressed by the offerings that they are working on to bring a different feel to the market. They've been around for several years and as a Greek cruise operator offers an interesting perspective introducing guests to their backyard. With the introduction of Celestyal Experience - formerly Costa newRomantica - they have upped the game dramatically and this makes us even more excited.

While many of us have been cooped up for far too long this year, there are plenty of socially responsible opportunities for a fantastic father and son guys getaway. Fall is a great time to get out of the house and since there will be fewer people on the road, lower prices, and shorter lines that makes things even easier to social distance and stay safe.

Sport is a big part of American life, always has been and always will be and that's why a sports road trip is one of the top travel ideas that we get questions about. Whether these are teams you grew up with or a reunion of college buddies, taking a sports road trip is a great excuse to get out of town.

A few years ago I had the opportunity to go rafting in Vermont and I had a blast. Whitewater rafting is a perfect opportunity for male bonding as it requires strength, balance, wits, intelligence, and courage. Most of all, it requires teamwork and leadership or else your whole group is going to tip over or worse. The idea of becoming a rafting guide is certainly appealing when you consider they get to do something awesome every day and meet some cool people, but what does it take to become one? Are you ready to become a whitewater rafting guide?

Aviation museums house some of the coolest collections of humanity's engineering marvels - flying machines, aka airplanes, and everything that led up to the modern airplane. Aviation actually begins far before the invention of the first functioning powered airplane by the Wright brothers in 1903. It includes theoretical and experimental designs beginning with blueprints and proceeding through gliders and balloons before that. Aviation museums include these homages to the early history of man's first dreams of flight. Today, there are literally hundreds of aviation museums around the world and that means that it is very likely that there are aviation museums near you that are perfect for a father and son getaway or even just a regular guys weekend. 

There are business hotels and then there are hotels with themed rooms designed for a romantic getaway. These are fun and exciting with a little bit of naughty thrown in for good measure. Especially in a time like this where you might desperately need an escape but aren't really wanting to go out and hang around with people, finding a themed hotel room near you might just be the perfect solution. The interesting thing is that while you might think this type of getaway would be only found in California, New York, or Las Vegas... the reality is that there are options all over the country, including states you might normally think of as being more conservative such as Illinois, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Ohio, and even Utah!

One of the things I absolutely love about wine today is that it is no longer a domain of snobby rich folks that think it should only be one way. Today's wine industry is incredibly vibrant with product at virtually all price points and styles that are perfect for almost every guy out there. While I can enjoy a technically excellent vintage and I know enough fundamentals to hold my own at a professional wine tasting, I'm a firm believer that above all else - wine is meant to be enjoyed. 

Cooking the perfect steak can be a challenge and even more so at home. While there are world-famous steakhouses all across the country, there's something enticing about going back to the source and enjoying a steak without the pretense you might find in cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. We did a virtual steak tour of Omaha, Nebraska recently and let me tell you - my mouth is still watering! 

When the image of cowboys and the wild west comes to mind, more often than not you think of whiskey and beer. Likewise, when you think of exploring a wine region as popular as Paso Robles, California you might think of a fantastic spa resort. I'm absolutely in love with this new property that just opened here and hoping to visit there soon. It is a 19-room hotel decorated in Western motif built from buildings once used as stables and ranch houses for real California cowboys.

There’s an off the beaten track, very special place in Florida that provides endless opportunities for every type of fishing imaginable: surfcasting; fly-fishing in saltwater and freshwater; back-bay fishing; kayak fishing and of course, deep-sea fishing.

Known as the Mormon Mecca, Salt Lake City doesn’t top many mancation destination lists — but it should! With its November through April ski season, low rates, incredible outdoor activities, and impressive whiskey joints, Salt Lake City is a solid choice for a long weekend with the crew.

This has been a tough year and frankly, my wife and I needed an opportunity to escape. My conditions were that it had to be somewhere fun, relatively close to home, have a private entrance with no elevators, and be impeccably clean. Those are clearly different conditions than I might have used when selecting a place for a quick weekend getaway in the past but these are different times. Thankfully, I was more than happy after my hosted stay at the Hideaway Santa Barbara. 

When it comes to bucket-list adventure ideas for a guys weekend, there are few more enticing than visiting the site disasters. It is a primal reminder that no matter how powerful and talented we are as men, natural forces are exponentially more so. A few years ago when I was in Ukraine I was only a few hours from being able to visit Chernobyl but simply didn't have time in the itinerary to make it happen. Hopefully one day I'll be able to visit there but here's what to expect if you do visit Chernobyl...

Buellton, California is better known as a wine destination but the more I explore, the more I discover that (unsurprisingly) motorsports and wine go hand in hand. While there are some amazing car collections on estates up and down the California coast, Jack Mendenhall's story is a bit different. Instead of being wealthy gentry, a tech billionaire, or a movie star, he was the owner of Richfield Service Station. After selling the station in the late 70's, he began life as a traveling salesman selling signs, and later began collecting them. Now his incredible collection of signs, cars, automotive artifacts and memorabilia is open to the public to enjoy.

Derek Stevens is one of the most fascinating and exciting things to happen to Las Vegas in a long time. With his downtown Las Vegas properties, The D and Golden Gate being two of my favorite resorts - you KNOW I'm excited about Circa as well. Set in the footprint of the former Las Vegas Club and spilling over into the space once housing The Girls Of Glitter Gulch and other Fremont Street icons, this property is certain to be a legend in the making.

Viking continues to be on a roll when it comes to introducing new ships and new exciting itineraries. The company has now announced that it will launch a new ship next summer for its popular Magnificent Mekong cruisetour. The vessel, currently under construction, is the 80-guest Viking Saigon℠ is scheduled to debut in August 2021, with cruise tours and the river cruise portion of the itinerary sailing between Kampong Cham, Cambodia and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam.

Conventionally you might think about hiking or using Jeep trails to go explore the history of the wild west mining boomtowns. However, Virginia City, Nevada has a bunch of bike trails that you can take to explore the history of what was once a vibrant mining town and today is one of the top places anywhere in the world to go explore an authentic wild west town that somehow manages to be family-friendly despite it's rough and tumble appearance.

Vegas bachelor parties are the stuff of legends and that's why you see them so often in movies like The Hangover and even Last Vegas. Simply put, there is no other place on earth with all the things for a perfect bachelor party like you will find in Las Vegas. Unfortunately, with opportunity comes the chance for danger and too often when you think "Vegas Bachelor Party" the image of topless dancers and dangerous debauchery comes to mind, but there's more to Vegas than that. You can still have a great time and send your buddy out in style without pissing off the bride (too much).

Most guys who are new to wine think of iconic destinations like Napa and Sonoma as the places to go for wine. While I am a huge fan of California wines... the reality is that there are great wine regions all over the country. Some such as Lake Michigan Shore have gained prominence in recent years, while others such as the Snake River Valley AVA just west of Boise are lesser-known. What's great about these "undiscovered wine country" getaways is that they tend to be less expensive, more relaxed, and offer other opportunities to build a perfect getaway without making wine the singular focus.

Do not sleep on Buffalo for your next trip with the guys. This upstate New York city is full of personality and character, delivering a good time with a wide array of entertainment options and a hospitable vibe. Buffalo is located on the eastern shore of Lake Erie near the Canadian border and is a short distance to Niagara Falls. Buffalo offers more than just its reputation as a party city. As the second-largest city in the state, Buffalo offers a varied cultural scene, natural beauty, and a unique vibe that makes it worth a visit. Here are five reasons to make Buffalo the destination for your next epic mancation.

Denver, Colorado sprawls across the eastern side of the beautiful Rocky Mountains. Breathtaking views have led the city of nearly 3 million to become known as the "Mile High City." A combination of Old Western charm and urban sophistication, Denver is a mecca for sports events and thrilling outdoor adventures. Serving as a starting point for skiers, the Denver slopes can be accessed from Highway 70 West.

When you and the boys need to get away, consider Maine as your next mancation. Maine is the perfect place to disconnect from your daily responsibilities -- the lack of Wi-Fi in some remote areas of the state might force you to disconnect. You'll probably see more pine trees than people. No, seriously, 83 percent of this Northeastern state is covered by forests. Apart from the state's natural wonders, Maine also has a rich cultural history to explore. Let's just say that they don't call Maine “Vacationland” for nothing.

As more cities, states and countries take steps to pass adult-use marijuana legislation, more cities, states and countries are seeing an increase in tourism from travelers 21-and-up who want to experience legal weed. Weed tourism is a new and exciting industry that is boosting the economies of some overlooked corners of the world. If you are eager to plan your next vacation — and you love indulging in the good green herb — you should consider visiting one of the following top weed destinations.

Dallas and Fort Worth make an ideal place for a mancation. After all, Dallas and Fort Worth is the third-largest metropolitan area in the state of Texas. It is known for excellent food, cowboys and wonderful sights to visit. It would be an understatement to say that there are great experiences to be had. Here are four options that can definitely enhance any mancation in the Dallas and Fort Worth area.

Water is life. It is where we evolved from and in fact most of the body is in fact water. Humans, in general, have a love for being close to the water, and for centuries it has also been a primary method of transportation and commerce. As a result, some of the greatest cities in the world were all built on the shores of lakes, rivers, and oceans around the world. This is something that transcends cultures so that's one of the reasons I love traveling. It's something that unites all of us!

The 2020 Lexus LC 500 first attracted my attention at the 2020 Chicago Auto Show for it's absolutely stunning "Flare Yellow" color and it's beautiful lines. I didn't know much more about the vehicle other than that, but I knew I wanted to experience it in person as soon as possible. Thankfully, the folks at Lexus had one available. This isn't exactly a road trip kind of car, though I was quite impressed by the size of the trunk and the level of comfort in the cockpit... even for a big guy like me. So, our plan was to do a day trip exploring San Diego beach towns.

Virtual travel experts Virtually Visiting have created the world’s first four-day holiday, that you can experience from the comfort of your own home. This arctic adventure includes a visit to the ICEHOTEL, Snowmobile Adventure, Aurora Safari Camp, Treehotel, and other cool places for an adventure!

There's no better destination for guys looking for a petrol and adrenaline-fueled guys getaway than Dubai. This is probably the single best spot in the world if you want to see exotic cars of all types, colors, and shapes from police cars to million-dollar cars parked at the mall... and then there are the one-of-a-kind offroad beasts too. While most of you are far from that level of wealth, Dubai makes a perfect destination to visit if you are looking to see some amazing sights and even wrap your hands around the steering wheel for a bucket-list adventure! 

For those of you who have dreamed of one day attending the Baja 1000, I've got an alternative closer to home. The Mint 400, also known as The Great American Off-Road Race might not be as well known as the Baja 500 and Baja 1,000 but it is an awesome experience and opportunity to meet your favorite drivers, manufacturers, and be a part of one of the greatest off-road races in the world. 

The coronavirus has wreaked havoc—not just on our personal lives—but also on sports, entertainment, and music industries to name but a few. One huge reshuffle is the postponing of Euro 2020, a massive European soccer tournament that is almost as big as the World Cup, by one year to Euro 2021. Don't worry though, while the delay may be frustrating to fans - it's going to be an awesome celebration we can all look forward to next year!

Italy and Germany come out at the top of the list when thinking about an ultimate mancation driving experience. However, the Swiss have some great roads and a fantastic heritage and passion for driving too. In fact, there's no better auto show in the world than the Geneva Auto Show, nor are there more beautiful roads found anywhere in the world. Let's take a look at what you can experience on a Swiss Alps ultimate driving experience.

Tucson, Arizona is one of the hidden gems for a guys trip. It’s a perfect distance for road trips from Phoenix and while a bit farther from San Diego and Los Angeles, it’s an easy drive for guys looking for golf, history, culture, and of course great Mexican Food!

Air travel can be stressful, even for the most experienced flyers. Unfortunately, airlines seem dedicated to creating the most convoluted systems to manage the millions of passengers that fly each year and most are left scratching their heads wondering why a few lucky ones seem to remain cool, calm, and relaxed. The following travel hacks will equip you with all the necessary information in case your flight is canceled, how you can refresh at the airport, and so much more information.

Expedition voyages are one of the fastest-growing segments of the luxury cruise market. While once this was synonymous with Arctic and Antarctic cruises, I'm thrilled that new players are opening new markets. While some may not see the Great Lakes as being glamourous compared to cruising past penguins and thousand-year-old chunks of ice, the Great Lakes offers a unique and relatively unexplored part of our own country that are also are central to the science and history of our global climate history. 

Lafayette, Lousiana is a different sort of part of this great country. While it's "south"... it's not entirely "The South". It marches to a different drummer with unapologetically male food and rugged adventure ranging from airboat tours through the swamp to exploring the cultural heritage of the Cajun people and of course enjoying some delicious Cajun food ranging from boudin to crawfish and cracklins!

If you’re a best man, a European stag do is the greatest way to give the groom-to-be the send off he deserves, earn yourself some mega brownie points and have the time of your life while you’re doing it!

The concept of "World Expos" is a tradition dating back hundreds of years and are a unique cultural celebration of technology, arts, ideas, and a glimpse of the future. They are also as exhausting as they are thrilling and so when I think forward to this October when Dubai opens Expo 2020 I'm sure this will be even more over the top than others that have preceded it. The United Arab Emirates is a country that seemingly only understands outrageous excess and flamboyant displays of superiority and this I'm sure won't be any different. That's why we're excited to share some tips and advice for how guys can survive this as the ultimate mancation idea this year.

If you’re looking to take the ultimate underwater adventure, add Bonaire to your list of possible locations. Located in the southern Caribbean, Bonaire is a small island known for its nature preservation. Conserving the environment on the island and the seas surrounding the island is something that residents take seriously. Bonaire’s conservation acts will allow visitors and tourists to enjoy the island’s marine life for years to come.

Bed and Breakfasts can be an excellent alternative to hotels when you want a more intimate experience or a room closer to the action than can be supported by a traditional hotel. That's exactly what Amsterdam's Curry Mansion Inn delivers for its guests in Key West, Florida. The property is only a few steps from the action on Duval Street and a quick walk to Mallory Square to the north. Plus there's a full breakfast each morning and an evening cocktail reception that even features locally distilled spirits!

There are European vacations and then there are ones that include a visit to Dracula's Castle as well as the one that was used in Bram Stoker's Dracula, while touring through Romanian and Bulgarian villages, enjoying local food, and learning about customs from this unique culture that dates back thousands of years.

Seeing the Northern Lights is a bucket list item for many guys and that includes myself. While I've seen my shares of photos and videos, the time I saw these lights was transformational. It is pure magic. Unfortunately, they can be incredibly elusive. I was privileged to see them in North Dakota but even if you travel to areas above the Arctic Circle, there's no guarantee on any given day. However, the more time you spend, the higher you get, and the farther north you go the more likely you are to see them. That's what this balloon tour over Sweedish Lapland is all about.

