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BY  Sibashree Oct 29, 2025

São Tomé and Príncipe is about to take a significant step in developing a sustainable tourism sector. The sustainable tourism sector will be further well-balanced in terms of the economic indicators.  The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office will support this move. In this context, the country will hold a United Voices for Sustainable Tourism dialogue on 30th October 2025, and there will be a technical validation workshop on 29th October.  It will be the second phase of the Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) Development Project that will give São Tomé and Príncipe a strategic tool to measure the economic contribution of tourism to the nation’s wealth. Thus, it will establish why leveraging tourism is crucial for the sustainable development and economic diversification of the country.  Furthermore, the latest workshop before this dialogue, held on 15th to 18th September 2025, has highlighted the 11% contribution of the country’s tourism sector to the GDP and 10% of the Gross Value Added (GVA).  With the country taking a step forward in sustainable tourism, the São Tomé eco-lodges are also going to play a critical role. With the use of renewable energy, community involvement, local sourcing, and sustainable architecture, these lodges are also helping us to travel green.  In this blog, I will introduce the popular and lesser-known São Tomé eco-lodges, what practices they follow, the hidden gems of São Tomé and Príncipe, and more.  What Makes An Eco-Lodge In São Tomé Truly Sustainable? Before diving into the list, let’s define what sets a true eco-lodge apart: Renewable energy sources (solar, hydro) Local sourcing of food and materials Waste reduction and water conservation Community involvement and fair employment Eco-certifications or transparent sustainability practices Popular São Tomé Eco-Lodges The best eco-lodges in São Tomé and Príncipe for sustainable travel are committed to preserving the community and nature of the islands. Many of these eco-lodges also support conservation efforts and organize nature walks to help the visitors understand the local ecosystem.  Nevertheless, here are the most popular ones.  1. Omali Lodge (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by dr. András Peres (@drandrasperes) With policies governed by the Biosphere Responsible Tourism standards, Omali Lodge. It has the Biosphere Responsible Tourism certification. It is a leader of sustainable tourism in São Tomé and Príncipe.  Local artists and craftsmen are involved in the operations of the Omali Lodge, staying true to its commitment to community development. Furthermore, the menu here focuses on national dishes prepared with locally-sourced ingredients.  However, it offers adequate Wi-Fi connectivity. So, if you are not looking for a complete digital detox and want to work remotely, then it is also a good choice.  2. Bom Bom Island Resort (Príncipe) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Maria Helena Vinhas Frade (@mhvf) The Bom Bom Island Resort is the first African hotel to receive the Biosphere certification from the Instituto de Turismo Responsable (ITR).  Currently, the main aim of the hotel is to go completely diesel-free in its daily operations. The hotel has 68 local workers, as Sérgio Duarte has mentioned in a recent conversation with the Sustainability Leaders United.  Furthermore, the hotel procures resources from the local producers. Also, it collects donations from the guests to invest in employee training programs. Thus, it helps in educating and empowering the community.  The experiences it offers are: Turtle watching Maria Correia waterfall trail hiking Birdwatching Parrot Peak trail hiking Roça Infante trail hiking Stand-up paddleboarding Snorkeling It is also a friendly accommodation for digital nomads with Wi-Fi connectivity, included within the accommodation package. Moreover, the main part of the resort is wheelchair-accessible.  So, it is one of the accessible eco-lodges in São Tomé and Príncipe.  3. Praia Inhame Eco Lodge (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by PATRÍCIA PINHEIRO (@patrwisha) Claimed to be “Naturally Comfortable,” Praia Inhame Eco Lodge is one of the best eco-lodges with turtle watching in São Tomé. A local NGO, MARAPA, runs the Tatô Program to protect marine turtles in São Tomé.  Praia Inhame Eco Lodge has been working with this NGO since 2012. It has helped the NGO to implement this program on Inhame and Cabana beaches.  The wilderness and outdoor activities offered by this eco lodge are: Marine turtle observation Whale watching Birdwatching Diving Fishing Boat trips Moreover, places such as Hell's Mouth, Saint Sebastian Museum, St. Nicholas Waterfall, St. Thomas Peak, and Jale Beach are some nearby attractions of this eco-lodge.  