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When people think of visiting Spain, they often think of major cities such as Barcelona and Madrid. However, we invite you to the port town of Bilbao and then Spanish Basque Country side of San Sebastián. HOW TO GET THERE Bilbao is a port town located along the Bay of Biscay which connects to the Atlantic Ocean. That said, many cruise ships will stop in Bilbao. Additionally, Bilbao has an airport that you can fly into directly. And like any good European city, you can take a train or bus directly into the city center. ITINERARY Day 1: Explore Bilbao Spend the day at the Guggeheim Museum Wander around Casco Viejo (Old Quarter) Stroll through the parks Your 3-day itinerary in Basque Country, Spain, begins in Bilbao. Bilbao is a port town located on the Bay of Biscay. Bilbao is most known as the home of the world-famous Guggeheim Museum . The city is home to thousands of residents and a sprawling city-scene. Spend your day wandering around the Casco Viejo (Old Quarter) and the parks throughout the city. Day 2: Travel to San Sebastian Take the bus from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian Spend time at Playa de la Concha Explore Old Town San Sebastian To start off day 2, take the train from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian. The ride is only about 1.5hrs and costs less than $10USD. Upon arriving to San Sebastian you will be greeted by a 1,300m sandy beach and promenade, the Playa de la Concha. Visitors can spend the day enjoying the restaurants alongside the promenade, or relaxing on the beach. From all points you will see Mount Urgull on one side and Mount Igeldo on the other - these points not only create a beautiful back drop, but help to keep the water calm for beach goers to safely swim, kayak, and paddle board in the Bay of Biscay. End your day by exploring Old Town area which is known for its restaurants and lively nightlife. Day 3: Winery & Head Home Take a tour of the Bodegas Ysios (Ysios Winery) Take the bus from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao For starters, the Spanish Basque Countryside is known for its wine and there are so many wine trails, 28 to be exact. With a quick google search you can find the Txakoli Route, the Ribeiro Wine Route, Ribera del Duero Wine Route, Ribera del Guadiana Wine Route, Rioja Alta Wine Route, Rioja Oriental Wine Route, Rueda Wine Route... the list goes on and on. During my time, I explored the Alta Wine Route and ended up at the absolutely magnificent Bodegas Ysios (Ysios Winery). With a modern, bold design the building poses a juxtaposition against the elegant mountain backdrop that will leave you speechless. As you make your way through the walkway you will be surrounded on all sides by rows of grapes used in their wines. At the winery, you’re able to partake in tastings and tours of the vineyard. After a full day there, it's time to head back to Bilbao via the Donostia-San Sebastian bus route. CLOSING THOUGHTS I had a great time in San Sebastian and Bilbao! Prior to visiting, I didn't do too much research (which I now regret), but it was such a pleasant surprise. Unlike other major cities in Spain, it's not highly talked about. After visiting and experiencing the more vacation-like towns, I would definitely go back.

Monaco is known for being the playground of the rich. A small country located in between France and Italy along the French Riviera, Monaco is home to the ultra-famous Monte Carlo Casino and store fronts to designs such as Goyard, Van Cleef, Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Alexander McQueen, and so many more. Does this scream "luxury" to you or what? HOW TO GET THERE You can fly directly into Monaco, but it's an easy day trip from the French Riviera. Or it's a great day trip from Nice, France, it's a less than $5 USD train ride that takes 30 minutes! Expanding out along the French Rivieria, it still proves to be a close, quick day trip. We bought our tickets right at Nice-Ville train station, but you can also buy your tickets online through Rail Europe. WHAT TO DO ARRIVING IN MONACO You can fly directly into Monaco, but it's an easy day trip from the French Riviera. Or it's a great day trip from Nice, France, it's a less than $5 USD train ride that takes 30 minutes! Expanding out along the French Rivieria, it still proves to be a close, quick day trip. We bought our tickets right at Nice-Ville train station, but you can also buy your tickets online through Rail Europe. Departing from the Nice-Ville Train Station. MONTE CARLO CASINO The Monte Carlo Casino is one of the main attractions of Monaco. Gaining its popularity from the James Bond films, the Monte Carlo Casino is said to be one of the most popular casino in the world. The casino opened in 1863 and currently is open daily for both gambling and tours. The casino offers both tables and slot machines. Entry to lobby, but you need to pay a fee to get on the floor. Outside across the street is the Casino Gardens, if you're looking to get a great picture of the casino check out this spot. The world famous Monte Carlo Casino (...with some unfortunate construction). STROLL THE STREETS OF PORT HERCULES Walking down from the Monte Carlo Casino and heading toward the Port Hercules area you willc continue to pass luxurious designer shops. Whether window shopping or real shopping the walk is enjoyable. To your left, you'll also have great views of the yachts pulled into the port area. Ultimately we landed on having lunch at the Italian restaurant Bella Vita. Wandering the streets of Port Herculues. WALK TO THE SAINT MARTIN GARDENS From the base of Port Hercules there are stairs leading to a panoramic view of Monaco. If you head up the stairs it'll lead you to a view of the entire port area. At the top of the hike you will also reach the Saint Martin Gardens. Panoramic view of Monaco City - no bad views from up here! TAKE THE TRAIN BACK TO NICE After a long day of wandering Monaco City, we took the quick train ride back to Nice and called it a day. Departing from the Monaco City train station. CLOSING THOUGHTS Monaco was a great day trip from Nice. Given how small it was, we felt we could gain an understanding of the area in a short period of time. If you're a luxury lover this is the spot for you. Contrary to popular opinion, Monaco is not high on our list of places to return to. It's great if it's convenient, but we would (personally) have a challenging time making a full trip out of Monaco alone.

If you're unsure what to do in Paris the Paris Museum Pass is a good place to start. With access to over 50 museums and monuments visiting a few will fill up your day. The pass can be bought in advance and saved to an app on your phone for easy planning. Another great thing about the Paris Museum Pass is that it offer a choice of 3 passes: 2 days, 4 days, or 6 days allowing you to be flexible with your plans. WHERE TO START? However, once you get it, where do you start? What should you do? During our time in Paris, we tried to reach way more sites than we were able to comfortably managed. We'd recommend picking 2-3 spots per day, max, to visit. Take note of where they are located in Paris as the city is quite large. And, don't stress out if you purchase the pass and don't do everything on there! OUR RECOMMENDATIONS 1. MUSÉE D'ORSAY Originally a railway station, the Musée d'Orsay was hands down our favorite spot in Paris. With art from world renown artists like Van Gough and Monet, this museum is a must see. It's not as popular as other sites in Paris which is also a bonus. However, you should be aware the lines are quite long. Having the Paris Museum Pass saved us nearly an hour of waiting in line. If you plan to visit the Musée d'Orsay, this pass is a huge help to save time entering the exhibit. Left to Right: Statues on the main floor, Monet's Water Lillies, Musée d'Orsay clock 2. ARC DE TRIOMPHE The Arc de Triomphe is a large monument that was built to commemorate French's victory in various battles. As you get closer to the structure, stay alert to the carvings in the stone. The intricate pictures tell a story of each wars struggle and accomplishment. The Arc de Triomphe was built to remind those soldiers returning from war of their bravery and pride they should have in their country, and themselves. Prior to visiting, I primarily knew this site for the iconic arch, but being there and learning about the history was very neat. The view standing underneath the Arc d'triomphe. Such elaborate detail. 3. MUSÉE DU LOUVRE The Louvre!!!! Truly an icon. This museum not only contains art work, but is a piece of art itself. The grounds are expansive with many intricately built buildings and gardens that extend at the entrance, the Louvre has a profound presence in the city. When making your way around the Louvre there are guides you can purchase and wear to learn more about the history. Or, log into the free wifi and navigate the the Musée du Louvre official website and they have guides that you can read and follow along as you walk through the exhibits. Of course the famous Mona Lisa is at the Louvre, but don't bypass all of the other amazing works of art on the way. And, like any good tourist attraction, be prepared for mass chaos when you reach the Mona Lisa. The Pyramid outside of the Museum - visitors here to reach the exhibits. 4. MUSÉE DU QUAI BRANLY The Musée du Quai Branly is known for its large collection of artwork originating in Africa, Asia, Oceanica, and the Americas which provide a look into the cultural history during from the Neolithic period to the 20th Century. This represents over 20,000 years of history. From the museum you can clearly see the Eiffel Tower from the back gardens and even the rooftop. On the roof top is a fine dining restaurant, Les Ombres. There you can order a multi-course meal from a preselected menu and enjoy unobstructed rooftop views of the Eiffel Tower. Stunning views of the Eiffel Tower from Les Ombres. 5. SAINTE-CHAPELLE Saint-Chapelle is a Gothic style royal chapel that was apart of the homes of the Kings of France until the 14th century. Most known for its intricate stained glass windows, visitors should take note of the details of each window as they portray over 1,000 scenes from the Old and New Testament. The museum pass will get you in the chapel, but there are other passes that you can bypass the line. If you're short on time, we may recommend you look into that option as well. Sainte-Chapelle can easily be recognized by the spire atop the church which is 108ft (33m) high. CLOSING THOUGHTS These were only 5 spots of the over 50 monuments and sites - this list is not all encompassing, but these were our favorites! At the end of the day we'd get the pass again for the convenience factor and the ability to hop in and out of places that spark your interest while you're there. This post contains affiliate links! If you purchase directly from a sponsored site, we may receive a portion of the profits. Thank you for your support to keep this blog running!