Years ago parking at the airport was easy - use what's provided onsite. Then came wave after wave of off-site parking options and thankfully this competition helped reduce prices and add new services such as car washes and oil changes. Now comes a new company promising to help sort through a sometimes bewildering number of options with their app so you can find the best location when dropping your car off on a trip. Plus, they can even help you find a rental on the other end!

We were on hand tonight for Viking's unveiling of their latest product - Viking Expeditions. With their incredible success with taking over the river and small-ship ocean cruise market, Viking Expedition is poised to have the same disruptive impact. Most importantly, the positioning is clearly a move away from traditional expedition offerings where the experience is secondary to the destination, Viking promises to bring a similar experience that we love from the river and ocean product to expeditions as well - including features such as large comfortable bathrooms as well as accessibility and comfort. 

Australian Football came about when Tom Wills, one of the founders, encouraged the winter game of football as a way to keep cricketers fit when out of season. Today it has evolved into one of the hottest sports on the planet. Even though I've never had the chance to attend a game in person, the videos excite me for the opportunity 

Boston is a city that has it all - world-class education systems, fantastic sports team, a ridiculously rich history, and lots of beer! Whether you're a guy looking for top-notch clam chowder, itching to take in a game at the country's oldest and most beloved ballpark, or wanting to experience some of the country's most epic historical landmarks, Bostin is a city for every kind of guy. It also happens to be an excellent city for a father and son bonding trip. There is plenty to do in Beantown that is kid-friendly that any man would also thoroughly enjoy.

One of the things I love about the newest cruise ships by Norwegian Cruise Line is that they've invested heavily in what they refer to as Studio Rooms. For those looking to do a guys trip at sea, this is the perfect option since you get privacy and can save money compared to the traditional cost of booking your own room.

Traveling can be dangerous and a bit scary sometimes. Even when you do everything right, there's always a risk of tripping on a curb, getting hit by a car, or having your bag stolen. Truthfully, these things can happen here in the United States too but when traveling in a foreign country it makes things that much more complicated since things work differently in various countries and there might even be a language barrier. Let's take a look at five things to do if you have a travel disaster when visiting a foreign country.

We were on-board for Carnival Panorama's naming ceremony and to welcome her to Long Beach. This is the first new ship to be homeported on the west coast in more than 20 years and so this is an exciting time for guys looking for an awesome ocean-going getaway without having to sacrifice by flying to Florida or sailing on an older ship. Carnival Panorama will be offering 6, 7 and 8-day cruises year-round from Long Beach to the Mexican Riviera.

The Florida Keys have been a destination for guys looking to get away from it all for generations. Legendary men like Ernest Hemingway along with others including Tennessee Williams and Shel Silverstein have called the area home over the years. While I'm not suggesting that your Florida Keys Mancation should or will turn into a change of residence... after spending a few days exploring the upper and lower keys I can understand how that might come to be! Here's a taste of some of the adventures you can find on an epic guys getaway and Florida Keys Mancation!

Norwegian continues to impress me. I had the opportunity to celebrate the launch of Norwegian Encore with them in Miami last month and it is absolutely the best ship out there for a guys weekend getaway. That isn't to say that other lines aren't good or that you can't have fun on an older NCL ship like Sky or Sun (I do) but Encore is the ultimate manifestation of Norwegian's vision for what cruising should look, feel, and taste like. Let's take a look at six reasons why Norwegian Encore is the world's best cruise ship for a guys weekend!

When most guys think of taking a wine weekend getaway their minds shift to Santa Barbara, Sonoma, or Napa but there's another area that I've recently become excited about. Temecula, California is located the perfect distance between Orange County, San Diego, and Los Angeles and is rapidly coming into its own in terms of vinoculture as well as tourism opportunities in general. For years I drove by the area on my way to Vegas but now I can't wait to go back again soon!

People often say that planning a vacation is almost as enjoyable as embarking on the journey. However, it's often difficult to start feeling excited unless you've picked a destination of choice. Fortunately, it's not as difficult as you might expect to do that. 

Key Lime Pie is pretty much the iconic food of the Florida Keys and I certainly enjoyed my share of them while exploring the Keys last month. Instead of a cliche roundup of "10 Best Key Lime Pies", let's take a look at all the creative ways that chefs, mixologists, bakers, and confectioners have embraced this unique flavor profile.

Luxury is a word that is often abused when it comes to cruising. To some, quite literally any time spent on the water is a luxury. However, the spectrum runs from simple Caribbean cruises to something more exotic and that’s where Ponant fits in.

Tuscany is an incredible, life-changing experience and a great place for guys seeking an amazing mancation experience. There's so much to do and see in this region that it can feel impossible to do it all on your first visit. Your capacity for adventure will depend on how much time you have in the area and the pace of your trip.

You've probably heard of destination weddings - if you haven't, your partner surely has. Typically I find that guys will do a bachelor party back home for their friends... but what about a bachelor party where your wedding is with just your closest friends that will be at the wedding itself? Obviously there are layers of complexity here with logistics and planning but when done right this can be as fun and memorable as the wedding ceremony itself. Since Maui is one of the top wedding destinations, let's take a look at ways you can plan a successful bachelor party in Hawaii.

The cruise industry is in the process of a massive transition from one known more for conspicuous consumption regardless of impact into one that is ultimately working to be much more socially responsible. Don't worry though, that doesn't mean it's going to be any less fun but there are some big changes ahead that we're already starting to see.

It's winter up here in the Northern Hemisphere but that doesn't mean you need to stop fishing! No, I'm not talking about an ice fishing expedition though that can be a cool idea. No, I'm talking about heading to the wild waters of South America where Our winter is their summer. Check out this awesome idea for a fishing expedition in Argentina from Frontiers International Travel!

Riding your motorcycle can easily feel like one of the most freeing activities you can engage in. There’s nothing quite like hitting the road at the start of a long journey. Society may try and make you feel as if you have to conform to societal norms, but there’s a certain freedom that accompanies the nomadic ways of the road.

The Philippines is a popular destination because of the stunning beauty of its beaches. The island nation is home to some of the world’s most beautiful coasts and it is hot year-round. It’s also really cheap, making for the perfect vacation.

Norwegian Spirit is the latest cruise ship in their fleet to undergo a huge revitalization including new dining venues, double the spa space, and a very chic modern new look. Based on the news today and photos and video below, we're pretty excited to see the new look. Plus, once she returns to the fleet after dry dock, Norwegian Spirit will have some awesome itineraries that include stops in Bali, Abu Dhabi, Israel, and South Africa.

The Wai'olu Suite by Dom Pérignon features design elements crafted to suit the authentic Hawaiian architecture style of the Resort while highlighting the unique elements of the champagne house. Guests will find a mix of bold and subtle details woven throughout the suite to create a cohesive and comfortable environment. Wai'olu Suite décor details include a Dom Pérignon Champagne Cellar, photography art exhibit, Ridell champagne glasses, Dom Pérignon signature scent candles, champagne accruements (ice buckets, bottle stoppers), and other fine touches.

At first thought, the idea of taking your buddies to France for a wine trip doesn't seem like the most masculine endeavor but it's quite frankly something that I'm dreaming of doing one day. This is especially true of the Rhone Valley region in southeastern France. This region runs from Lyon to Avignon and is composed of several different viticultural areas and is known for some of the world's finest wines. However, it is also full of history ranging from Roman centurions to Medieval castles, as well as a modern food scene that is one of the best in Europe.

I'm generally not a big fan of Halloween fright fests. To be completely honest, my preferred level of scary is closer to Disney than McKamey Manor. So when my wife suggested we head up to Knott's Scary Farm I went along thinking this was simply a fun, laidback excuse to visit the park in the dark. After all, the name was "not scary"... right? What I found though was a truly awesome experience that was extremely fun on multiple levels and while an adult-only experience, didn't make me wet myself in fear.

Paris City Vision offers thrill-seekers and history buffs a chance to explore the legendary Paris Catacombs where more than six million bodies are buried. This one-mile tour that includes areas generally off-limits to guests and a skip-the-line ticket so you can avoid waiting to get inside.

The first time I visited Loreto Mexico, I absolutely fell in love. I had the opportunity to stay at a fabulous resort and virtually the entire experience revolved around that one place. As nice as resorts can be, the amenities, service, and convenience all comes at a price. When I talked with friends that visit Loreto for their annual fishing trips though, it became clear that there's more to visiting Loreto than just luxury hotels. On my most recent trip, I had the chance to visit several properties and all of them would make a great basecamp for a Loreto getaway depending on what you are looking for. Let's take a look...

For most guys that have heard of Wicomico County, Maryland it's just a quick stopping off point while headed to the beaches of Ocean City. However, I got a chance to spend a few days here last week and like a lot of "stopping off points" there's some cool stuff to explore and fun people to meet. Here's seven things guys won't want to miss in Wicomico County!

There are some destinations that are on your bucket list because of how far away and exotic they are. Others are limited by temperature and timing. While there's no shortage of tours designed to showcase the Northern Lights, I like this one since it's about more than just going there. Instead, The folks at Gondwana Ecotours are working to create a unique experience that focuses as much on the destination as the people and their personal stories.

Prior to last week I hadn't really thought about visiting Temecula - but after two nights at Carter Estate Winery and Resort, I can't wait to go back. Temecula is one of the many wine California wine regions and is located about an hour north of San Diego and two hours south of Los Angeles. It's nestled right in a fabulous part of California that is similar to the Rhone Valley and the Mediterranean. That means you're in for a treat here since it's more than just grapes. You've got olives and a big chef's garden used to prepare meals from over at the Vineyard Rose restaurant at their sister property, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa.

The first time I considered the idea of flying a Mexican airline, all sorts of thoughts went through my head. Would it be safe? Would I be able to communicate with the crew? And yeah... negative stereotypes popped in my head too. Last week though, Volaris invited me to join them to celebrate their new service to Loreto, Mexico from San Diego / Tijuana and it was a great experience. Sure, nothing is perfect - this is a budget airline but the price is right, the flight felt safe, the plane was very clean, and each of the staff that I met was friendly. Beyond that, there's not much more to ask for an airline... and frankly, I often find less from American airlines.

While conventional history suggests that the wine industry in California is relatively new - the truth is thanks to the Spanish Jesuit missionaries we've been growing grapes in California for more than 300 years! While most Americans think of "California" as a US state, "California" is actually the stretch of land that includes Alta California, Baja California, and Baja California Sur. National boundaries and centuries of politics can make things complicated when it comes to a heritage like this. However, the role that the Catholic church's Mission System played is clear. So let's grab a glass of "missionary wine" and explore some history of wine in California and indeed that of wine production in the New World itself.

The end of summer is marked by the end of Little League Baseball. The final games are played in Williamsport, Pennsylvania at Little League headquarters. These finals, which draw more television spectators than most Major League games, are a grand finale for kids who’ve been playing ball all summer.

For cyclists looking for something new and exotic, Taiwan offers an extraordinary opportunity to see parts of the country and experience the culture in way tourists who only visit the city simply can’t. Let’s take a look at some of the cool destinations you can explore on bike when you visit Taiwan.

So you've thought about getting a recreational vehicle but are confused by the different types out there. To help simplify things, I'm going to divide them into two different categories - self-contained RV classes and trailers such as popup campers and fifth-wheel units. Thinking of things on the most basic level, RV classes are as simple as A, B, or C. Let's take a look at the differences in those classes what which one might be right for your lifestyle.

Taking an epic road trip is my favorite way to experience what it means to be an American. While flying to a great destination is a quick way to get to a destination, with a road trip the journey is the destination. Along the way you get a chance to meet new people, taste new foods, savor new drinks, and spend time discussing various topics with your traveling companions. Last year I got a chance to do a short road trip in California for the launch of the all-new 2019 Toyota Rav4, a vehicle that quickly became one of our favorites. Now we've had the opportunity to spend some quality time with the 2019 Rav4 Hybrid, which aside from one frustrating item is about the perfect mid-sized SUV for a long road trip.

Northern Sonoma County's Wine Road has a fabulous assortment of hotels, inns, and bed & breakfasts available but the Geyserville Inn combined all of the best aspects of each type of property. The rooms were modern like a hotel, it was small and personal like an inn, and the restaurant on-site had the personality of a home-cooked breakfast that you might find in a bed and breakfast property. Whether you are looking for a place to stay on a guys weekend, romantic getaway, or even a wedding or vow renewal, this place is near perfect.

Ok, so that's a bit of a click-bait title since the reality is that almost every winery is unique and brings with it a personality and decor that is special in its own way. However, for guys who are looking for the "experience" of doing a Sonoma wine tour rather than the connoisseur looking only to visit their favorite, most technically excellent wineries, there are some vineyards and tasting rooms that are better than others. The sweet spot is when winemakers are able to blend excellent wines with a fun unique experience that guys of all levels will enjoy visiting. Thanks to the folks at the Sonoma Wine Road, for helping put this awesome itinerary together for us. 

In the past few years, it seems like virtually every casino in Southern California has transformed from a gambling hall to a full-on "Vegas-style Resort". Ironically, one of the largest casinos in the country, San Manuel Casino is among the last to embrace this trend (though they have their own hotel resort opening next year). Instead, they have what superficially seems like just another business hotel set in a commercial development. Looks can be deceiving though and Bear Springs Hotel is a fabulous property for anyone looking for a guy weekend getaway where they can do off-roading during the day and hit the tables at night. 

Travel experts Off the Map Travel have arranged an exclusive new “Seven Nights Seven Rooms” itinerary that is certain to entice adventure, culture and architecture lovers. In seven nights, travelers will experience seven different treetop accommodations, each notable for their distinctive design and placement. Each accommodation will be ‘paired’ with activities and eating experiences linked to each room to complete this new Arctic adventure.

When most guys think of a guys weekend in Baja they probably think of the glitzy resorts of Cabo but increasingly there are other destinations along the Sea of Cortez that are rising as well. One hidden gem is Loreto, Mexico - located about a third of the way up the eastern side peninsula but less than two hours by plane from San Diego, Los Angeles, and Phoenix.

I absolutely love Alaska Airlines. They somehow have managed to maintain the small town friendly attitude that has made them an essential part of life for thousands of people on the west coast. They have now started expanding service at Sonoma County / Santa Rosa airport to and from a variety of west coast destinations and a huge perk about flying with Alaska is that wine flies free! That's right, you can check a full case of wine like you would any other bag - except there's no fee if you are a Mileage Plan member (free signup).