In addition, it is one of the São Tomé eco-lodges with Wi-Fi connectivity. So, it is also a favorite of digital nomads who can travel and work remotely.  4. Sundy Praia (Príncipe Island) View this post on Instagram A post shared by HBD Príncipe (@hbd_principe) Sundy Praia has a dedicated team for waste management and recycling. Furthermore, it leads community cleaning drives to spread awareness about the impact of litter.  Also, the “screw-in” mechanism of the eco lodge’s architecture ensures a minimal impact on the environment of the island.  Moreover, located inside the beachside rainforest, it is indeed an eco lodge.  The experiences it offers are: Turtle watching Maria Correia waterfall trail hiking Birdwatching Parrot Peak trail hiking Roça Infante trail hiking Stand-up paddleboarding Snorkeling Moreover, you can be a part of the 3-hour Discover Santo António tour. Also, it is a favorite of digital nomads for Wi-Fi connectivity.  In addition, Sundy Praia offers wheelchair accessibility to make the travel experience more inclusive.  5. Roça Sundy (Príncipe) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nina Scott (@nina.wolfs.scott) As part of the Príncipe Collection, like Sundy Praia and Bom Bom, Roça Sundy also follows that when you visit it, you make a Conservation and Communities Contribution (CCC).  You spend a night here, and they will contribute €25 for the environmental and community development of Príncipe. In addition, nearly 10% of the adults of Príncipe work with them.  Moreover, the experiences it offers are: Turtle watching Maria Correia waterfall trail hiking Birdwatching Parrot Peak trail hiking Roça Infante trail hiking Stand-up paddleboarding Snorkeling 6. Mucumbli Lodge (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mucumbli Explore (@mucumbli.explore) Mucumbli Lodge overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, and it offers the quintessential eco-lodge experience with wooden chalets.  Furthermore, due to its unique location, it is one of the best remote eco-lodges for digital detox in Africa.  Lesser-Known Accommodations Following The Best Sustainable Practices In São Tomé And Príncipe Island The options for São Tomé eco-lodges are more varied than you can expect. Here are the lesser-known ones or the hidden gems.  1. Jalé Ecolodge (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by IATI Seguros PORTUGAL (@iatisegurospt) Jalé Ecolodge offers beautiful sea views from all units. You can enjoy snorkeling nearby and have the best continental breakfast sourced from local ingredients.  2. Roca Monte Forte (São Tomé) It is the first rural tourism place to open in São Tomé. Here, you will be staying inside a cocoa plantation with history, and you will lead the quintessential Santomean farm life.  Furthermore, it offers easy access to nearby beaches in the northern area, such as Governador, Tamarindos, Conchas, and Blue Lagoon.  3. Domus Praia Jalé (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Domus Praia Jalé (@domuspraiajale) Domus Praia Jalé is the best location if you want to have good food and relax in nature. It has an on-site restaurant serving international delicacies made with local ingredients.  Also, they have a private beach where you can relax and listen to the waves.  Seasonal Travel Tips For Staying At The Eco Lodges In São Tomé and Príncipe June to September, or the dry season, is the best time to stay at the eco-lodges in São Tomé and Príncipe for mild weather conditions and wildlife watching.  1. For Whale Watching Bom Bom Island Resort in Príncipe and Mucumbli in São Tomé are some of the best eco-lodges for whale watching. July to October is the whale watching season here.  2. For Sea Turtle Nesting Praia Inhame Eco Lodge in São Tomé and Bom Bom Island Resort in Príncipe are the best eco-lodges for seeing turtle nesting. November to March is the ideal time for this experience.  Budget Breakdown: What Is The Average Cost Per Night At Eco Lodges In São Tomé and Príncipe? Here is a cost comparison between eco-lodges, not budget-friendly options. Find out the budget eco-lodges in the islands.  Name of the Eco-LodgeApproximate Cost Per Night/ Per Person (€)Omali Lodge222Bom Bom Island Resort250Praia Inhame Eco Lodge95Sundy Praia420Roça Sundy150Mucumbli Lodge45Jalé Ecolodge55 5-Day Sustainable Travel Itinerary In São Tomé And Príncipe Here is a quick 5-day sustainable travel itinerary in São Tomé and Príncipe.  DaysActivitiesDay 1• Staying at Omali Lodge• Visiting São Tomé city center and local marketsDay 2• Transfer to Mucumbli Lodge• Guided hiking and cacao farm visitDay 3• Moving to Praia Inhame Eco Lodge• Evening turtle tourDay 4• Flight to Príncipe• Staying at Sundy Praia• Exploring a biosphere reserveDay 5• Visiting Roça Sundy• Cultural tour and local lunch Hidden Gems In São Tomé And Príncipe If you want a deeper, more authentic connection to the islands’ nature, culture, and history, you must explore these hidden gems. 1. Malanza Mangrove Canoe Tour: Ideal For Nature Lovers And Photographers View this post on Instagram A post shared by Santo Tomé y Príncipe ESP (@santotomeyprincip) Take a canoe ride through the mangrove forests of southern São Tomé. It is a delightful eco-tour through waterways blessed by lush greenery, endemic flora, and a vibrant birdlife.  