Salt Lake City and Park City are an outdoor lover's vacation getaway. With hundreds of trails for hiking and skiing, there are endless opportunities to get outside. Offering year-round activities, both cities can be visited throughout the year, but high season is over the winter for peak ski season. During a trip to either city you'd be remiss to skip on the other - when planning make time for both. Be prepared for a cool mountain vibe with a lively food and bar scene. ↓ Check out these Park City Travel Guides & Salt Lake City Travel Guides. ↓ HOW TO GET THERE Visitors can fly into Salt Lake City International Airport then rent a vehicle from the onsite car rental companies. From there you can drive to downtown Salt Lake, or about 30 minutes east to Park City. There are also ride share services located in the area that you can use if you choose not to rent a car, however we'd advise renting a car for this trip for maximum flexibility. TIPS FOR VISITING Don't feel obligated to stay at the base of a ski resort or right downtown. Within 10-15minutes of Park City there are plenty of hotels and Airbnb's that will still be within the vicinity and may provide a better housing situation. Within Park City there is a free mass transit system that visitors can use. It can take you throughout downtown and to a select few near by resorts. Routes of the Park City Transit System WHERE TO STAY We'd recommend staying in Park City - the area felt more like a true vacation town filled with activity and relaxation. There are various ski-in/ski-out resorts for visitors to stay at. One upscale, popular resort is The Montage Deer Valley. It is a luxury resort located alongside the mountains with upscale restaurants and great views. Located only 5-10 minutes from downtown Park City, hotel guests are close to many popular spots. We chose to stay at the Westgate Park City Resort & Spa. The resort consists of various buildings and amenities such as restaurants, pools, and spas. At the base of the resort is mini golf course and ski lifts to take you up into the mountains. It is located about 10-15 minutes north of downtown Park City, but there are still plenty of places to eat and things to do in the area. WHAT TO DO Park City Boneyard Saloon Park City - A restaurant located on the out skirts of downtown Park City, but still close to many mountains and resorts. This bar-styled restaurant offers American foods in a relaxed atmosphere. There is ample parking and seating here making it nice for an easy dinner. The Eating Establishment - Situated alongside Main Street in Park City, this restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating. It's located in the heart of the town and fills up quickly around breakfast time. Five 5eeds - A popular breakfast spot located in Park City, but not in downtown. Oddly enough, it's located in a strip plaza. This restaurant fills up very quickly and typically has a long wait time. High West Saloon - An old style saloon, most famously known for their branded bourbon. Stop by to grab a bourbon flight or a bourbon inspired cocktail. This is a great spot to feel those old western vibes and grab a nice drink. Park City Mountain Resort - This is one of the largest resorts in the country with over 500 acres and 330 trails. During the wintertime, visitors can buy a lift pass to go skiing for the day. In the off season, visitors can enjoy the mountain by taking the lift, riding the mountain coaster, or heading down the alpine slide. RIME | Steak. & Seafood - Located atop the St. Regis Deer Valley resort, RIME offers mountain side views and delicious meals. Specializing in steak and seafood, guests can enjoy an upscale dinner with a bottle of wine while overlooking scenery. Guests can make reservations online for this restaurant. Riverhorse on Main - A highly regarded popular lunch and dinner spot located in downtown Park City. The menu specializes in American food and wines. This establishment does not take reservations. Rocky Mountain Chocolate - In the heart of downtown Park City lies a store with lines out the door and down the street, and that store is Rocky Mountain Chocolate. It's always busy, but the lines move quickly, stop in for an ice cream cone or traditional chocolate treat. Salt Lake City Bewilder - A bar with a relaxed atmosphere and great beer. Stop in for a quick pint and a game of darts. Recommended beer: Orange Honey Wheat (wheat beer) Fisher Brewing Company - A large bar with an extensive draft list, Fisher Brewing Company notoriously has rotating food trucks located just outside. Recommended beer: Cerveza (American lager) Proper Brewing Company - If the trendy beer labels don't bring you in alone, know that Proper Brewing Company has great beer and good vibes. Recommended beer: Lake Effect Gose (sour traditional gose) Red Rock Brewing Co - A brewery with a restaurant feel, Red Rock Brewing Co offers a thorough food list and plenty of indoor/outdoor seating. Squatters - Located in down town Salt Lake, Squatters offers a local vibe and a wide variety of lagers. Recommended beer: Hell's Keep (Belgian strong golden ale) Whiskey Street - A trendy cocktail bar located in a busy area of downtown Salt Lake City, Whiskey Street is the perfect spot to grab a nice drink. Nearby Antelope Island State Park - About an hour north of Salt Lake City lies Antelope Island State Park. Located on Great Salt Lake, visitors can take a quick day trip to explore the wildlife this park provides. The entrance fee ranges per entry type, but general admission is $15 for the day. Visitors are able to camp in the park. Many, many Buffalo roam Antelope Island State Park. Deer Creek State Park - Surrounded by mountains on all sides, Deer Creek State Park is located in a valley with an almost 3,000 acre all-sports reservoir. Visitors can windsurf, boat, kayak, zip line, swim, and fish in the waters. There are also beaches to relax and hiking trails to explore for alternative options. Camping is available. Additional details and fees are located on the state park website. Stewart's Cascades/Stewart Falls - About an hour south of Salt Lake City on the outskirts of Provo, there are plenty of hiking trails for visitors to explore. Stewart's Cascades/Stewart Falls is a 2 mile roundtrip, moderate hike to 200 ft waterfalls. The trail is unpaved, but clear, and does require going uphill. In total, the route can take around 1-1.5 hours. Amazing views during this hike! Bonus pic of a nearby lake on our drive back to Park City. Sundance Mountain Resort - Home to the annual Sundance Film Festival, the Sundance Mountain Resort is located an hour south of Salt Lake City (near Stewart Falls). Take a drive through the mountains and you'll end up at the resort. In addition to stay, the resort has restaurants, a spa, and plenty of ski and hiking opportunities. Provo - Most famous as the city where Brigham Young University is located, Provo is a 45 minute drive south of Salt Lake City. A quiet college town, this area has restaurants along small streets and BYU to drive through. During the college school year, swing down to BYU to catch an athletic event. CLOSING THOUGHTS Salt Lake City and Park City were great- both cities exceeded our expectations. Salt Lake City felt like a major city with small town vibes. We enjoyed taking an electric scooter around the city to see the various sites as well as brewery hop. At the time there was a brewery pass the city was offering which gave us discounted food and beer. Park City offered a nice downtown area with great shopping and restaurants. Otherwise, no matter where you went in the city, it felt like you were fully embracing the outdoors. The area can be enjoyed in all seasons and there is more than enough to do!

