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April 23, 2018

5 Travel-Friendly Cameras for First-Time Photographers

With a mountain of advice on the Internet for the best beginner camera, sifting through all the lingo is intimidating. This list is meant to be as diverse as you are, and it can be suited to the type of adventure photographer you want to be. Whether you’re ready to spend money on a piece that will take you from amateur to professional or you’re getting your feet wet (literally) shooting some gnarly waves, you can find your first quality camera here.

Sony Alpha A6000

This camera has mirrorless technology, which means it is less bulky and claims to have the fastest focus function (which is great when you need to get the shot quickly). The Alpha A6000 will fit in your carry-on, and it offers the option of multiple lenses if you want them.

Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Camera w/ 16-50mm & 55-210mm Lens & 128GB SD Bundle
from Focus Camera

Olympus TG-5

The TG-5 is the best waterproof camera for hikers, backpackers and rock-climbers. It’s lightweight and handles macro and zoomed-out shots equally well, even in low light.

Olympus Tough! TG-5 12MP Camera with WiFi
from QVC
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Canon EOS Rebel

The Rebel series offers the best — and best value — entry-level DSLRs. If you’re serious about learning all the ins and outs of a DSLR camera, this one will keep you busy at a reasonable price point. If you’re a checked-baggage traveler anyway, you can afford the space to bring a full lens kit with you.

Canon – EOS Rebel T6 DSLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm IS II and EF 75-300mm III lens
from Best Buy

Fujifilm X100F

Don’t let this camera’s size fool you — it’s compact, but it still has 24 megapixels, fast focus, long battery life and easily accessible settings. There’s a cult following for this retro-style piece, and its many fans will tell you it’s one of the best professional cameras for street photography.

Fujifilm X100F 24.3MP Digital Camera, Fujinon 23mm f/2 Lens
from Adorama

Akaso EK7000

The reasonably priced Akaso EK7000 shoots in 4K, if you want a great camera for beginners that can handle an afternoon of tumbling in the surf.

AKASO EK7000 4K WIFI Action Camera Ultra HD Waterproof Camcorder 12MP
from QVC

March 19, 2018

Off the Beaten Path: Dreamy Travel Destinations

With the rise of social media, there’s hardly a land untouched by the selfie. But here are six spots that are still under the radar. You’ll probably see a few fanny packs along the way, but these vacation destinations aren’t crowded and have views that will get you all the Instagram likes you can imagine.

Rebun Island, Japan

If you’re looking for a spring or summer getaway, Rebun Island, Japan, is a gorgeous hiking destination when the island’s peaks are covered in wildflowers. A stay on a farm is cheap, and the fresh air will revive you.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is at once a technological metropolis and a medieval treasure, making it one of the best places to travel. Estonia’s capital city combines the earthy charm of old Europe with all the luxury you could ask for. Stay in the city for a couple days before continuing on to the fanciful frozen landscapes of Estonia. It’s easy to book a place to stay in the old city with Ebates Hotels and 5% Cash Back every day (10% on Thursdays!).

Margaret River, Australia

Tourists flock to Australia, of course, but Margaret River, in Western Australia, is not yet well known, despite its beautiful wineries. For adventure travel, it has amazing surfing and cave exploration. If you go between June and November, this coast is a visiting spot for migratory whales.

Huacachina, Peru

No, it’s not a mirage — it’s Huacachina, Peru. Locals frequent this spot, which usually means it’s where you want to go. You’ll have to be driven into this desert oasis, which isn’t too far from a real town but far enough that you’ll feel like you’re on an island.

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Samoa

Another off-the-beaten-path travel destination, this humble Pacific island still boasts plenty of gorgeous views. Ebates Hotels can help you find a fale (a thatched hut) on the beach or a luxury hotel if you prefer. If you make it to American Samoa, hop over to Western Samoa, which is full of small villages, jungles and beautiful reefs.