When most people think of a "guys' trip," New York City does not come to mind. However, sometimes if you want to go outside the box, you have to think within it. Not that NYC is much for conventions, but because it's a popular tourist destination, it's hard for individuals to imagine having a truly fun and unique experience there. Yet, the Big Apple has so much more to offer than the Empire State Building or the Statue of Liberty. If it's your turn to plan guys' weekend, impress your friends with these great guy weekend trip ideas in NYC.  

It’s a perfect time to be planning a summer or fall getaway to the beautiful California Central Coast wine country and the folks at Bianchi Winery sent over some images to entice me to visit. What do you think? Are you ready to head out to Paso Robles for a romantic wine weekend with great views, hot days, and cool nights sipping some of the best wines in California?

Have you ever dreamed about one-day sailing to the North Pole? This might be exactly the cruise you are looking for. This week as Poseidon Expeditions commences another sold-out season of voyages from Murmansk, Russia aboard the nuclear-powered icebreaker 50 Years of Victory, to the geographic North Pole, the company announces that reservations are now open for three departures during the summer of 2020.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sneak into the exclusive Haven area on a Norwegian cruise ship? This area is designed as a private retreat complete with a private pool, bar, restaurant, and lounge area. It also has some of the most luxurious cabins available anywhere on the ship. Let's take a look at what things would look like if you booked the Owners Suite in the Haven complex on Norwegian Joy!

Off the Map Travel introduces an adventure to “another world,” taking guests through prehistoric jungle scenery to spectacular volcanoes and a night sleeping under the stars in a clear bubble on La Reunion Island.

Casinos are an interesting place to visit. They are designed as a wonderland of fabulous experiences designed to get you to loosen up and spend as much money as you can in pursuit of riches. Increasingly though, the goal isn't just having you walk out with money... but instead feeling like you had an amazing experience. For a moment in time, you aren't a plumber or middle-management guy at a marketing agency. Tonight you are an international playboy dining on fabulous food, drinking spirits from the toppest of shelves, and maybe even dropping a chunk of change on that table you think is lucky. While most high-limit lounges are purposely segregated from the rest of the floor and guarded to keep the riff-raff out, The Vault Gaming and Provisions at San Manuel Casino brings that excitement and opens it up to anyone who might want to test their luck.

Often times, going to a NASCAR race is about the only thing on your agenda. Frankly, most tracks are so far out in the middle of nowhere that it's difficult to plan anything other than an awesome weekend of racing. Chicagoland Speedway is different though and there's a surprising amount of stuff to do at the race and beyond. With that in mind, we set out to the Camping World 400, Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series race at Chicagoland Speedway followed by some time exploring the surrounding area of Joliet, Illinois. 

Compared to other parts of the country, Southern California doesn't really have a lot of great places to escape to on weekends. Truthfully there's amazing terrain all around us but really very few destinations that I can see wanting to escape to vs just doing day trips. While I've been to Palm Springs several times now, there's another answer that's even closer - Lake Arrowhead. It's quite literally a world apart and while it shares a similar elevation and crisp clean mountain air as Big Bear... it's a completely different experience.

High West Distillery was founded in by David Perkins and his wife, Jane. The former biochemist was inspired to open his own distillery after becoming intrigued by the parallels between distilling processes and his own work in biochemistry. This inspiration struck during a visit to Maker's Mark in Kentucky and soon the pair relocated to Park City, Utah because of David's love for the Old West and the town's history lost whiskey history. When opened in 2006, High West became the first legal distillery to open in Utah since 1870 and has quickly grown from a work of passion to one of the top craft whiskey distilleries in the United States.

Opting for a cruise on the Mediterranean Sea this summer is a sure-fire way of making sure that you will have the perfect vacation experience. We've sailed often in the Caribbean and even explored Alaska and the maritime provinces of Canada but the Mediterranean is at the top of our list now. 

I'm privileged to live out west where there's tons of wide open public land, but for the rest of you guys - off road adventures are limited to private parks. For those in South West Florida, Florida Tracks and Trails is the place to go. With miles of trails ranging from compete mud holes to well packed sand, a beach area complete with tiki bar, paintball, and off road racing tracks this place pretty much has it all.

I visit Florida at least a couple times per year and we generally spend time enjoying the sand and water on the edges of the state. Seldom do we get to explore the swamps and murky water where the wild things roam. It's a shame really, Florida is mostly swamp and Forrest land that is filled with wild animals. That land played an essential role in the creating of the state that we know today. From alligators to hogs brought by the Spanish to cows brought by the Crackers there's way more to Florida's rich history and natural beauty than just it's spectacular beaches. We got a chance to explore some of this with Babcock Ranch Eco Tours and their one-of-a-kind "swamp buggy"...

Punta Gorda and Manasota Key area is one of my favorite parts of South West Florida. It's stuck right in the middle between Tampa and Fort Meyers and is the perfect place to take a deep breath and relax. While there are many lodging options here, this time we were hosted by the fun and kitchy WannaB Inn located at the southern end of Manasota Key, just before the entrance to Stump Pass Beach. It's a restored classic American beach resort with 80 rooms spanning seven different areas between Lemon Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. I've never in my life written a review where the lead photo is from my bathroom window, but that's exactly where I shot the photo above. This area is just simply beautiful beyond belief.

Cycling can be a great way to improve your general fitness as it has many health benefits, such as improving your muscle strength and core fitness levels. What’s more, cycling makes for an exciting way to travel when you go abroad, with many self-guided cycling trips available to help you to see the most beautiful sights in Europe.

For most people, a visit to Palm Springs involves fine dining, shopping, touring mid-century modern architecture, and golf. For me, Palm Springs represents all of that, but also a home base for some awesome off-road adventure. Not everyone has a good truck or the skills needed to navigate beyond the reach of pavement and road signs. That's why I'm a big advocate of taking a Jeep tour from a trusted operator. Desert Adventures Red Jeep Tours is the biggest operator in the area and based on our tour with Lane and her Jeep, "Red Cloud" we can understand why.

Millennial and hipsters are changing the face of travel and nowhere is that more evident than Palm Springs due to the huge popularity of the Coachella Music Festival. For better or worse, as this two week festival grows bigger each year and brings more people out to the desert, Palm Springs it becoming a year-round destination for hipsters. Hotel Paseo, located in Palm Desert - about half way between the Cochella Polo Grounds in Indio and Palm Springs in the north end of the valley is in a perfect location to take advantage of this trend. We stayed there last month as part of a #MenWhoBlog trip and while it has all the elements that millennial would love - avocado toast, air stream trailers, and giant connect for games... it was laid back enough to not be obnoxiously hipster.

Sri Lanka is a beautiful country featuring mountains, ocean views, and lush green jungle. It offers exciting things to do and is also perfect for a more laid back vacation for a group of guys looking for something different.

It doesn’t matter where you’re going on vacation, trips often have some of the same things in common. There are visits to the beach, if you’re near the coast, trips to local museums, and probably a little shopping. There’s nothing wrong with doing as the rest of the tourists do, but why not try something a little different?

Consistently ranked among the world’s top places to visit, Mexico City is a global capital welcoming more than 12.5 million visitors each year with  its renowned cuisine, vibrant culture, rich history, unique neighborhoods and modern-day travel offerings. A sprawling metropolis bursting with a vibrant personality  blending  old and new, there are over a dozen distinct neighborhoods or “colonias” each with their own character and charm.

Mexico City is a destination that most Americans probably don't think about, but it is high on my list of places to visit. Despite the reputation of this country in the news, the capital is actually a cosmopolitan global city with lots to offer in terms of history, culture, food... and yes drinks. The folks at Ignacia Guest House sent us the recipe for their Mango and Mezcal Cocktail served during their complimentary daily cocktail hour.

The iconic JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort has completed its comprehensive $320 million transformation project, ushering in a new era of luxury in southwest Florida and beyond. Guests who visit this stunning resort situated on three miles of pristine sands and sparkling Gulf waters will enjoy the new Lanai Tower with more than 100,000 square feet of technologically integrated meeting and event space, exciting culinary concepts, 12,000 sq. ft entertainment center, re-imagined historic Lanai Suites and the debut of the “Paradise by Sirene experience, a curated escape exclusively for adults.

I love visiting Mexico, no not just the tourist spots – but going off the beaten path, trying local food and visiting local merchants. While most people in Mexico speak enough English to make this possible, knowing Spanish better would make my travels cheaper, easier, and safer. That’s why I was excited to partner with Babbel to test out their service and hopefully improve my Spanish to the point where I no longer feel like I need to have a friend with me to help translate.

Canada is a fantastic destination that sometimes gets overlooked. It has a fantastic mixture of urban refinement and a remarkably diverse blend of some of the best cultures from around the world but it also has vast virgin forests just waiting to be explored. While Canada has a reputation for being overly polite and welcoming to outsiders. That doesn't mean you should travel there unprepared.

I generally don't get much stay in where I stay when traveling. Most of my travel arrangements are made by someone else and since they are paying I generally don't care as long as it's safe, clean and comfortable. That being said however, certain things make my stay that much better. A good desk space, a comfortable chair, plenty of USB and power outlets and good - easily accessible food options that aren't over priced. In the past, none of that would have described Marriott's core brand and absolutely nobody would have described it as stylish. For me personally, the Marriott brand wasn't "bad" it was just old and out of touch. Through pure luck though, this year I've had the chance to stay in several different Marriott locations at different parts of the country and it's clear that the brand is back in a good way!

Last year we sailed with Norwegian Bliss for the launch of the company's biggest, fanciest and most feature filled ship ever. At the time, Bliss was everything we saw on Norwegian Joy but had to wait just a bit longer for. That wait represented refinement, learning, and further time for innovation. When it arived as the first Breakaway Plus ship in North America it truly lived up to it's name. Seizing on it's incredible popularity, the folks at Norwegian Cruise lines abruptly pulled Joy out of the Chinese market and instead of just re-positioning it, did a complete overhaul of the ship. So, was it worth it? Does Joy deliver on it's name the way Bliss did? Yes .. it absolutely did though there are a few awkward areas that reveal it's journey to this point.

While some vacations are about comfort and visiting familiar destinations - other times it's worth saving up for an ultimate bucket list destination. Here's four destinations that we believe every man should visit at least once.

Majorca is many things to different people. Some explore the semi-hedonistic beach resort of Magaluf, others explore the 13th-century gothic architecture while others savor the countryside and the Tramuntana Mountain Range. Whatever your reasons for visiting Majorca here are some things you need to know.

There is something great about a solo holiday, whatever the reason that you're taking it. If you are keen to just get away for a while and do something on your own, then it is a great way to do just that. If you are keen to see a part of the world that you have always wanted to, similarly there is no reason that you need to have someone else with you to do it. But in order to make sure that you are doing it right, you will almost certainly want to think about what you can do to make the most of this experience. As it happens, there are plenty of ways that you can do this, but you need to be aware of them from the very start. In this article, we are going to take a look at some of the clearer ways in which you might hope to make the most of your next solo holiday.

Every once and a while, it’s time to get out and take a break with the boys. If you’re ready for some much needed guy time, consider taking a “mancation” with you buddies to one of these 5 amazing islands.

Last year marked a historic Boston Red Sox season with their 4th World Series win in 15 years and a franchise record 108 regular season wins. Hotel Commonwealth is not just the "Official Hotel of the Boston Red Sox" but they have the ultimate Red Sox fan suite and the best Red Sox hotel packages in Boston. 

Cleveland doesn't get nearly as much attention as it deserves. It's a city that I first visited to go drinking in "the flats" but has now transitioned from a rust-belt city into a modern haven for innovative food, great museums, sports, and watersports. That's why it's one of my picks for a top spot to take a Father and Son vacation.

The National Parks of America offer the mind and body a chance to refocus in our hectic world. The beauty of nature causes us to shift our relationship with the world and our place in it. Time spent exploring gives families the opportunity to reconnect with each other and life on a deeper level. Discovering natural wonders and exploring historic monuments delivers its own set of unique opportunities to broaden the mind, body and spirit.

It might be cold right now but summer is just around the corner. For some, an Alaska cruise is the perfect way to see the state for the first time. However, I'm hooked now and dream of returning soon to spend some time fishing, exploring, and learning more about what it means to be in Alaska. There is no better time to visit Alaska than during the summer when the daylight hours are long and the weather is warm!

A prime objective for most guys seeking great vacation spots is the opportunity to relax and completely get away from your everyday worries and problems. I know that this ability to escape technology and seek beauty when uncluttered by other distractions is why I love exploring off-road. While some enjoy driving, others biking, planning an awesome hike to explore a remote part of the world is a great opportunity to relax. Plus, as a photographer this is your opportunity to share the beautiful landscapes and wildlife that you've found. This in turn will inspire more people to visit and share their experiences.

There seems to be a trend right now of talking about "Galentines Day" escapes, so how about Malentine's Day instead? Here's some awesome places guys can go and get away from it all while enjoying an awesome experience with their male friends and forget about romance, girlfriends, spouses, or relationships in general.

Some ski towns exist because of the ski culture... and others like Park City ultimately created the ski culture. While Park City has some of the best skiing in the world, it's more than just a ski town. A few years ago I visited here on an automotive trip and have been dreaming about coming back to explore more. Here's some of the things I know guys will love to do in Park City...

Held deep in the expansive deserts of Sonora, Mexico, the Yokohama Sonora Rally is a five-day off-road navigation rally and a true Dakar-style adventure. Created by Dakar veterans Darren Skilton and Scott Whitney in 2014, the venue has brought rally raid, a mainstream attraction in Europe and Africa, to the forefront of the North American automotive world. Organizers have fueled the passion and growth of the sport authentically, bringing decades of experience in the form of world-class road books, pre-event navigation classes, and professional logistics management.

Los Angeles isn't like most cities. Typically in places like New York, Chicago, Denver etc. you have a central city but Los Angeles is a collection of cities spread out over a vast area. That allows for some really cool smaller destinations to explore and one of these that is often overlooked - but shouldn't be - is San Pedro. Despite the shadow that neighboring Long Beach casts, San Pedro has a surprising amount of fun ideas for a father and son weekend getaway. Let's explore some of the stuff you won't want to miss!

Many people have visited Russia, but few have explored the frozen areas of North Eastern Russia including the Kamchatka Peninsula and Yakutia in search of mammoths frozen for thousand year old permafrost, diamonds, geysers. Guests on this tour though will be able to explore the area by sea, air, and a six-wheel truck to the edge of a volcano while learning about the people and culture of this incredibly remote part of the world.

When most guys think of planning a Bavarian guys weekend or mancation adventure it's usually focused on beer, beer, and more beer but there's another side of Bavaria that most Americans forget. The Bavarian Alps provide an amazing playground full of outdoor adventure, history, and yes... great Bavarian food and beer!

