Tampa To Siesta Key Road Trip | Routes, Stopovers, And Places To Visit In Tampa And Siesta Key

Jan 10, 2025

Last Updated on: Jul 3, 2025

Travel Guides

It’s time to take a Tampa to Siesta Key road trip. The distance between the two places is around 108 Km and you can journey via bus or cab. 

Despite the distance, the Tampa to Siesta Key journey takes little time. If you are on a self-drive trip and driving without a break, you will reach Siesta Key from Tampa Bay within an hour. However, if there are traffic issues, it may take close to 1 hour and 30 minutes. 

Further, this road trip is going to be the most fulfilling, with a lot of activities to do in Tampa and Siesta Key and multiple engaging stopovers in between. 

So, are you ready for this most amazing road trip from Tampa Bay to Siesta Key? Let’s explore the best of Florida. 

In this Tour and Travel guide, we will highlight the routes, stopovers, and things to do in Tampa Bay and Siesta Key. 

Tampa To Siesta Key | Know The Different Routes 

Tampa To Siesta Key Know The Different Routes

There are two routes to reach Siesta Key from Tampa Bay. You can take Highway 75 and Highway 275. The trip duration both ways is almost the same. 

However, as we consulted the local experts, everyone preferred the route via Highway 275. Everyone agreed that the route was more scenic. 

Tampa To Siesta Key Via Highway 75

On this route, you must take the E State Rd 60 E from Tampa International Airport. Then, you will continue on the I-75 S and take the exit 207 on the State Highway 758. This highway is in Sarasota County. 

You must stick to Highway 758 to reach the Midnight Pass Road in Siesta Key. 

Tampa To Siesta Key Via Highway 275 

On this route, your drive starts from the Tampa International Airport, and then the merger with the I-275 S takes place. 

Next, you must take exit 5 to take US-19 S. Continue on the right 2 lanes toward Palmetto.

Further,  you take the US Highway 41 S and US-301 S to reach Siesta Key, Midnight Pass Road. 

Tampa To Siesta Key | Know The Best Stopovers | Making The Most Of Sarasota

Tampa To Siesta Key  Know The Best Stopovers  Making The Most Of Sarasota

There are multiple stopovers between Tampa to Siesta Key. So, if you are not in a super rush, you can get multiple places to relax and steal some fun moments. 

1. Riverview

Home to the Bell Creek Nature Preserve, Riverview is known for its parks. Don’t forget to take a walk in the Alafia Scrub Nature Preserve. 

Are you eager to know about the history of carnival in America? You must plan a visit to the International Independent Showmen’s Museum. 

2. Sun City Center

Tourists taking a road trip from Tampa to Siesta Key usually stop at Sun City Center for lunch. There are places like Bella Cucina Italian Family Restaurant (+1 813-634-7521) and Old Castle Restaurant (+1 813-633-3331) for quick bites and refreshments. 

Further, to have some moments in nature, you can plan a visit to the Little Manatee River State Park. 

3. Bradenton

A melting pot of culture and natural abundance, Bradenton is an important stopover between Tampa Bay and Siesta Key. 

The fascinating enclave of the Village of the Arts is a great place to explore galleries and studios. Further, the Bishop Museum of Science & Nature has manatees and is a great place to learn about local culture. 

Finally, the  Robinson Nature Preserve is a great place for outdoor pursuits like kayaking, walking, and bird-watching. 

4. Sarasota | The Fun Begins Here On The Journey From Tampa To Siesta Key

Sarasota is the place where you will meet wildlife on the journey from Tampa to Siesta Key. The Sarasota Jungle Gardens has alligators, tortoises, flamingos, etc. Further, the Big Cat Habitat Conservation and Education Center has African lions, Bengal tigers, Brown bears, and birds. 

Also, the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is the best place to meet marine animals. Moreover, don’t miss visiting the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. 

Once you are done with all the outdoor pursuits, you can relax at the cafes and restaurants of Sarasota. 

Breaking Wave Coffee at 1310 Main Street Sarasota is a great place to hang out. Buddy Brew Coffee – Sarasota is another beautiful cafe here. 

Road Trip From Tampa To Siesta Key | Know The Things To Do In Tampa Bay And Siesta Key 

Road Trip From Tampa To Siesta Key

Tampa Bay, or the Cigar City, has always been an important spot when it comes to tourism in Florida. Warm weather and affordability have been two major factors in boosting tourism here. 

So, when traveling from Tampa to Siesta Key, you cannot miss the top attractions or the things to do here.

Things To Do In Tampa 

You need a separate travel plan if you want to explore the best of Tampa. It is the city that offers you the best wildlife experience and cultural insights with its preservation and museum facilities. 

Further, as mentioned, Tampa is the go-to destination for traveling on a shoestring. The city offers you a lot of free activities. For example, the most delightful Tampa Riverwalk is absolutely free. 

