How Far is Austin from Houston? And Why You Should Visit Both

BY  Ankita Apr 12, 2024

As travellers increasingly seek unique and memorable experiences, vacation rentals have emerged as the go-to accommodation for those looking to immerse themselves in local cultures far removed from the well-trodden paths of mainstream tourism.  Staying in a vacation rental, whether it's a cozy rental apartment in the heart of the city, a quaint cottage in the countryside, or a beach house with sweeping ocean views, offers a unique opportunity to live like a local and uncover hidden gems that can make your trip truly unforgettable. This article discusses the main reasons why a vacation rental is a great choice for you. We tell you how vacation rentals are better than hotels when renting out as a local or as a traveller, both for you and as a traveller. Here, you will also find some top tips for finding a good vacation rental to enhance your stay and experience. A Gateway To Authenticity For an authentic vacation experience, hotels do not do justice to vacation rentals. Vacation rentals often have local decor, and the architecture of the property feels more personalized and local. On the other hand, a hotel experience is more sterile and lacks personality. This way, a vacation rental environment differs from any hotel and enhances the overall experience of the stay. You get to immerse yourself in a new experience by cooking with local ingredients found in neighbourhood markets. You can try new ways to cook food in the new place, just like the locals.  Again, you can dine at local-favourite eateries that you might not find in guidebooks, but only locals can tell you about. Try new dishes and immerse your taste buds in a variety of flavours. Enjoying leisurely strolls in lesser-known areas can offer new experiences in a new place. Furthermore, the personal spaces in vacation rentals allow travellers to experience daily life as locals do. They can wake up to the sounds of the neighbourhood, maybe a local street market or the morning chatter of residents, offering a daily rhythm and pace that hotels shield their guests from. This is especially a priority for the younger generations of travelers, including Gen Zs, who are looking for authenticity in their adventures. Tailored Local Insights One significant advantage of vocational rentals is the personalized insights provided by hosts. Many hosts are keen to share their love for their city or town, offering recommendations not typically featured in tourist guides.  From the best local coffee shop where residents grab their morning brew to hidden alleys with the best street art, these recommendations allow travellers to explore areas off the beaten path and experience the locality as natives do, not as tourists.  The freedom to explore new places and areas when interacting with locals while staying in local rentals during vacation is beyond immersive. You experience not only the new food and language but also the local community. Often, while travelling, when you interact with local people, they tend to suggest the best local places and events. Don't miss these local events as you get to taste a new culture and where you can also make deeper connections. If a local family invites you to visit their home, be gracious enough to attend it if you can. You will get a lot of cultural insights from them, and cultural exchanges happen, too. You can also get new opportunities to participate in local traditions. Economic Benefits To Local Communities Opting for a vacation rental over a hotel also increases the local economy. Hotels are expensive, as you already know; on the other hand, vacation rentals are relatively cheaper. Hotels come with restaurants and room service, while vacation rentals do not, so you have to do all your cooking and shopping.  That might seem hectic while traveling, but when you are on a budget, it's the best option. You get to shop in the local farmer's market and enjoy new produce local to the area. You interact more with the locals and increase your exposure to new cultures.  The bright side of vacation rentals is that you get to enjoy local homesteads and architecture. If you don't wish to cook them, go exploring local restaurants and take suggestions from locals. This also helps uplift the local economy as most of the local restaurants are run by local families. Engaging with local services helps you distribute your money more evenly and sustain small businesses. You also get to interact with more locals, providing you with deeper cultural insights. You would be wrong if you think opting for a residential neighbourhood rental will help the locals.  Instead, stay in vacation rentals outside tourist-heavy areas where more than the high price of the rental fee is put on. Staying in less touristy locations will benefit the local communities, especially financially. Sustainable Travel Vacation rentals can also contribute to sustainable travel practices. Many rentals are established in residential areas, which spreads out the impact of tourism and reduces overcrowding in popular tourist centers. Additionally, the ability to cook and manage waste more efficiently in a rental can decrease the ecological footprint of your stay.  