Paris, France!!! One of the most popular cities to visit in the world. Known for its history, architecture, arts, and of course, the city of romance, Paris is on many travelers bucket list. ↓ Check out this Travel Guide to Paris, France ↓ HOW TO GET THERE The most popular method to arrive to Paris is by plane through the Charles de Gaulle Airport. The airport is located about a 45min car ride from the airport to the heart of the city center. There are also trains and buses that visitors can use to get to their destination. If you're traveling within Europe, the train network is highly robust and reliable when moving from one place to the next. The Gare du Nord is the most popular train station to arrive into. However, there are 6 train stations in Paris that travelers can venture between. We took the train from Nice to Paris! Since we started within the country we felt it would be a great opportunity to see the countryside. Overall, we were really impressed with the train ride. There was free WiFi, clean restrooms, and a great snack bar. We did mess up and not pay attention to the seats that we booked and were assigned at random. For the most part people were pleasant and didn't say anything about us being in their seats, but as the train got full it was definitely a big no-no and ended up separating. We took the train from Nice to Paris through Rail Europe. It was a pleasant ride! WHERE TO STAY This was the hardest question when we were planning our trip. Many people recommend the Le Marais neighborhood in the 4th arrondissement as it is known for its vibrant restaurant and night life scene. However, we opted to stay in the 7th arrondissement as it's easy to travel to many popular tourists locations. And, nearly anywhere you are you'll have a view of the Eiffel Tower. We chose to stay at Hotel La Bourdonnais - it's a boutique hotel located in the 7th arrondissement near the Eiffel Tower, a grocery store, and plenty of public transport. Using our Chase Sapphire travel credit card we were able to claim rewards and get our stay for free! The view from our Hotel La Bourdonnais room - could not be beat! TIPS FOR VISITING Learn a couple key phrases such as greetings and manners prior to visiting. We noticed that our trying to speak French came across as a sign of respect and we were treated friendly. Don't do too much - Paris is a relatively spaced out city with many historic and artistic spots. You can't fit it all in one trip, prioritize, be flexible and enjoy your time. Eat the desserts and buy that croissant! To get in to many sites and restaurants you'll need a pre-booking or reservation. Even if it requires a little bit of money, you will thank yourself when you're in massive crowds. Book directly through the attractions if possible - it may be pricier, but there are many scammer pages out there. ITINERARY When mapping out Paris, we noted many of the major tourist stops were far away from each other. That said, we decided to try to tackle it like a big circle. In all reality, due to rain and long lines we had to be flexible, but we'd recommend jotting down and mapping out what you want to do and when. Day 1: Explore the monuments of Paris Notre Dame Saint Chapelle Louvre Les Ombres We started off the day by making our way from the 7th arrondissement to the 4th arrondissement. It was the furthest spot away so we thought we'd start off our day by going out far and then walking back. It was a 20min bus ride, or 45min walk. Because we were unfamiliar with the bus system (which it's wonderful, learn about it before visiting) we chose to walk. On our way we passed by Les Invalides and stopped for some pictures and to learn about the history. We got side tracked and started our day off at the Louvre. When we arrived at the Louvre we were greeted by a long row of trees - later we learned these are apart of the Tuileries Garden. You can walk directly up through the walkways, or along the streets to reach the Louvre. The buildings are beautiful and built with precision and detail. Visitors will stand in line to enter through the pyramid. It is recommended to buy a pass with a set time frame for visiting to avoid a long wait, but lucky for us we were able to breeze right through the lines with the Paris Museum Pass. Sadly, once we got inside the alarms went off and we all had to quickly exit. Later we learned it was because there was a protestor that threw tomato soup on a Van Gough painting! Outside the Louvre After a swift exit, we headed to Notre Dame and Saint-Chapelle. Due to the fire that occurred on April 15, 2019 we were unable to get inside Notre Dame, but rather stood outside the gates peering in. Active reconstruction was in process and we were able to see the scaffolding and netting protecting the original structure. Although unable to get inside, or near, Notre Dame, visitors are able to see the classic French Gothic architecture and Gargoyles from afar. The reconstruction is slated to be completed in 2024. Just past Notre Dame is Sainte-Chapelle, Saint-Chapelle is a Gothic style royal chapel that was apart of the homes of the Kings of France until the 14th century. Most known for its intricate stained glass windows, visitors should take note of the details of each window as they portray over 1,000 scenes from the Old and New Testament. The Paris Museum Pass will get you in the chapel, but there are other passes that you can purchase to bypass the entry line. At this point, we learned that visitors were being let back into the Louvre, so we backtracked. When making your way around the Louvre there are audio guides you can purchase and wear to learn more about the history. Or, log into the free wifi and navigate the the Musée du Louvre official website and they have audio guides that you can read and follow along as you walk through the exhibits. Of course the famous Mona Lisa is at the Louvre, but don't bypass all of the other amazing works of art on the way. And, like any good tourist attraction, be prepared for mass chaos when you reach the Mona Lisa. We finished our trail and ultimately called it a day. Left to right: Notre Dame, crowds around the Mona Lisa, all of the ceilings are pieces of art After a quick nap and break, we headed to Les Ombres for a sunset dinner overlooking the Eiffel Tower. Les Ombres is a multi-course fine dining experience on the rooftop of the Musée du quai Branly. We chose to book a 7pm reservation to have views of the Eiffel Tower both during the daytime and nighttime. Starting at 8pm, the Eiffel Tower will light up every hour creating a sparkly illumination. Guests can choose from a pre-set 5, 6, or 7 course meal. We had to book this reservation months in advance as there's limited space and it books up quickly. Dinner for 2 on the Les Ombres rooftop. Day 2: Slow down and enjoy the restaurants and Eiffel Tower Tickets to Eiffel Tower Notre Dame Arch de Triomphe Champ de Elysse Musee d'Orsay 31 Rue Cler The next morning we woke up and grabbed a quick breakfast of croissants and coffee before heading to the Eiffel Tower. We bought tickets in advance to avoid the lines, but were still unable to get the lift tickets, so we had to make the climb to the second floor. The walk was strenuous, but not bad and took around 20 minutes. We didn't do too much research and were pleasantly surprised when we got to the second floor and saw there were places to grab a quick bite to eat, souvenir shop, and even bathrooms. There were chairs and swings that faced outward for visitors to sit and relax. Although there were a lot of people, it was still a very pleasant experience. We also felt going to the second floor was sufficient and weren't bummed we didn't go all the way to the top. All those great things to be said, we were also a little bummed because there was construction to both the Eiffel Tower and the lawns surrounding which inhibited us from doing some things. Left to right: Climbing up the Eiffel Tower, the views from the top, the view of the lawn After leaving the Eiffel Tower we headed to Arc de Triomphe via Uber. By this point we were ready to stop walking around and use our resources. The area around Arc de Triomphe was chaotic, I was really excited to get a great picture but the circle surrounding was a busy intersection. Many people were stopping in the middle of the road to get their photo taken with Arc de Triomphe in the background. To reach Arc de Triomphe, you had to cross the roadways and walk through a tunnel under the street. The Paris Museum Pass also gave visitors access to climb to the top. Read the rules in advance, they are particular about what you can actually bring with you if you climb to the top! The street that links the Arc de Triomphe to the gardens outside the Louvre is called the Champ de Elysse. The Champ de Elysse is one of Paris's most iconic streets with luxury shopping, popular restaurants and perfectly manicured streets lining the way. For anyone looking to make a designer splurge purchase and take advantage of the tax incentives, the Champ de Elysse is the place to do it. After window shopping for many blocks we reached Laudrée where we treated ourselves to the most colorful macaroons. Left to right: Inside the Arc de Triomphe stair case, outside the Arc de Triomphe, view from the top looking out to the Champ de Elysse To wrap out the tourist part of our day, we ended at what quickly became our favorite spot - the Musee d'Orsay. Originally a railway station, the Musée d'Orsay features art from world renown artists like Van Gough and Monet, this museum is a must see. It's not as popular as other sites in Paris which is also a bonus. However, you should be aware the entry lines are quite long and having the Paris Museum Pass saved us nearly an hour of waiting in an entry line. After an exhausting day of walking around we stopped at a restaurant on 31 Rue Cler to grab some good food and wine and sit like a Parisian facing outward to watch the city-goers. 