When it comes to mancations, and guys weekends your epic adventure doesn't have to be measured in days... just in awesomeness. That's why I was immediately excited to learn more about what these two guys managed to accomplish. Through a combination of driving and flying, they managed to visit 23 US States in only 24 hours! Let's learn more about how and why they did this incredible adventure!

This summer, the experts at adventure travel company Off the Map Travel invite you to spend a night on a glacier, in a prime viewing area for Norway’s polar bears.

The Chevrolet Corvette is one of the most iconic cars in the world. Since 1953 it has captured the minds of men (and women) around the world for it's style and performance but also for being a fabulous example of American automotive design ability. While there are other American-made sports and muscle cars - none come close to the way Corvette combines performance and style into a lifestyle that is larger than just another fast car. However, few people actually get to experience how amazing this car really is since at highway speeds and on regular roads it's just a great looking car that turns head and goes fast. That all changed for me when I got invited to spend a day with Chevrolet driving a few different versions of this American icon around the track at the Ron Fellows Performance Driving School in Pahrump, Nevada - just outside Las Vegas.

Ireland's Ancient East is a region of the country full of ancient legends and stories as well as modern treats attracting foodies as well as beer and whiskey lovers. 

If you've ever dreamed of the ultimate fly fishing adventure, it doesn't get much better than this. Imagine spending 17-days in the Chilean Patagonia dipping your fly into remote waters barely touched by civilization.

The concept of a "Gap Year" adventure was once something that was only common among Europeans. However, It is now popular for teenagers and young adults all over the world to enjoy a year off. For many, this means that they’re going to travel - and not just to the neighboring city. Gap years tend to involve either a volunteer program somewhere exotic and rather far away, a couple of months of backpacking with a friend, or even taking a course in some activity such as surfing in another country.

 When planning the mancation adventure of your dreams, it is important to look for ultimate experiences that you can only get in certain areas. For instance, there's only one Las Vegas, only one Munich. While you can get similar experiences in other places, this is your ultimate mancation adventure and you want to make sure that it is so amazing that your friends want to join you no matter what the cost!

When it comes to planning a father and son weekend getaway, it's important to have a good mix of options including education and heritage as well as just down right fun. Atlanta is one of those cities that has tons of opportunities like that! From fun learning at the World of Coca Cola and CNN Center to thrill rides at Six Flags, your guys weekend in Atlanta is going to be one to remember.

Ozark is one of my favorite shows on Netflix and I'm betting it is for a lot of you guys too. This a gripping crime saga set in Osage Beach, Missouri where the family relocates after having to leave Chicago. While sadly most of the show isn't actually shot here, there's no reason why we can't use this setting as a backdrop for a thrilling Ozark-themed Bachelor Party of our own. 

If you want to plan a holiday for next year with your family or your friends and you are sick of the same hotel resorts, there are lots of different options you can choose from. You could buy a villa and have a private pool, go to a romantic log cabin or simply camp in the woods. But for the sporty ones out there, there are options for sporting holidays which will blow you away. If you’ve never heard of a sporting holiday before, here are some of the different types you can try out this year.

Looking for the ultimate in luxury? How about relaxing with your friends at a resort with the largest spa in Riviera Maya while enjoying crystal clear water that is perfect for scuba and snorkeling? Don't forget mixology classes, swim-up pool bars, and the in-room mini bar that is refreshed daily. Let's check out the Grand Velas for all this and more!

There comes a time in a man’s life when he can no longer resist the calling of the beach party and this makes a beach party bachelor party that much more awesome. Beach parties have it all: the loud music, the cocktails-on-ice, and the sea to cool off after dancing like a madman. But where should you go for the ultimate beach party? 

For generations, people have escaped to the mountains of North Carolina to avoid the stresses of everyday life. While some settled here in the mountains permanently and become the subject of legend and myth, others come here with the intention of resetting, recharging, and reconnecting with what it means to be man in a society that is ever-changing. These mountains possess untold beauty all year round but are especially enjoyable in the summer and fall. Whether you are looking for fishing, hunting, craft beer, artisanal food, or just fresh air - it's all hear and ready for you to take your share.

There’s no right or wrong time to visit the Land of the Long White Cloud. However, if you’re dropping into the country during winter, you’ll find a spectacular landscape carpeting in a thick layer of snow. This throws up all sorts of possibilities for outdoor activities, particularly for those who want to get their heart pumping and adrenaline spiking. Here’s our pick of the five best things to do in winter for adrenaline junkies.

Any time of year is a great time to visit Disneyland but Fall and especially Halloween is an extra special time of year here. The park is all dressed up and there's some awesome new treats each year plus a few unique attractions that are only available for a few short months before it goes into full "Holiday" mode. Disneyland gave us a couple passes to check out the fun, so we stopped by the park and did a quick walk through of a few different areas that you won't want to miss. Let's check it out!

People have always been obsessed with the unexplained and the paranormal. The U.S. is home to hundreds of eerie and equally tragic haunted places. Planning a mancation sometime soon? Make yours unique and exciting by making it a haunting holiday! Check out these amazing haunted places!

The Hawaiian Islands are best known for stunning landscapes, sun-soaked beaches, and some of the best surfing spots in the world. However, both it's ancient and colonial history are closely tied to the islands as a source of agricultural bounty and the more I sampled this, the more excited I got to learn more. From pineapples and sugarcane to craft beer, spirits, and even ranches raising some of the world's best beef - this is an area you won't want to miss exploring during your next visit.

A ride in a helicopter was on the bucket list for me and thanks to the awesome folks at Norwegian Cruise Line and Blue Hawaiian Helicopter Tours, I can mark it off my list! We took a short flight from Hilo to over the most recent rift zone areas to see the results of the most recent Kiluaua eruption and I must say... the results are humbling, yet thrilling to see both the power and beauty of nature from a completely different perspective.

The California desert is a weird and wonderful place full of mystical energy and people drawn there by it. That's why it makes such an amazing place to explore since there are stories and places that seem almost too weird to be true. One of these that I heard about earlier this year is simply known as Giant Rock. As you can imagine, it is indeed a giant rock out in the middle of the desert but over the decades it also served as a gathering point for UFO conventions, a guy even lived below it (before blowing himself up), and before that it was considered a sacred site by the indians inhabiting the area. It is also a great trail for beginners looking to get familiarized with off road driving since it's only three miles long and you'll have cell phone reception the entire time... but you feel like you entered a whole different world when you get there.

For many guys, their first bachelor party was one dominated by debauchery and youthful indiscretion. Unfortunately though, not all marriages last and here you are a few years later, wiser, and ready to take your buddies on an epic golf adventure. There's no better place than exploring the British Isles for the ultimate golf mancation. This is a great way to combine luxury, an exotic location, beautiful scenery, history, beer... and yes golf together in a way that creates memories that will last a lifetime.

People who enjoy traveling always enjoy going somewhere new. One popular choice for foreign travel is to visit Iceland. This beautiful country, founded by Danes long ago, offers a rich history, interesting culture, and beautiful scenery. 

Earlier this summer, I embarked on a journey that would complete my goal of visiting all 50 states. Alaska is a bucket list destination for many and Norwegian Cruise Line was kind enough to host me on this journey. Aside from a quick two-day preview on Norwegian Bliss (their newest ship at the time), I'd never sailed on Norwegian. Compared to other lines who have dominated Alaska for the past several decades, NCL isn't the first name that comes to mind when it comes to Alaska. However, that's all changing now that they have made Alaska a key destination by positioning two of their newest ships there - NCL Bliss and NCL Joy. When planning an Alaskan cruise it's important to examine what sort of experience you are looking for. Based on our experience cruising through Alaska's Inside Passage, you can't go wrong sailing Freestyle on Norwegian!

Although it's only 90 miles from Florida, Cuba had severe travel restrictions for more than 60 years and despite moves almost a decade ago to open things back up so that Americans could fully enjoy the diverse music, food, and drinks that this island is known for, it remains off-limits to Americans with United States passports. Canadians, Europeans, and others though can enjoy this relatively unspoiled tropical destination.

When it comes to fruity tropical drinks, the classic Mai Tai is among the most iconic. It's the Pacific Islands version of the classic Caribbean Daiquiri... or is it? Ironically this classic drink actually originated in California during the tiki bar craze and while two men lay claim to having created it - I DON'T CARE - because the ones found at Don The Beachcomber are the best I've had. It's a more complex recipe and the time and effort is worth it. Here's the recipe so you can make it at home.

Exploring New York City is a fantastic opportunity for a father and son to bond while exploring new cultures, seeing amazing sites, learning some history, and eating some iconic foods. Here's some of the best places to explore on a Father and Son getaway in New York.

Hawaii has a reputation of being a destination for a romantic getaway or a family vacation - and it would be great for that of course. However, on our adventure road tripping around the Big Island of Hawaii, I found a lot that guys would enjoy here too. Unfortunately, I was only here for a few days, so I didn't get a chance to do everything that I saw - amazing golf, off road adventures, and laval boat tours to see the molten rock oozing from the earth into the ocean. However, based on what we did see... I'm HOOKED! Hawaii would be an amazing destination to explore with some guys looking for great beer, history, beaches, golf, and awesome food.

My history with the Chevy Equinox goes back to the very beginning... Heather and I saw one of the very first ones available during a road trip and knew THAT was the car we needed to buy. A few days later, our local dealership got their shipment and we got the second one off the truck. Flash forward a decade and the Equinox is one of Chevrolet's top sellers and here we are enjoying their latest version while flying around mountain roads exploring the Rockies in Colorado. This vehicle has always had a special place in my heart and I'm thrilled to say that Chevy has taken it from a "good car" to one that I would consider buying again.

The dream of moving to Europe seems appealing and spending not just a few days or weeks sipping wine and eating pasta in the Italian countryside seems like a dream. What's it really like to move to Italy from the United States though and what do you need to know if you want to make that lifestyle change a reality? Let's take a look at what you'll need to do to move to Italy.

Most domestic flights in Europe and the United States are easy - they are typically less than three hours. That make even marginal conditions tolerable... but what about transcontinental flights or heading to Europe, Hawaii, or South America? For some reason once I pass the four hour mark it's a whole different ball game. Here are some of my tips that I've used to stay happy, comfortable and most importantly healthy on long flights.

For those looking for a weekend of gambling, partying, and fun in the sun, look no further than Atlantic City. A closer alternative to Vegas for those on the East Coast; Atlantic City provides fine dining, great nightlife, beach and boardwalk, and of course lots of casinos.

Vancouver is the gem of Canada's west coast, with tons of unique experiences to offer any travelers who come through. There's the beauty of the coast and the mountains, and the big city life, but there are also a lot of local subcultures and communities that are more unique to Vancouver. If unique local experiences are more your flavor, you absolutely have to seek out these lesser-known charms of Vancouver.

Wine lovers will find that a stay at the Bernardus Lodge will warm their hearts in a special way. It's a fabulous property surrounded by vineyards and horse ranches but still close enough to the Bay Area that it makes for an easy weekend getaway. For those who have never visited, Carmel Valley is a true hidden gem. The area is sometimes overshadowed by other California wine regions and missed by travelers seeking golf in Pebble Beach or beaches in Carmel-by-the-Sea. However, for those that do visit, they are in for a fabulous experience that you will dream of going back to.

Owning a cabin in the woods is a sort of romantic notion when you think about it. Images of everything from rugged frontiersmen to authors like Henry David Thoreau come to mind. Unlike a hotel or condo, your cabin can be an escape where you don't have to see another person for days if you don't want to. Our lives today keep getting faster and faster, so being able to have that retreat spot in mind can help keep us centered and when it comes time to head out into the woods you can fully decompress and enjoy the benefits fully. While that simple ability to escape is good enough for most people, it can actually make a lot of financial sense to buy a cabin too.

For those that have never visited Missouri, you might be shocked that I'm such a fan of the state. In fact, while Missouri might be simply dismissed by many as, "just another flyover state", the reality is that they've got a fantastic mixture of urban and rural things to do and see here. This includes great food and wine, an opportunity to travel back in time while traveling along Historic Route 66, or taking a riverboat cruise along the Mississippi River.

The challenge with "undiscovered areas" is that well, you don't know how awesome it is till you go there. Then, once you do visit, there's almost a feeling that you should keep it secret so that it doesn't become more expensive, more crowded, and less awesome. That's how I felt when I visited Punta Gorda Florida last fall, but don't worry - I'm ready to share with you why it's is a perfect mancation destination for guys.

Asking a chef or cook what their secret recipe is one of those things that I generally try to avoid. After all, there's always more to a great meal than simply a set of directions. That being said, after trying some of the famous Gator Gumbo at Peace River Seafood in Punta Gorda, Florida I just had to ask for the chance to share it with you guys. It's THAT good... and what's even better is that they even have a pet alligator in the pond out back... because of course they do, It's Florida!

Puerto Vallarta was popularized in the 1960's as a top destination for the Hollywood elite but, over the years faded a bit as it was eclipsed by other parts of Mexico where fancy mega resorts were built (including Riviera Nayarit... just a few miles north). My visit was hosted by Puerto Vallarta Tourism and Casa Velas resort, but after spending a week here and exploring it a bit, I was impressed since unlike other "tourist towns". Unlike other places that I've visited in Mexico, Puerto Vallarta is more than just mega resorts with all-inclusive packages designed for rich Americans. Instead, it's a real city with great culture and tons of opportunities for guys to have fun. Here are some of the top reasons why it makes a fantastic destination for your next guys getaway.

So, you have been tasked with planning your friend’s bachelor party? A lot of people assume that bachelor parties are easier to plan. After all, all you need is alcohol and strippers, right? Wrong! In fact, very, very wrong if your friend is not the sort of person that would appreciate a stripper! They are only going to get one bachelor party, and so you need to make sure it is one to remember for all of the right reasons. With that in mind, read on to discover everything that you need to achieve bachelor party success.

Casa Velas is a boutique hotel located only a 10 minute ride from the Puerto Vallarta airport that offers nightly activities including cigar rolling, tequila tasting, craft beer tasting, and cocktail making, plus includes unlimited golf at three different Puerto Vallarta golf courses. We stayed here as a guest of the hotel and had a fantastic experience that might make this one of our favorite destinations.

Honestly, even though I was with a tour group I was a bit afraid to tour Puerto Vallarta at night. Unfortunately, Mexico doesn't have the best reputation these days but thankfully, I ignored those concerns because I had an awesome experience that was safe, clean and tourist-friendly. While I'm sure that most of you could wander around and explore the Puerto Vallarta food scene on your own - it was so much easier to do with the folks at Vallarta Food Tours who guided us and made everything easy.