2. Pico Cão Grande: Enjoy The Best View From The Obo National Park Trails Pico Cão Grande is the most dramatic natural view you will enjoy here. This volcanic plug, with a height of 663 meters, is almost surreal.  3. Ilhéu Das Rolas And The Equator Marker: Best For Beach Lovers And Geography Buffs View this post on Instagram A post shared by Viagem a São Tomé (@viagem.a.saotome) Ilhéu Das Rolas is a small island off the south of São Tomé. You can take a boat ride here to stand on the equator line.  Also, you can explore the pristine beaches here and have a delightful snorkeling experience.  4. Roça São João Dos Angolares: Great For Cultural Immersion And Sustainable Tourism Roça São João Dos Angolares is an eco lodge that was formerly a plantation. It is also a cultural center. It offers cooking classes, storytelling events with local artists, and art exhibitions.  5. Boca Do Inferno (Hell’s Mouth): Visit During High Tide For Full Effect This dramatic blowhole on the southern coast of São Tomé is the perfect example of juxtaposition. Here, the waves kiss the volcanic cliffs with the water jets reaching the sky.  6. Praia Jalé Turtle Nesting Site Find the sea turtles nesting here during the November to March season. Praia Inhame Eco Lodge in São Tomé and Bom Bom Island Resort in Príncipe are the best places for watching turtle nesting.  7. Nova Estrela Viewpoint (Príncipe Island): Ideal For Sunrise Hikes And Drone Photography View this post on Instagram A post shared by HBD Príncipe (@hbd_principe) It is a beautiful viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the rainforest and coastline of Príncipe.  8. Roça Água Izé: Offers Insight Into The Island’s Colonial Past View this post on Instagram A post shared by Francisco Almada Lobo (@almadalobo) It is an abandoned cacao plantation and is almost haunted. It stands out with its overgrown gardens and colonial architecture.  9. Whale Watching Off Príncipe: Best Enjoyed With Snorkeling And Diving Trips Humpback whales migrate to Príncipe through the waterways from July to September. Be a part of eco tours for respectful and sustainable viewing opportunities.  10. Rainforest Retreats At Sundy Praia: Perfect For Eco-Travelers Seeking Tranquility View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ramosdafrica (@ramosdafrica) Sundy Praia is a luxury tented villa in the rainforest of Príncipe. Enjoy yoga, guided nature walks, and conservation education. São Tomé And Príncipe Travel Planning Checklist Here is a list of things to do and things to avoid while planning a trip to São Tomé Eco-Lodges. Things to DoThings to Avoid• Checking visa requirements with the São Tomé embassy or consulate based on your nationality• Checking the availability of the co-lodges and booking them in advance• Plan your visit between June and October for wildlife watching.• Pack breathable clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and rain gear• Bring malaria prophylaxis, basic meds, and travel insurance.• Check the requirements for a yellow fever vaccination.• Consider the limited availability of domestic flights to Príncipe and book early.• Not all eco-lodges offer transfers. You may have to take shared minibuses and taxis. • Carry some Dobra (STN) for transactions in rural areas. • Portuguese is the official language.• Kafuka or community gatherings are special here.• Avoid single-use plastics and respect wildlife viewing guidelines.• Support community-led tours, conservation projects, and local artisans• Save maps, lodge contacts, and embassy info offline before arrival, as some places will have limited network connectivity.• Not all “eco-lodges” are truly sustainable.• Not looking for transparency in energy use, waste management, and community impact.• Not carrying Dobra (STN) or Euros in cash, as ATMs are limited and not all facilities accept cards.• Medical facilities are basic. So, not having travel insurance with medical coverage or not carrying a medical care box can be a big mistake. • Missing out on the local cooking classes or visiting the villages is a mistake. • Using single-use water bottles and leaving litter everywhere São Tomé Eco-Lodges Are More Than Just Places To Stay Supporting local communities Supporting environmental development Protecting biodiversity Experiencing the authentic charm of the islands These are the benefits of staying in the best São Tomé eco lodges. Furthermore, these lodges are diverse and they offer luxury, simplicity, or cultural immersion in the most responsible way.  So, get ready for the most immersive experience at the best São Tomé eco lodges! 