31 Rue Cler lined with markets and restaurants Day 3: Take a tour of the Palace of Versailles Pont de l'Alma tunnel Palace of Versailles From the 7th arrondissement where our hotel was, it was about a 10min car ride to reach the train station . On the way, we passed Pont de l'Alma tunnel where Princess Diana was tragically killed. At this location is the Flame of Liberty, a site where visitors can pay their respects to the late Princess Diana. The Flame of Liberty in honor of the late Princess Diana About an hour outside of Paris is the Palace of Versailles. We purchased our tickets through GetYourGuide and bought the entry ticket with the garden pass - which we highly recommend. The Palace of Versailles was the home of King Louis XIII, King Louis XIV, King Louis XV, and King Louis XVI, and of course the famous Marie Antionette. We took a guided tour of the Palace, which we were hesitant at first, but strongly recommend looking back as it provided great clarity and context as to history of each location. Some highlights of the tour were Marie Antoinette's room, the desk where Treaty of Versailles was signed, and the Hall of Mirrors. Upon completing the tour, we rented a golf cart and drove around The Gardens. Spanning nearly 2,000 acres, these massive gardens were created under King Louis XIV directive. They are an elaborate display of garden work with crisp lines and pathways to explore. The Gardens have been revitalized throughout the years, and the golf cart comes equipped with an audio tour to explain the history while driving around. Left to Right: Inside the Palace of Versailles, the pathways of The Gardens, overlooking the Labyrinth After a quick stop at the local McDonalds, we took the train back to Paris to wrap up our trip with one last view of the Eiffel Tower before heading home to the U.S. CLOSING THOUGHTS Overall, we really enjoyed our time in Paris! The history, food, and architecture was unmatched. The Eiffel Tower was being repainted for the 2024 Olympics and the grounds redone which meant a lot of construction, so that was a bummer. We knew it'd be chaotic coming in, but weren't so prepared for what it'd feel like once we were there and were bummed to not get our dream peaceful picnic on the Eiffel Tower lawns. Finally, just remember you can do a few things, but you can't do everything. Really think through what are the "must do's" and the "want to do's" when you plan your trip. If you try to do everything, it'll become stressful! Give yourself some leeway there and enjoy your vacation. This page contains affiliate links that Tracking Travels may earn a small commission if used. This helps to keep the blog running! Thank you for your support!

Utah is home to five popular National Parks each are known for their unique landscapes, the Big 5 attract millions of visitors each year. These are Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, and Arches National Park. For this road trip we started in Las Vegas and ended in Denver. The bulk of this time was spent in Utah. The drive is long, but it is beautiful and well worth your time. Sample road trip image of the Utah Big 5 by flying into Las Vegas, NV and out of Denver, CO HOW TO GET THERE Our recommendation is to travel west to east - start by flying into Las Vegas, NV and then driving west to conclude your road trip at Arches National Park. From there you can either fly out at a small nearby airport 18 miles north called Canyonlands Field Airport. Or, you can take the drive north 236 miles (3.5 hours) to the closest major airport nearby in Salt Lake City, UT. And of course, you can reverse this route if you want. WHERE TO STAY You may consider grouping your trip into segments so that you can stay multiple nights at an AirBnB or hotel so you are not checking in and out each night. If you want to stay between Las Vegas and Zion National Park there's a popular town called St. George that's a great place to stay. If you want to stay between Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park there is the town of Kanab, UT which provides a great hub for day trips to both. Then, we'd recommend making the trek to Moab, UT for the second half of your trip to enjoy Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park. TIPS FOR VISITING Consider purchasing the America the Beautiful annual park pass rather than purchasing entry to each park separately. It's more convenient and cheaper. Fill up on gas whenever possible - during the large stretches of countryside driving convenient stores can be rare to come by. You don't want to end up in a poor situation. Although a AWD vehicle was recommended, we did this road trip in a sedan and were fine. Some roads require 4x4 vehicles, so we were just aware to avoid those areas. Prepare for the weather and pack accordingly. It's critical to have good sun protection and good shoes to prevent slipping, blisters, etc. Bring snacks and water - you can easily a spend a full day in these parks and there are limited food options within the parks. ITINERARY Day 1: Fly into Las Vegas, NV and head to Zion National Park Valley of Fire State Park Zion National Park We started our trip by flying from Michigan on a direct flight to Las Vegas, Nevada. Las Vegas is a great location to fly into and start due to the relatively inexpensive flights and proximity to Zion National Park. About 45 minutes outside Las Vegas is a state park called Valley of Fire State Park. Often overlooked due to the national parks in the state, Valley of Fire State Park provide an up close experience with large red rock formations. Most notably, it also has petroglyphs that are over 2,000 years old. Driving through the park, you're able to see these symbols carved into the side of the rock and within the remains of small villages that have been preserved. The park is a straight drive through and well worth your time. Petroglyphs carved into the rock. Up next was Zion National Park, we entered into the park via the East Rim Trailhead, parked our vehicle, then headed to the shuttle for the scenic drive. Due to our limited amount of time, we were only able to make one stop on the shuttle but were able to see Lower Emerald Pools and the Zion Lodge. We of course had to leave the part through the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway to take in those scenic views. We set off on the 1.5 hour drive to Bryce Canyon City to spend the night before setting off for a full day in Bryce Canyon. Route from Las Vegas to Valley of Fire State Park to Zion Canyon to Bryce Canyon City Day 2: Explore Bryce Canyon National Park Sunset to Sunrise Point Rim Trail Queens Garden-Navajo Loop Trail Sunset at the Bryce Amphitheater Arriving to Bryce Canyon National Park from Bryce Canyon City is fairly easy - from the Best Western Plus it took us about 5 minutes to get to the park entrance, and we breezed right in. Inside the park there are paved roads and large parking lots making it easier for visitors to drive around and find a good spot. There are also quite a few bathrooms which were a nice bonus. We started our day by hiking the Sunset to Sunrise trail along the Rim Trail. As alluded to above, visitors can ark right at the sunset point parking lot and take the low impact 1.0mile walk to sunrise point. From there, the Queens Garden-Navajo Trailhead begins. This is the most popular hike at Bryce, be prepared for a route full of visitors. You start at sunrise point and hike down into the canyon until you reach the Queen Victoria rock formation. The Queens Garden portion is 1.8 miles and directly connects to the Navajo Loop which is another 1.3miles. Popular stops on the Navajo Loop are Thor's Hammer, Wall Street, and Two Bridges. Eventually, you'll make the 550ft hike back up and out of the canyon. On a hot day, this hike up can be exhausting. Be considerate of the time of the day you're visiting and the appropriate gear required. Left to right: Hike down Queens Garden Trail, Two Bridges, and Queen Victoria rock formation After dinner, we came back to see the Bryce Amphitheater at sunset. The sunlight over the hoodoos created the dreamiest colors of reds, pinks, and blues. If you're able to catch the sunrise or sunset over the amphitheater, we highly recommend. Sunset over Bryce Canyon Amphitheater. Day 3: Drive from Kanab to Moab and hit 2 more National Parks Capitol Reef National Park Day 3 was the trek from being on the east side of Utah to the west side. Originally, we set off straight to Moab, but quickly realized we could stop at Capitol Reef along the way. We merely drove through Capitol Reef, but would have loved to explore more if we could have. Driving through Capitol Reef Route from Bryce Canyon City to Capitol Reef National Park to Moab Day 4: Spend the day in Arches National Park Delicate Arch Balanced Rock Three Gossips The Windows Section Arches National Park was the park we were most excited for when mapping out this trip - neither of us had been and Delicate Arch is iconic. When we got there we decided to drive to the furthest point we wanted to reach that day, then worked backwards to the front of the parking (hoping to avoid some morning crowds). Therefore, we began our day doing the Delicate Arch hike. It's approximately a 3 mile roundtrip hike to reach the arch. You start by walking along a paved path, then it's a steep hike up before leveling off again. The ground can get dusty and slippery, so we recommend good traction shoes for best safety. When