Nunavut, Canada

The northern tip of Canada is home to Nunavut, a sparsely populated area with plenty to do. If you are a backpacker, there are two huge national parks with climbing and hiking. In the summer, you can travel to remote towns accessible only by boat or plane and learn about the indigenous cultures.

March 12, 2018

What’s Your Spirit Beach?

[qzzr quiz=”458352″ width=”100%” height=”auto” redirect=”true” offset=”0″]

You’ll find both sea and shore at any beach, but each spot has its own story. Whether you’re planning a last-minute spring break or you desperately need to disappear for a bit of R&R, finding the right beach to soothe your soul involves a little self-reflection. Above, five questions to decide the U.S. coast that makes your spirits soar.

Shop the Results

Meet the 5 Perfect Carry-On Bags

For me, the perfect carry-on bag has to be compact, versatile and stylish. It needs to be roomy enough to hold all of my essentials but small enough to actually fit in the overhead compartment, especially since space comes at a premium on flights these days. Below, you’ll find five perfect bags for any type of traveler. Whether you like to pack sparingly or need something that’ll hold a hefty portion of your wardrobe, there’s an option for you. And, when you shop for any of them through Ebates, you’ll be earning Cash Back.

The Take-Anywhere Tote

If you like to travel light, the Tumi Voyageur M-Tote is the carry-on bag for you. Roomy and stylish, this tote has a 13″ laptop pocket, one zip pocket and three open pockets for storing chargers, headphones and other accessories. If you learn how to roll your clothes, you can fit at least two outfits in this carry-on, which makes it ideal for quick business trips or a compact way to carry your essentials.

Tumi Voyageur M-Tote
from Tumi Luggage

The Do-It-All Duffel

The bag I reach for the most, for any sort of travel plans, is my Chrome Industries Surveyor duffel bag. I have the predecessor to this model, and it’s a tank. I’ve taken it on dozens of flights, weekend trips and camping adventures. I even used it as a cooler for oysters and beer once when I lived in the Bay Area. Chrome has made some nice upgrades with the addition of a strap and interior organization. There’s even an added shoe compartment. It’s crafted from ballistic nylon, which is incredibly tough, so it can handle being squished into an overhead bin with ease. After years of abuse, my bag still looks brand-new.

Chrome Industries Surveyor Duffel Bag
from eBags
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The Weekend Workhorse

A weekender bag is a must-have in your carry-on luggage arsenal. This one from Vera Bradley has a classic profile and plenty of room for all of your staples. Vera Bradley says it can hold anywhere from four to six outfits. It can also double as your go-to bag when you’re not flying, which makes it a fantastic investment. I particularly like the navy colorway, but there are four additional colors to choose from if navy’s not your thing.

Iconic Weekender Travel Bag
from Vera Bradley

The Compact Compartment

How many times have you boarded a plane only to find that the overhead storage is completely full? It happens to me all the time, which is why I often reach for something like this under-seat bag. Sure, it’s not as roomy as other carry-on luggage, but it’ll get the job done if you pack smart like I mentioned earlier. If you find that the overhead compartments are full, simply slip this bag under your seat, sit back, relax and enjoy your flight.

Eco-Glide Wheeled Underseater Carry On
from eBags

The Certified Classic

There’s something to be said for a classic, and this spinner suitcase from Samsonite is a modern take on a tried and true design. It’s expandable, so you’ll be able to fit much more in this bag than you would the other picks above, but it still complies with carry-on luggage rules, so you’ll be all clear when you board. Simple, sleek and stylish. What more could you ask for?

Hyperspace XLT 30-inch Expandable Spinner Suitcase
from Overstock.com

June 5, 2017

How to Save Money on Your Next Cruise Booking

Cruises are a one-stop shop for all your vacation needs: Your food and beverage is provided, entertainment is on board and your travel itinerary is all mapped out. All that’s required from you: Have a great time. The best part is that many cruise lines feature deals and specials on everything from beverages to group packages. Below, five tips for saving money on your next cruise.