Renters can also engage more directly with local recycling and sustainability initiatives, becoming part of the community's environmental solutions. This can be especially impactful in regions where sustainability is a community priority, allowing travellers to contribute positively to the local environment. Uncovering Hidden Gems Other than the sustainable and economic advantages of opting for vacation rentals is discovering hidden gems. It can be a new dirt road to a river bank or a secluded beach only the locals know about. You can also find hidden gems like a family-run vineyard that offers you private tastings. Or a historic site that hasn't made it to any tourist guide yet. These new hidden gems heighten your memory of the place and make your vacation special. If you love adventure, you can ask locals for hiking trails that lead to amazing views that only locals know about. You can also visit artisans' workshops where traditional crafts are made. These unique spots often provide the most cherished memories of travel, as they offer a sense of discovery and personal connection to the place. Tips For Finding The Best Local Vacation Rentals Finding the perfect vacation rental can be the key to unlocking a local experience. These are some of our practical tips to help you discover the best spots that connect you with the heart of your destination. Research Thoroughly Research is essential to find the best local vacation rentals. You must do a thorough research on the area you are planning to visit. Look beyond the typical vacation rental platforms, like searching for local forums that offer information on rental properties to tourists.  You can always search social media groups and blog posts that offer insights into the best local vacation rentals. You can also search platforms where the particular local residents are active and what they have to say about the place. Sites like Airbnb and Vrbo are great, but you should also check out local rental websites and agencies that might offer unique listings not found on the larger platforms. Read Reviews Carefully Reviews are crucial information that previous guests of vacation rentals leave for future guests. So, if you have to check the vacation rental reviews before you select one for your trip, see what your predecessors have to say about the host of the rental and the local community.  You get a clear picture of the locals from previous renters who stayed at the place. Reviews can reveal a lot about the authenticity and convenience of the location and the quality of the living experience. Communicate With Hosts Once you narrow down your choices, reach out to potential hosts with any questions you have about the property and the area. A good host will be eager to provide information and may share insights into local gems. Their responsiveness and willingness to offer advice can be a good indicator of the kind of experience you'll have. Consider Location And Accessibility Choose a location that balances tranquillity with accessibility. Want to experience the lifestyle of a local when visiting a place? Then, try to find vacation rentals in locations that are easily accessible to local communities. If you find a rental in a tourist-centric area you might not get much interaction with locals. However, considering how you will access the attractions and amenities of the place, you can always use public transport to visit the key attractions. You can rent a local car to reach distant places. Still, the local markets, cafes, and sites of interest locally can greatly enhance your stay. Check For Amenities Check for vacation rentals that offer amenities for your comfortable stay. Even if there is no food available in a vacation rental, see to it that they offer a proper kitchen. You must check all the amenities like gas, stove, and utensils, which should be included in the rental. You might also check for proper bathrooms, water, and internet to connect with the outside world when needed. Some people also work while vacationing, so the internet becomes essential for them in this situation. Ensure that the rental has all the amenities you'll need to enjoy your time there without hassle. Verify Safety And Legal Considerations Lastly, ensure that the rental is in a safe area and that all local laws regarding vacation rentals are observed. Some areas have regulations on short-term rentals that might affect your stay. It's also wise to verify this information to avoid any legal inconveniences. Wrapping It Up In conclusion, vacation rentals are more than just a place to stay; they are a gateway to deeper cultural immersion. You get a chance to live like a local while enhancing sustainable tourism. By choosing local vacation rentals you discover the heart and soul of that particular destination. After all, people make a place special, not monuments. So next time you travel to a new place, opt for a vacation rental in the local area instead of a hotel in a touristy area. This choice could transform a standard trip into a unique exploration of the local way of life, leaving you with rich and rare memories. Learn More About: Travelocity Review- Login, Services, And Travel Experiences Tips For Planning The Perfect Getaway In A Rental Villa In Italy Jackson Hole Luxury Rentals: The Inside Scoop On The Most Desirable Properties

BY  Sibashree Oct 24, 2025