you reach the bowl area where Delicate Arch is, proceed with caution. Again, it's slippery and could be dangerous if you fell. (While we were there someone's water bottle fell and it just rolled straight down into the bowl - no one dared to grab it.) People tend to sit on the upper part of the bowl and walk gingerly, sometimes on all fours, until the reach the Delicate Arch photo spot. Unfortunately with a lot of visitors it's challenging to get an unobstructed view of Delicate Arch, so be considerate of what time you go. Delicate Arch - on the right hand side you can see the bowl shape we're referring to. Fun Tip: When you head back, there's a great window shot to the Delicate Arch alongside the trail. Hidden photo spot of Delicate Arch peeping through some rocks. On our way out of the park we saw Balance Rock and Three Gossips from our vehicle, but got out to hike The Windows section. The windows was an easy hike with many paved walking trails to reach Double Arch, North Window, and South Window. These were some of the biggest arches we were able to see and it was not over crowded so there were plenty of places to take your time and enjoy the views. Originally, we were unsure if we were going to stop, but in hindsight it turned out to be a great spot. Left to right: Balance Rock, standing below the South Window arch, The Windows from the parking lot Day 5: Spend the day in Canyonlands & Arches National Park Island in the Sky Shafer Trail Viewpoint Mesa Arch Trail Grand View Point Overlook Devils Garden Trailhead We got up on day 5 bright and early and set off on the 45 minute drive to Canyonlands National Park. The park is divided into four districts - Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers that cut these areas into sections. We only allocate a morning to visiting, so we chose to visit Island in the Sky. At this point, we realized we needed gas, but figured we could get it when we got closer, but we were wrong and were not able to get gas and had to track how many miles we drove versus how much gas we had left all day. Take our advice and fill up your gas tank in Moab. At the Island in the Sky National Park we stopped to at Shafer Trail Viewpoint, but did not head down the famous White Rim Road since we did not have a 4x4. We took the quick less than mile in-and-out trail to Mesa Arch for a few good photos and views. Then, we drove to Grand View Point Overlook. Those were our 3 main stops, but we pulled off at nearly every pull out area along the way. If we had a 4x4 vehicle and more time, we'd recommend driving down Shafer Trail and doing some of the longer hikes. In general, Canyonlands far exceeded our expectations and ended up being one of our favorite stops on the trip. Left to right: Overlook into the Canyon, Mesa Arch, view of Shafer Trail To close out our trip, and the day, we went back to Arches National Park. At this point, there was an hour wait to enter. Now, reservations are required, but then, we just waited in line for a long time until we got in. We headed to the very far back of the park and did part of the Devil's Garden Trailhead. The trail was easy and accessible with wide paved paths starting at the parking lot. Since it was getting late we went to Tunnel Arch, Navajo Arch, and Double O Arch. These were all really cool as they were way high up and extremely big arches. Route from Moab to Denver. CLOSING THOUGHTS The Utah National Parks are unbelievable. Each one presents its own unique sense of wonder. Although we went with high hopes of a few parks, each park surprised us in their own right of how much beauty there is to explore. This route felt fast, and we were exhausted by the time we reached Denver. It's doable, but if you can squeeze a few more days in, you'd really be able to get off the main spots and take a good hike or simply relax. It's so hard to choose, but if we had to... Justin's favorite park was Canyonlands because it felt more relaxing and laid back with the most amazing views. Ashley's favorite was Zion because it feels like a different world when you enter the park and being on the ground looking up you can appreciate how massive these rock formations really are. This page contains affiliate links that Tracking Travels may earn a small commission if used. This helps to keep the blog running! Thank you for your support!

Bryce Canyon National Park is located in Bryce Canyon City, UT. It is massive at a whopping 36,000 acres. Each year over 2 million visitors take to Bryce Canyon to experience its natural beauty and unique hoodoo formations. Inside the park there are paved roads and large parking lots making it easier for visitors to drive around and find a good spot before setting off on their daily hike or activity. Unique to Bryce Canyon National park are the hoodoos. Hoodoos are located on every continent, but according to the National Park Service, Bryce Canyon National Park is home to the largest concentration found anywhere on Earth. These are tall spire rock formations with irregular, jagged edges caused by erosion. The canyon is full of hoodoos and as you take trails down into the canyon, hikers are able to see them up close, some even have arches and pathways carved directly through them. The hoodoos are the main attraction of this park and create a place like nowhere else in the world. Welcome sign into Bryce Canyon National Park! TIPS FOR THE PARK Check out the National Park Service (NPS) website for all park permits, fees, and reservations prior to arrival. Start your day at the visitor center and familiarize yourself with the NPS Park Map Get there early for sunrise and stay late for sunset! The sunrise/sunset over the hoodoos is pure magic. Bring a jacket- even in the warmer weather the mornings and nights can get chilly. A lot of the hikes go down into the canyon, but if you don't want to tackle the steep elevation, there are breathtaking rim trail hikes. Be prepared for the heat, stay hydrated, and pack accordingly. Leave no trace! WHERE TO STAY Lucky for visitors, Bryce Canyon National Park is located in Bryce Canyon City, UT which has a small downtown area to explore. It's a less than 10min drive to the park entrance. We'd recommend finding a hotel in the area to call home base. We stayed at the Best Western Plus in Bryce Canyon City and had a great experience. There's a pool, laundry facility, and it offers breakfast. If you plan to do Bryce Canyon National Park within the same trip as Zion National Park, we'd recommend staying in Kanab, UT. It's about a 1.5 hour drive from both national parks and provides a more centralized location. The drive is beautiful and through Utah's countryside so it's not as painful as it sounds. WHAT TO DO Hike - Explore the various walking trails hiking around, down, and and through the canyon. Drive - Take the paved park roads and pull off in the various view points. Camp - Reserve a campsite through the National Park Service and spend a night at Bryce. Horseback Riding - Third party companies offer g guided tour down into the canyon. SITES TO SEE Sunset to Sunrise Trail Length: 1.0 mile Difficulty: Easy, low impact Detail: Park in the parking lot at sunset point The sunset to sunrise trail is a low impact walk along the rim of Bryce Canyon. Visitors can park in any parking lot along the trail to quickly access any point through paved roads. There are fences along the walkway for safety looking into the canyon in most areas. There are also benches and tower viewers along the walkway should you want to stop for a good view. Good views from the Sunrise to Sunset Trail along the rim on the canyon looking down. Queens Garden Trail Length: 1.8 mile Difficulty: Moderate, moderate impact Detail: Starts at sunrise point and hike down into the canyon, connects with the Navajo Loop. The Queens Garden-Navajo Loop is the most popular hike in Bryce Canyon National Park. The Queens Garden portion begins at sunrise point, then visitors can descend down the winding walkways into the canyon. The path is not paved, but it is smooth and widely carved out. It is challenging, but accessible for all ages. Take note of the hoodoos all around you while you head down into the canyon. Eye spy with my little eye a rock formation of Queen Victoria. Navajo Loop Length: 1.3 mile Difficulty: Moderate, moderate impact Detail: Starts at sunset point and hike down into the canyon, connects with the Queens Garden Trail. The Navajo Loop is a moderate hike that descends down into Bryce Canyon and connects with the Queens Garden Trail. The hoodoos are the star of the show, but popular stops on the Navajo Loop are Thor's Hammer, Wall Street, and Two Bridges. Eventually, you'll make the 550ft hike back up and out of the canyon. On a hot day, this hike up can be exhausting. Be considerate of the time of the day you're visiting and the appropriate gear required. Left to right: Thors Hammer, Two Bridges, and the hike down into the canyon Bryce Amphitheater The sunlight over the hoodoos created the dreamiest colors of reds, pinks, and blues. If you're able to catch the sunrise or sunset over the amphitheater, we highly recommend. Sunset over Bryce Canyon Amphitheater. NEARBY Iron Horse Restaurant Located in Kanab, this is a great BBQ spot offering western vibes and a relaxed atmosphere. Kanab Creek Bakery Located in Kabab, this was a great bakery offering coffee, lattes, and fresh baked goods. Ruby's Inn - Cowboy's Buffet & Steak Room Located in Bryce Canyon City, this restaurant gets full quickly, but has plenty of seating and a buffet style dinner. Cowboy Ranch House Located in Bryce, this casual dining spot offers variety of Utah's finest brews and gives you that home-cooked meal that you're looking for.