1. Sail During Slow Seasons

You may be able to snag an amazing price on your trip if you wait until the last minute. Although this may mean settling for a smaller cabin, the savings will be well worth it. Experts also advise looking for cruises during the slow season (i.e. not holiday vacation or summer). Another ideal time to book is during the Caribbean’s hurricane season. Wave season (January through March) tends to see sales from agencies and cruise lines alike. If you’re curious about which specific line to look for, experts say because of the size of the ships, both Caribbean and Med offer great last-minute deals.

2. Use Agents and Apps Wisely

A great idea: Sign up for cruise lines’ email newsletters and text alerts. The great deals and packages will arrive right to your inbox. Several lines, such as Celebrity and Royal Caribbean, feature one-day discounts. If your main goal is to score the lowest price, experts advise working with a travel agency. Because agencies block space on ships, they’re able to provide their clients with cheaper rates. They’re watching all the deals, and will be aware of great new sales, add-on perks or other discounts. If you prefer to use technology, there are also plenty of apps available (TripIt, Cruise Critic forums) that offer advice, show prices and help you find the best fit and fare.

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3. Check Out Hot Spots and Leave From Local Ports

Booking early for in-demand spots (experts say the Caribbean and Alaska continue to be super hot destinations this year) will help consumers get the best rates. Because these cruises are in such high demand, rates continue to increase. Talk with your travel agent or do a little research into your destination of choice. Experts also advise sailing away from your hometown. If you live in a big city (Seattle, New Orleans, Los Angeles or San Francisco, for example), you can easily drive to the port, eliminating the need to book a pricey flight.

4. Go in a Group

Take advantage of group rates (applied to parties of 16 or more) and you could even score yourself a free trip. Experts say the most affordable months to book a group cruise are May, June, September, October and early November.

5. DIY Your Fun

Unless you’re going to be drinking heavily (five or so drinks per day), the beverage packages aren’t always the best bet. Take advantage of happy hours — on and off the ship. You can also seek out spa deals and adventures on your own. Although the cruise may offer off-board activities, experts suggest relying on online travel blogs and guidebooks to plan experiences on your own. You can also investigate spas off-board instead of splurging for pricier services offered on the ship.

May 12, 2017

Before You Go: Travel Tips for Your Summer Vacation

Just like when we were kids, we look forward to our summer vacation all year. It’s the time we can take advantage of slow summer Fridays, fight the out-of-town traffic and get away for a far-flung adventure or a long weekend at the beach. No matter where you’re headed, here are some handy travel tips to make sure you have a summer vacation that’s as relaxed and fun as it was 20 years ago — and at the same time, earn Cash Back at Ebates like a responsible grown-up.

Compartmentalize

You don’t want to spend an hour rummaging through your bag for that tank top you’re sure you brought, only to find it stuffed into your sneaker. Make your life easy (it’s vacation!) and invest in eBags packing cubes to keep your clothes organized during your summer travel. If you really want to be on it, use the compartments to pack individual outfits for each day you’re on the trip. Take out the guesswork and spend more time on the beach or exploring a new city.

Roll It All Up

Rolling — rather than folding — clothes is a real space-saver when you’re trying to cram your entire summer wardrobe into one suitcase. You’ll be able to fit more of the clothes you love if you roll up each item tightly, minimizing wasted space in the bag. One of the most convenient summer travel ideas, rolling also will minimize wrinkles when you arrive, which is a nice bonus. To ease right into vacation mode, pack clothes with fabrics that don’t wrinkle easily, such as polyester, cashmere and this spandex maxi from Neiman Marcus.

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Keep the Charge

Keeping a full charge on your phone or tablet is critical to making sure the photos and Instagram posts don’t dwindle over the course of your summer vacation. Keep a portable charger in your suitcase so you never have to worry about forgetting it, and to use as a backup if you forget your full-time charger (which never happens…).