BY  Sibashree Oct 11, 2025

Potter and Tioga Counties in Pennsylvania are the newest vacation hotspots in the USA in the fall season. The fifth position in the 2025 USA TODAY 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Destination for Fall Colors has further brought this into the limelight.  Hiking the canyon rims, watching the stars at the Cherry Springs, live entertainment, and great local food make Potter and Tioga stand out.  On the other hand, USA Today has recently named Mackinac Island the Best Place to Visit for Fall. Since 2023, it has been placed in the top three destinations in the list of USA Today as one of the best places to travel in October in the USA.  Tim Hygh, the executive director of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, has shared his thoughts with MLive.com. “Fall on Mackinac Island is a remarkable experience, from the tranquil atmosphere to the brilliant fall colors, and we are incredibly honored to receive this recognition.”  So, are you ready to enjoy the whiff of the fudge in the air in Mackinac Island? Or, do you want to explore more places to travel in October in the USA? Here is a complete travel guide. What Is The Leaf-Peeping Season In The USA? Why Is It So Special? With the leaves of the trees turning orange and golden yellow, and the earth getting covered with dry leaves, Autumn announces the season of Thanksgiving and Halloween.  Furthermore, it is the season of apple picking and pumpkin harvesting.  Mid-September to early November is the leaf peeping season in the USA. However, the peak season for the foliage color reaches different parts of the country at different times in the month.  Parts in the USALeaf Peeping Season West, the Aspen Groves in Colorado and Utah• Late September• Early OctoberMidwest• OctoberBlue Ridge Mountains and the Southern Part of America• Late OctoberNortheastern America, such as Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire • October The Leaf Peeping Season In The USA In The Current Year  In the current year, the fall season has officially set in on 6th October. However, because of a pretty dry season since late July, the fall colors seem to be less visible in different parts of the country till now.  Furthermore, due to the “Urban Heat Island Effect,” the urban areas are likely to have less vibrant fall colors, and the ocean influences in the coastal areas will also impact and delay the change of foliage colors.  So, in the current year, we will have to wait till mid and late October for the leaf peeping season to reach its full glory. Even in the northeast, the drought stress since the end of August and a consistent temperature of around 80°F will delay the arrival of fall colors. Having said that, Hudson Valley, New Jersey, and some other locations in the northwestern region have already started showing mild colors. In addition, a wet beginning to summer and the long dry spell afterward have created a favorable condition for apple and pumpkin harvesting, two other major attractions of the fall season, along with the change of leaf colors.  Moreover, the species of the trees (Red Maple Trees offer red foliage and ash trees offer yellow foliage) and their locations impact the fall colors. Trees at higher elevations and near lakes and ponds show better colors.  What Are The Best Places To Visit In October In The USA?  Have you seen the painting, Four Seasons, by Egon Schiele? The 1917 painting beautifully captures the spirit of the fall season with the shades of golden yellow and red. The “Autumn” painting of Helmer Osslund is another amazing depiction of the season, where nature sheds the old and gets ready for the new.  Some places in the USA are nothing short of these iconic paintings in the fall season. Let’s find out what special they have in store for us.  1. New England Region Average Temperature: 3-17 °Celsius The New England Region covers states such as Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts.  The crisp air and silent roads with trees in golden, orange, and red shades make the region an ideal choice for autumn vacations.  Vermont Average Temperature: 5-15 °Celsius Vermont is the quintessential autumn destination you need to visit in the USA. The scenic drive along Route 100 and the views of the Green Mountains are breathtaking, with the leaves changing their colors.  