Zion National Park is located in the southeast area of Utah and is home to major attractions such as Angels Landing and the Narrows. Most known for its bright red rocks and deep canyons, millions of visitors flock to this area each year to experience the beauty that this national park provides. Tourists visit all throughout the year as the park is open every day, but peak season tends to be the summer months from June-August. With over 232 square miles there is simply so much to see. Driving into Zion National Park. TIPS FOR THE PARK Check out the National Park Service (NPS) website for all park permits, fees, and reservations prior to arrival. Start your day at the visitor center and familiarize yourself with the National Park Service Park Map. The parking lot fills up quickly, you'll want to get there early to find a good spot. You'll need to park your vehicle, then take the shuttle system around the park. Come prepared with a day pack filled with all your essentials. Plan your day in advance so you're using the Zion Canyon Shuttle System effectively. Drive in or out through the east entrance to experience the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway & Tunnel. Be prepared for the heat, stay hydrated, and pack accordingly. Leave no trace! WHERE TO STAY If you want to stay right at the base of Zion, check out Springdale, UT. There's a small town with plenty of restaurants, shopping, and hotels for visitors to enjoy. Many hotels have a shuttle that will take you directly to the park. In total, it's about a 5min drive from Springdale to Zion. If you're doing Zion and another city/park you may consider other areas. If you want to stay between Las Vegas and Zion National Park there's a popular town called St. George that's a great place to stay. If you want to stay between Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park there is the town of Kanab, UT which provides a great hub for day trips to both. If you're interested in staying inside of the park there are options for both camping and lodging at the Zion Lodge. Visitors can make reservations online up to 13 months in advance. Since this is the only in park lodging option it fills up quickly, so plan accordingly. There's a restaurant on the grounds and it's close to many major attraction and trails. Walk across the street from the Zion Lodge to reach the base of the Emerald Pool trails. WHAT TO DO Hike - Explore the various hiking trails throughout the park. Many are accessible for all abilities, while others provide a more challenging approach. The park is divided into 5 trail areas: Zion Canyon, Kolob Canyon, Koblob Terrace, East Rim and Southwest Desert Area. Bike - Bike around the paved roadways and Pa'rus Trail to get an up close view of the part. Camp - Reserve a campsite through the National Park Service and spend a night in Zion. Climb - Check out the NPS website for requirements or work with a third party company. SITES TO SEE Zion-Mount Carmel Highway & Tunnel Length: 25 miles Difficulty: Easy, winding roads Built in the 1920s, the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel is a top attraction within the national park. Visitors entering from the east entrance can take the Zion-Mount Carmel highway and stop along various scenic outlooks. There are many hiking paths located along the way, too. Be on the lookout for wildlife as early in the morning visitors may see big horn sheep up high in the mountain side or deer roaming below. Driving through this highway and tunnel really sets the stage for what's to come. Driving through the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway you'll see great views. Be on the lookout as you drive in, if you're lucky some mountain goats! When you reach the tunnel you'll drive right into the mountainside. It's quite dark with only a few windows. There are some height restrctions - check it out in advance! The Grotto Trail Length: 1.2 mile Difficulty: Easy, low impact The Grotto Trail is an easy, low impact hike that's accessible for visitors of varying abilities. It's a paved, wide trail with a low incline that leads to Grotto Falls. You can start at the Zion Lodge and take a path to the Grotto or you can get off at the next shuttle stop and start the trailhead from there. A safe, easy walk to Grotto Falls. Weeping Rock Trail Length: 1.0 mile Difficulty: Easy, moderate impact Weeping Rock Trail has been recently reopened (Nov'22) after a few years of being closed due to a major rock fall. This trail is short, but steep and requires visitors to climb up stairs until they reach the top. From there, Weeping Rock provides a scenic viewpoint that overlooks Zion Valley. It's a great, quick hike for really nice views of the park. The views from Weeping rock cannot be beat! Watchman's Trail Length: 3.3 mile Difficulty: Moderate, high impact Watchman's Trail is a hike located close to the visitor center that gives visitors a quick challenge before entering into the parks main attractions. It's a relatively steep hike with steep drop offs along the way. The trail is mostly paved, but it is narrow, so be advised when bringing children or those who may be unsteady. During our time on the trail, we found hiking poles to be advantageous when working up the trail. As you near the top of the you'll have a nice overlook of the park and Springdale areas. The views from Watchman's Trail provided a great overlook into the canyon! Upper and Lower Emerald Pool Trail Length: 3.2 mile Difficulty: Moderate, low impact There are three Emerald Pool Trails: Upper, Middle, and Lower. Hikers will reach a point where the Upper and Lower Emerald pools are to the right, while the Middle Emerald Pool is to the left. During my hike, we headed right to the Upper and Lower. The trail is wide and paved and takes hikers to a misty waterfalls that flow into a natural pool. This trail is open year round and is can get crowded with visitors. The Emerald Pools provide a misty cool-off spot with the water flowing from overhead down into the pool. Scout Lookout Length: 4.2 miles Difficulty: Difficult, high impact The Scout Lookout trail starts at the Grotto Trail and from there you will start on a strenuous high up to Angels Landing. This trail has steep drop offs and can be very dangerous, be advised bringing children and those who may be unsteady on this hike. When you reach Scouts Lookout, you will be rewarded with amazing views of Zion Canyon. For those wishing for more challenge, you can advance on to Angels Landing. Angels Landing Length: 5.4 miles Difficulty: Difficult, high impact Angels Landing is one of the most popular trails within Zion National Park. This hike is geared to those thrill seekers looking for a challenge. With large drop offs and a relatively narrow pathway, visitors should not be afraid of heights and children are generally not recommended to take on this hike. There is a chain handrail in the center of the trail for stability. If you are interested in hiking Angels Landing a permit is required and can be found here. A view from Angels Landing. Photo Credit: Life Utah Elevated, Jay Dash The Narrows Length: 9.5 miles Difficulty: Difficult, high impact The Narrows are a hike like no other. Visitors will walk through the Virgin River through the slot canyon as far up as those feel comfortable, then hike back to the start. Most visitors tend to hike the visitors between the summer and early fall when the water levels drop. Those hiking the Narrows should be advised that flash floods can occur and should watch the National Park Service guidelines and safety warnings. Gear is necessary as you'll be wading through water can be rented nearby. As you enter the Narrows the rock formations will change to be a slot canyon. The Virgin River runs through the park and into the Narrows, you'll need to be prepared with water gear! Observation Point Length: 8 miles Difficulty: Difficult, high impact Observation Point is one of the best places to see some of the best views of Zion Canyon. Hikers can take either Weeping Rock trailhead or East Mesa Trailhead to reach the scenic viewpoint. It is a steep, long hike so be prepared with the appropriate equipment and water/snacks. A popular spot for some of the best views of Zion. Photo Credit: Joe Braun