Check the Wait Times

Stressing because you’re late for your vacation flight is just too ironic. Plan ahead — and I don’t mean to take your mother’s advice to get to the airport three hours early. Apps such as MiFlight tell you how long the line is at security checkpoints at airports around the world. It’s the perfect kick in the pants for the last-minute traveler. Check what people are saying, and then decide whether you can take an Uber Pool or you need to get there pronto.

May 4, 2017

How I Saved More Than $1,600 on My Wedding: Honeymoon

My fiancé, Ryan, and I are planning a wedding in Healdsburg, California, in the heart of wine country. Like so many couples, we’re learning that planning a wedding means lots of shopping. Whether it’s paper for invitations or ties for your groomsmen, spending becomes second nature. So, as a bride with a budget she’d like to stick to, I’m obsessed with getting the best deals when I can. Thankfully, Ebates helped me save on so many wedding essentials, such as invitations, decor, attire — even our honeymoon. In this series of posts, you’ll get a chance to see exactly how much I was able to save and how.

All in all, our goal was to indulge our inner honeymooners without blowing up our budget. WeddingWire’s 2016 Newlywed Survey showed that couples spent an average of $4,000 on their honeymoons last year, and I can only imagine those numbers going up — as most wedding-related things seem to do.

I’m happy to report we were able to save more than $500 on our honeymoon. Here’s how we did it.

Booking Honeymoon Flights

Ryan and I were determined to spend two weeks exploring Croatia for our honeymoon, with its crystal-clear coastal waters, rolling inland hills and ancient ruins.

We started by booking mid-week flights, which saved us significantly right off the bat. But the best savings we discovered when booking our flights together with the first two nights at our destination. We booked two round-trip flights from San Francisco to Dubrovnik, plus two nights at a hotel, through Expedia, saving a total of $300.

Savings

Total saved on flights to Croatia: $300

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik was the first stop of our honeymoon. We were prepared for some culture, sightseeing, nightlife and “Game of Thrones” geek-outs (Dubrovnik is the scene of the show’s famed King’s Landing). We decided to find honeymoon packages that would allow us to stay for three nights: one night to get our bearings after a long flight, and two full days to check out the town.

In Dubrovnik, we found a quaint, charming apartment-style hotel, Apartments Le Petit Nono. The accommodations were close to the old town harbor, which meant most of the sightseeing would be within walking distance. Because we booked through Hotels.com, we were able to score a special per-night rate, saving us $42. We also saved with a $5 off coupon and a $20 rebate at the time of booking, plus our 6% Cash Back at Ebates. Yay!

Savings

Ebates Cash Back savings: $86

Total saved in Dubrovnik: $86

Split

Split was our next honeymoon destination. Less than 150 miles from Dubrovnik, Split is known for its ancient and modern lifestyles combined in one picturesque destination. We wanted to fit in a little more ancient sightseeing while we were in this once-Roman-occupied region. That included touring Diocletian’s Palace, the ancient walls of Salona and the Klis Fortress (also known as Meereen in “Game of Thrones”) — and eating as much local fare as we could.

Our accommodations here were the most modest in Split. We wanted to spend most of our time out touring the city, eating the local grub and watching a few glowing sunsets. This helped us save some money, and we found some great specials by booking ahead through Expedia. We booked the aptly named Restaurant Pension Dioklecijan, and lucked out with $16 Cash Back at Ebates.

While we were in Split, Ryan and I wanted to take advantage of the acclaimed Croatian cuisine and brush up on our wine knowledge before heading up to wine country. This, we decided, was all best done with hands-on learning. We got a great deal on a wine- and food-tasting tour in the heart of Split by booking ahead of time on Expedia, and we took full advantage of 10% Cash Back at Ebates.

A trip to see the Blue Caves was a necessity if we were going to come close to the Dalmatian Coast, and Split was the best jumping-off point. We were ready to shell out to see the caves, which glow a magical blue, so we were thrilled to find a great deal on Orbitz for a daylong adventure that included snorkeling. We prepaid for our full-day speedboat and snorkel tour of five Croatian islands from Split, and we were able to earn 9% Cash Back at Ebates and save $25.

