Japan is a magical place. It's a country where you can roam futuristic neighborhoods one minute and walk down streets that feel like stepping back in time the next.
24.09.2023 - 20:39 / lonelyplanet.com
From the surf beaches of the Pacific coast and the snow-capped peaks of the Andes to the Galapagos Islands and the humid Amazon Basin, Ecuador serves up epic travel experiences in every season and all in an area only slightly larger than Colorado.
Compared to its enormous neighbors, Ecuador offers a taste of South America on a more bespoke scale. However, with such wildly differing environments, the timing of the busy and quiet seasons can vary widely depending on which part of the country you visit. When you visit will naturally be influenced by where you want to go and what you plan to do when you get there.
If you’re here to catch some surf and sun on the coast, aim for January through March. August to November is the best time for cruising down the Río Napo to a jungle lodge in the Oriente, while June to September is the best time for trekking in the Andes and enjoying Ecuador's highland cities.
Whenever you come, some special facet of Ecuador’s diverse beauty will shine through, making your trip memorable. Here's how best to plan your visit.
Ecuador's high season falls in the South American winter – an ideal time to explore the magical highlands of Ecuador. If you've dreamed of picking through tribal fabrics at the Otavalo market or trekking the multi-day Quilotoa loop, this is the time to come.
Though the temperature fluctuates a great deal from morning to night – and changes markedly as you gain altitude – this season is verdant, and the highlands are full of life. Thanks to the drier weather and the North American and European summer holidays, this is a busy time for tourism, with correspondingly high prices. Plan ahead and book early for travel at this time of year.
The colorful Incan celebration of Inti Raymi occurs at the summer solstice in June. The festivities are best experienced in highland locations such as Otavalo or at the archaeological site of Ingapirca near Cañar.
Rain is lessening in the Oriente in August while the sun still shines over the highlands. Día de Independencia is the big event on the cultural calendar, but the procession of La Virgen del Cisne (Virgin of the Swan) is also quite a spectacle, traveling 70km (43 miles) before ending in the city of Loja.
High season is still in full swing in September, but beaches remain muggy. Notable festivals include the Fiesta de la Mamá Negra in Latacunga, a joyous syncretization of Catholic, indigenous and African elements. Another lively event is the Fiesta del Yamor, a Kichwa harvest festival taking place in Otavalo.
Naturally, rain is part and parcel of a visit to the rainforest, but here's some good news – the shoulder season is also the dry season in the Amazon Basin. This means low water levels and excellent conditions for spotting
Japan is a magical place. It's a country where you can roam futuristic neighborhoods one minute and walk down streets that feel like stepping back in time the next.
With bald eagles and bears for neighbours, the mighty Mendenhall Glacier to the north and the Tongass National Forest — the largest national forest in the US — at its feet, Juneau may, at first glance, seem a daunting destination for hikers. Look closer, however, and the rugged wilderness of southeast Alaska reveals itself in stages. In the foothills and valleys just beyond the city, waymarked trails suitable for a wide range of abilities bring Alaska’s wild landscapes to life. Here are three to try.
While many Americans associate kaleidoscopic fall foliage with New England, Seattle also brims with autumnal appeal with cool, crisp air and a stunning backdrop of tree-covered hills and mountains. Also: where else can you take in awe-inspiring views of Mount Rainier, knock back a chambong (champagne glass-beer bong hybrid), savor spicy Laotian chicken laap, and retire to a plush room overlooking Elliot Bay in a single day?
Looking for the best car rental company? You’ve come to the right place. J.D. Power—which also ranks airlines, airports, hotels and more—has just unveiled the 2023 North America Rental Car Satisfaction Study. This annual study ranks the best rental car companies and evaluates customer satisfaction.
While the current prices of airline tickets are down from their peak earlier this year—thanks to pent-up travel demand being released and more flights being added—they likely won’t stay that way for long. The holidays are coming and, with them, an increase in flight prices.
I felt like a zombie as soon as I touched down in Belgium.
As diverse as it is enchanting, Mexico is a year-round destination. This 32-state nation boasts glistening coastlines, numerous microclimates and an astonishingly varied terrain.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin is a city on the rise; so much so that it just joined our Readers’ Choice Awards list of the best big cities in the US, ranking third—just behind San Diego and Chicago. Long considered nearby Chicago's little sibling, Milwaukee has finally come into its own by growing amongst younger people for its affordability over the Second City, allowing people to buy homes and rent better apartments. Not to mention the growing restaurant scene, new infrastructure increasing walkability, and enough city amenities for the Midwest gem to truly feel desirable—it’s no longer just a small town. And with so many local colleges and a venerated art museum, there is strong curiosity and willingness to embrace the new.
Renowned for its jaw-dropping architecture, world-class museums and mouth-watering street food (did some say deep-dish pizza?) it's no wonder Chicago was voted the second-best city in the world by media and hospitality giant TimeOut.
A burger and fries by the beach in San Diego, California. (Photo Credit: sophia_ross/iStock Editorial/Getty Images Plus)
While there are plenty of museums, restaurants, and historical sites to keep you busy in Mexico City, the central region of Mexico is filled with pueblo m á gicos (magical towns) and beautiful areas that are well worth your time for a weekend getaway. Mexico City is conveniently located so day trips are easy and numerous, not to mention a fun way to learn more about this incredible region.
If the thought of another year crawling to a close has left you feeling a little low, November is the perfect time to give yourself a travel-fueled lift, with an array of destinations primed for exploration during the penultimate month of the year.