Arches National Park is located in Moab, UT and is home to over 2,000 documented arches. The park has one main road that you enter from and drive 18 miles alongside Utah's natural beauty. During the drive there are pull outs along the way to see the major attractions. Each stop typically has a small parking lot, and some do have bathrooms and water stations. This drive is an in-and-out style road, so we'd recommend starting at the furthest point and working your way back to the entrance. The iconic Delicate Arch. TIPS FOR THE PARK Consider purchasing the America the Beautiful annual park pass if you plan to visit multiple national parks in the year. Stop at the visitor center and familiarize yourself with the National Park Service Park Map. Plan your day in advance so you're not backtracking and hitting the crowds. It's important to know what you want to do so you can map out your route accordingly. Reservations may be needed to enter the park, be sure to check the NPS Arches National Park website for additional details. Get there early! The park fills up and making the trails and parking crowded. Prepare for the weather and pack accordingly. It's critical to have good sun protection and good shoes to prevent slipping, blisters, etc. Bring snacks and water - you can easily a spend a full day in these parks and there are limited food options within the parks. Arches is pretty accessible to those of varying abilities. With the major spots located right off the side of the road, many attractions require low impact walks or simply drive up to. Leave no trace! WHERE TO STAY Lucky for visitors, Arches National Park is located in Moab, UT which has a small downtown area to explore. It's a less than 10min drive to the park entrance. We'd recommend finding a hotel in the area to call home base. We stayed at the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham. It was simple, affordable and in a good spot to both Arches and Canyonlands National Park. WHAT TO DO Hike - Explore the various walking trails hiking to arches. Drive - Take the paved park roads and pull off in the various view points. Camp - Reserve a campsite through the National Park Service and spend a night in Arches. Horseback Riding - Third party companies offer g guided tour down around the park. Climb - Check out the NPS website for requirements or work with a third party company. SITES TO SEE Three Gossips The Three Gossips can easily be seen as you drive along the main roads. To reach the base of the Three Gossips, visitors can drive the Courthouse Towers pullout and then hike there. It's only possible to rock climb up the Three Gossips, not hike, therefore most visitors will view this rock formation from the road only. The Three Gossips chattin' it up. Park Avenue Length: 1.8 miles Difficulty: Moderate, high impact Details: Hike down the trail into a canyon to have a clear view of Courthouse Towers, Queen Nefertiti, Queen Victoria Rock, and Three Gossips. This is one of the first attractions that you will reach upon entering the park. The area has a trail to hike down into the canyon for a closer look at the various stops, however you are able to see most from the road. It is less crowded than some of the other major attractions within the park. A view of Park Avenue. Balanced Rock Length: 0.3 mile Difficulty: Easy, low impact Details: A rare, natural rock formation which shows a single pillar rock structure with a large boulder balancing atop. There is a nice parking lot located outside Balanced Rock. It tends to be a busier attraction on your way into the park. Consider what time you are arriving to the park and if you should do this spot on your way in or out. Balanced Rock can be seen driving down the main highway. There's also a parking lot and pull out area to take a photo. The Windows Section North & South Window and Turret Arch Length: 1 mile Difficulty: Easy, low impact Double Arch Length: 0.6 mile Difficulty: Easy, low impact The windows were an easy hike with many paved walking trails to reach Double Arch, North Window, and South Window. These were some of the biggest arches we were able to see and it was not over crowded so there were plenty of places to take your time and enjoy the views. Originally, we were unsure if we were going to stop, but in hindsight it turned out to be a great spot. It's easy to navigate and would be safe for all ages, just be mindful of your step. The view walking up to the North & South Windows. Feeling so small under Turret Arch. Delicate Arch Length: 3 miles round trip Difficulty: Difficult, high impact Details: The most famous arch of the national park, it is considered the symbol of Arches National Park. This hike can be strenuous walking uphill and along steep cliffs, hike this trail with caution. The walkways can be slippery, be sure to wear high traction shoes. You start by walking along a paved path, then it's a steep hike up before leveling off again. The ground can get dusty and slippery, so we recommend good traction shoes for best safety. When you reach the bowl area where Delicate Arch is. People tend to sit on the upper part of the bowl and walk around the upper rim until you the reach the Delicate Arch. Unfortunately, with a lot of visitors it's challenging to get an unobstructed view, so be considerate of what time you go. We had a lot of fun hiking to the Delicate Arch, but it was harder than expected. The beginning is deceiving with the walkway, but the hike up is challenging. Be prepared and take it slow. Also, as you approach the Delicate Arch there are some very steep cliffs and safety concerns. If you are traveling with children or those who may be unsteady walking, this can become a bit scary. Be mindful before setting off on this hike. Hidden Gem: When you head back, there's a great window shot to the Delicate Arch alongside the trail. Devil's Garden Trail Length: 8 mile loop Difficulty: Moderate, low impact Details: On this trail you’ll see Landscape Arch, Partition Arch, Navajo Arch, Double O Arch, Private Arch, Pine Tree Arch, and Tunnel Arch and Dark Angel. Devil's Garden Trail felt like its own playground. The trail is accessible with wide paved paths starting at the parking lot. The arches are massive and located within, or at the top, of the red rock buttes. Since you are at the base looking up at the arch, it is a very safe trail for children and varying levels of accessibility. The loop is long, if you are approaching near sundown be mindful of the time - you wouldn't want to get stuck on the trail at sunset as it is quite long. A view of Landscape Arch from the Devil's Garden Trail. NEARBY Moab Brewing Company A local brewery in the heart of downtown Moab that offers a variety of local beers and American foods. Stop in after a long day outside for a nice meal and drink. Here you'll see many other visitors relaxing after their day at the park as it has a friendly atmosphere and plenty of seating. Dewey's Restaurant and Bar Located in Downtown Moab, Dewey's Bar and Restaurant offers a wide variety of American foods. There is plenty of seating both at the bar and the tables. While we were there we enjoyed a Thanksgiving dinner! It was a really fun experience if you're in the area around that time. Canyonlands National Park After a quick 40 minute drive south east, you'll reach Canyonlands National Park. The park is divided into four districts - Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers that cut these areas into sections. The park has plenty of trailheads, overlooks, 4x4 driving trails, canyoneering, and much more. If you purchase the America the Beautiful annual park pass, it'll grant you access to both Arches and Canyonlands. This page contains affiliate links that Tracking Travels may earn a small commission if used. This helps to keep the blog running! Thank you for your support!

Iceland's Golden Circle is a 186mi (300km) road trip visitors can drive to explore the natural country side. Along the route you'll experience massive glaciers, vast valleys, and black sand beaches like no other place in the world. The elements can be intense, so you'll want to pack appropriately. Here's a good visual of the routes visitors can drive around the country. Photo Credit: Back-Packer PACKING LIST Heavy Jacket - Pack for all season weather. In the winter it can get very cold and you'll want a heavy, down, jacket to stay warm. Rain Jacket - Even if you're not going in the spring time when it's generally rainy, as you get close to waterfalls and geysers you'll get hit with mist. Packing a rain jacket is never a bad idea. Hat & Gloves - In the winter time it gets very cold. Be ready with your snow gear to beat the elements! There's also high winds in some areas, so you'll really want to cover your head and ears. Hiking Shoes - Even if you drive around the park you will be doing a lot of walking. Be sure to come prepared with a shoe that has good traction and is broken in. Sneakers - Pack comfortable shoes as you'll be doing tons of walking around cities and various landscapes. Binoculars - Break out those binoculars, you're going to need them for this trip! If you don't have a pair, you can easily find compact binoculars on Amazon. Water/Water Bottle - It's essential to stay hydrated during an active day outdoors. There are plenty of hydration stations around the park, but not a lot of places to buy water. Make sure you come prepared with a reusable water bottle or hydration system. Snacks - Just like water, food can be hard to find between visitor centers. Make sure you come prepared with some good treats to keep you going. Camera - Speaks for itself. Make sure your phone is charged, or you have a secondary camera to capture those unforgettable moments. Sunglasses & Sunscreen - Whether you realize it or not, being outside in the sun will take a toll on you not only while it's sunny, but when it's overcast. Protect your body and be sure to go prepared with the proper sun protection. First Aid Kit - Always come prepared to any outdoor adventure with a first aid kit. You can easily buy them at the grocery store, or make one yourself. Daypacks - A daypack is essential for carrying all your belongings on a quick hike. There's no need for a huge pack, a 18-20L bag will be plenty. You can purchase one on REI, Dick's Sporting Goods, Amazon or any outdoor store near you. Stay safe and enjoy your time exploring Iceland's beautiful countryside! This page contains affiliate links that Tracking Travels may earn a small commission if used. This helps to keep the blog running! Thank you for your support!

