Travel Destinations Blog Posts | The Keys to Travel

Here is where you will find travel blog posts highlighting different travel destinations, travel guides, travel itineraries, and travel tips on destinations all over the world.

7 Countries You'll Explore on the Danube River Cruise

7 Countries You’ll Explore on a Danube River Cruise

March 4, 2020/in Europe, River Cruise

In Central and Eastern Europe, you’ll find some of the most spectacular landscapes, architecture—castles, churches and war memorials—as well as some of the most colorful, inviting cultures in the world. But what’s the best way to see it all? A river cruise (like AmaWaterways) down the Danube River, of course!

Here are 7 countries you could get to explore on a Danube River cruise.

Germany

The journey begins with a guided tour through the beautiful medieval city of Nuremberg where you’ll see the Imperial Castle, the famous town wall and the legendary fountain of the Market Square. For history buffs, there’s a guided tour of the city’s most significant WWII sites, including the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, and the Nuremberg Trials Memoriam and Courtroom 600 (if the courtroom is not in session).

Next, you can savor traditional Franconian specialties including Nuremburger bratwurst, rotbier (red beer) and lebkuchen (gingerbread). While en route to the next destination, Regensburg, you’ll cruise through the man-made Main-Danube Canal.

At Regensburg, you’ll be treated to a guided walking tour through one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities. While in Regensburg, you’ll see all the city’s architectural highlights, including the Old Town Hall and the Porta Praetoria. And if all that walking makes you hungry, there’s the old Bavarian specialties to satisfy you—beer, sausage, and pretzels.

Next, take a bike tour to Walhalla where you will see the neoclassical white marble temple inspired by the Parthenon in Athens.

The journey continues as you cruise to lower Bavaria’s city of Passau, where you’ll enjoy a walking tour along cobblestone streets and see Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture as well as St. Stephen’s Cathedral. If you’re looking to work in a little exercise, choose between a guided bike tour along the Danube, or a guided hike up to the Veste Oberhaus Fortress.

Austria

Continuing down the Danube on your river cruise, you’ll next stop at the scenic town of Melk, which is celebrated for its magnificent Benedictine Abbey. The abbey contains the tomb of Saint Coloman of Stockerau and the remains of several members of the House of Babenberg, Austria’s first ruling dynasty.If you’d like something more active to do, you can join a guided bike tour that takes you through the UNESCO-designated Wachau Valley; or go on a walking tour along Dürnstein’s cobblestone streets to the famed Baroque church tower, Stiftskirche. Later in the day, set sail through the vineyard rich Wachau Valley.

Views of Durnstein along the Danube River

No trip to Austria would be complete without a stop in Vienna, “The City of Waltzes.” Vienna is a treasure trove and your tour showcases its regal splendors, including the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs. Conclude your tour in the designated historic city center and visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral. For a more active exploration, take a guided bike ride to Klosterneuburg Monastery.

Hungary

The city of Budapest is known as the Queen of the Danube. Your tour begins with a visit to the Great Market Hall. The remainder of this tour takes you to both the Buda (hilly) and the Pest (flat) sides of the river. Alternatively, hike up to Castle Hill for breathtaking views of the city. Cap the day off with an illumination cruise.

Views of Budapest along the Danube River

Continue your trek through Hungary with a pitstop in Puszta. Known as the Great Hungarian Plain, tour a genuine Hungarian csárda (farm) run by world-champion carriage-drivers. Afterward, be treated to an unforgettable performance of horsemanship and then experience the Hungarians’ warm hospitality, along with a traditional lunch complete with authentic goulash.

From Puszta, set sail to Mohács. Here you’ll enjoy a scenic morning cruise past a town sprinkled with magnificent churches, including the 18th-century Baroque Protestant church, the Roman Catholic church (1776), the Serbian Greek Orthodox church, the votive church (1926), and the Avas church with its bell tower.

Next, you’ll cruise to Pécs, a city founded more than 2,000 years ago by the Romans. In Pécs, you’ll find a city filled with historic architecture including the Christian Necropolis; St. Peter’s Basilica, the city’s main Catholic cathedral along with its catacombs; and Széchenyi Square, the heart of Old Town Pécs. For wine connoisseurs, there’s the Szekszárd wine region, one of the oldest red-wine-growing areas in Hungary. Szekszárd was established more than 2,000 years ago.

Croatia

The beautiful Baroque Croatian city of Vukovar is situated at the banks of the Vuka and Danube Rivers in the region of Srijem/Syrmia. Known as the “hero town” for the valor of brave Croatian civilians and volunteers during the 1991 war with Serbia, your city tour will include important war landmarks such as Ovčara Memorial and Eltz Castle. Or, you can opt to go wine tasting in Ilok. Ilok has been a center of wine production since Roman times. Here you’ll sample its famous Grasevina, Traminac and Frankovka wines. Back on board, cruise to Novi Sad, sometimes called the “Serbian Athens.” Discover Novi Sad on a walking tour to Dunavski Park and through Stari Grad, the Old Town center. If you prefer a more active exploration, join a guided biking or hiking tour. During the evening, visit Petrovaradin Fortress.

Serbia

Explore Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, on a city tour that includes the Kalemegdan Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Temple of St. Sava. Later, choose from three intriguing excursions. Visit the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Serbian Royal Family; and then tour the House of Flowers, the mausoleum of Marshal Tito, who became the first President of Yugoslavia. Or enjoy a taste of the region by sampling Serbian plum brandy, Šlivovitz, and delicious local delights at the Quburich Distillery. For those wishing a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour.

Romania

Enjoy a full day of scenic cruising as you pass through the Iron Gates, one of Europe’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. At the Iron Gates, the Danube narrows as it winds through a series of magnificent gorges between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains.

Bulgaria

Explore Vidin, one of Bulgaria’s oldest cities, and surrounding areas with a choice of excursions. Discover Baba Vida Fortress, the largest preserved medieval castle in Bulgaria. As you continue on to Belogradchik, one of Bulgaria’s natural wonders, you can hike around its most spectacular rock formations. Or, visit a local home for a demonstration of traditional Bulgarian yogurt and Banitsa, a pastry you will get to make. You also have the choice to bike through Vidin and to the castle.