Planning a father and son guys getaway vacation can be a challenge.  On one hand, you have to pick a destination that will hold the attention of an active boy. On the other hand, you need to find a spot that also appeals to you. But lounging in a hammock while sipping margaritas on some tropical island isn’t much of a comprise.   

Disney World is a great middle-ground because it offers a variety of activities that you and your son will both enjoy and plenty of opportunities to bond. There are thrilling theme park rides, giant water parks, mouth-watering cuisine, sports, boats, monorails, swimming pools, and the list goes on. While it may sound like a kid’s destination on the surface, trust me, grown men have just as much fun as the kids! With that said, let’s take a look at how to plan a father/son Disney World adventure.

Whether travelling with a group of your mates for a lads holiday or or a more reserved mancation getaway, Gozo is a destination you may not have thought of, but should. It’s ideally suited for guys because while it has all the activities you might want - hiking, fishing, diving, surfing, snorkeling, biking, etc. but it's a bit off the beaten path. Because of this, you're going to find more personal attention, lower costs and more opportunity to relax on the idea, the second largest island in the Maltese archipelago.

I learned more about the dynamics of a performance automobile in three hours at the BMW Performance Center than I think I have in the past 20 years of simply driving on my own. Once you pass "drivers ed" in high school, most guys simply learn from trial and error. Unfortunately, that can be a very expensive and painful way to learn - and most likely you still will not have proper techniques. I am on a mission to break that pattern, so BMW invited me out to their school for the day. What I discovered there was far more than just the "driving experience" that I expected.

While most casinos want to keep you trapped inside their giant resorts, there's much much more to Las Vegas than the modern glitz and glam. While these air conditioned resorts might be the perfect spot to hang out in the summer, come fall, late winter and early spring Las Vegas has a wealth of outdoor adventures that are perfect for a guys trip. Let's purge a bit of the glitz and glamour and head off strip to see what we can find.

The beautiful continent of Australia makes a popular vacation destination, with bright blue water that makes the beaches a top hotspot. Although the land and water may provide gorgeous sights to see, there are still some emergencies that could come up while vacationing there. With these five tips for dealing with vacation troubles, anyone can be as prepared as possible no matter how their trip goes. 

Nevada is one of those states where most visitors only visit one or two points. In the case of this state, you have Vegas and Reno... but while much of the state is empty desert, there are some real gems that deserve more attention. Carson Valley is one of those spots and it's surprisingly convenient, low cost, and packed with awesome stuff that guys of all ages will love.

While Vegas might be a great destination for a bachelor party for most Americans, how about a trip across the pond instead? Plus, instead of going to a replica English Pub for a pint … you’ll be able to visit a real one!

If you are planning a guys weekend getaway to explore Carson Valley, Nevada I can't think of a more perfect basecamp than the Carson Valley Inn and Casino. The prices are low, atmosphere is fun, friendly and it is perfectly located to explore all that the area has to offer.

Baja California, Mexico is a legendary peninsula that has some of the most beautiful coastline, mountains, valleys, and vistas of anyplace on Earth. It is also a playground for some of the most wealthy and adventurous people in the world who love to test their physical endurance and technical ability as a driver during the Baja 1000 and other races held here. We recently had a chance to spend four days here, driving a Baja challenge car that had actually completed the Baja 1000 course and it's an amazing experience. What you might not know is that there's no credentialing authority, so all you need to do to compete is show up with a car and pay your entry fee!

There are many great cities today that are a great choice for a beercation, but only Grand Rapids calls themselves "Beer City". It's a great destination that is located a close to Chicago, Detroit, and Indianapolis making it a great place for a weekend getaway. With more a Beer City Ale Trail boasting more than 80 breweries, it is certainly one of the top beer producers in the country. Experience Grand Rapids invited us to visit and see what all the fuss was about. Here's what we found!

Florida is one of the best states to visit for freshwater fishing trips. It has over 7,500 lakes in addition to numerous reservoirs and rivers, with dozens of different fish species to catch. You're so spoiled for choice that it can be difficult to pick the best spots for freshwater fishing if you're planning a trip. Here's a list of some of my favorite locations.

Dubai is among the most popular metropolitan destinations that tourists from all over the world flock to. This shining beacon of the Middle East exhibits the right blend of traditional, natural and modern influences. If you are looking to visit Dubai, this mini Dubai travel guide will help you plan your trip better.

It's pretty exciting to visit factories and see how things are built. Today, industrial-tourism is a big business and that ranges from visiting auto manufacturing plants to breweries. However, what about visiting an RV or Campervan factory? That might be a perfect twist on your same ol' vacation that could turn it into a memorable experience where you might even learn something!

Sitting at the far south end of the strip, Mandalay Bay Resort seems like more of a conference hotel than a destination for a guys weekend, but over several visits it has become one of my favorite properties in Las Vegas. Simply put, it's got great bars and restaurants, fantastic entertainment, a great gaming floor, good rooms, easy parking, and it's about to get even better once the Las Vegas Raiders open their new stadium across the street in 2020.

Thanks to its glamour, glitz and endless entertainment options, Dubai is a favorite vacation spot for all sorts of tourists from all parts of the world.  Despite some people's fear of safety for women while exploring the middle east, Dubai is actually relatively western and open in this regard. Here are some of our top picks for how to spend your time on a romantic getaway in Dubai. 

We were on hand this week for the opening of Willows Hotel & Spa, but I look forward to being able to return to fully experience the resort - especially the spa, pool deck, and restaurants on our own. However, from the brief time we did spend on property and our stay in one of their Escape Suites, this is the perfect destination for anyone in San Diego that is looking for a getaway where there will be no kids. It's the perfect distance from downtown, easy to get to, and delivers a full suite of luxury, spa, pool, food, and all the action you'd expect from a casino resort. Oh yeah, and there's also some of the best outlet shopping in San Diego. 

Looking for a cool way to escape the Vegas heat? How about taking a break inside a bar that is essentially a block of ice chilled to -5 Centigrade (23 Fahrenheit)... Combine that with parkas or fur jackets and cocktail glasses molded from ice and you have quite an experience. Here's what to expect when you visit the Minus5 Experience Ice Bar at Mandalay Bay.

A convertible is something special that almost begs to be driven somewhere special. That's what we did recently when Buick dropped off their new Cascada and said "have at it!". The following are some of our favorite road trips in San Diego that are perfect for enjoying with the top down.

Aside from the destination itself, deciding where to stay is probably the most important thing to determine. Typically for me this has ended up being a hotel room or a resort villa but another great solution for a group is a vacation rental such as the one we stayed in on Anna Maria Island, Beachy Villa Vista provided to us by Island Real Estate.

Deep under the earth is a dark and mysterious place where stories become legends and boys become men. It's hard to imagine working thousands of feet under the earth in conditions that could instantly become deadly. But that's where men have toiled for centuries to bring the wealth of the earth to those of us on the surface. From coal mines in England to Gold mines in Nevada, now you have the opportunity to explore them too!

Florida is one of my favorite places to visit and it is filled with hundreds of golf resorts, beautiful beaches, incredible food, and in the past few years a beer scene that has gained national recognition. When planning your Florida golf guys weekend though, it's important to pick the right places, so here's a few of our top picks. 

Puerto Rico is a fantastic place to visit and one that is shockingly close to the mainland United States... but feels like it is a world away. Aside from the fact that it has all the great things that make the Caribbean so wonderful, since it is part of the United States there is no need for a passport if you want to visit. From rum tours to diving, hiking in the rain forest or paddling through bioluminescent waters this island is absolutely one you need to visit this year!

While summer is often considered the prime road trip season, I love to explore new places all year round. Road trips in particular, are a great way to see the places between the places and experience new local cultures, traditions and more. Here are some of my favorite holiday road trip ideas from around the country.

Vermont is surprisingly a pretty awesome state for foodies and while I knew of Ben & Jerry's factory tour I was surprised to find oh so much more. From maple syrup to apples to dairy, this state has a lot to offer anyone seeking a different sort of food tour experience. Here's some of our favorite stops...

Blue crabs are a delicacy that is often synonymous with Maryland and the Chesapeake Bay areas of Virginia. In reality though, pretty much everywhere along the East and Gulf Coasts of the United States where you can find coastal marsh land there will be crabs. This includes the Peace River in Punta Gorda Florida where Peace River Seafood is found. As I sat there with the owner shucking oysters, popping tails off shrimp and picking meat from crabs fresh caught that morning, it brought back childhood memories of doing the same. Unfortunately, not everyone is as privileged as I was to have grown up with fresh crabs, so here's a primer on how to eat blue crabs...

While I love resort courses with flowers and fancy features, being able to spend some time surrounded by natural Florida beauty on one of the state's top courses was truly an honor. Riverwood Golf Club golf course has been ranked as one of the "Top Ten Places to Play in the US" by Golf Digest in 2002, ranked #15 for top courses in Florida in 2015 and voted #1 in Florida based on customer reviews on GolfAdvisor.com and we agree that it is a great spot to visit for any guys trip to Punta Gorda and Charlotte Harbor.

Grand Cayman is a fabled island with a mystique of off-shore banking and as a playground for the rich and famous. While those two things are absolutely a core part of island life on Grand Cayman, there's so much more for visitors and it's one of my favorite places to visit on a cruise ship. This is even more true when traveling with someone special to share those experiences with.

Last week I had the privilege of joining Wild Turkey for a "Behind the Barrel" experience touring not just their distillery, but some of their partners including Vendome Copper & Brass Works and Independent Stave Company. During this tour, my eyes were opened wide to how complex the science and art of making great whiskey can be. While I knew that the mash bill and number of years aging in the barrel had a big say in how whiskey tastes, there's a whole lot more than that!

With Father's Day here - but really any time of year - it's important to think about some cool ideas to do together as a father and son. While some of these ideas are better for dads to take their kids, and some are better for adult relationships - one thing is constant. That universal constant is that these are trips that will provide an opportunity for a father and son to bond outside of the normal day-to-day experience. Conversations will happen, skills will be learned, hugs will be had and at the end of the experience both parties will have had an incredible experience that only the two of them share.

So - are you ready to check out some super cool Father and Son guys trip ideas?

Staying healthy is critical to having a great travel experience - whether that's for business or pleasure. Inevitably though you are going to have situations where something goes wrong. This makes it essential to prepare ahead of time and educate yourself.

It's that time of year again when the kids are packing up their stuff and getting ready to head back to school. For the rest of us, we can still enjoy the cool weather and return of football season that is right around the corner. With that in mind, here's our list of favorite college football stadiums around the country.

This is a different sort of Raptor review. The Ford Raptor is hands down the most fun truck or SUV that I've had the chance to test - ever. While most reviews focus on it's extreme off road abilities as a Baja racing truck that you can buy from a dealer vs building your own. The truth is that the truck goes way beyond that and after spending a few days testing it out with my wife and another couple during a getaway to Borrego Springs, California, I'm even more impressed. This is far more than just "dad's toy"!

New York City is an incredible city to explore as a couple. While it may appear to have a hard exterior the city is one of the best in the world for romance. However, while the classic Yellow Cab is a NYC icon - second only to the subway itself, it is far from a perfect way to explore the city with someone that you love. Don't worry though - with a little planning and a bit of creativity, you can have an incredible time together exploring the city and seeing it from new perspectives.

One of the challenges - and frankly the thrills - of having a 4x4 truck is seeing how capable it really is. The challenge with that though is that sometimes the line between awesome fun and danger is blurred and you never really learn except by making mistakes. That's why I absolutely love the fact that the state of California along with some local off road clubs created this amazing park located just east of San Diego with marked challenges and obstacles ranging from the absolutely insane to beginner. This also gave us the perfect place to test out and compare the TRD Pro trucks that Toyota had given us to play with.

With it's magnificent architecture, fantastic food, and diverse culture, New York city is one of the most iconic backdrops for epic love stories. Now it is your turn to explore the city, create memories, share stories, and try new things that you can only find in New York!

The mountains of North Carolina have a rich tradition of producing whiskey and frankly trying new things to produce a unique product that other distillers may consider unconventional. While it is unlikely that you'll ever be able to hike out in the woods and see how illicit moonshine is made, this is the next best thing... maybe even better!

Traveling to Asia has an almost magical quality to it for most Americans and I think much of that is a combination of being primarily a European-descent country as well as frankly the Pacific Ocean is a lot bigger than the Atlantic. Modern air travel and incredible deals though have made traveling to Asia something that is accessible to most travelers now and that includes the rich cultural adventures awaiting guys who explore Indonesia.

Earlier this summer, I had the awesome opportunity to embark on a more than 4,000 mile road trip from San Diego to northern Montana and back again. When most people think of visiting Montana, they often focus just on exploring parks like Glacier National Park and Yellowstone. Sadly, everything else is "drive through country" for most visitors. That's the fun of a long road trip though, it gives you the chance to slow down and explore a little bit. You never know what you might find! In our case while we could have simply driven from Gardiner Montana (North Entrance to Yellowstone) to West Glacier in one day, we decided to explore a bit instead.

Vegas is one of my favorite destinations but it can be a confusing city full of crappy drinks and overpriced bottle service if you don't know your way around! Luckily though there are people like Manny Kess, a Vegas VIP host who can help you navigate the velvet ropes and have an amazing time there.

Happy wife, happy life… or at least that’s what they say. At least once a year, it’s a great idea to take that special girl in your life out on a nice romantic getaway with your partner. For me though the reality is that I travel almost constantly with Heather and we've been all over the country on road trips where we are sitting together for 8-10 hours each day. While I love traveling with her, there’s no denying it’s going to be a different dynamic than a trip with your guy friends, but I find that it brings us together in a good way. Experiencing the world with your wife can be a lot of fun, if you know how to plan it right!

Portland, Oregon is a city that I've wanted to visit for quite a while but just never seems to work out for a visit. However, the folks at River's Edge Hotel invited Heather and I to spend the night there on our way back home and so I figured that was kismet. While some destinations might prove to be a challenge to visit with Niki, Portland was a fantastic dog friendly getaway with great food and friendly people. In fact, my only regret is that we couldn't stay in Portland longer.

As much as I enjoy a great cocktail or sipping a fine spirit, it's the people, culture, and history behind the product that I enjoy even more. That's generally why I haven't been as big of a vodka fan as I am passionate about Whiskey and Tequila. That changed recently though when I was invited by Khortytsa Vodka to tour Ukraine with them and learn more about the people and culture behind their vodka.

While the reality is far more complex, there's few warriors that are more iconic than the Vikings. While the days of murder and pillaging of villages are long since gone, there are many ways to still celebrate this amazing culture who's descendants today offer some great adventures for guys looking to experience the ferocious glory of being a viking warrior! 