Savings

Ebates Cash Back on hotel: $16

Ebates Cash Back on food tour: $6.50

Ebates Cash Back on snorkel tour: $25

Total saved in Split: $47.50

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Istria

Among all the ancient ruins and beachfronts, I was most excited to include the peninsula of Istria in our honeymoon plans. As the wine center of Croatia, this peninsula is not just beaches and ruins (although it has those, of course). It’s full of vineyards and old port towns with an Italian flare. We decided to stay in Pula, a seaside town in the southern part of the peninsula with easy vineyard access. For a place to lay our heads, we booked a room through Expedia at City Point Rooms and More, where we got a great deal and $23 in Cash Back at Ebates.

Savings

Ebates Cash Back on hotel: $23

Total saved in Istria: $23

Hvar

Ryan and I determined that after more than a week of sightseeing, wine tasting and cobblestone-street ambling, we would be ready for a quiet, beachside retreat. That’s where we would splurge on accommodations fit for a pair of honeymooners. The island of Hvar would be perfect — devoid of mainland crowds and brimming with crystal-clear swimming holes. We pre-booked at Riva Hvar Yacht Harbour Hotel for a few days of luxury, pampering and relaxation. And, thanks to 6% Cash Back at Ebates by booking through Hotels.com, we saved $46 on our island accommodations.

Savings

Ebates Cash Back on hotel: $46

Total saved in Hvar: $46

To sum up all these incredible deals, I saved $502 on flights, accommodations and a few pre-booked activities for our honeymoon — crazy savings on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Next up, I’ll share even more wedding deals. Stay tuned to learn how I was able to save big on wedding decor.

April 13, 2017

Best Beaches for Your Destination Wedding

Destination weddings: They’re fun, intimate and unforgettable for everyone who attends. Your guests will be so deep into vacation mode that the wedding itself will feel like bliss, and they’ll be ready to party hard. For the engaged couple, choosing a destination wedding saves hassle, time and, in some cases, money — especially if you’re a smart online shopper and earn Cash Back at Ebates. Perhaps the best part of a destination wedding is that you can roll out of bed the day after you say your “I dos” onto a beach, and spend the rest of the week relaxing, enjoying each other and riding that newlywed high. Here is our list of the best beaches for a destination wedding.

Makua Beach, Kauai, Hawaii

There is no shortage of stunning beaches in Hawaii, but the tricky part is finding a beach that’s not only gorgeous but also convenient and secluded from crowds. Thankfully, Kauai is smaller and less developed than its neighboring islands, so its beaches are vast and relatively empty, depending on the time of year. Makua Beach, also called Tunnel Beach, is a crazy beautiful option that will bathe you and your guests in romance. Go to Hotels.com to book a honeymoon suite just off the beach at nearby Hanalei Colony Resort.

Placencia, Belize

Sidling up to the second largest barrier reef in the world, Belize is ideal for scuba-loving couples. A friendly country with turquoise waters and white sands, Belize is affordable and offers destination weddings with distinct eco-adventure vibes. If you’re looking for a beach that’s far enough away to ensure your crazy cousins-in-law will stay stateside but close enough to keep costs low, you might just find the perfect combination in Belize. Do yourself a favor and stay for an extra week or two to dive Blue Hole and book a romantic splurge at Hatchet Caye Island Resort for a honeymoon on a private island.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

This lively Mexican beach town is known for its artistic whimsy, warm beaches and lush rainforests. But just outside of town you’ll find all-inclusive resorts that are ideal for larger weddings, so you can relax with a poolside cocktail and let someone else take over all the decision-making for you. Or you and 18 of your closest friends and family can hole up in a luxury beachside villa, booked through VRBO, and enjoy all the sunshine and privacy Puerto Vallarta has to offer. Either way, don’t miss a trip to town for a skewer of grilled seafood and an evening stroll along the Malecon.