Finally, you will visit Bulgaria’s ancient capital, Veliko Tarnovo, with its medieval fortress and multiple orthodox temples. You can opt instead to go to Rousse, known for its 19th- and 20th-century Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo architecture. Afterward, visit the Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo with frescos revealing exceptional artistry of 14th-century paintings.

Which of these 7 countries along the Danube River would you be most excited to explore? If you would like to join us on a Danube River Cruise, our European Christmas Market River Cruise is taking place in December 2021. Read more information here. We would love for you to join us!

Contact me at hello@thekeystotravel.com for help planning and booking your next river cruise!

The Ultimate Guide to a 5 Day Gulf Coast Road Trip

March 4, 2020/in United States

Did you know that driving from New Orleans, Louisiana to Gulf Shores, Alabama is only a 3-hour drive? In those three hours, you can check-off three states! One day I was looking to do a long weekend trip and was looking to check off a few states. This route came on my radar and since it was by the ocean, I was 100% in. This is also a perfect itinerary to do in winter because it is still relatively warm! This is a pretty simple trip, but you can pack a lot in a few days.

Here is an itinerary for a 5 Day Gulf Coast Road Trip.

Day 1: Louisiana

Mardi Gras Beads on a fence in New Orleans to see on a gulf coast road trip

Arrive in New Orleans, Louisiana

To make the most of your vacation time, fly into New Orleans on the first flight in the morning. I flew out of Denver, Colorado at 6:20am and arrived in New Orleans at 10:00am. The first two days I decided to spend in New Orleans since there is just so much to see and do in this unique city.

Where to Stay in New Orleans

I wanted to save some money while in New Orleans, so I decided to stay at an Airbnb outside of the city. The Airbnb I stayed at had free parking, a full kitchen, and one room. It was also only one block off Magazine Street, which made it easy to take the free trolly into the city when I wanted.

Here is the link to the Airbnb I stayed at in New Orleans.

Breakfast at Ruby Slipper Cafe

First, fuel up first thing in the morning. Head to Ruby Slipper. It is an award-winning cafe and was probably the one place that was most recommended to me. There are quite a few locations throughout New Orleans, but I went to the one in Uptown.

Breakfast at Ruby Slipper Cafe in New Orleans

Walk the Shops in Uptown along Magazine Street

To walk off a bit of breakfast, head down Magazine Street for some window shopping. Make sure to stop in Nadeau Furniture but be careful because you may want to take everything home with you just like I did.

Take some time to walk up and down Magazine Street. There were some really beautiful homes and if you are there around Mardi Gras, the homes will be decked out with beads!

Explore Jackson Square in the French Quarter

When you think of New Orleans, you probably think of the French Quarter. Here is where you will see the famous St. Louis Cathedral. As long as there isn’t a mass going on, you can walk inside and take a self-tour.

St Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square French Quarter a must see on a gulf coast road trip

There is normally a ton of artists and street vendors all around Jackson Square. You can even get your palms read right here, too, if that interests you!

Next to Jackson Square is the famous Cafe Du Monde where you have to try the beignets! They are delicious, fresh, and melt-in-your-mouth perfection.

Walk Down Bourbon Street with a Hand Grenade

You can’t really go to New Orleans without checking out Bourbon Street. The big party scene that is Bourbon Street is normally not my vibe, but I wanted to make sure to experience a little bit of it. One of the most famous alcoholic drinks in New Orleans is the Hand Grenade. Personally, I think it is one of the worst drinks ever, but “when in Rome!” You can find these large green, sweet drinks pretty much anywhere on Bourbon Street. Just be warned, you may want to head back to your hotel or Airbnb for a nap after!

Dinner at Basin Seafood and Spirits

Once you sleep off your Hand Grenade, head down Magazine Street for dinner at Basin Seafood and Spirits. They have a lot of great seafood options to choose from along with happy hour on weekdays, brunch on weekends, and a raw oyster special on Mondays.

Wall Art in New Orleans along the path of a gulf coast road trip

Day 2: Louisiana

Breakfast at Horn’s Eatery

Make sure to start the day two off with a bang at Horn’s Eatery. The food was so good here, I wish I could have come back every single day! I got a pretty traditional breakfast of eggs, pancakes, and fruit, but man did they make it taste delicious.

Horn's Restaurant in New Orleans, Louisiana, a must stop along a gulf coast road trip

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

After breakfast, head out of town for some time with nature. Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is only about a 30-minute drive south of New Orleans. I ended up going to Barataria Preserve. This preserve has 26,000 acres with bayous, swamps, marshes, and forests. You can walk along the boardwalks and dirt trails to see animals, birds and plants. You may even see an alligator! There are a couple of different loops and trails to pick from so you can decide how long or short of a hike you want to go for.

Drinks and Dinner in New Orleans

Head back to the French Quarter for a cocktail at Sylvain. It is a super cute restaurant in an old carriage house. Enjoy just sitting at the bar with your fun champagne cocktail and watch the bartenders make their drinks.

After a drink, take the free trolley down to Superior Seafood & Oyster Bar. I had the Pasa De La Mer and was in love. I could have probably eaten that the rest of my life. They have a lot of great seafood options here for a pretty reasonable price.

Day 3 Gulf Coast Road Trip: Louisiana –> Mississippi

Breakfast at New Orleans Cake Cafe and Bakery

Before you head to Mississippi, make sure to stop at New Orleans Cake Cafe and Bakery for some breakfast and Kings Cake. You can’t leave New Orleans without having a famous Kings Cake!

Check out St. Louis Cemetery No. 3

Another New Orleans staple is the haunting past of the city. Head to St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 for a spook. This cemetery was established in 1854 with rows and rows of marble and stone gravesites. This is one of the less famous cemeteries in New Orleans, but it was on your way out of town, so it works out well. If you want to see the oldest cemetery, head to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, which was established in 1789. However, this one you have to purchase a ticket to get in.

Start the drive to Mississippi

Make sure to take US-90 along the coast when driving to Mississippi. Driving I-10 is faster, but then you won’t be driving along the coast!

Stop for a Beer at Chandeleur Island Brewing Company

Living in Colorado and being married to a husband who loves beer, I have learned to love craft beer. If you like to try new beer, make sure to stop at Chandeleur Island Brewing Company on the way to Biloxi where you will be staying for the night.