It was about 6 million years ago that the island of Kauai emerged from the Pacific Ocean. It was over 1000 yeas ago that Polynesian travelers first saw this majestic island rising from the ocean waters. It was over 150 years ago that the first boat of Europeans arrived. And it was just today that our latest batch of guests arrived.

Chase Guttman is an award winning travel photographer and a drone photography pioneer who has traveled the world and frankly achieved success by looking at things from a different angle. We had a chance to chat with me and learn more about how his craft and some of the awesome places he loves to visit.

For many people Iowa is one of those states we've only seen from 39,000 feet as we fly over it and notice all those green fields of corn. Despite having family that had once lived there, that was about all I knew of it until I drove through the state a few years ago on my way to California. At the time I was surprised at all the cool stuff in the state but didn't have a chance to explore it more until last week when I was invited to join Travel Iowa on a quick tour.

Our culture has graduated from man caves to mancations, and many guys are tying in their bro travel to sports. But it's gone far beyond a doubleheader or a weekend snagging two NASCAR series at the same track. Now it's multiple events at multiple venues, and baseball has proven to be a perfect sport for it.

Nothing is more Americana than cruising across the country in an RV. For decades, families and groups of friends have gone on epic journeys that don’t involve checking luggage and waiting in long security lines. Instead, an RV gives you the freedom of the road and all the possibilities you may come across along the way.

When most of us plan vacations, we're focused on seeing tons of awesome stuff and a go go go schedule. However, there's a different sort of vacation that can be equally great. I guess you could call these ideas a "sleepcation" and that's OK! Your body needs a chance to relax an recharge, something that is increasingly more challenging in our modern life where we're surrounded by electronic devices and distractions that keep us up late and wake us up early.

I tend to be a major advocate for a cruise lifestyle. Simply put, I LOVE the experience of being on a boat, but I know a lot of guys who aren't convinced that a cruise is for them and not every line or itinerary is. However, last fall I had the chance to explore the Rhine thanks to Viking Cruises and I still can't believe how many opportunities there are for guys to have an amazing time on this route!

Most travelers assume that their trips will be uneventful, but sadly the more often you travel it becomes increasingly clear that anything can - and will happen. It's just a matter of time before it happens to you and that's why travel insurance is an important thing for you to consider. While insurance won't prevent something from happening, it's your hedge against a bad event being worse than it needs to be. Unfortunately, one of the biggest reasons that many of us choose not to purchase this service is that claims can be difficult to submit and process - especially while traveling, and the money never seems to come in time. After all, when you are traveling and the airlines lose your bag - you want that compensation ASAP, not after you return home. Luckily, companies like Allianz Global Assistance are listening to customers and they have developed a new app to help make things easier.

Palo Alto is located between San Francisco Bay and Stanford University. It is an interesting place to visit whether you are in the area on business, settling a college student in at Stanford, or enjoying the sights as a tourist. Three unusual places you should not miss in Palo Alto are the Frenchman's Tower, the Pneumatic Tubes at Stanford Hospital, and the Birthplace of Silicon Valley. Before you check out each of these attractions, make sure to check into an innovative and natural hotel that offers an atmosphere and technology that speaks to the style of Silicon Valley.

Reno has been at the butt of a lot of jokes for as long as I can remember and unfortunately, it's always been "Nevada's Other Casino City". In reality, while the comparisons are easy to make, it's more than just another Vegas and in fact has a ton of personality that is all its own. 

Take away some of the "home" features like a refrigerator that knows when you need more milk and instead, let's focus on the core system that we've all dreamed about. Despite our homes being stuff with IoT devices today, what still separates our "smart homes" from what we see in the movies is the system that runs it all and unifies the hardware, the software, and the brains. No matter if you're using Zigby of Z-wave, no consumer-level smart home today can genuinely call itself smart. For that experience, we're going to have to take a cruise. When Princess rolls out it's OCEAN system later this year, powering the Ocean Medallion, we're finally going to see the potential for smart home technology... it's just going to be on a cruise ship with waiters and crew instead of robots. In fact, this smart ship is so smart it knows that it doesn't even has to use that label :)

This is an amazing country and I love exploring it by car because it gives you the freedom to explore that flying from one point to the next simply doesn't. It can also be a very inexpensive way to travel if you know how to save money on road trips like I have learned how to do. As someone who travels by car several times each year there's an almost infinite number of travel hacks to save money, but here are my five favorite ones.

Among the various geological features of California, none of them can come close to the legendary San Andreas Fault. Unfortunately it's often misunderstood and instead simply feared for it's destructive power. However, after a fantastic Fault Line Tour with Big Wheel Tours I now have a much better appreciation for it.

For those of you who are baseball fans, there's nothing like making a trip to Spring Training in Phoenix. For six weeks each spring, this oasis in the desert plays host to 15 MLB teams and it's possible to see all of your favorite teams just a few minutes drive from your hotel. When you combine that with the phenomenal spring weather, great golf, and fantastic food this is a MUST DO guys weekend for anyone who loves baseball! 

Joshua Tree National Park is an absolutely stunning natural reserve with wide open spaces, amazing colors, and terrain ranging from sharp cliffs to sandy plains. It's a fantastic place to explore on foot though it can get extremely hot during the summer, so I find it much more enjoyable to use one of the off road trails and explore it's hidden spaces that way. We did this recently with the 2017 Jeep Cherokee Overland 4x4 and were completely impressed with how capable it was.

New Orleans is a fascinating city with an incredibly unique blend of cultures and that makes it an amazing city for anyone looking to try something new. Like cities such as LA, New York, Chicago, and San Francisco, people think differently here and normal rules don't always apply. However, what New Orleans has that those other "foodie cities" don't is hundreds of years of deeply rooted traditions to help guide the influences of those different cultures. This results in not just "great restaurants" in different silos, but almost a bouquet of foodie options that generally traces it's way back to either Cajun or Creole roots. For me, this makes it infinitely more fascinating and enjoyable to explore.

Traditionally, our wives and girlfriends sit and wait for us to pick a hotel that they want for Valentine's Day - but why can't we turn the tables and do things differently? We scoured the internet looking for epic hotel ideas that will inspire romance this Valentine's Day in a completely different manner than the typical 4-star resort with breakfast in bed!

Each of these motels caters to fantasies or have themed rooms that will make your Valentine's Day that much more fun compared to a leeway gooey, boring romantic night at a typical hotel with red roses and chocolates.

The first few times you come to Vegas, all you can think of overwhelming majesty of the strip. It's a fantastic wonderland of lights, sounds, and sights that you simply can't find anywhere else on earth. After a few visits though, that starts to get more and more shallow and you begin to wonder what lies beyond. The fact is, Vegas is a huge city with more than just the strip to explore. Unfortunately for you and I though, from the moment you land in the airport - everything is designed to pull you and your wallet into one of the gigantic strip resorts.

As an American, it isn't often that I visit a building more than 200 years old, so when I had the opportunity to visit Hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam and discovered that the buildings dated back to a collection of 25 restored homes dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, I was super excited for the experience. 

Anyone that's ever done the drive home from Las Vegas to Southern California after a weekend getaway can tell you how terrible the traffic is. This normally 4-5 hour trip can instead become 8-9+ hours of bumper to bumper rush hour traffic where you are forced to be at 100% attention on roads that would normally compel you to look around and enjoy the drive. So, instead of fighting that fight a few weeks ago, I decided to take the long way home and discovered a fantastic road trip that was a lot of fun to drive in the 2017 Flex that Ford gave to us for the trip.

I've enjoyed my share of ocean cruises on a few different lines to different hot and cold destinations so I consider myself a pretty experienced cruiser. However, despite this I found river cruising a completely unique and wonderful experience that I wish more people would consider. After being hosted on an amazing experience by Viking River Cruises, I wanted to share my thoughts so you can better understand the experience.

At first glance, Las Vegas isn't the most dog friendly destination. It's a city teeming with people and mega resort hotels with seemingly endless hallways that let's face it... your dog might not make it down before they have an accident. Luckily for those of us who love to travel with our dogs, some Vegas hotels are starting to work to accommodate dogs and some even welcome them with open arms like we discovered while visiting Delano where we received a media rate and free concierge services for Niki Belle.

There are many rites of passage in a man’s life that require intricate planning. That first date, your high school prom, the first road trip with friends, the wedding proposal, and the last road trip with friends. Nestled in there is one of the most important things a man can be called on to do for a friend: being the best man. Being a best man involves much more than standing by your best mate as he says his vows and then making a funny speech about how he met his wife. You are also responsible for the groom’s last weekend of freedom: the bachelor party.

This has been one heck of a year, but let's make 2017 even more exciting by getting ready to make some bold vacation ideas. If there's one thing that we've all learned this year is that things can change suddenly, so now is your chance to seize the moment and make bold choices to see some amazing sites that will challenge your physical, mental, and emotional limits. This is time to MAN UP and take life by the horns instead of sitting behind memes on Facebook. Are you bold enough?

As you know, we were down in Savannah a few months ago and had a blast!

Savannah is sort of like a mini-New Orleans (and I mean that in a good way... btw I love New Orleans for guys trips too... even outside of Mardi Gras season).

San Diego has more diversity in hotels than nearly any other city of its size. There are ultra-luxury hotels as well as small boutique hotels and then there's The Pearl Hotel. I've driven by this location dozens of times and didn't realize it was even there since it's one of those places that is literally hidden in plain site. However, after staying there a few weeks ago as part of our Beercation with Travelocity I can't believe I've missed this hidden gem.

Most people - especially those of us who are younger - don't think about travel insurance much. Personally, when I travel domestically, I assume other layers of protection will cover me including car insurance, health insurance, and credit card protection. However, for larger trips such as going on a cruise during the winter while living in Chicago I chose to get travel insurance. In those situations, my primary consideration was having inclement weather causing delays and missing the boat or that a hurricane might impact the cruise itself.  With our trip next week where we'll be sailing with Viking Cruises the situation was a bit different. The chance of a blizzard in San Diego or a hurricane in Switzerland causing us not to reach our boat would be pretty unlikely. I WAS going to roll the odds since I perceived the risk to be low. After all, spending a few hundred dollars to insure the trip didn't seemnecessary.

Its motto is "where legend meets history" and people there describe it as "classic Florida roadside attraction meets real-world archaeological site". Whichever way you choose to view it, the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is absolutely worth visiting when you Saint Augustine. During our initial drive-by on the tourist trolley, I wasn't sure what I was going to find there since it seemed like a classic tourist trap but honestly, it did a great job of bringing the nearly 500-year history of America's oldest city to life in a way I didn't quite expect.

Ever dream of sleeping under the Northern Lights? Unfortunately that will never be a possibility for most of us since it is DAMN COLD. Even with someone to snuggle up with, it's something that hasn't been a reality until recently because it requires organization and planning. We love what Off the Map Travel is offering now with their Aurora Bubble Sleds!

When vacationing in an RV, you don't have to worry about where you're going to stay and adding those costs into your trip. In many cases, if you plan on a mancation involving the great outdoors, you'll be able to stay closer to nature when you bring along an RV.

Idaho was the last of the lower 48 states for me to visit and I'm not really sure why I waited this long. I think it's mostly because unlike some states there isn't that "one big thing" that draws you away from your normal travel patterns and compels you to explore. That's one of the great things about being a blogger, though, since you get invited to visit places that you might otherwise never go. Now that I've been to Idaho I can't wait to go back!

When you travel in the US, there are typically two options - hotels and camping. In other parts of the world, campervans are a popular option but until recently they haven't really been embraced in the United States. Luckily, that's changing as it offers a very cool alternative for those looking for a "back to nature" experience but still want to retain the warmth of comfort of a nice soft bed.

Whether desiring to get away with a group of male friends or family members, West Virginia offers a wealth of possibilities for the ideal mancation. Spectacular locations and views provide many different adventure options. Whether desiring home-cooking, fast-food or exotic dishes, cuisine choices also abound.

Fall is almost here and it's time to head out for one last warm weather adventure before the snow and sleet set in. Luckily, there are tons of great opportunities out there to have some fun even though it's a bit colder and the days are starting to get short again.

Travel can be adventure but the trick is figuring out how to manage the risk so that you have a great time but avoid disaster. In some locations, severe weather can occur almost without warning - and other places the risk is omnipresent. Unfortunately, some of the most exciting places to visit can also be the most dangerous. That doesn't mean you should avoid them, simply take precautions and make the most of them while staying safe.

Not all travel needs to be planned and sometimes the best escapes are the ones where you fly by the seat of your pants and boldly go somewhere and then figure out what to do. That's sorta what happened last week for Heather and I when we visited San Francisco. We were invited for a quick media launch event, but decided to fly in early and leave late the next day so we could see some sights and figure out if this was a destination that we wanted to come back to and spend more time in the future.

To many people, the desert is an inhospitable wasteland but to me it is an open canvas just waiting to be explored. Lucky for me, this romantic ideal is shared by others as well! For many years, vacationers have made the journey to the desert so they can bake in the hot dry sun and relax in the pool, play golf, and generally escape reality for a few days. With La Casa Del Zorro, Heather and I had the chance to spend four nights at the resort with the first two being just us (and Niki Belle) in one of their casitas with a private pool. 

Vegas can be a tricky place if you don't know what you are doing. I know my first few visits weren't nearly as fun as those that followed since I began to learn my way around but I'm in awe of Las Vegas Concierges. There is so much stuff going on in this city that is constantly changing and yet they seem to know everything about it as it happens.

The words "pet friendly" seems to mean a lot of different things to different people in the resort industry. At the Park Hyatt Aviara is that they mean that dogs are welcome guests - like any other part of your family. This is our second time visiting and on both times all three of us were received warmly and with a sense that they were genuinely happy to see Heather, Niki and I walking through the lobby. This is a special feeling since it can be difficult to spend time together away from home without worrying about someone taking care of her.

Taiwan's slogan is "The Heart of Asia". There's a reason for that. It's situated pretty much dead center between China, Japan, Vietnam, and the Philippines, and it has a little bit of all of that culture. Taiwan is literally The Heart of Asia, and it shows when you visit. If you are a foodie, this is a great place to visit so you can sample the best flavors from the region without worrying about visas, finding a new hotel, or taking extra flights. Coming up in August though is an awesome opportunity to explore the region even more at the 2016 Taiwan Culinary Exhibition.

 I did something I've wanted to do for a while but is completely outside my normal routine. I attended the Electric Daisy Carnival in Vegas. For those of you who know me well, it might come as a surprise that I would attend an EDM festival like this and probably more so that I had an amazing time. 