Croatia is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. Moreover, tourists can see crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, and pristine silver sand beaches. Statistica reports suggest that almost 20 million arrivals were recorded in Croatia,  Therefore, a large number of tourists from around the world visit Croatia. This often makes several spots and destinations very crowded.  However, many travellers do not like being in highly crowded places. Thus, people often prefer to visit beaches that remain untouched by people and are clean. Moreover, Croatia’s coastline is home to hundreds of breathtaking beaches. The list of attractions includes things like hidden coves and pebbly bays to soft sandy lagoons. However, we will inform Tour and Travel readers about the less crowded beaches accessible by waterways.   Therefore, the best way to explore all these beaches is by boat or yacht. Moreover, tourists can anchor in crystal waters and explore every hidden corner of the Adriatic. Which Are The Top 10 Best Beaches in Croatia To Visit By Boat? Croatia is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. However, we have sifted out the names of some of the best beaches in Croatia for you to visit. All these beaches are best visited by boat. Thus, let us know in detail about these beaches. 1. Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) – Brač Island Zlatni Rat is one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia. Moreover, the beach stretches out into the sea like a golden horn. However, the golden-stretching beach constantly changes shape with the wind and ocean currents. Zlatni Rat is located on the island of Brac. The island is one of the most significant geomorphological wonders in the world. Moreover, the Island offers some of the most incredible scenery. The water surrounding the Island becomes turquoise blue to dark blue within just 20 metres. The Island also houses decades-old pine trees that were once planted by the locals to create natural shade around the place. Therefore, the white pebbles and turquoise water turn the Island into a dream stop for sailors.  Thus, the tourists can simply drop anchor nearby with a Split yacht rental and relax in the blue waters.  Moreover, tourists can spend the afternoon swimming, participating in other watersports such as windsurfing, or enjoying the lively Bol promenade. Zlatni Rat is one of the best beaches in Croatia for spending some time alone. 2. Stiniva Beach – Vis Island The island of Viz serves as the home to Stinava Beach. Stinava Beach is one of the best beaches in Croatia.  Moreover, Stinava Cove is popular among tourists for its high cliffs that form the entrance to the sea.  Furthermore, the Tourism Organization European “Best Destinations” considers the beach as the most beautiful beach in Europe. Vis attracts people from all over the world because of its mild Mediterranean climate. The beach remains hidden between the cliffs. Hence, the tourists can only reach the place by a short hike. However, the boat serves as the more scenic path to reach the place. The tiny pebble beach and emerald-green water make it one of the most photographed places in Croatia. Arrive early in the morning for calm seas and perfect light. 3. Dubovica – Hvar Island Tourists should take a short sail from Hvar Town. Moreover, they will reach Dubovica Beach. The beach is one of the most peaceful coves, framed by stone houses and olive trees.  The tourists visiting the place will witness calm, transparent waters. Moreover, the tourists should go prepared for water sports activities.  The place provides ideal spots for swimming and snorkeling right from their yacht.  Moreover, the rustic beach bars onshore also add to the island's authentic charm. 4. Pasjača Beach – Konavle, Near Dubrovnik The place is carved beneath towering cliffs. Hence, Pasjača is one of Croatia’s most dramatic beaches.  Moreover, the beach is a mix of fine sand and pebbles. However, the beach remains accessible only via a steep path from the cliffs above. Thus, tourists find it difficult to reach the place. However, the travellers can always reach the beach by sea. Moreover, people should anchor their boats offshore and enjoy the untouched beauty and serenity. Moreover, the place remains a hidden paradise. Far away from the chaos and crowded places. Thus, it is one of the best beaches in Croatia. 5. Sveti Jakov – Dubrovnik Travellers who sail near Dubrovnik should definitely visit Sveti Jakov Beach. Moreover, the place is located just outside the Old Town. Therefore, people can enjoy stunning views of the city walls and Lokrum Island from the spot.  Moreover, the pebble-and-sand beach offers a very relaxed vibe. Hence, the beach provides ideal conditions for swimming. Travellers can also take in the historic skyline from the comfort of their yacht. 6. Sakarun Beach – Dugi Otok People know Sakarun Beach for the rare sandy beaches on the Adriatic. Moreover, Sakarun feels almost Caribbean with its shallow turquoise bay and soft white sand.  The place is surrounded by a pine forest. Moreover, the yachts cruising the Zadar archipelago find the place to be a popular destination. The anchorage is calm, making it ideal for a lazy day in paradise. 7. Lubenice Beach – Cres Island Perched below the medieval village of Lubenice, this hidden cove offers a wild, natural setting and crystal-clear water.  