Chandeleur Island Brewing Company a must stop along a gulf coast road trip

Where to Stay in Ocean Springs, Mississippi

I highly recommend staying at The Roost Ocean Springs Hotel for your stop in Mississippi. It is a boutique hotel recently renovated out of an old, historic building in Ocean Springs. It is near the beach and downtown Ocean Springs making it a perfect place to stop for the night. I may end up taking some interior decorating notes from this boutique hotel and use them in my house.

Room at Roost Ocean Springs Hotel in Mississippi. Where to stay in Mississippi on your gulf coast road trip

Dinner in Ocean Springs, Mississippi at Murky Waters Ocean Springs

Head downtown for dinner at Murky Waters Ocean Springs. They are well known for their BBQ and they smoke all their meat in-house. Six nights of the week there is also live Blues Music playing at the restaurant.

Day 4 Gulf Coast Road Trip: Mississippi –> Alabama

Breakfast Downtown Ocean Springs

I was going to say, start your morning out at Bayview Gourmet Restaurant, but I just checked for the address on Google and it says it is permanently closed! I won’t go into how good their breakfast was, then… Anyway, find a great brunch spot in Ocean Springs and check out the local shops before making your way to Alabama.

Explore Dauphin Island, Alabama

Once you reach Alabama, head to Dauphin Island. This is a beautiful and relaxing stop to make before reaching Mobile, Alabama where you will be spending the night. Dauphin Island has beautiful, white sandy beaches and plenty of recreational opportunities. I decided to just walk up and down the beach and enjoy the calm of the ocean waves, but spend as much or as little time exploring this island as you would like!

Where to Stay in Mobile, Alabama

While searching for a place to stay in Mobile, I found this super cute Airbnb. It is located in Historic Midtown, has a fully equipped kitchen, free bikes to use, and a fireplace. It is a really cozy place to stay. Here is a link to the nautical-themed Airbnb.

Nautical Themed Airbnb in Mobile, Alabama

Dinner in Mobile, Alabama at The Original Oyster House

For dinner, head to The Original Oyster House, which is on the causeway on the way to the Gulf Shores. I got stuffed crab and fried shrimp with hush puppies, coleslaw and potatoes. It was all pretty good for fried seafood. And you can’t go to the South without eating a whole lot of hush puppies!

Day 5 Gulf Coast Road Trip: Mississippi –> Louisiana

Breakfast at The Warehouse Bakery and Donuts

Before heading back to Louisiana for your flight home, you have to check out the Gulf Shores. On your way there, make sure to grab breakfast at The Warehouse Bakery and Donuts. This place is so cute and the food is incredible. If I lived around here, I would find myself working remotely here a lot!

Inside The Warehouse Bakery and Donuts in Alabama along your gulf coast road trip

Spend the Day Enjoying the Beach at Gulf Shores

The Gulf Shores is a great vacation spot with wide, beautiful, white-sandy beaches. If you have more than a long weekend for this road trip, I’d recommend spending an extra few days at the Gulf Shores. When I did this road trip, it was January, so the beach was pretty chilly. Summer here would be great!

Drive Back to New Orleans to Fly Home

It is about a 3 hours drive back to New Orleans, so make sure you allow plenty of time to catch your flight home!

Have you done a Gulf Coast Road Trip like this? What do you recommend along the route?

Email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com if you need help planning and booking your next vacation.

A Unique All-Inclusive Experience at Explorean Cozumel

February 22, 2020/in Hotels, Mexico

The unique all-inclusive experience really drew me to Explorean Cozumel. When you think of an all-inclusive resort, you think of drinking and eating by the pool or beach all day long and not doing much else. But the all-inclusive life at Explorean Cozumel is very different. First, it is not located on the beach, it is located in the jungle. You feel completely one with nature, which instantly helps you destress the minute you arrive. Second, daily activities are included in your all-inclusive stay. Explorean Cozumel wants to get you off the resort and get you experiencing the beautiful island of Cozumel.

If you are a traveler who wants a peaceful and serene resort, with your food and drinks all included while having the opportunity to be active and explore while on vacation, Explorean Cozumel is the resort for you.

Travelers who want to stay active and truly experience the destination they are visiting will love the unique all-inclusive experience at Explorean Cozumel.

What is Included at Explorean Cozumel

Explorean Cozumel is an all-inclusive resort where food, drinks, and entertainment are included.

What makes Explorean Cozumel so unique is the inclusion of daily excursions around Cozumel. Each day includes a different excursion. Some of the excursion options include snorkeling, paddleboard adventure, sunset kayak tour, a visit to Punta Sur, or a visit to San Gervasio Mayan Ruins.

Unique All-Inclusive Experience at Explorean Cozumel Snorkeling

Accommodations at Explorean Cozumel

Accommodations at Explorean Cozumel are simple with only one room category. The rooms are Casita Suites with either one king bed or two double beds. Connecting rooms are an option for families or groups. There are no elevators, but there are only 2 floors in each building. There are beautiful rain showers in each suite, but no bathtub. Remember, this resort is all about being outdoors, so there are no TV’s in the room. With only 56 rooms total on the property, Explorean Cozumel is the perfect resort for peace and quiet. Just imagine waking up and having your morning coffee and tea on your porch in the middle of the jungle!

Views from the rooms of the jungle at Explorean Cozumel

Dining at Explorean Cozumel

There is one restaurant and one bar at Explorean Cozumel. With that being said, the food at each meal is amazing and the drinks are phenomenal. The bar is also self-serve, so feel free to pour your favorite drink!

Guests at Explorean Cozumel have full access to Fiesta Americana Cozumel’s facilities and restaurants, located adjacent to the hotel. This gives you access to seven more dining options and three more bars, including a swim-up bar in Fiesta Americana’s main pool.

The Traveler Perfect for Explorean Cozumel

The Explorean Cozumel is ideal for active couples and families that want to explore more of the island during their vacation. This resort is perfect for travelers that want to be outside doing activities throughout their trip while having a quiet, jungle oasis to come back to and relax. There are only 56 suites at this resort, so it is perfect for privacy, relaxation, and tranquility.