Places To Visit In Tampa 

Busch GardensFlorida AquariumTampa GolfZooTampa at Lowry ParkGlazer Children’s MuseumYbor CityHenry B. Plant MuseumAmerican Victory Ship & MuseumHillsborough River State Park

Walk around 2.5 miles along the scenic paved trail to the Hillsborough River. During the walk itself, you will come across hotspots like Water Street Tampa, Sparkman Wharf, and   Channel districts. 

If you don’t walk to walk, you can even take a bike ride along the trail. 

Armature Works is another free attraction in Tampa. This public market is the best place to try the delicacies of Tampa. Visit the place between 7:30 AM to 10 PM to explore the cafes and eateries here. 

Moreover, Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center is an amazing place to visit in the city, and that too free of cost. You cannot take your eyes off the water here. However, the place also has educational exhibits like the manatee bones. 

Things To Do In Siesta Key 

The Tampa To Siesta Key journey takes you to pristine quartz beaches. Siesta Key is the place where you can have the most immersive experience. However, it’s a sin to miss the kayaking and charter tours at Siesta Key. 

Places To Visit In Siesta Key

Siesta BeachCrescent BeachTurtle BeachSiesta Farmers MarketShell BeachRide and Paddle By Siesta Sports Rentals (Location: South Bridge Mall, Contact Number: +1 941-346-1797)Siesta Key Wine Bar (Location: 5138 Ocean Blvd Suite C, Sarasota, Contact Number: +1 941-552-9105)

You will find mangroves, manatees, and dolphins here. Also, the explorer in you will be elated to find the hidden beaches. 

Moreover, you can opt for a dreamy electric bike ride along the beaches of Siesta Key. Are you someone into wellness? You can even practice Yoga on the beaches of Siesta Key. 

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Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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READ MORE 90 Miles Cuban Cafe

90 Miles Cuban Cafe – Reviews, Special Menu, And Price

BY  Mashum Dec 29, 2021

The year was 1980, June 13th when the Gonzalez family came from Cuba on a shrimp boat from Mariel Harbor Cuba. After 15 hours of struggle in the stormy black sea, they finally reached their destination: Key West, just 90 miles from their home Cuba.  As soon as they reached America, they started working hard towards their dream, their dedication led them to opportunities that would lead them to share their essence of Cuban culture with authentic Cuban cuisine, that they serve to people right from their kitchen table.   Their motive is one and one thing only, to make everyone feel and like the cultural impact they have made on people. And hopes to bring back those again but with family and friends this time.  In this article, I will be giving you details on 90 Miles Cuban Cafe such as reviews, menus, and their price. 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They maintain the same taste every time one repeats an order.  Negative Reviews The delivery option is fine, but it takes time which naturally frustrates the customers and they end up giving bad reviews.  The cafe is not pet-friendly.  The music in the background does not quite always match the environment, which ruins the mood.  The food is sometimes overcooked or burnt.  The outside of the cafe doesn’t look that interesting.  The cafe is small in size, therefore it looks crowded, and eventually, people avoid it.  90 Miles Cuban Cafe- Menu The menu brings amazing cuisine that brings water to your mouth. Dishes that are served in the 90 Miles Cuban Cafe are very good. People who have marked them negatively also mentioned their respect for the food. Here we go with the menu. Appetizers  Calamar criollo. Croquetas. Papas Rellenas. Masitas de Puerto. Tuna ceviche.  Empanadas. Patatas bravas appetizer Mariquitas  Tamal  Salads and Soups  90 miles salad. Ensalada de salmon. Sopa de cherna. Sopa de Pollo.  Sopa de Ajiaco. Sandwiches  Cubano sandwich. Medianoche Sandwich. Guajirito sandwich. Bistec de Palomilla Sandwich. Bistec empanizado sandwich. Frita Cubana burger. Pan con Lechón sandwich. Pollo sandwich. Pescado sandwich. Veggie sandwich. Grilled cheese sandwich. Vegan burger.  Croqueta sandwich.  Entrees  Bistec de palomilla entrée. Ropa vieja entree.  Camarones al Ajillo entrée. Chuletas fritas entrée. Lechon Entree  Pollo a la plancha entrée. Tofu and veggies entree.  Bistec de Palomilla Empanizada.  Pollo A la Plancha Empanizado.  House Speciality  Fricase de pollo. Puerco rosado. Rabo encendido.  Masas de Puerco. Salmón a la plancha.  Vaca frita  Pargo. Churrasco.  Salmon Frutal.  Sides  Half avocado Frijoles negros.  Arroz Blanco. Arroz Amarillo. Congri.  Yuca con mojo de Ajo.  Yuca frita. Papas fritas.  Tostones.  Maduros.  Sweet potato fries.  Pan con mantequilla.  Deserts  Bread pudding.  Chocolate flan.  Sweet empanada. Tres Leches cake slice.  Vanilla flan. Coconut flan.  Triple chocolate cake slice.  Beverages  16 oz americano. 16 oz café con Leche. Cafe Cubano.  Colada.  Cortadito.  Hot chocolate.  Passion Iced tea.  Salida del sol.  Hot tea  Latin soda. Tropical shake.  Soda.  Platter  Cubano platter.  12 empanadas platter.  20 empanadas platter.  Appetizer platter.  90 Miles Cuban Cafe- Prices Here I give the prices so that you get every necessary detail from one place.  The appetizer section starts from 4 dollars to 15 dollars.  The soups and salads section starts from 7 dollars to 21 dollars.  The sandwich section starts from 12 dollars to 15 dollars.  The entrees section starts from 18 dollars to 26 dollars.  The special menu section starts from 19 dollars to 35 dollars.  The sides section starts from 4 dollars to 6 dollars. The desert section starts from 4 dollars to 10 dollars.  The beverages section starts from 2 dollars to 4 dollars.  The platter section starts from 28 dollars to 60 dollars.  Wrapping It All Up Here you go with the reviews, menus, and prices of 90 Miles Cuban Cafe.  Apart from the busy life, you live every day, once in a while in 90 Miles Cuban Cafe can make you relax, because of the food and the culture. Foodies are often into finding new places where they can taste new dishes and make a vlog about them.  This article is for all kinds of people. People who are in continuous search of a new place to dine in and also for those who need a good cafe location to quickly deal with a business matter and also for those who need a reunion spot. You cannot really get drunk there as they don't serve alcohol.  Leave a comment below in the comment section and let us know if you have found this article useful and also share your experience if you have been in 90 Miles Cuban Cafe. 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READ MORE best singles cruises to hook up