Lubenice Beach is difficult to reach by land, which makes arriving by boat the perfect option. It’s quiet, pristine, and ideal for a refreshing swim far from the crowds. 8. Nugal Beach – Makarska Riviera Nugal Lies between cliffs and pine trees. Hence, Nugal serves as one of Dalmatia’s most peaceful beaches.  The beach has gained popularity for its privacy and naturist-friendly atmosphere.  However, travellers can access the beach only on foot or by boat. Hence, the place remains a true hidden gem for those seeking peace while sailing. 9. Pupnatska Luka – Korčula Island Korčula, Pupnatska Luka is one of the most beautiful bays in Croatia. Moreover, the beach features smooth pebbles, crystal-clear water, and lush green hills in the background.  Therefore, the Sailors often stop here for swimming and lunch, thanks to the small local konoba (tavern) nearby. The sheltered bay offers safe anchoring and a perfect island escape. 10. Rajska Plaža (Paradise Beach) – Lopar, Rab Island Rajska Plaža boasts long stretches of fine sand and shallow, warm water. Moreover, most of the Croatian beaches do not offer this. Hence, these conditions remain ideal for families and others.  Moreover, the beach is one of the few where you can anchor nearby and swim ashore easily.  The 2-kilometer sandy bay is surrounded by cafés and restaurants, making it a lively stop on your northern Adriatic route. Things To Remember While Visiting The Best Beaches In Croatia  Croatia houses several beaches. Moreover, people can access several beaches by hiking trails as well. However, the route to several hiking trails involves steep hills and cliffs.  Thus, the waterways serve as the best way of transportation to visit the best beaches in Croatia.

BY  Barsha Feb 13, 2024

For moms with wanderlust, balancing parenting and travel weaves an extraordinary narrative of shared growth and discovery. Adventure-seeking moms don't just jot down places; they sketch out the deep story of parenting while roaming, sharing wisdom and tricks that hit home with other nomadic families. Carving Your Unique Narrative Your journey is unique, stitched with the threads of wanderlust and the new rhythms of motherhood. Whether it's the serene walks through ancient ruins or the bustling energy of a city market, your narrative is a blend of travel insights and parenting on the go. Tell it like it is, from the careful plans you laid out to those unplanned gems that end up stealing the show on your family trips. As a mom sharing your travel tales, highlight those hidden gems that cater to kids, like the coolest play areas or peaceful spots perfect for breaks and baby care. The Digital Tapestry In this digital age, your blog is your gateway to the world. WordPress lets you craft a blog that mirrors your own adventures, decking it out with all the bells and whistles that scream 'you.' Choosing a name like "WanderlustWithTots.com" immediately tells your story, inviting like-minded parents into your world. Crafting your blog with neatly organized sections for each spot and age-appropriate travel insights can seriously ramp up the ease of reading and practicality. Weaving Stories That Captivate Your blog's heart pulses with the tales you craft, each brimming with the joy and trials of adventuring alongside your young companion. Paint your stories with such vibrant colors and genuine emotions that readers can't help but feel they're right there beside you, sharing in every adventure and misstep. Sharing not just the highlights but also the mishaps and how you navigated them offers a well-rounded view of travel as a new mom. The Art Of Storytelling Your blog thrives on the authenticity and emotion of your storytelling. From the first beach day with your baby to the unexpected joys found in the simplest moments, your narrative resonates with the universal themes of exploration and family. Keeping a small journal or using a note-taking app during your travels to jot down memorable moments and thoughts ensures your blog posts are rich with detail and emotion. Cultivating A Global Community Your blog is more than a collection of travel tales; it's a community hub for parents sharing your wanderlust spirit. Foster a warm community by actively engaging with readers in the comments, collaborating on social media, and co-creating content to keep the conversation alive among traveling parents. Regularly featuring guest posts from other traveling parents can diversify content and foster a sense of community on your blog. Embracing Technology And Innovation Leverage the latest digital tools to enhance your blog's appeal. Imagine turning your blog into a virtual passport where readers can click on an interactive map to explore places you've visited or use augmented reality for a vivid peek into far-flung locales—all thanks to cutting-edge tech. Using social media platforms not just for promotion but for real-time updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses into your travel adventures adds a personal touch to your online presence. Navigating The Logistics Of Travel with A Little One Traveling with a baby presents a unique set of logistics, but with the right preparation, it can be a smooth journey. Navigating travel with your little one? Pick baby-friendly spots, pack smart, and keep them cozy to ace the journey. Being open to change as you travel with your baby turns those surprise twists into chances for creating special memories and getting closer. Traveling with a baby not only changes the itinerary but also the very essence of each journey. With their innate sense of wonder and joyful chuckles, babies effortlessly turn the simplest of times into memories that stick with us forever. From their first awe-struck gaze at the ocean's vastness to their delighted squeals in a field of wildflowers, babies remind us to savor the simple joys of discovery. Documenting these precious firsts in your travel blog captures the heartwarming milestones and the unexpected adventures that come with baby-led explorations. Each blog post celebrates the awe and joy that babies bring to our journeys, offering us a chance to see the world anew through their curious eyes. Fostering Personal Growth Through Travel Traveling as a new mom is a journey of personal growth and discovery. Embarking on travels with your infant is transformative; it not only forges resilience but also brings into focus the evolving identity of a new mother. Part of this new identity can involve embracing the evolving identity of a new mother with unique baby names, reflecting the unique journey you and your child are embarking on together. This choice symbolizes the uniqueness of your path and the individuality of your child in a world full of wonder and discovery. When we share these insights, we're not just bonding more deeply; we're telling a story that weaves our outer adventures with the inner growth they spark. Creating Memorable Content Draw in your crowd with tales that stir up feelings and dreams, painting pictures with words and sharing experiences that resonate, all while sprinkling in images that stick. Draw in travel-loving moms by mixing up quizzes and engaging activities with exclusive downloadable content, making your blog the ultimate hub they rely on. Harnessing The Power Of Reflection And Connection Reflect on your travels and the moments of stillness they bring, sharing the inner transformations and the journey through your child's eyes. When you share your travel stories, they offer a window into the profound changes that have helped shape who you are. Embracing The Unpredictable: Learning From Each Journey Traveling with an infant turns every trip into a masterclass in staying cool and rolling with the punches. Telling tales about those unplanned turns and lucky breaks gives your writing a genuine edge, capturing the highs and lows of hitting the road with a tot in tow. Cultivating Mindfulness And Presence In the rush of capturing moments for your blog, remember the importance of being truly present. Talk about how tuning into the little moments with your kid and soaking up your environment deepens both your adventures and the stories you tell. Exploring new places with all your senses, or taking time for some peace and quiet, can really spice up both the trip and the stories you'll tell later. Read Also: How Do I Keep My Child Occupied When Traveling? Nurturing Your Creative Voice Developing your unique voice is key to captivating your audience. Dive into different ways of sharing your stories, mixing it up with both simple and intricate tales that map out the richness of traveling while raising kids, drawing in readers to view the globe as you do. Dabble in video journals or sketched journey sketches to capture your experiences and strike a chord with those following your path. Leveraging Collaborations And Community Engagement Build a richer, more diverse blog by collaborating with other travel enthusiasts and engaging deeply with your community. Teaming up with other travel enthusiasts not only boosts your blog's richness but also strengthens bonds among your readers, fostering a lively space where stories ignite creativity and connection. Setting up events or challenges that get your readers talking and sharing tales with each other can really build a community vibe and turn reading into a collective journey. Charting A Sustainable Path Consider sustainable practices to maintain your travel lifestyle and blog. Your blog can become a powerful tool for promoting eco-friendly travel by sharing your own sustainable journeys and spotlighting collaborations that prioritize environmental care. Spotlighting eco-friendly travel options and earth-kind goods does more than boost your journey—it's a solid move that strengthens the local economies you drop into. Embarking With Heart And Purpose Your travel journal is a testament to the adventures and insights gained on the road, woven with the joys and challenges of motherhood. Each story glows, inspiring moms with wanderlust to embrace both the joys of travel and the deep changes in parenting that come from venturing into new territories. Keeping your blog's purpose at the heart of your writing ensures each post reflects the wonder, learning, and connection that travel brings to you and your family. Mix practical advice with vivid tales in your travel journal, and it transforms into a wellspring of motivation, a toolkit for globe-trotting parents, plus an intimate chronicle of motherhood's epic voyage mingled with global discovery. Read Also: Journey To Joy: Unleash The Potential Of Your Road Trip With These Tips Record-Breaking Holiday Travel Anticipated As TSA Prepares For Busy Season! The Italian Train Group FS Will Launch A New “Night Train Like Hotel”: Rome To Dolomites