Located directly south of the Canadian border, less than an hour from Vancouver is one of the most beautiful resorts that I've stayed at recently. It has that classic charm and natural beauty that money simply can't replicate and would almost distract from. Sitting at the end of a spit of land overlooking the water on three sides is a 212-room resort with a beautiful stone-lined beach and fantastic restaurants featuring imaginative menus filled with local seafood and northwestern delicacies and just minutes away are two of the top golf courses in Washington State!

For the past few years I've watched Holland America ships sit in port here in San Diego but I've never actually pulled the trigger and cruised with them till last month when they invited us to sail with them. While the experience is dramatically different from warm-weather cruising in the Caribbean and Mexico, I found a lot of stuff to like about cruising on the Holland America Line Maasdam. 

North Dakota is a natural wonderland filled with tons of great natural as well as urban adventures to discover. After a long day exploring history sites and museums, I can't think of much better than relaxing a pint of local craft beer. Luckily, I can do that in North Dakota! It's no surprise that as one of the top wheat producers that they are experiencing a boom in micro-breweries as well. Along with small-scale wineries and a handful of distilleries, this is a region that you won't want to miss.

When it comes to planning your guys weekend or mancation, the hotel is almost as important as the destination. This is going to be your home base for a few days and it will generally set the tone for the rest of your adventure. While I'm of the thought that different groups of guys can pretty much make anywhere work, the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country is one of my favorites since it offers pretty much everything you'd need for the perfect escape with your friends.

While most people think about the coastal California cities Los Angles, San Francisco and San Diego, the reality is that this state is enormous and most of it is really only accessible by driving. A few weeks ago, we packed up our cars and joined 9 other bloggers on a once in a lifetime adventure exploring the deserts of California. From majestic Joshua trees to weird art, post apocalyptic scenery, wonderful weather, fun roads, and amazing people, this was a trip that I recommend trying for anyone who agrees that Driving Matters!

The Hotel Del Coronado is a famous and lavish resort in San Diego, several years ago I had the chance to stay at the resort, but I recently returned with friends to check out their Roast - beach bonfire and s'mores experience. "The Del" is a classic hotel that deserves to be part of your San Diego experience, no matter where you happen to be staying or who you are with. It somehow manages to combine the charm of a century old resort with modern amenities and a sense of gracious charm that is often lacking from today's newer beach resorts.

For many people, the Caribbean is an exotic land that is as a place for only the rich and famous. But it doesn't have to be that way and today there are many affordable ways to explore this beautiful part of the world, it's exotic islands and amazing food and friendly people. For me personally, cruising is one of my favorite ways to do this since I get a "sampler" of different islands so I know where I want to come back to in the future. Ironically, I started this way but now I really enjoy the experience of cruising itself since I never get bored and get to see somewhere new each and every day!

With the weather warming up, a bunch of you are about to hit the open road for Spring Break and even more of you will be planning family vacation trips this year. While you are going to be saving money almost immediately by avoiding air travel, that's just the beginning. As someone who has been enjoying road trips since I was a little kid, I've learned quite a lot about this subject and look forward to sharing my best advice with you!

This is a question I get on a pretty regular basis after I tell people what I do now. However, it seems that I have never really shared the story publicly about what motivated me to start not just this site but blogging in general. When I look back at my history along with stories from other great including Danica Patrick, Steve Nashe, Emmitt Smith and Emmanuel Sanders, I realize that just like with my start it was about passion for doing something and that lead to a drive to ignore people saying you couldn't do it. That's at the core of my story and the realization that even small things can be mighty!

Learning a new language can be a challenge for many of us and I'm certainly among that group. That's why I was excited when I was contacted by Babbel to check out their language system. There's no time like the beginning of the year to make the resolution to do new things and that makes it a great time to learn a new language. 

Way south in the Caribbean Sea are a couple islands that don't get as much love as their northern sisters but for those willing to take the trek south, there's a world of awesome and unique things waiting for you. Last fall, we visited Bonaire during a port day on the Carnival Sunshine. Here's some of the cool things that await you on your next visit.

When it comes to visiting Las Vegas, you can't help but be drawn into the glitz and uber luxury resorts of the strip or the quirky fun of downtown but there's a lot more to this city than gambling resorts. Luckily, I'm here to help you explore that "other side" of Las Vegas and we're kicked it off with a visit to The Range 702, Las Vegas's largest indoor shooting range!

I joke sometimes that I could "move into this place", but rarely could I actually do just that - till now. During our trip to Aspen for the 2016 Kia Optima launch this fall we stayed at a magnificent resort that redefined the word "luxury hotel" in my mind. The Viceroy Snowmass took an extraordinary amount of care when it designed these rooms and I'm sure even royalty from around the world that visit here probably say "wow this is nice!".

No matter how many photos or words I write, it won't do Mono Lake justice. This is a strange part of the country that is a beautiful and exotic natural wonder that you simply have to visit to understand. As a young boy growing up in California I recall science lessons in school talking about Mono Lake and the impact that man can have on nature. However it took a visit to the lake last fall to fully appreciate the landscape.

When I visit Disney World, one of my favorite parts is their resort hotels. While this is considered an afterthought at many attractions, Disney takes as much care and planning with where you sleep as they do with how you spend your day. Luckily, while there are some incredibly expensive hotel options at Disney World there are also plenty that are affordable and just as fun. A couple years ago I stayed at Pop Century and this year I decided to check out Disney's All Star Sports Resort during a quick stop at the park.

Allllllll aboard! It's time to take a journey into the past and explore a time when the west was barely settled and riches were sitting just below the surface of the earth simply waiting for someone to uncover them. During this time, one of the greatest mining booms in the United States happened in Virginia City, site of the 1859 Comstock Lode.

That discovery instantly turned men into millionaires and the city exploded from just a handful of miners to 25,000 residents. With that explosive growth and the city's remote location at 6,200 feet elevation on the side of a mountain, a railway was needed. While the V&T railway isn't the exact same as what once serviced the city, it is a great way for guests to reach Virginia City from Carson City today and it provides a better perspective on Virginia City's history than simply driving up the twisty turny roads.

South Lake Tahoe is an interesting mixture of high-rise casino resorts, modern ski condos in the Heavenly Village, and old independent motels. There's a relatively new player in the market now and that's Basecamp Hotel. The hotel has taken over the bones of a classic motel, renovated the crap out of it and has even built some all-new buildings too. It's an interesting boutique hotel that somehow actually creates the feeling that you're part of a community when you stay there.

Columbia Crest winery has been in operation for just over 30 years and in that time it has helped transform the Columbia River area of Washington State into one of the top wine producers in the world. It's a little strange maybe that when you think of the West Coast and wine, it's typically California and specifically Napa, Sonoma, or even Santa Barbara area. No one told these guys though, but through scientific research winemakers here discovered that the soils and environmental conditions had world class potential.

I stay in a lot of hotels. For better or worse it's the way I roll these days and while some are better than others - they all fundamentally work the same way. So, let's look at some of the tips and tricks to help make sure you have an awesome experience on your next trip.

Staying at a hotel room is always a great excuse to switch up your romantic side and try something new. While we've looked at some exciting and alluring adult themed hotel rooms in the past, that's not the full story. Luckily, for those of you who want to walk on the wild side without actually crossing over and living out your caveman fantasy these rooms should be perfect for you!

It gets hot in the desert and sometimes people go a little crazy. It's ok - craziness leads to innovation and new ideas... or at least some cool road-side attractions. That's the case in Baker, California - about halfway between Las Vegas and Los Angeles. As someone who drives this route regularly but never stops, it was fun to spend a bit of time checking things out here last weekend.

There are many places that I am sure you dream of when it comes to planning your next guys weekend, but I bet Milwaukee isn't one of them. It should be though! This city located just north of Chicago has everything that you could possibly want for the ultimate guys weekend. That made it the perfect spot for four awesome bloggers to come together for an epic adventure sponsored by Kia and featuring the Optima, Sorento, and of course - the Kia Racing team. 

With Fourth of July behind us, it's time to focus on the remaining weeks of summer. How will you be spending these hot summer afternoons? From looking good to doing awesome things, it's up to you to make the right decisions and turn a "good idea" into an "Epic Adventure". 

One of the few nice things about traveling for business is being able to rack up some serious reward points that I can figure out how to spend on my own. While the idea of using them to head off on a guys weekend with the boys is appealing, it's important to also take care of the homefront and spend some time with the wife as well. 

Every metropolis has the things which make it specific. If we talk about Toronto, the biggest Canadian city, there are numerous things which can be seen and experienced. Toronto is the Canadian capital of culture, technology and entertainment and truly a world-class city that you should consider visiting. From sports teams like Maple Leafs, Raptors and The Toronto Blue Jays, to the Hockey Hall of Fame, as well as fishing, kayaking, and sailing on the lake. There are tons of great activities for guys in this city just over the border.

My wife and I don't have kids - so our dog, Niki Belle, is our fur baby and child in probably more ways than a couple in a similar position might understand. When we first got her, we nervously prayed that she would be ok with doing road trips and were blessed that she indeed did not get car sick and was happy to curl up and relax or sit and look out the window. As anyone knows though, that's only part of the equation when it comes to taking care of your dog on the road. 

The classic bachelor party idea is certainly strippers or a sexy restaurant like Hooters or Tilted Kilt. However, one idea that is a blast for you and the guys would be to go to a shooting range. Shooting ranges can be found in pretty much any area around the country. While most shooting ranges offer "rental" guns, we think it would make a great present for the groom if the guys chipped in and bought him an awesome gun to fire off at the range. 

Visitors to the Cayman Islands usually focus on sites like "Hell" or "Stingray City" but last fall when I visited this amazing little island we did things a bit different. Instead of the normal tourist spots, we went to a distillery, made new friends, drank some world class spirits, and then almost missed the last tender back to our ship. Luckily we didn't miss our ship, but if we had - this would have been TOTALLY worth it!

Cayman Spirits has been distilling spirits since 2008 from a tiny shack in Georgetown Grand Cayman but in 2013, they moved into a fantastic new facility just outside of town with 5,000 square feet of space to offer tours, a tasting room, and production capacity to meet worldwide demand.

If you haven't been before, this classic motor car extravaganza weekend gathers over 300 of the most elite car collections from around the world atop the bluffs of La Jolla Cove at the Ellen Browning Scripps Park. La Jolla means "The Jewel" in Spanish and we couldn't think of a more fitting place to experience these incredible vehicles than outdoor, overlooking the Pacific Ocean while surrounded by some of the most luxurious real estate in the world. While we know that there will be some amazing classic cars and modern luxury as well as sports cars, it's always a thrill to walk by something you've never seen before. 

After recently spending the majority of a week in South Lake Tahoe, CA enjoying winter activities with family and friends, I find this quote below very fitting and can relate the experience we had at Heavenly Mountain Resort with the most simplistic interpretation. All the activities, amenities, and natural beauty that Heavenly Mountain Resort and surroundings have to offer is specifically designed to be an exceptional playground for adults and kids to experience and enjoy on a regular basis. Heavenly Mountain Resort will keep you coming back. It truly is a little bit of heaven on earth!

You don't always need to travel somewhere far to have the perfect romantic getaway. Sometimes, you will find something great right in your backyard that is an experience you will remember for a lifetime. That's what happened for Heather and I last weekend when I got a last minute invitation to be Kia's guest at the Kia Classic in Carlsbad, California. While this happened to only be 30 minutes from home it was the perfect getaway and since the Park Hyatt Aviara is pet friendly it made things that much better!

A few months ago we got a chance to test drive the "not a minivan" Kia Sedona and while it was fun to drive around the streets of Dana Point, I couldn't help but feel that where it would really shine would be on a long road trip.  Between the peppy engine, comfortable seats, great complement of electronic gadget, and some bad-ass passenger seats that recline almost like International First Class airline seats this is the car that you would want to drive if you were wanting to see America with your best friends.

North Dakota isn't the easiest state to get to, but that doesn't mean that there's nothing to do there.

In fact, if the great outdoors is what you are looking for, North Dakota has that in spades - fishing, hiking, camping, hunting and the authentic "Wild West" experience too!

Travel isn't always the most "green" of activities. The very definition of it typically involves spending tremendous resources to get there - by car, airplane, or ship - and once you get there how often do you consider the environmental impact of the water consumed to keep that green so beautiful or where the wrapper from your burger will go once you toss it in the trash. This isn't meant to be a "downer" article, but simply an opportunity for us to look at some of the easy things we can do to travel more green this year.

Most of you guys are going to be spending tons of money this Valentine's Day on roses and romantic dinners, but for those of you in San Diego, I've got an alternative Valentine's Day Idea! Why not make it a full date night experience with a great dinner, gelato, and then grab some cheese and chocolates to share together back home. Alternatively, you can skip the restaurant entirely and make a great picnic on the grass in the park next door. Whatever your preference, this is a great San Diego date night spot!

Heather and I tested it out earlier this week to see if we could do a date night for under $100 and we were pretty successful, follow along as we celebrate Valentine's Day early courtesy of The Headquarters!

Almost all hotels and resorts have pools, but in the ever competitive travel market, there are few resorts that take the concept of a resort pool a step further with extreme opulence or features you never even considered. The following are our top ten favorite ultimate hotel swimming pools.

San Diego is an awesome town that is sometimes forgotten about or dismissed as simply a surf town, but what I have discovered over the past year is that there is an incredible amount of awesome things to do here beyond the beach including touring some of the almost 100 craft breweries, exploring vineyards in nearby Temecula and Romona, as well as visiting the Zoo, touring historic military ships and some of the best burgers and tacos in the country.

It's winter and while that might mean that your vacation plans are skewing more towards snow covered mountains than the Florida Gulf Coast, this is sill a gret time to visit Florida and experience the best that Gulf County Florida has to offer including fish, walks on the beach and even cocktail parties at the GCFL Welcome Center to give you an opportunity to meet with other winter guests and hopefully make some new friends!

Most of you probably remember Jewel from the mid/late 90s - yeah, that’s Alaskan folk singer-songwriter and many of you probably even still are aware of her for some of her later music but what I didn't realize until this week was how utterly amazing she is in concert. Jewel is a true artist and that means you are going to see and hear things you weren't expecting such as yodeling, opera, and requests by the audience that were so obscure (even to her) that she had to flip through a book the size of an encyclopedia to get the lyrics.

Picking a hotel in Europe is tough for many Americans because the landscape is dominated by smaller boutique hotels instead of the mega chain brands you are all familiar with and frankly not everything is up to the same standards that most Americans expect. However, there are some absolute gems to be found if you do your research, suck as the Marble Arch Hotel by Montcalm.

Holy Cow! Christmas is just around the corner but instead of shopping for the same old crap from a mass retailer, why not take a trip to London and explore some amazing shops stocked to the rafters with awesome gift ideas for guys. Heck - this would make a great excuse to stock up on some swag for yourself too!