Best Cruises If you are Single and Ready to Mingle!

BY  sagnika Feb 26, 2025

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READ MORE Suva Fiji hidden gems

What Are The Suva Fiji Hidden Gems? Know The Underrated Places To Visit In Suva Fuji For Cultural Travelers 

BY  Sibashree Oct 24, 2025

I was standing near the mouth of the Rewa River to the east of the city. I was looking at the mangrove trees and how the villages nearby woke up with the first rays of the Sun touching the earth. People were busy collecting firewood, and some had already sailed in search of fish. Despite having such a distinct livelihood in Fiji, it also takes inspiration from multiple cultures and ethnicities. So, Fiji is said to have a culture of fruit salads. You will find people of Indian, Samoan, Micronesian, Solomon Island, Chinese, and Rotuman origins.  Furthermore, Fiji, fondly called Mini India, has taken another step to strengthen the connection. The Indian ship Kadmatt reached Suva in September 2025, and there have been ongoing discussions about maritime collaboration between the two countries.  With so many cultural aspects to explore, Suva, Fiji, also has many offbeat destinations. 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So, I carried some powdered kava root and handed it over to the chief, requesting an entrance to the village.  Then, I attended the vibrant meke dance performance. The male and female dancers in the performance depicted many historical and ancient legends.  Furthermore, the village chief asked me to be a part of the underground feast, or the Lovo. Here, the vegetables and meat were cooked in the ground using white-hot stones. I experienced the true magic of slow cooking there.  2. Kava Rituals Or Storytelling Events View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lomani Island Resort & Spa (@lomaniisland) A visit to Suva’s Cultural Center is another deep cultural encounter I had in Suva, Fiji. The elders here tell stories of Fijian values and myths. Thus, the oral tradition of storytelling remains alive in Fiji.  3. The Local Festivals In Suva, Fiji  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fiji Sun (@fiji_sun) Music, food, religious ceremonies, community celebrations! 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Street Art & Artisan Workshops View this post on Instagram A post shared by Asia Pacific Region Crafts (@worldcraftscouncil_asiapacific) I enjoyed a walk along Victoria Parade and saw the Fijian legends come to life through beautiful murals. Furthermore, if you want to learn the art of pottery and weaving, you can visit the Makoi Women’s Handicraft Centre.  6. Nightlife & Entertainment In Suva Fiji Traps Bar and O’Reilly’s became my favorite nighttime destinations in Suva, Fiji. They had amazing reggae music and the island jazz performances.  Also, the Fijian folk music and dance at O’Reilly’s was the biggest highlight.  7. Cultural Performances At Night The Pacific Cultural Nights at the Civic Centre were brilliant. These performances included fire shows, storytelling, and fire dance.  8. Food And The Hidden Eateries In Suva, Fiji  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Robinson Crusoe Island Fiji (@robinsoncrusoeislandfiji) I was bowled over by the Lovo feast at Namosi Highlands. Food in Fini is flavorful, and the culinary scene here is a wonderful fusion of local produce and multicultural culinary influences. Furthermore, the use of exotic tropical fruits adds the right amount of zest to the dishes.  Nevertheless, during my last visit to Suva, Fiji, I had a great time at these cafes and eateries. Café Thirty-One, just behind the Suva Library, made my day with the best coconut latte and banana bread.  My guide also took me to the Greenhouse Café, a vegan-friendly restaurant, serving amazing smoothie bowls made from local fruits. I loved the garden seating there.  However, if you want to try Fijian fusion cuisine and enjoy live music, you must visit the Bad Dog Café. Moreover, Cloud 9 Lounge is an ideal spot for sunset lounging and partying. 9. Suva Municipal Market View this post on Instagram A post shared by Phil Sami (@philsami) Suva Municipal Market, built in the 1950s, is the biggest market in the country. On a busy day, the market accommodates around 3500 vendors, and it is the best place to buy local specialties such as breadfruit, taro, and tapioca.  