You can also visit the apple orchards and pumpkin farms for a first-hand harvesting experience.  New Hampshire Average Temperature: 5-12 °Celsius Home to the White Mountains, New Hampshire is one of the best places to travel in October in the USA. You can explore the state parks and enjoy the iconic ride on the Mount Washington Cog Railway.  The small towns here are ideal for experiencing the autumn festivities.  Salem, Massachusetts Average Temperature: 6-18 °Celsius View this post on Instagram A post shared by Salem, Massachusetts (@destsalem) Known as the Witch City, Salem is associated with the Infamous Witch Trials of 1692. You can be a part of the month-long Haunted Happening Festivals in October in Salem. The festivities include ghost tours and parades.  Also, visit the Salem Witch Museum for a somber and eerie experience.  2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Bordering North Carolina And Tennessee Average Temperature: 9-21 °Celsius Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers the most amazing views of the fall foliage with its diverse elevation.  You can hike or go for scenic drives in the national park. You can even explore nearby small towns such as Pigeon Forge.  3. Aspen, Colorado Average Temperature: -1 to 13 °Celsius With the aspen trees turning golden yellow in October, Aspen looks beautiful, and the Rocky Mountains create the perfect backdrop.  Furthermore, the Maroon Bells in Colorado, one of the most photographed mountains in America, looks stunning with the changing colors of foliage.  4. Boston Average Temperature: 10-17 °Celsius Beacon Hill and Back Bay are some of the most popular neighborhoods in Boston to see autumn foliage.  Furthermore, visit the Boston Common and Public Garden to enjoy a beautiful urban landscape in autumn.  5. New Orleans Average Temperature: 20-25 °Celsius Known for its Voodoo culture, New Orleans is most alive in the Halloween Season. Take a tour of the local cemeteries and the French Quarter to soak in the eerie vibe.  6. Orlando, Florida Average Temperature: 18-29 °Celsius Be a part of the Halloween Horror Nights festival in Orlando. It is one of the scariest festivals in the USA, with scare zones, haunted houses, and live acts inspired by popular horror movies and TV shows.  7. Savannah, Georgia Average Temperature: 14-25 °Celsius One of the most haunted cities in America, Savannah is a must-visit in October. A tour of the historic district of the city is spooky. Also, you can enjoy the changing colors of autumn foliage.  8. San Francisco, California Average Temperature: 12-21 °Celsius Home to the notorious Alcatraz Island and prison, San Francisco is one of the most prominent locations for dark tourism in the USA.  Also, if you want to see autumn colors, you can visit Golden Gate Park.  9. Asheville, North Carolina  Average Temperature: 7-21 °Celsius View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Asheville | Asheville, North Carolina (@visitasheville) Asheville, in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is one of the most scenic locations in October. The trees in the mountains change their colors faster, and you can take a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway to see the colors. Also, visit the Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in America.  10. Santa Fe, New Mexico Average Temperature: 4-14 °Celsius Santa Fe shows a beautiful fusion of Native American and Spanish culture. In October, you can be a part of the Santa Fe Harvest Festival and go hiking in the Sangre De Cristo Mountains.  The leaves of the aspen trees in the mountain trails turn golden yellow in the season.  11. New York City Average Temperature: 14-18 °Celsius Central Park is the epicenter of seeing fall colors in New York City. You can also be a part of the Halloween Parade in Greenwich Village, which is the largest in the country.  Otherwise, you can just chill at the outdoor cafes and enjoy the Broadway shows.  12. Leavenworth, Washington State Average Temperature: 7-18 °Celsius With the charm of a Bavarian-style village, Leavenworth is just another small town in the USA that turns magical in October.  The small town hosts an Oktoberfest. It is a German-style celebration with great food and music. Furthermore, the entire town is decked up in fall foliage, pumpkins, and everything autumn.  