In a market that is nearly saturated but at the same time working feverishly to expand its reach, the cruise lines are in a fight to find a way to fill their ships and bring in new cruisers. While other lines are building ever bigger boats with features unheard of at sea, Carnival decided to focus on entertainment and creating once-in-a-lifetime experiences that are surprisingly affordable. Earlier this month we had the opportunity to spend a week on the brand new Carnival Breeze and experience it for ourselves.

Unlike "themed cruises" the band isn't actually on the ship during the voyage, so that means that you can still have a "normal" cruise experience but on concert night things turn up a notch. On this cruise, we started in Miami followed by stops in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, Georgetown, Grand Cayman, and then during our stop at Cozumel, Mexico the band loaded their equipment on the ship and we stayed in port till about 1 a.m.

Extreme experiences like these we found, allow you to escape from your daily grind and be something awesome - even for just a few days. They are also perfect as a father's day or birthday gift and of course - any of these would make an incredible bachelor party idea too! Don't worry if you drive a minivan to work and you sip your light beer during the week, every so often it's time to take that next step and grab the wheel of something bad ass that you can brag to your friends about. That's what this list is all about!

Are you ready? 

If you aren't familiar with Carmel California, I bet you are familiar with it's cousins of Pebble Beach and Monterey. Don't worry though, there's a lot to offer in Carmel itself including a great beach, great food, unparalleled driving experiences in Big Sur, sports, and of course it is one of the most dog friendly cities in America. Oh yeah and many celebrities call Carmel home so don't be surprised if you see them walking around town including Brad Pitt and former mayor of Carmel, Clint Eastwood. 

Last month, Heather and I set forth to escape the summer heat in San Diego and head north to Carmel-by-the-Sea, located just south of San Francisco. Our host on this trip was the absolutely beautiful Carmel Country Inn, a bed and breakfast that offered us a 2 bedroom suite.

Yellowstone National Park has some of the most awe-inspiring landscape in the entire world. From geysers that shoot water hundreds of feet into the air as well as rainbow hued pools of boiling water and even cold mountain streams that run through lush grasslands where elk, bison, and other animals feed. While there are plenty of lodges such as the grand Yellowstone lodge, to get the full back to nature experience we recommend checking into one of the park's 12 campgrounds. 

Be aware though, we aren't the only ones that think this is a great summer camping idea, so make sure to make reservations early. This is especially true if you are looking to make reservations during the summer.

Of the 12 campgrounds in Yellowstone, 5 are operated by Xanterra Parks and REsorts with 1,700+ sites and take reservations. However the National Park Service operates 7 that are first-come, first-served basis those spots are often filled by 11 a.m., so plan to arrive early to get a good spot!

If lodges are more your style, there are more than 2,000 rooms available in the park as well.

Just in case you needed another excuse to play in the sun down in Puerto Vallarta, the CasaMagna Marriott sends word that they have launched a new tequila appreciation program titled Secretos de la Familia and they are one of the few resorts in the world where agave azul is actually grown on the grounds and used for making their very own tequila.

According to the General Manager, the resort boasts an enormous library of this spirit including 114 tequilas regularly available by the glass and a Tequila Sommelier who hosts regular tasting classes for the guests.

While the Cubs are the perennial underdogs, having not won a World Series in over 100 years, their home in Chicago is one of the most iconic sports stadiums in the whole world. In previous years, the Cubs have played at Hohokam Stadium, shared with the Oakland A's but this year they opened up the season at their very own stadium "Cubs Park", affectionately referred to as "Wrigley Field South".

As someone who has enjoyed numerous games at Wrigley I can say that even though it is someone that should be on the bucket list for any sorts fan, the park is an absolute dump. From obstructed views to cramped bathrooms and nets installed to keep concrete from falling on people's heads it is one of those places that should probably just be shut down - if it wasn't for the antique charm and sense of history that radiates from every square inch of the facility.

Looking for that perfect hotel to make her swoon? The folks over at Expedia's UK office worked with some of the top travel bloggers in the world to compile a list of the best hotels for a romantic getaway.

While I can't provide a roundup of all the hotels they included, here are a few that I think you'll want to check out.

As a cruise ship junkie I was thrilled for the opportunity to spend even a few hours aboard a ship that normally doesn't operate in the United States. Costa Crociere is an Italian cruise line that while the first to operate in the Caribbean is now working to rise to the attention of the North American travel market. The Costa Deliziosa in particular does an annual around the world tour and that's why she happened to stop in San Diego and give us the opportunity to check her out.

While Caribbean cruising may be king, the west coast of Mexico also offers some exciting opportunities for fun as well. To explore these, we boarded the Carnival Miracle and set off on a seven-day journey with our review starting in Los Angeles (Long Beach) and included two days in Cabo San Lucas and Puerta Vallarta before heading home.

Sure, it's winter right now but that doesn't mean that we can't think about planning our road trips for when the weather gets better. The folks over at Wish.co.uk have prepared this infographic with trivia, archetypes, and lessons that we can learn from Hollywood's most famous road trip movies.

This was my first time visiting the west coast of Mexico so I wasn't really sure what to expect - and frankly all you hear these days about the Pacific coast is about how dangerous it is. While that may be true in spots, during a recent tour of Ensenada, Mexico, I found it very fun and unusual, with more to do than I frankly was expecting.

Unlike the Caribbean cruise ports I am used to, Ensenada is a real town with people who lead real lives and aren't just there to look pretty and offer excursions to rich American tourists. However, there is some of that, too, though it was more like visiting a regular city vs a sanitized "made for tourists" experience.

There's more to cruising than the big three - (Carnival, Royal, and NCL) and I have been wanting to try Princess for quite a while, but never had the opportunity. Last month, we took a quick weekend escape out of Los Angeles on the Golden Princess and finally got to experience what it means to "Escape Completely".

The Golden Princess is a grand class ship, measuring 109,000 gross tons and carrying 2,600 passengers (double occupancy) plus 1,100 crew members.

Princess launched Golden in 2001, but retrofitted the ship in 2009.

When someone says they are going to Myrtle Beach, I automatically think Golf. Wow, was I wrong. Myrtle Beach has so much more to offer than I ever thought.  Between paddle boarding, NASCAR, craft beer, sushi, steaks, and shooting lessons, Myrtle Beach is a great place for a mancation.

It is also certainly a lot more than just a great golf destination!

Maison Dupuy is located in New Orleans' French Quarter, just two blocks away from Bourbon Street and walking distance to pretty much any place you might want to visit in the French Quarter.

While it is the newest hotel to be built in the French Quarter (1973), it manages to convey a classic elegance that its much older neighbors do - without some of the weirdness of uneven floors and crooked windows that come from being housed in buildings that are in some cases hundreds of years old.

While many people associate New Orleans with some of the best parties in the world, the other "Must Do" in New Orleans is brunch. While there is no shortage of great places where you can gorge on delicious traditional brunch foods, I would like to heartily recommend stopping by Court of Two Sisters.

Between the gorgeous courtyard, tons of great food (traditional breakfast as well as cajun and southern staples like crawfish, jambalaya, and collards), there is something for everyone! Plus they have some of the friendliest staff in town.

For this trip review, we decided to try the Freedom of the Seas. It isn't the newest or largest ship in Royal's fleet but it certainly had some fun "Designed for Wow" features that others simply don't, so let's start exploring.

Heather and I had a wonderful time at Sandals Montego Bay and heartily recommend it to anyone looking for an escape to one of the most fantastic islands in the Caribbean. Sometimes it is tough to select an all inclusive as EVERYTHING can look fantastic from a tourism brochure or website. That's why it is tough to pick a resort sometimes. However, I am THRILLED to say that Sandals is still awesome, even almost ten years after we stayed in their sister property in Ocho Rios for our honeymoon.

New Orleans and Florida's West Coast aren't the only mancation destinations awaiting you on the Gulf Coast!

Gulf Shores, Alabama also offers a variety of great opportunities for the ultimate mancation as well, including Golf, Seafood, and Fishing!

Disney might not be the first place you think of for romance, but surprisingly it was a fantastic romantic escape for Heather and I recently. Between "Dark Rides", "Thrill Rides", nostalgia, and just plain fun - Disney World can truly be the "Magic Kingdom" for your relationship!

Are you one of those individuals, whose weekends are spent taming a rapid, climbing a mountain, wriggling through a cave or leaping off a cliff? It is very likely then that when it comes to choosing a foreign holiday you would be seeking destinations that are as action-packed and adrenaline-fuelled as they come. If you see yourself manhandling a Land Rover out of a ditch or pitching a tent in the middle of the wilderness look no further than Africa.

The most important word you need to know in Barcelona is siesta, because a solid afternoon nap is the only way to survive this non-stop party city that decided dusk till dawn just wasn’t enough.

The architecturally gorgeous coastal destination is a man’s paradise; you can tan on hot beaches filled with hotter girls, navigate through two-and-a-half lifetimes worth of bars (yes, that’s statistically accurate), and grind at the notoriously hedonistic nightclubs that are packed till sunrise.

Having cruised a few times in the Caribbean we wanted to do something new. A tour of New England and Maritime Canada, seemed like a great idea to explore a different area and show my wife some of the places I visited when I was younger. We had fun, the Carnival Glory is a great ship, but we learned a couple important things that will help guide us on future cruises 1) Sometimes the first trip on an itinerary is a bit rough 2) the "total cost" of a Caribbean cruise can be MUCH CHEAPER than other destinations 3) Sometimes you just need to be able to make your own fun when mother nature doesn't cooperate.

Next year (2013), Carnival is set to bring the Glory back to Boston, but with Funship 2.0 Upgrades, and hopefully our cruise helped both Carnival and the various ports iron out any kinks that we experienced.

Egypt isn’t just about the crumbling ruins sprawled out across the deserts, there is plenty more than crumbling going on there. Some of the world’s most bucket-list worthy dives and water sports are in Egypt’s Red Sea, and the modern beach resorts themselves are more than enough reason to head there for your lads holiday to Egypt. 

As if Beer and Sports weren't a good enough reason to visit Cleveland, the culinary scene there is actually pretty decent these days too. As a bit of a foodie myself, I am also always open to checking out unique places to get fresh, superior quality products.

Unfortunately on this trip I wasn't able to actually purchase anything except the sausages since I was staying at a hotel, but don't worry! In our next piece we'll share with you some spots in Cleveland where you can stay and cook up an awesome meal after your visit to the market.

On my recent cruise on the Carnival Victory, one of my favorite stops was visiting the island of Barbados and the opportunity to check out the fantastic Turtle Beach Resort. 

One of the tricky things about finding a good resort is finding a good balance between great staff, activities, and amenities. I have to say that I was super impressed by the island of Barbados, and I would recommend Turtle Beach Resort for a great mancation - or for our UK readers, a Lads Holiday! (Barbados is apparently very popular with UK vacationers and has regularly scheduled direct flights from London).

Carnival Victory is now known as Carnival Radiance and has been updated with all new features.

Cruising is one of the least tapped into mancation opportunities, but in reality to provides a great opportunity to party all day, see exciting sites, eat great food, and try things you maybe haven't tried in the past. We sailed on the Carnival Victory out of San Juan earlier this month and were absolutely impressed by what Carnival has to offer!

With steak every night on the menu, some of the best beaches in the world,a bar around every corner, a chance to explore a new local beer and rum each day, and the opportunity to watch sports outdoors on a giant screen while waiters bring drinks right to you... can life get any better? 

Southern Delaware may not be the first place you think of when planning a mancation with your buddies, but you'd be remiss in not giving this location some serious consideration. Its central location makes it an easily accessible for from Washington, DC, New York, Philadelphia, or Norfolk, but feels like a world away.

It offers a wide range of outdoor and action packed activities for adventure seekers, an active nightlife for the pub crawlers, and historic attraction for the culturally minded.

Perhaps best known for its multitude of office furniture manufacturers, Grand Rapids, Michigan, might not readily come to mind as an exciting and compelling destination for weekend getaway. For despite the huge money that's been sunk into a ton of new construction in a city with a beautifully historic core, I haven't really noticed that the city has done a fantastic job of promoting itself, at least into the Chicago area.

Are you dreaming of a Caribbean vacation and snorkeling in warm, turquoise-blue waters? We’ve got a list of the top 5 snorkeling spots in the Caribbean. 

Just a couple hours east of Chicago and almost the same distance from Detroit lies a wonder area just waiting for couples planning a romantic weekend. South West Michigan is a destination that continues to impress both Heather and I. Initially, it was the wine trail and the beach that drew us, but now we have grown to love exploring the little coastal towns like Saugatuck, Douglas, and St. Joseph.

Heart pounding and adrenalin flowing is what could the plan for the day when visiting seven of Australia’s most exciting adventures. From doing a nosedives in a stunt plane to swimming with sharks, there are adventures abound on  land, sea or air.

Biltmore may be what draws many people to Asheville, NC, but it certainly isn't the only thing down here. Asheville itself is a fantastic destination for guys looking for a fun and unique way to spend a few days - drinking craft brews, listening to fantastic music, and eating some of the country's best food. Seriously, if the beer isn't enough reason to visit, the cuisine certainly is!

Mississippi might not be first on your list when it comes to planning a golf mancation, but Visit Mississippi sent in some information about an awesome Elvis Celebration and a list of some of their great golf courses at bargain prices and I think it deserves another shot!

Biltmore Estate is more than just stuff for the girls. In fact, this place is a hidden gem for those of us seeking some outdoor adventure while exploring how the "other half" lived. Even better is that it is located in one of the BEST mancation destinations in the United States - Asheville, NC.

Last month, Heather and I had a chance to visit Haywood County, NC and stayed at Boyd Mountain Cabins. For those of you who have never heard of Haywood County, it is located in North Carolina's Smoky Mountains, just off of I-40 and only a few hours from all the major cities of the South East. It is also a very easy drive from most places in the Midwest. The collection of seven different cabins plucked from locations all over North Carolina, have been restored, refined, and brought up to date will all the modern conveniences you would expect for a romantic weekend together - including a full kitchen, heat and central air, comfortable beds, rocking chairs on the porches and more.

This isn't a "luxury cabin rental", but it had everything we were looking for. If you are looking to get away from it all by relaxing in the middle of North Carolina's Smoky Mountains, there aren't many better ways to do it!

Are you looking for a place where guys can go to get away from all the stresses of home life - spouses, children, weekend projects etc? How about visiting a place not to far away, a place where you can sleep in, play a round of golf or two, take a nap, eat wings, drink beer and enjoy a night of poker or billiards, all while enjoying a big game on the TV.

That's exactly what Carroll Valley Resort offers and it is located in the small Pennsylvania town of Carroll Valley, just outside of Gettysburg.