Pool at night at Explorean Cozumel All-Inclusive Resort

Good to Know About the Unique All-Inclusive Experience at Explorean Cozumel

Not directly on the beach but you have full access to Fiesta Americana, which is on the beach/ocean. This means that all the rooms are garden view rooms.
Very secluded. This resort is in a quiet area and not next to any nightlife.
No elevators onsite.
Family-friendly resort.
The daily excursions are at a set time each day.
Most of the restaurants and facilities are located next door at Fiesta Americana Cozumel. It is just a short walk from Explorean Cozumel.

Walkway to the lobby at Explorean Cozumel

Does Explorean Cozumel sound like the ideal vacation spot for you? Email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com for more information and to help book your next trip!

The Best Place to Stay on Ambergris Caye

January 3, 2020/in Central America, Hotels

Belize is a great travel destination for couples and families that love the tropical feel but also want adventure and plenty of activities. Ambergris Caye, just a quick flight or boat ride from Belize City, is a perfect “home base” for your Belizian vacation. You get the laid back island feel with access to amazing snorkeling, diving, water activities and quick access to mainland adventures like exploring Mayan ruins.

When I traveled to Belize, I knew Ambergris Caye is where I wanted to stay. There are plenty of options for accommodations all over the island. I wanted to be a little farther away from the main city, but still with easy access. I wanted a nice pool, beach, and a room with a kitchen, so we didn’t have to eat all our meals out. Once I figured out everything I wanted and my budget, it wasn’t hard to find the perfect hotel!

After visiting Belize, I believe one of the best places to stay on Ambergris Caye is Grand Caribe.

Buildings at Grand Caribe in Ambergris Caye, Belize

Location of Grand Caribe on Ambergris Caye

Grand Caribe is located just outside the main town of San Pedro on Ambergis Caye, Belize. The resort is located 2 miles north of San Pedro. It is easily accessible by a paved road by golf cart (15 minutes) or by taxi (10 minutes).

The best place to stay on Ambergris Caye is the Grand Caribe

How to Get to Grand Caribe

There are quite a few options on how to get to Grand Caribe:

By Airplane
You can take a small plane from Belize City to San Pedro. It is about a 15-minute ride and I highly recommend it! The views are beautiful and it’s a very unique experience to sit on a 14-seater airplane! Once you arrive at the San Pedro Airport, Grand Caribe offers complimentary arrival and departure taxi rides to and from Grand Caribe. Just notify them of your arrival and departure times and they will be there to escort you.
Helicopter Transfer
You can take an even more unique experience to get to Grand Caribe and take a helicopter transfer. Grand Caribe partners with Astrum Helicopters to offer this experience. You can add in a tour of Belize Barrier Reef or the famous Great Blue Hole on your way. Work with the resort to arrange this transfer.
Water Taxi
The most affordable way to get to Grand Caribe is by water taxi. There are regular public water taxis from Belize City. This normally takes 1.5 hours and departs every hour. From the Belize City Airport, you will have to catch a taxi to the water taxi terminal.

Aerial view of Belize and the blue water

Rooms at Grand Caribe

Grand Caribe is a luxury vacation home rental in Ambergris Caye, Belize. The rooms are labeled as condos because they include kitchens, which I liked because then you can cook some meals at home instead of going out for every meal. Some condos are owned by families and others you can rent like a regular hotel room.

Pool at Grand Caribe in Ambergris Caye, Belize

Since this was my husband and my 3rd wedding anniversary trip, I wanted a nice room overlooking the ocean. We went with the One Bedroom Oceanfront room. It was very large with 1000 square feet of living space. There was a kitchen, living area, bedroom, bathroom with tub, a large walk-in closet, and a large balcony overlooking the ocean. I absolutely loved this room! We spent most of our time on the balcony. They also decorated our room for our anniversary. A very special treat!

Master bedroom in a condo at Grand Caribe

There are a lot of different size condos on this property, from studios to 4 bedrooms to villas. This is a perfect resort for families of all sizes. One thing I really liked is that even though there are a lot of different room sizes and it is a larger property, it was still quiet and peaceful.

Amenities at Grand Caribe

Dock – There is a dock on-site for easy transfers to excursions and San Pedro.
Restaurants – Grand Caribe has two restaurants on-site, Rain and Aqua. Rain is a rooftop restaurant and bar. It is the perfect setting for a romantic sunset dinner or drink to end the evening. They have great food! Aqua is an Asian influenced restaurant. We didn’t get to try it but they do have sushi nights! There are also plenty of restaurants within golf cart driving distance of Grand Caribe. Make sure to definitely check out Stella’s Sunset Wine Bar and Restaurant for half off bottles of wine during happy hour!
Spa
Grocery Store – One very convenient piece of Grand Caribe is the onsite grocery store. Before your trip, you can have them stock your fridge with all the food you want, or you can walk down and pick up what you want throughout your vacation. The prices are very reasonable, too.
Golf Cart Rentals
Water Sports Rentals
Gym on site. It is small but has all the necessities, like weights, machines, treadmill, elliptical and bikes.
Beach
Freshwater Pools – There are 6 freshwater pools onsite.

Pool and ocean at Grand Caribe in Ambergris Caye, Belize

Travel Tips for Belize

Make sure to bring bug spray! The mosquitos are vicious in the very early morning and at dusk.
Get a golf cart rental when staying on one of the islands. That is their main mode of transportation.
Bring USD. They widely accept the USD and the exchange rate is very easy. 2:1 (2 Belizian Dollars for 1 USD)

For a full travel guide on visiting Ambergris Caye, Belize, click here.

Walking along the beach at Grand Caribe where to stay on Ambergris Caye

When you are ready to plan and book your vacation to Belize, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com. I am here to help you travel more and stress less!

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Ambergris Caye

November 23, 2019/in Central America

A lot goes into my decision on where to travel. There are only so many days in a year and dollars in the bank account, so when Belize popped onto my radar, I did a lot of research to see if it would be worthy of a visit.

Belize is still a relatively hidden gem. I have been hearing about more people visiting or wanting to visit, but it definitely hasn’t become as popular a travel destination like Costa Rica or Mexico.

After visiting this past October, I have realized that Belize should be on everyone’s travel list, especially if you are a couple that enjoys tropical heaven with plenty of adventure opportunities.