Paradise Island, Bahamas

If you’re dreaming of barefoot chic for your big day, there’s probably no better place than the Bahamas. With an all-inclusive option like Atlantis Bahamas, you can book what you want online and leave the rest up to the staff. It’s a low-maintenance couple’s dream, and after avoiding the stress of planning for the months leading up to your wedding, you’ll still get to enjoy a tropical party weekend and a honeymoon in paradise — a reward most newlyweds have to work for!

Algarve, Portugal

Portugal is a surprising addition to this list, to be sure. It’s neither close to the U.S. nor convenient. But it’s affordable and it’s home to some of the most wedding-perfect beaches in the world. Save by booking affordable international flights through Vayama, and book a luxury villa for the wedding party on VRBO that’s near the unique, rock-framed Praia da Marinha. Or book a neighboring luxury resort for your guests through Expedia.

April 11, 2017

10 Surprise Tips for Planning a Destination Wedding

From exchanging vows on a tropical beach to celebrating with family and friends in a European city, the idea of a destination wedding presents unlimited options. Ten percent of all couples get married away from home, but it’s not all plane tickets and passports — planning a destination wedding requires a certain know-how. Here are a few surprise tips that will help make your destination wedding the day of your dreams.

1. Residency Rule

Many countries require couples to spend some time there before tying the knot. These requirements range from no big deal (a couple days in the Caribbean) to more serious (France’s six-week residency rule).

2. Give Serious Notice

Wedding planners suggest mailing your save-the-date announcements and wedding invitations at least eight months in advance. This allows your guests to arrange for airfare and accommodations ahead of time. Experts also recommend creating a website detailing any questions guests may have related to their travel.

3. Hire Cars

Instead of making your family and friends schlepp all over town, hire cars to pick them up at the airport and safely transport them to their hotels. Traveling can be a huge hassle — especially international travel. This is a small gesture guests are sure to appreciate.

4. Fly in Your Pros

Depending on where you’re getting hitched, it may be tricky to find reliable photographers, hair stylists and makeup artists. If you bring your own, you’ll be working with professionals you trust.

5. Arrive Early

Arrive at your hotel at least a few days before your guests do so you can customize welcome gift baskets and stock their rooms with anything they may need — maps, favors, a bottle of wine, sunscreen.

6. Pay Attention to Details

Wedding planners suggest meeting with as many people involved in the wedding as possible, including the officiant, the photographer and the caterer. Inspect the accommodations and rehearsal-dinner and ceremony sites.

7. Stay Calm and Flexible

The bride’s energy will impact everyone. Things may not always go as planned — especially if you are in a foreign country — but roll with any changes, schedule a time each day to do yoga and keep a relaxed state.

8. Factor in Exchange Rate

Even though destination weddings seem cheaper than getting hitched at home (especially if you live in a major U.S. city such as New York or San Francisco), you’ll need to factor in the exchange rate. Always convert prices into dollars to get a better idea of what you’ll be spending.

9. Create a Pinterest Board to Communicate Your Vision

When you’re planning a destination wedding, you’ll be communicating your vision to a lot of different people. Descriptions can be subjective, down to color shades and cake patterns. By creating a Pinterest board, you’ll have something to show and share.

10. Leave a Personal Note

Your guests are traveling a great distance to watch your special day. It’s advisable to greet them with a hand-written personal note at check-in. If you’re short on time, you can work with a calligrapher.

April 5, 2017

Where to Go on Your Mini Moon

Lots of newlywed couples are taking a long weekend or short week away immediately after their wedding to let down their hair and kick off their marriage with some relaxation, fun and time set aside just for the two of them.

For some couples, a long weekend away is plenty (and saves bundles!). For others, the mini moon is just a taste of a longer trip planned later, after the couple has had time to recover from wedding expenses and can afford to splurge (again). Either way, the post-wedding mini moon ritual is practical only if you travel to a destination that’s close and you can treat yourselves affordably. A few deals at these perfect-for-newlywed mini moon destinations could score you Cash Back at Ebates and save you a fortune in the process.