13. Lake Tahoe: California And Nevada Border Average Temperature: 10-21 °Celsius Surrounded by mountains, Lake Tahoe is one of the most serene places to travel in October in the USA. With the summer crowd gone, the foliage in the mountains and around the lake starts changing colors.  You can do kayaking and hiking here. Or, you can just relax by the lake for some tranquility.  14. Chicago Average Temperature: 4-21 °Celsius Chicago bustles with energy in October as it hosts many renowned festivals. It is the month of the Chicago International Film Festival and the Lincoln Park Autumn Harvest.  Also, with the nip in the air, it is the best time to try the signature deep-dish pizzas. 15. Zion National Park, Utah Average Temperature: 4-20 °Celsius Hike through the famous trails such as the Narrows and Angels Landing in Zion National Park and witness how the fall foliage creates a contrast against the red rock canyons in the park.  The views are dramatic, and with the summer crowd gone, the ambiance is peaceful.  16. Potter And Tioga Counties, Pennsylvania Average Temperature: 3-17 °Celsius View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Potter Tioga (@visitpottertioga) Blessed by the Appalachian Mountains, Potter and Tioga Counties have the most amazing forests and verdant hills. So, the autumn vistas here are quite dramatic.  Furthermore, the Pine Creek Gorge, or the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, is at the epicenter of the autumn attractions here.  Moreover, you can do horse riding, hiking, or biking through the Pine Creek Rail Trail for an unforgettable experience.  17. Mackinac Island, Michigan  Average Temperature: 4-12 °Celsius View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mira (@lightbender_photo) Autumn on Mackinac Island is captivating. Enjoy a ride in the bikes or horse-drawn carriages to see the changing fall colors. It is famous for its car-free lifestyle.  Also, don’t forget a visit to the Mackinac Island State Park, famous for limestone arches, woods, and trails.  Visiting The Best Places To Travel In October In The USA: A 7-Day Itinerary  Are you in the USA this autumn? Try this 7-day itinerary to explore the best places to travel in October in the USA.  DaysLocationActivitiesDay 1Salem • Drive from Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Salem• A Visit to the Witch House and Walking through the Historic StreetsDay 2Boston• Walking through the Freedom Trail and Exploring Places such as Boston Common, Paul Revere House, and Faneuil Hall.• A Visit to Boston Common and Enjoying a Boat Ride.• Walking through Beacon HillDay 3Boston to Vermont• Foliage Drive from Boston to Vermont for 4-5 Hours.• Stopping by the Woodstock Town to See Fall Colors. • Trying Maple Syrup at a Sugar House. Day 4Vermont and New England• Hiking in the Green Mountain National Forest for Foliage Views• Shopping at Vermont Country Store• Afternoon Drive in the BerkshiresDay 5Vermont to New York City• A Drive for Around 5 Hours• Exploring Central Park• Visiting the NYC Landmarks such as Rockefeller Center and Times SquareDay 6New York City• Visiting the Metropolitan • • Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)• Brooklyn Bridge Walk• Visiting the 9/11 MuseumDay 7Departing from New York City• Souvenir Shopping• Trying Classic Bagels• Airport Travel What Is The Cost Of A 7-Day Fall Vacation In October In The USA? Here is the estimated cost of a 7-day fall vacation in the USA in October. The budget range here is wide because I have considered budget, mid-budget, and high-end traveling and their various options.  Types of CostEstimated BudgetNotesAccommodation$600-2100• Hostels• Budget Inns• Boutique Hotels• B&BsTransportation$200-600• GasTolls• Parking• Subway• Rental CarTrainFood and Drink$350-1000• Quick• Service• Groceries• RestaurantsAttractions$150-450• Entry Fees• ToursTicketsTotal$1300-4150• (Excluding flight tickets to the USA) A Calendar Of October Festivities In The USA  In October, try being a part of these nationwide and local festivals.  Time of MonthFestivalsDetails2025 DatesEarly OctoberAlbuquerque International Balloon Fiesta• The Largest Hot Air Balloon Festival in the World• Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico4th to 12th October 2025First Two Full Weekends in OctoberNational Apple Harvest Festival• Visit Biglerville, Pennsylvania. 4th and 5th October and 11th to 12th October13th OctoberColumbus Day• A Federal Holiday Celebrating America’s Past13th OctoberMonth-Long ActivitiesSalem Haunted Happenings• Visit Salem, MassachusettsN/AMid-OctoberFall-Foliage Festivals• Visit Vermont, New Hampshire, and MarylandN/A31st OctoberHalloween• Nationwide Celebration with Themed Parties and Spooky Tours31st October Best Places To Travel In October In The USA: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the best places to travel in October in the USA.  1. What Is The #1 Place To Vacation In The US? New York City, the Yellowstone National Park, and Los Angeles are some of the most popular places for a vacation in the USA. However, if you want to enjoy a vibrant nightlife, you can visit Las Vegas or Reno. Also, Orlando is the place to be for theme park fun. 2. What Is The Cheapest Vacation Destination In The USA? Oklahoma City, known for its distinct cowboy culture, is one of the cheapest vacation destinations in the USA. You can visit the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, the Oklahoma City Zoo, and the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum here. Furthermore, the cost of living in the city is way below the national average.  3. Where To Take Kids For Fun In The US? With the presence of Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort, Orlando is the most coveted location for kids visiting the USA. However, if your little one loves nature and wilderness, Yellowstone National Park, Olympic National Park, and the Dry Tortugas National Park are some of the best places to be.  Read Also: Check the Best Warm Winter Destinations in USA! The Best Places to Visit in February in the USA in 2025! The Best Places To See Northern Lights In The USA: When And Where To Watch Aurora Borealis

BY  Sibashree Nov 20, 2024

South Carolina had its first “South Carolina Travel and Tourism Week” in 2024. Gov. Henry McMaster announced the 19th to 25th May as the South Carolina Travel and Tourism Week, and it celebrated the role of tourism in the economic growth of the county.  The governor further announced how the state has achieved an economic impact of $29 billion. In this context, we must tell you that Greenville has been one of the most important counties for the growth of tourism in the state.  Also, the US News and World Report has included Greenville in the top 5 places to live in the US in 2024-25. In addition, the county is experiencing a major boom in the real estate sector.  So, along with exciting things to do in Greenville, SC, the best infrastructure and amenities make the county one of the travel highlights of the season in the USA. There are many things to do in Greenville, with history tours, culinary tourism, paranormal walks, etc. However, at Tour and Travel, we have handpicked three activities most suitable for adults.  Let’s talk about these things in detail.  Paranormal Walk: Unique Things To Do In Greenville, SC https://www.instagram.com/p/CjgOxyVp_ik/?img_index=1 Greenville Ghost Tours Contact Number: +1 864-475-7705 Have you ever been on a ghost tour? Paranormal investigator Gabe Mathews is a certified professional, and he will take you on a ghost walk to downtown Greenville. Greenville Ghost Tours LLC, the tour business conducting this walk, is recognized by the City of Greenville. Also, these ghost tours are quite popular in the local community.  Did you know that many participants in these tours have identified paranormal activities and presence in the forms of orbs, EMF readings and EVPs? Further, the program primarily has two activities. Walking Tour of Greenville Downtown for 90 Minutes 30 Minutes of Paranormal Investigation at Springwood Cemetery Moreover, these ghost tours are kid-friendly. Still, the stories of gore, deaths, and ghosts can be intimidating for them. So, parental discretion is necessary when kids participate in these tours. Food Tourism: One Of The Most Exciting Things To Do In Greenville, SC The year 2024 has been promising for the food tourism scenario in Greenville, SC. The Greenville's History & Culinary tours and Gather GVL have been honored at the “USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards.” Gather GVL features at number 5 on the list of best food halls. On the other hand, “Greenville History & Culinary Tours” finds the 8th place on the list of “Best Food Tours” in the country.  So, exploring the food scenario of Greenville, SC, will be one of the most exciting things to do in Greenville. Let’s have a brief idea about Gather GVL and Greenville History & Culinary Tours at first and then we will move into some of the best eateries in Greenville.  1. Gather GVL, Greenville https://www.instagram.com/p/CtwoxLcOvl8/ Contact Number: +1 864-501-5008 Gather GVL, a food hall, is like a uniting ground. People of all ages visit Gather GVL, and the plenty of sitting options add to its laid-back charm. Further, it’s a pet-friendly food hall where the entire family can enjoy their favorite meal with their furry friends.  You will find more than ten food and beverage vendors in Gather GVL. The place is a vibrant collection of shipping containers, bringing food lovers together.  The most famous delicacies available here are lobster rolls, sushi and burgers.  2. Greenville History & Culinary Tours https://www.instagram.com/p/C6MZmCZsLCo/ The culinary tours in Greenville are great for the connoisseurs. As the most exciting things to do in Greenville, SC, these tours cater to people with different tastebuds.  If you want to try the edgiest dishes from the leading chefs here, you must join the "At the Chef's Table" tour. Further, you can go for a “BBQ Trail Tour” or try farm-fresh meat delicacies in the countryside.  Do you want to experience the food scene of the best eateries and drinking places in Greenville? Check out the details.  Farm Fresh FastPhone Number: (864) 518-1978Specialty: Bison Burger, Crispy Thai Pork Wrap, Korean BBQ ChickenFork and PloughPhone Number: +1 864-609-4249Specialty: Fish & Chips, Blackened Salmon Caesar SaladBetween The TreesPhone Number: +1 864-603-1630Specialty: Blueberry Pearl Sugar Muffins, Lobster Croquettes, Trio - A Brick Oven CafePhone Number: +1 864-467-1000Specialty: Bruschetta, Baked Caprese, Wood Fired WingsFireforge Crafted BeerPhone Number: +1 864-300-4809Abanico Tapas BarPhone Number: +1 864-509-6834 Meat, smoky flavors, and sweet potatoes rule the food scenario in Greenville, SC. I am a great fan of sweet potato crunch. It has the perfect balance of sweet and savory.  Bucky’s Bar-B-Q is one of the best places to have sweet potato crunch, and you can contact them at +1 864-329-0054.  Visiting The Museums Of Greenville, SC Visiting the museums and historic sites is one of the best things to do in Greenville, SC. The Upcountry History Museum is a great place to unearth the stories of the county and the human lives here.  So, let’s have a detailed idea about what awaits at this celebrated Greenville museum. Upcountry History Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/C767nDEuprc/?hl=en Phone Number: +1 864-467-3100 Operating Hours: Sunday: 1 PM to 5 PM, Tuesday to Saturday: 10 AM to 5 PM Located at Heritage Green in downtown Greenville, SC, this museum has interactive displays. Also, the semi-permanent exhibits and dynamic programs make the museum fun for kids and adults.  “Admission: Adults $12Seniors (65 and up) And College Students With ID $11Children Between 3-18: $9Children Up to 2: Free”The museum remains closed on Monday.  Upcountry History Museum: Gearing Up For The Christmas Celebration  https://www.instagram.com/p/C04dNrROPct/?hl=en&img_index=1 With the nip in the air, we are heading towards the biggest celebration in the world. The Upcountry History Museum is also gearing up for the festive season with “White Christmas: The Exhibition.” This exhibition will start on 16th November and end on 2nd February 2025. This exhibition is a chance to travel back and celebrate the famous 1941 song “White Christmas.” Bing Crosby gave the first live performance of White Christmas on the radio 17 days after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. In 1942, the song was featured in the movie Holiday Inn, and it won the Academy Award for “Best Original Song.” Further, in 1954, a full-fledged movie on White Christmas was made in Berlin. That year, it became the highest-grossing movie.  Nevertheless, the exhibits at the White Christmas exhibition at Upcountry History Museum will be: Movie Costumes by Edith Head Sheet music Movie props Replica backdrops, etc. So, visiting the Upcountry History Museum will be one of the best things to do in Greenville, SC, this Christmas.  Also read Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit. Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.