Grand Caribe Ambergris Caye Belize Beach with Palm Trees

If you are thinking about traveling to Belize and staying on Ambergris Caye or planning to in the near future, here are all my thoughts and tips in a guide to visiting Ambergris Caye.

Picking a Spot to Visit in Belize

There are many places to pick from when deciding where to stay when visiting Belize. You can go with a beautiful island like Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker to coastal havens like Placencia to a jungle retreat like Belmopan. With so many options, it can be hard to pick one spot. I am a beach girl through and through, so I knew I wanted to be on the coast or stay on an island. I heard a lot of great things about Ambergris Caye, so I decided that is where I would stay when visiting Belize.

Where is Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye is located on the northeast part of Belize. It is actually so close to Mexico that it looks like you could just hop over the little river dividing Ambergris Caye from Xcalak, Mexico!

Airplane ride from Belize City to Ambergris Caye

How to Get to Ambergris Caye

There are two main ways to get to Ambergris Caye from the mainland of Belize. I chose to take the 15-minute plane ride from Belize City to San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. It is a beautiful ride flying over the crystal clear blue waters and coral reefs. There are two main airlines that fly to and from the island every hour, Maya Island Air and Tropic Air.

The other option is to take the water taxi. This boat ride takes about 75 minutes.

The taxi option is more affordable than the air option, but I highly recommend taking the air route at least once for the views and the experience of flying in a 14 seater plane!

Flight from Belize City to Ambergris Caye on Tropic Air

Views from the plane on the way to Ambergris Caye from Belize City

What to Pack When Traveling to Belize

I learned about some key packing items not to forget after traveling to Belize. Do not forget to pack these items when visiting Ambergris Caye!

Bug Spray. The bugs do not mess around in Belize. Mosquitos will eat you alive, especially in the jungle. But even if you are staying on an island like Ambergris Caye near the water, dusk and nightfall still brings out the mosquitos. Do NOT forget bug spray!
Sunscreen. Like any tropical destination, do not forget sunscreen!
Light and Airy Clothes. Belize is hot and humid day and night. The less clothes you wear and the lighter weight they are, the better.
Swimsuits. You’re in a tropical paradise with amazing beautiful blue water. Bring all the swimsuits!
Water Shoes or Hiking Shoes. A lot of the mainland excursions include some hiking and wading through streams or cave floating. Having proper shoes will go a long way if you plan on doing some excursions.
Go Pro. If you are a snorkeler or diver, do not forget your underwater camera. Belize has the best snorkeling I have ever done. The reef is the healthiest in the world and the amount of underwater life you see is unreal!

Where to Stay on Ambergris Caye

There are many accommodations to choose from when visiting Ambergris Caye. When I visited, I knew I wanted a small kitchen option to be able to make breakfasts and lunches and not have to eat out all the time. I chose Grand Caribe. This resort has more of a condo feel with full kitchens in their rooms. There is a large variety of room types from studio space to 5-bedrooms. There are six pools, a swim-up bar, plenty of water activities, grocery store on-site, and a dock. It is a great resort for families and couples!

Where to Eat on Ambergris Caye

There are a lot of really good places to eat on Ambergris Caye. If you want delicious food at restaurants where the locals eat, stay off the beachfront areas. Most of the authentic, local cuisine is found in the heart of San Pedro away from the tourist spots.

Here are three of my favorite restaurants on Ambergris Caye.

1. Neri’s Tacos

One of the locals recommended Neri’s Tacos to us for breakfast. It is located in San Pedro and is basically a hole in the wall shack. It was the best breakfast we had on the island! And it was cheap. We got a burrito, 5 tacos, two freshly squeezed watermelon juices, and a veggie fry jack all for $10 USD. I highly recommend stopping here at least once during your visit to Ambergris Caye for some delicious authentic Belizean food!

2. Stella’s Sunset Wine Bar & Restaurant

This restaurant is very close to Grand Caribe and was our first dinner stop. We loved it so much we went back a second time. It is located on the western side of the island and has amazing sunsets. They have half-off bottles of wine during happy hour and live music on Fridays. Besides the bugs (remember bug spray! If you don’t, they have some you can use.), this was the perfect evening spot to hang out, drink some good wine, eat great food and relax.

3. The Hungry Grouper

The Hungry Group was another recommendation from a local. It is located in San Pedro. I’m pretty sure the chef is the guy who runs the place and takes your order. Very small place (maybe 5 tables) and a very cozy vibe. The menu is extensive, but we asked for the owner’s recommendation and he whipped us up his best ideas for that day. Very personalized service and delicious food.

What to Do on Ambergris Caye

There are many things to do while on Ambergris Caye, including all the beach and water activities to exploring beautiful local art. Here are some of my favorite things to do on Ambergris Caye:

Relax on the beach or by the pool.

Shop in San Pedro.

Belize Chocolate Company Boutique on Ambergris Caye

Tour Art Galleries.
Visit Secret Beach. (Not so secret anymore… If you want a party vibe and have a few drinks while cooling down in the ocean, check out Secret Beach.)

Scuba the Famous Blue Hole
We snorkeled Blue Hole. It was fun but scuba diving would have been way better. On the way back from Blue Hole, we snorkeled Half Moon Caye, which was amazing! And we stopped for lunch on the island. This portion made the 4 hour round trip boat ride worth it. If you get motion or seasick, I wouldn’t recommend this activity.

Snorkel Hol Chan, Shark Alley, and Mexico Rocks
I snorkeled Mexico Rocks and it was THE best snorkeling I have ever done. While snorkeling, I saw stingrays, eagle rays, starfish, pufferfish, lobsters, sharks, lionfish and so much more! If you could only choose one location to snorkel, I would highly recommend snorkeling Mexico Rocks.
Visit the Mayan Ruins on the Mainland – La m anai Mayan Ruins
I toured the Lamanai Mayan Ruins. There are plenty to choose from but this one included an hour boat ride to the Lamanai Mayan Ruins. I saw manatees, birds, iguana and a lot of wildlife. It was so calm and peaceful. A great start to the Lamanai Mayan Ruins.

Belize is a beautiful and fun country. The locals are so kind and I felt safe the entire time I was there. I was really glad I stayed on Ambergris Caye! Make sure to add Belize and Ambergris Caye to your travel list, you won’t regret it. You better Belize it!

If you need help planning and booking your Belize vacation, email hello@thekeystotravel.com.

A travel guide to Ambergris Caye, Belize

How to Spend a Layover in London

November 10, 2019/in Europe

Just going through my photos and the sites we saw on our overnight layover in London has me itching to go back. When my husband and I went to Italy, there was a direct flight to Paris and London from Denver. It was cheaper (and easier) to take these direct flights to get to Europe and then take small local airlines to get to Italy. Having the opportunity to see two new cities was a no brainer.

On our way home from Italy, we flew from Naples to London. We landed at Gatwick Airport around noon and didn’t leave for Denver until the next morning. If you are going to plan to explore London on a layover, add in at least 2 hours for customs. We didn’t get to our hotel to check in until 3pm, and our hotel was literally across the street from the airport. The customs line at Gatwick Airport is no joke. But an entire afternoon and evening in London was enough to make me realize I need to get back and spend at least a week in this wonderful city!

If you have a layover in London or a day to explore London, here is a travel guide to optimize your time.

Stay at Premier Inn London Gatwick Airport when you have a layover in London

This was one of the most convenient hotels I have stayed at. It is a five-minute walk from inside Gatwick Airport to the lobby of the Premier Inn. The train to get into the heart of London is right at the airport, so transportation is a breeze. Also, when we had an early flight home the next day, we didn’t have to add in time to get a cab to the airport, since we were literally right there. It was a very affordable hotel, comfortable, and clean. I would highly recommend staying here if you have an overnight layover in London or if you need to catch an early flight out of Gatwick.

** If you are flying into Heathrow Airport, the time table, hotel, and train options will be completely different. **

Train – Gatwick Express to Victoria Station

Once you drop all your luggage off at your hotel room, jump on the train from Gatwick Airport to Victoria Station. It is about a 30-minute ride.

St. James Park

When you get off the train, first stop in St. James Park. This park is so beautiful and big! It has 58 acres to explore with views of Buckingham Palace all the way to the London Eye. I wish we had more time to walk around. I could have spent a day walking around just enjoying the flowers, lake, and views.

Buckingham Palace

You can’t stop in London and not see Buckingham Palace. If you can get lucky and visit at the right time, you can explore inside. In the summer and on specific dates throughout the year, visitors are allowed to see the States Rooms inside Buckingham Palace.

Big Ben

Next stop, Big Ben. Unfortunately, we had no idea we were at Big Ben the first ten minutes we were there because the tower was under construction and was barely recognizable. Next time I go, hopefully, Big Ben will be visible! Fun Fact: Big Ben used to be named the Great Bell!

London Eye

On the walk to Big Ben, you can see the London Eye. If you have time, taking a ride would be a fun way to see the entire city. If you want another 360 view of the city, head to the Sky Garden. Keep reading for details on that!

Red Telephone Box

You can’t visit London and not take a photo of or in a famous London red telephone box. They are all over the city, so make sure to stop at one and play super tourist for a second!

Train to Prosecco House

I honestly couldn’t tell you which train to take to get to the rest of the trip. Yes, the London Underground is very confusing, but there are people to help! We made it around the city without too many problems. It is a fun adventure figuring everything out.

Prosecco House

My husband is my hero. If you know me at all, you know Prosecco is my drink of choice. He didn’t plan too much for our trip to London, Italy, and Paris because I kind of take over…. Ok I really take over! But he did find the Prosecco House that had just recently opened in London. If we could have done one thing in London, it would have been visiting the Prosecco House.

The Prosecco House is right by the Tower Bridge, so it conveniently fell along our walking route. We got to try different types of Prosecco. I discovered I like dryer Prosecco and my husband likes sweeter Prosecco. Make sure to add this to your stop when you have a layover in London or are visiting London for a longer period of time.

Tower Bridge

From the Prosecco House, you can see the Tower Bridge. This is one of London’s most famous bridges and one you would recognize from movies and photos. To get to the Sky Garden, you get to cross the famous Tower Bridge. You can also go inside if time allows. Tickets can be purchased on site.

Tower of London

Continuing on your walk to the Sky Garden you will pass by the Tower of London. The Tower of London is a 1000-year-old castle right in the heart of London. This is when London started to really confuse me. It is like they combined a futuristic city with an old medieval city all in one. I think this is another reason I love London. You get the incredible forward-thinking mentality of present-day plus all the history wrapped up in one beautiful location.

Sky Garden

This was a great find that my husband stumbled across when doing some research. The Sky Garden is one of the tallest buildings in London and it is a public garden! You can see the entire city from the Sky Garden with 360-degree views. It is incredible! You need a ticket to get up, but the tickets are free. There is a bar inside and a live band almost always playing. It is a great place to hang out and relax after walking around the entire city.

We decided to enjoy dinner while visiting the Sky Garden. We made reservations WAY in advance at the Darwin Brasserie. It is one floor above the Sky Garden. The food is delicious, isn’t too pricey, and again, the views cannot be beaten. If you want to have a meal at one of the few restaurants here, I would highly recommend making a reservation. Some days were booked solid months in advance.

Train Back to Gatwick Airport

After a fun-filled day exploring London by foot and train, from street level to 36 floors above, take the train back to your hotel at Gatwick Airport. We risked it and took the last train back, which they canceled and somehow we made our way back. Luckily, you may find some amazingly friendly locals who are willing to help you get back! We would have never gotten back if it weren’t for them. They ran us all over the train station and from train to train to help us find our way to our hotel. Thank you, kind strangers!

London stole my heart in just 8 quick hours. With easy direct flights on Norwegian Air from Denver to London, I will be back!

If you need help booking your trip to London, email me at hello@thekeystotravel.com.

Favorite Things To Do in Colorado to Celebrate Halloween

October 31, 2019/in United States

Fall is my all-time favorite season. It is the start of cooler weather (but not cold), beautiful colorful trees, and weeks of holiday celebrations. After moving to Colorado, I realized fall weather and fall colors can last for more than a day! And with that, means more time to celebrate Halloween.

I recently wrote a blog sharing some haunted hot spots in Colorado for a friend whose blog is all about Halloween. Her blog is called Spooky Little Halloween and you can read the post he re. If you need any Halloween inspiration throughout the entire year, this should be your go-to blog.

If you’re like me and are less inclined to the scary side of Halloween, here are a few ideas of

Non-scary things to do in Colorado to celebrate Halloween.

Pumpkin Nights

Pumpkin Nights is a half-mile walk through different scenes, like a pirate’s cove and a forbidden pumpkin city. Each scene is filled with hand-carved real and artificial pumpkins designed and built by local artists. While on your walk you can enjoy snacks and beverages, including adult beverages. I went with a group of friends, and it was a night filled with Halloween fun without all the Halloween terror.

Boo at the Zoo

This event is especially good for the little ones. The Denver Zoo opens its doors during the day for families to come and enjoy trick-or-treating, entertainment, and zoo fun. It is a unique and fun way to experience the zoo for the whole family.

Glow at the Gardens

One of my favorite winter activities is walking through the Botanic Gardens when they set up their Blossoms of Light show. They now have a similar experience for Halloween, but with pumpkins! A little different than Pumpkin Nights, they use all real carved pumpkins to light up the Gardens. There are elaborate locally carved pumpkins and sculptures spread out throughout the Denver Botanic Gardens. There is also trick-or-treating, fire performances, pumpkin carving demonstrations, and glow-in-the-dark games. Costumes are highly recommended. This is a very popular event and sells out fast!

Pumpkin Festival

The Chatfield Botanic Gardens hosts a Pumpkin Festival every year. It is more than just a place to pick out your pumpkins in a pumpkin patch, though. There is an antique tractor exhibit, pony rides, photo booths, food, beer stations, and a corn maze. It is the perfect event to attend to get you in the fall spirit.

Husband and wife with pumpkins in a pumpkin patch at Chatfield Botanic Gardens in Denver

If you are looking for some scarier activities to do in Colorado to celebrate Halloween, head to Spooky Little Halloween. What are your favorite Halloween traditions?

5 Perfect Places for a Halloween Vacation

October 1, 2019/in United States

Travelers, I am so excited to be sharing this guest blog post with you by Miranda Enzor with the blog Spooky Little Halloween! I virtually met Miranda through a blogger group I’m a part of. When I learned about her blog and how it revolves around Halloween every day of the year, I had to get to know her more. She was willing to share some of the greatest places to visit for Halloween with us. I hope you all enjoy her 5 perfect places for a Halloween vacation!

By: Miranda Enzor, Spooky Little Halloween

When you think of holiday travel, I’m willing to bet my candy corn Halloween is the last holiday that comes to mind. You’re more likely to think of that fantastic Christmas vacation your family took as a kid or the spring break you spent with friends on a beach, right?

But I bet you’re also not thinking about the thing holidays and traveling have in common: they’re a great way to make memories that last a lifetime.

Both are a way to mark the passing of time, spend time with important people in my life and have experiences together that I’ll always remember.

Plus, traveling during Halloween season (September/October) is a chance to travel in the off-season, as Sarah talks about in this blog post. You’re missing the crowds, spending less on hotels and flights and getting a chance to see more! So why not combine them? Today we’re going to do just that as I share

5 perfect places for a Halloween vacation across the U.S. and the world.

1. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Disneyland and Disney World

Celebrate Halloween in the House of the Mouse! Both Disneyland and Disney World are known for going big when it comes to the spooky season with Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Both parks transform overnight into a pumpkin wonderland. The nightly parade takes on a haunted look, new spooky treats pop up in all the restaurants and one-of-a-kind Halloween merch goes on the shelves of park shops. Plus, this is one of the few chances you have to wear a true costume in the park! Learn more about the Disneyland celebration and the Disney World celebration.

Perfect Places for a Halloween Vacation Disney Not So Spooky Halloween

2. Salem, MA

There is no spookier spot in the United States for Halloween than Witch City itself! Salem’s Haunted Happenings takes place all October and includes something for everyone, from a witch’s market and family movie night to parades, trolley tours and even great restaurants that embrace “eat, drink and be scary”.

Plus, Salem is in the heart of historic New England. Of course, you can explore spots important to the Salem Witch Trials, but the city also has a rich history in maritime, American literature, and is home to the Peabody, one of the fastest-growing museums in the country. Learn more about Salem.

3. Sleepy Hollow, NY

Sleepy Hollow is just a quick train ride north of New York City and a spot that comes alive in the fall. It is home to Washington Irving’s classic, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow”. Stop by the city cemetery for a peek at his grave, a walking tour of a cemetery full of notable American names, like Rockefeller and Carnegie, or even one of their special events.

Wander the city’s sleepy downtown area for local shops and restaurants (the Bridge View Tavern is a personal fave), then stop by the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze for a Halloween experience you’ll never forget.

4. The Stanley Hotel

Here’s one right in Sarah’s backyard! The Stanley Hotel is famous for inspiring The Overlook in Stephen King’s “The Shining”. It sits at the foot of the Rockies just outside Estes Park in Colorado and quietly embraces its connection to one of the most infamous stories in horror. In addition to offering night tours that share the hotel’s paranormal history, The Stanley also hosts The Shining Ball AND a masquerade ball each October. It’s the perfect spot to spend a night or two anytime in October.

5. Bran Castle

Looking to go international with your spooky travels? Bran Castle near Brasov, Romania in the region of Transylvania is one that’s on my bucket list because it’s also known as Dracula’s Castle. Why? Because the 1970s communist government of Romania thought it’d be a great marketing tool for their country!

And it’s one that worked. While the castle was once home to Vlad the Impaler – a blood-thirsty ruler who earned his nickname for his penchant for impaling enemies and criminals, which one could argue is downright vampiric – there is no direct connection between Vlad and the castle and Bram Stoker’s novel, “Dracula”. The vampire myth, however, stemmed from Romanian folklore well before the book was written, and over the years the two have merged together.

To this day, the castle isn’t one to miss out on the fun and hosts an annual Halloween party.

Perfect Places for a Halloween Vacation Bran Castle in Romania

No matter where you go, there is no wrong way to celebrate October 31st – Happy Halloween!

Miranda Enzor is the writer, blogger and Halloween lover behind SpookyLittleHalloween.com, the blog celebrating October 31st all year long. Halloween has been one of her favorite holidays to celebrate for as long as she can remember. These days she keeps her love of the spooky season alive by hosting her annual party, Halloweenie Roast, carving as many jack-o-lanterns and possible and, of course, writing her blog.