California Wine Country

El Dorado Hotel

California wine country is the perfect long-weekend getaway. All you need is a few days away to get your fill of sun, wine and award-winning food in Sonoma and Napa. It’s the best way to wash away stress and make the fun and excitement last a little longer.

Stay in town for an adorable (and walkable) experience that gives you the best of the countryside without compromising convenience. Book the El Dorado Hotel in advance through Hotels.com for a great deal and a poolside brunch.

Sedona, Arizona

A Day in the West Jeep Adventure

Amara Resort and Spa

Sedona’s brilliant red rock formations are enough to awe any newlywed couple looking for a majestic, beautiful mini moon retreat. Find yourself on the A Day in the West Jeep adventure, or take a tour of the town’s wine, beer or art scenes. Then settle in at your room in the eco-friendly and secluded Amara Resort and Spa, tucked into your own mini Grand Canyon. Book with Hotwire.com to get a great midseason deal.

Quebec City, Canada

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

If you can’t do Paris right after the wedding, consider visiting its North American cousin, Quebec City. This Quebecois destination has a stone-walled fort and streets reminiscent of the old country, and you’ll hear a mix of languages on the street that will transport you to Europe. Stay at the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, a luxurious European-style hotel, to truly feel like you’re in a foreign land.

Key West, Florida

Key West Sunset Key Cottages

Key West is ideal for achieving a romantic beach getaway without leaving the U.S. Post up on a quiet island to get your fill of bungalow living, snorkeling, diving, fresh fish dinners and unbeatable rum cocktails. Come to think of it, there’s nothing mini about Key West. Stay in a romantic ocean-side bungalow at Sunset Key Cottages, booked through Expedia for a great deal.

Bermuda

Cambridge Beaches Resort and Spa

Just a two-hour flight from New York, Bermuda is a popular honeymoon spot for newlyweds on the East Coast. Its popularity shouldn’t be a put-off, however, since it’s still possible to find empty, pink-sand beaches and crystal-clear blue water. Stay in a cabana on one of four private beaches at Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

The Cape, a Thompson Hotel

For those tying the knot on the West Coast or in the Southwest, Cabo could be perfect for a beach mini moon. Its local flair gives it that true honeymoon destination feeling, and you’ll relish endless beaches, mind-blowing al pastor street tacos and margaritas. Book ahead on Travelocity to stay at The Cape, a Thompson Hotel, perfect for ocean views and modern luxury.

Sony Alpha A6000

Olympus TG-5

Canon EOS Rebel

Fujifilm X100F

Akaso EK7000

Shop the Results

Oval Beach, Saugatuck, Michigan

Lanikai, Oahu, Hawaii

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur, California

Alki Beach Park, Seattle, Washington

The Take-Anywhere Tote

The Do-It-All Duffel

The Weekend Workhorse

The Compact Compartment

The Certified Classic

1. Sail During Slow Seasons

2. Use Agents and Apps Wisely

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3. Check Out Hot Spots and Leave From Local Ports

4. Go in a Group

5. DIY Your Fun

Compartmentalize

Roll It All Up

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

Keep the Charge

Check the Wait Times

Booking Honeymoon Flights

Savings

Dubrovnik

Savings

Split

Savings

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

Istria

Savings

Hvar

Savings

Makua Beach, Kauai, Hawaii

Placencia, Belize

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Paradise Island, Bahamas

Algarve, Portugal

1. Residency Rule

2. Give Serious Notice

3. Hire Cars

4. Fly in Your Pros

5. Arrive Early

6. Pay Attention to Details

7. Stay Calm and Flexible

8. Factor in Exchange Rate

9. Create a Pinterest Board to Communicate Your Vision

10. Leave a Personal Note

California Wine Country

Sedona, Arizona

Quebec City, Canada

Key West, Florida

Bermuda

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico