GLOBAL GRIT + GLAM

There’s something pretty magical about visiting San Juan, Puerto Rico. Exploring the colorful and spirited capital city of Puerto Rico is a must. What you really cannot miss is the historic part of the capital – Old San Juan, with its narrow cobblestone streets, lively plazas, and iconic landmarks around almost every corner. So let’s strap on those sturdy walking shoes and get to it!

The beaches at San Juan Puerto Rico offer a rare combination—urban energy meets tranquil retreat, historic charm meets modern ease, and a relaxed island attitude that’s impossible to resist. This guide will walk you through the most popular beaches in San Juan, helping you find the perfect destination for your beach day.

San Juan, Puerto Rico is a destination that blends the old and the new, the gritty and the glamorous. Here is our guide to the best things to see and do whilst you’re in port for the day, highlighting everything from Old San Juan’s charming cobblestone streets, to white sandy beaches and renowned snorkeling spots, to some of the delicious food unique to Puerto Rico that you just have to try.

Let's take a deep dive into the raw beauty that awaits you in Morne Trois Pitons National Park. To be honest, Dominica isn’t your typical Caribbean island. Known as the Nature Island of the Caribbean, Dominica’s natural beauty, the opportunity for endless adventure, and the profound cultural immersion afforded visitors, are what set this island apart from the many others that surround it.

Whilst Dominica doesn’t boast the typical long, white sandy beaches found on other Caribbean islands, it’s here you’ll discover some of the most beautiful places in the world, including Titou Gorge, a must-visit geological wonder nestled within the UNESCO World Heritage listed Morne Trois Pitons National Park.

El Yunque National Forest is a lush rainforest that offers visitors numerous opportunities for hiking, picnicking, swimming, standing beneath thundering waterfalls, incredible landscape views, and encountering plenty of diverse wildlife. A visit here is a must for nature-lovers, or for anyone simply seeking a soul-refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of San Juan.

Let's take a deeper dive into the vibrant capital city of Dominica: Roseau. Dominica is a destination that can redefine your idea of what a Caribbean vacation can – or should – be.

Nestled in the capital city of Roseau, the Dominica Cruise Port isn’t just another stop on your Caribbean itinerary. Known as the Nature Island of the Caribbean, Dominica’s natural beauty, the opportunity for endless adventure, and the profound cultural immersion afforded visitors, are what set this island apart from the many others that surround it.

The St. Lucia Cruise Port greets visitors to the eastern Caribbean Sea with open arms, and an easy-to-navigate cruise terminal offering you ready-made shore excursions and local vendors the moment you step foot off the ship.  With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals, St. Lucia is a must-visit destination in the Caribbean.

Has your cruise docked in Barbados?  You’re in for a day of sunbathing on white powdery sand beaches, exploring rich Caribbean history, and soaking in some vibrant Bajan culture.

This article covers everything you need to know about spending the perfect day in Barbados during your time in port, from visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites to swimming with sea turtles in Carlisle Bay. 

Have you booked a cruise that stops in St. Maarten?  Awesome!  Because on this stop you’ll have the opportunity to visit not one, but two countries (if you want)!  This stunning Caribbean island provides visitors a destination that’s the best of both worlds — Dutch and French influences, all rolled into a ball coated in a Caribbean flair.

If you’re on a cruise and Antigua is one of your ports of call, you’re in luck – because we have some excellent tips and recommendations for you! This busy Eastern Caribbean port has a little something for everyone: historical sites, fantastic seafood, white sandy beaches, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Situated in the stunning Albanian Riviera on the country's southwest coast, Himare is a small Mediterranean coastal town for visitors who are seeking relaxation, discovery, and a dive deep into local Albanian cuisine. With an abundance of history, laidback beach views, clear ocean waters, and delicious food, Himare is a highly recommended addition to any Albanian itinerary.

If you’re seeking to wander a little bit further off the beaten path this spirited Central American nation is brimming with treasures simply waiting to be explored.  Here you’ll find information on lesser-known destinations and unique experiences within El Salvador, attracting visitors seeking authentic and adventurous travel that help paint a more vivid picture of El Salvador’s soul.

Are you ready to head to one of the most historic and beautiful cities in Europe? We highly recommend you visit the incredibly picturesque city of Berat, Albania, in the Balkans!

Atop the ancient urban sprawl of Berat lies one of Albania’s most historic and beautiful sites: Berat Castle.  With its Byzantine architecture, stunning views of the surrounding area along the Osum River, and layers upon layers of history, Berat Castle is the perfect mix of grit and glam for any visitor to Albania’s central region.

Are you up for visiting one of the most interesting and beautiful cities in Europe? No, it’s not London … Rome … or Amsterdam. You’ll find this amazing city in southern Albania. Gjirokaster, Albania, is calling. It offers visitors history, culture, and a stunning setting, all rolled into one.

In the midst of the Apaneca-Ilamatepec coffee region, you’ll find this outdoor amusement park that combines natural beauty with innovative activities.  From the adrenaline-pumping Rainbow Slide, to the serenity that comes with sipping on locally-grown coffee in the park’s lush green grounds, Café Albania offers something for every type of traveler.

Whether you’re an adventurer seeking to hike volcanoes, a history buff excited to explore Mayan ruins and other UNESCO World Heritage Sites, or someone simply looking for beautiful beaches upon which to laze away a few days (or weeks!), you’ll certainly find it all in El Salvador.

Thinking of heading to Ohrid, North Macedonia? Here we list the best things to do — from Lake Ohrid and old churches to outdoor activities and local food. Let’s get started!

Are you heading to North Macedonia? Check out Matka Canyon!

We recently visited Matka Canyon in North Macedonia, and here’s what we found out so you can plan your trip.

Visit Skopje for history, art and nature no matter your travel style. This guide covers the top things to do, landmarks, day trips, hidden spots and useful travel tips for your trip to this crazy and eccentric city, known as the ‘concrete city.’