The Best Places to See the Fall Colors in Colorado

The Best Drives to See Fall Colors in Colorado

September 25, 2019/in United States

Fall is my all time favorite season and having lived in Colorado for 5 years now, I love it even more. First off, you can actually enjoy a long fall here in Colorado. Temperatures stay relatively warm until November, so you can enjoy being outside! Second, the amount of Aspen trees turning yellow throughout the state are in the millions (or so it seems). I feel like every year I’m discovering a new favorite spot to view the fall leaves.

If you are looking to see the fall colors in Colorado, there are plenty of options that are easy day drives from Denver all the way to weekend long adventures.

Here are my top favorite places to see fall colors in Colorado.

Breckenridge

Guanella Pass is a 22 mile paved road that leads you from Georgetown, Colorado to Grant Colorado. You get beautiful views of Mount Bierstadt Mount Evans, two famous Colorado 14ers, as well as incredible fall foliage.

Red and yellow aspen leaves along Guanella Pass in Colorado — Photo by Justin Key Photography

Guanella Pass fall colors with mountain in the background — Photo by Justin Key Photography

Boreas Pass is a 22 mile gravel road that brings you from US Highway 285 to Breckenridge, Colorado.

One year, I took a “sick” day from my full time job and drove up to Boreas Pass. It was so worth it! Having basically the whole road to myself made for easy leaf viewing, and I could go at my own pace and get some really great photos. These roads get super busy on the weekends, so if you can take some time off during the week to take a drive, I would recommend doing that.

Crested Butte

If I could have a second home in the mountains, it would be in Crested Butte. Crested Butte is my favorite mountain town, no matter what season it is. But fall is a magical time to be in Crested Butte. There are so many roads, passes, and trails you can explore to see the fall leaves. And since it is about a 4 hour drive from Denver, it doesn’t get as busy as places like Breckenridge.

Ohio Creek Pass is an 11 mile gravel road road that connects to Kebler Pass. Along this drive I saw some orange leaves mixed in with the traditional yellow of the aspens.

White Aspens with Yellow leaves and blue sky

Kebler Pass connects Crested Butte with Highway 133 near Somerset, Colorado. It is a 33 mile gravel road that passes through Gunnison National Forest. The amount of times I stopped to take photos and explore made this 2 hour a drive a full day adventure! This may be my favorite drive near Crested Butte.

Girl walking on a fallen aspen tree in the woods during fall

Goldendoodle Dog among yellow aspen leaves

Kebler Pass during fall colors in Colorado

Washington Gulch Road is a dirt road that heads to the mountains right from Main Street in Crested Butte. I didn’t drive too much of this road, but have driven to Horse Ranch Park Loop multiple times and the hike has incredible views with gorgeous aspen groves. It is a 6 mile roundtrip trail.

Aspen

Independence Pass is the scenic way to get from Denver to Aspen. It’s a beautiful highway winding through the mountains full of aspen trees. There aren’t too many places to pull off and take in the scenery, so make sure to be safe. If you do pull off, pull off far enough for cars to pass by!

Lake and old house with fall colored leaves along Independence Pass — Photo by Justin Key Photography

Independence Pass during Fall in Colorado — Photo by Justin Key Photography

The Most Memorable Things To Do in Olympic National Park

September 4, 2019/in United States

If you are heading to Olympic National Park for the first time, the thought of all you can do can be overwhelming. Depending on what season you go, you can hike, swim, camp, fish, snowshoe and so much more. When I visited Olympic National Park for the first time, it was late spring and I only had a few short days, so I couldn’t do it all! Here are my thoughts on the most memorable things to do in Olympic National Park. I would love to hear what you think after you visit!

Hiking Trails in Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is not short on hiking trails. They range from short distances to day long or weekend long hikes. Pick and choose which one fits your hiking preferences and explore! We chose to do the Hoh River Trail (just part of it, since it is 17.5 miles long, one way!) and the Hall of Mosses. Both trails were so vibrant lush with all shades of green I wondered if I was back in Ireland!

Hall of Mosses

The Hall of Mosses Trail is part of the Hoh Rain Forest and is 0.8 miles long. This is a quick beautiful walk through an actual rain forest! I couldn’t believe how tall the trees were and how green and luscious everything looked. Make sure to remember your raincoat. I never knew if it was actually raining or if I was just getting wet from the moisture filled air. When it was raining, I never got too drenched because the trees are a great umbrella for protection.

Girl hiking in the trees on the Hall of Mosses hike in Olympic National Park

Girl looking at trees in the Hall of Mosses

Hoh River Trail

The Hoh River Trail is also a part of the Hoh Rain Forest. This trail is 17.5 miles long one way! We only walked and explored a little ways and then turned around. It was just as beautiful as the Hall of Mosses, but a bit more strenuous. We went on a Saturday and still only saw one other couple on the trail. It’s very secluded and serene. It’s a great trail to get out in nature, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and just be.

Things to Do in Olympic National Park Hoh River Trail girl hiking

The Coast at Olympic National Park

One of the most memorable things to do in Olympic National Park for me was walking the coast at low tide. This could be because I love the ocean and the calm it brings my soul when I’m near the tide or it could be all the starfish we got to see! Make sure you check the time of low tide and go to Kalaloch Beach during this time. Just look at all we got to see!

Purple Starfish at Low Tide at Olympic National Park

Things to Do in Olympic National Park Orange Starfish at low tide at Olympic National Park

While you are here, see if you can find this tree that is basically just hanging in thin air. Some call it the ‘Tree of Life’ and some call it ‘Tree Root Cave’. Whatever it’s official name is, make sure to explore this area and underneath the tree. Technically, the tree shouldn’t be alive with its roots so exposed to the coastal weather, but hey, sometimes we just keep fighting!

Floating Tree in Olympic National Park Beach

Also, the walk down to the beaches (like the photo below on the left) at Olympic National Park are a site to see themselves! There is no shortage of beauty in this park, that is for sure.

Girl walking up from the beach at Olympic national Park

What things do you love to do in Olympic National Park that I missed? I will definitely be getting back here one day!