Lisbon, Portugal is absolutely stunning and known for its beautiful colors, detailed tile work, and fresh seafood. Gaining popularity in recent years, tourists have been flocking to Lisbon to experience the culture via a direct flight from many major U.S. cities. Another major appeal is that Lisbon is a relatively inexpensive and can be explored both by foot and public transport. HOW TO GET THERE Lisbon is easily accessible by plane, train, automobile, and port. The Lisbon Airport is located about 10-15 minutes outside of the city. The Gare de Oriente is the most popular train station in Lisbon, however there are multiple stops throughout the city. Visitors can take the train to nearby cities as well as connect to the other major railways across Europe. Driving is available, but parking can be challenging to come by and traffic busy. Lastly, Lisbon has an extensive port area. Many cruises are able to dock for a few days at a time at Jardim do Tabaco Quay. WHERE TO STAY Lisbon is broken down into various neighborhoods, each with their own benefit: Alfama - Known for its red roof buildings and winding rows, this neighborhood gives visitors the feel of a traditional neighborhood within the city. Baixa - Located in the heart of the city between the Alfama and Barrio Alto neighborhoods, this neighborhood is walking distance to many major tourist spots. Barrio Alto - Known for its active nightlife, this area can be noisy and busy, but will give visitors an array of things to do while at cheaper prices. Chiado - Known for its trendy shopping and restaurants, this is a neighborhood is on the boarder of the Barrio Alto area, yet quieter. Principe Real - A more upscale area with luxury hotels and shops. TIPS FOR VISITING Take a self guided walking tour. The best way to see the city is by walking it. Wear comfortable shoes as the city is hilly and full of cobblestone roads. WHAT TO DO Alfama District Known for its labyrinth style winding roads, the Alfama District is the oldest district in Lisbon with notable white buildings with red clay roofs. The colors provide a start contrast between the white buildings with expansive red rooftops against the bright blue skies. Lisbon Cathedral The Lisbon cathedral is also called the Cathedral of Saint Mary major and is The oldest church in the city. It is a Roman Catholic Church that was constructed in 1147 involves beautiful stone architecture and details. Being over 100 years old it is like walking through history when you step inside the church. The walls are constructed with delicate artwork and you can learn a lot about the history I am grabbing brochures and reading the informational materials while there. The Lisbon Cathedral still offers Roman Catholics are services at 11 AM and 5 PM Monday to Friday and then Saturday and Sunday 11 AM 5 PM and 7 PM. Lucky for tourists there’s no admission fee but like with any religious location it is requested that all visitors are respectfully dressed during their visit. Saint George's Castle Saint George’s Castle offers breathtaking views of the city it is one of the most popular tourist attractions of the area. For a small fee you can gain tickets to the castle and explore the historic castle that has been around since as early as the 6th Century. Throughout the years many of the castle has been restored and remains in good condition. Rossio Square A lively central square in downtown Lisbon known for the intricate tile work and large baroque style fountains. The square is lined with restaurants and is close to many major tourists spots. Visitors can spend the day grabbing a coffee at a local café and sitting in the square relaxing taking in the sites of Lisbon. Barrio Alto If you're looking for a fun night on the town, take a stroll through this area. Known for tapas and it's bar-line streets, this is a great area for visitors to spend the evening. Many visitors will also choose to stay in this area as it is walking distance from many cultural sites, but be aware that it does get quite noisy at night time. Marquis de Pombo Square A central location situated between the Parque Eduardo VII the fifth and the Alfalma and is an intersection of a few major local streets. This circle also has the Monument to the Marquis of Pombal which is a large stone pillar with a statue on top that is dedicated to the previous Prime Minister Marquis de Pombal. Parque Eduardo VII The Parque Eduardo VII was created in 1949 and boats 64 acres of park land in the center of Lisbon. it will take you about 20 minutes from the center to the top of the park and from there they’ll be fine views of the city in the water. They’re hedges find by mosaic pattern walkway is that stretches all the way up from the center to the top of the views. DAY TRIPS FROM LISBON Cascais A 1 hour bus ride, Cascais is most known for its sandy beaches and charming atmosphere. It’s blue green waters offer the most beautiful sight. Rainha Beach and Run Visconde da Luz are two popular spots. Cascais is located along the shoreline west of Lisbon. Sintra A 1 hour train ride, Sintra is most known for Sintra National Palace (Palacio Nacional de Sintra). The area offers the whimsical charm of traditional Portugal. Sintra is located inland and north west of Lisbon. Get Your Guide offers a daytrip to Pena Palace, Sintra, Cabo da Roca, & Cascais from Lisbon! Porto A 3.5 hour train ride through Portugal's countryside, Porto is known for its colorful buildings, winding cobblestone roads, and local markets. This seaside town provides a relaxing escape for tourists . Porto is located north of Lisbon along the water. CLOSING THOUGHTS Portugal was the second stop on my study abroad program, Semester at Sea. I wasn't sure what to expect and hadn't considered Portugal (and Lisbon) a destination I was particularly interested prior to visiting. However, Lisbon was a dream. My favorite parts of Lisbon were the colors and tile work. Each building was unique and full of artistry. To add to its appeal, the food was delicious and the people were friendly. I couldn't have had a better experience. If I could go back, I'd take the day trips to Cascais, Sintra, and Porto. When we boarded the ship to head to the next destination, those who did take the trip to these neighboring towns had raving reviews. Since then, all of these four cities have been on my bucket list of places to return back to / go visit. This post contains affiliate links! If you purchase directly from a sponsored site, we may receive a portion of the profits. Thank you for your support to keep this blog running!

Utah is home to five popular National Parks each are known for their unique landscapes, the Big 5 (also known as the Mighty 5) attract millions of visitors each year. These are Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, and Arches National Park. After spending a week exploring Utah's Big 5 National Parks, here's what we'd recommend to come prepared with: Hiking Shoes -Be sure to come prepared with high traction shoes. Hiking Poles - Throughout the 5 national parks you will encounter hills. Lightweight hiking poles will help with both stability and to generate momentum while walking up and down the hilly pathways. Base Layers & Jackets - In dessert like conditions it can get very hot during the day and very cool in the mornings and nighttime. We highly encourage Cooling Towel - It can get very hot in the dessert heat, a cooling towel will help keep you dry from sweat and cool from the blistering sun. Water Bottle - It's essential to stay hydrated during an active day outdoors. Make sure you come prepared with a reusable water bottle or hydration system. Water stations are available at the base of major attractions. Healthy Snacks - Just like water, food can be hard to find between visitor centers. Make sure you come prepared with some good treats to keep you going. Camera - Speaks for itself. As one of the most photographed national parks, you will see advanced photography around every corner. Make sure your phone is charged, or you have a secondary camera to capture those unforgettable moments like seeing a Buffalo up close or a bear in the distance. Sunglasses & Sunscreen - Whether you realize it or not, being outside in the sun will take a toll on you not only while it's sunny, but when it's overcast. Protect your body and be sure to go prepared with the proper sun protection. Park Maps - People tend to rely on phones, but inside Yellowstone cell phone service can be hard to find. Stop at any visitor center and they can support you finding an appropriate guide map. Or, check out the National Parks Service website where they have numerous resources you can print out in advance. First Aid Kit - Always come prepared to any outdoor adventure with a first aid kit. You can easily buy them at the grocery store, or make one yourself. Daypacks - Although many will have a car with them, a daypack is essential for carrying all your belongings on a quick hike. There's no need for a huge pack, a 18-20L bag will be plenty. You can purchase one on REI, Dick's Sporting Goods or any outdoor store near you. Stay safe and enjoy your time exploring Utah's Big 5! This page contains affiliate links that Tracking Travels may earn a small commission if used. This helps to keep the blog running! Thank you for your support!