There is also a dedicated section for seafood and mussels. However, you must visit the market in the early hours. In the late hours, the market is rushed.  10. Take A walking Anti-Tour Of Suva, Fiji If you want to experience Suva beyond the typical “Bula”- fied version, you can join the “anti tour” walk of Peter Sipeli, a poet, LGBTQ+ activist, and cultural guide.  The tour he conducts is critical, and it does not match the glossy vibe of Fiji. Coming out as gay at the age of 17 and fighting for his rights after his return to Suva has given him enough stories to add layers of anecdotes and humor to this walking tour experience.  He conducts the tour through the city streets and the bustling markets so that you can see the beauty and inequality simultaneously.  Family-Friendly Hidden Gems In Suva, Fiji  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jessy (@rocketjess) Suva Botanical Gardens and the Fiji Museum are two family-friendly hidden gems in Suva. The Botanical Gardens have easy hiking trails and are ideal for relaxing picnics.  On the other hand, the Fiji Museum's interactive exhibits are ideal for children and adults alike.  Suva Municipal Market in the early hours can be another family-friendly location for accessibility. It has wide aisles and ramps.  Seasonal Hidden Gems In Suva, Fiji View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nicole Golonka (@nicole.golonka) The dry and wet seasons in Suva, Fiji, give you the chance to explore the following hidden gems.  May to October, or the dry season, is ideal for hiking in Colo-i-Suva Forest Reserve and attending festivals such as the Hibiscus Festival, Fiji Day, and Diwali.  On the other hand, the wet season from November to April is ideal for visiting the lush forests and waterfalls and taking photographs.  Here is a breakdown of seasonal hidden gems in Fiji. MonthsSuitable Activities January-February• Rainforest Hikes• Waterfall ToursMarch-April• Kava Rituals• Cultural WorkshopsMay-June• Hiking• Art FestivalsJuly-August• Hibiscus Festival• Street ParadeSeptember-October• Snorkeling• Staying in Eco LodgesNovember-December• Diwali• Christmas• Easter Adventure & Sports Activities in Suva, Fiji Explore these lesser-known spots in Suva, Fiji, and try adventure activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and advanced biking.  ActivitiesLocations• Kayaking with Mangrove ViewsLami Bay• Vibrant coral reef• SnorkelingNausori Reef• Colo-i-Suva TrailsAdvanced biking through rainforest terrains Offbeat Shopping Experiences In Suva, Fiji View this post on Instagram A post shared by Guided Walks Suva (@guided_tours_fiji) Suva Handicraft Centre is the best place for authentic masi (tapa cloth), wood carvings, and woven baskets. Furthermore, TappooCity Suva is home to local designers such as Rako Designs and KuiViti.  Furthermore, you will find ethically sourced jewelry and crafts in Suva.  Suva Fiji Hidden Gems Associated With Mythical Stories And Folklore  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mai TV Fiji (@maitvfiji) Ratu Sukuna Park is a popular place in Suva, associated with mythical stories. The park is said to be protected by ancestral spirits.  Mount Korobaba is another place that was once a tribal outpost. Hiking to Mount Korobaba, the tallest mountain in Fiji (422 meters), is quite challenging due to its steep trails. However, the view from the top is rewarding.  Furthermore, you can ask your guide to coordinate a Suva ghost walk. There is no official ghost tour in the city. So, this tour will take you to places associated with mysteries or supernatural incidents.  Top Tourist Places You Should Avoid In Suva, Fiji (And Where To Go Instead) When it’s about the hidden gems, the touristy and “popular” spots are sheer disappointments. Also, you don’t want to waste your money, time, and resources visiting an overcrowded place.  Here are the tourist places you should avoid and their alternatives.  1. Suva Flea Market View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Journey FJ (@thejourneyfj) Suva Flea Market is often overcrowded. Thus, it often fails to offer the cultural shopping experience it promises. You will find mass-produced souvenirs here, and the inflated prices for tourists are a big turn-off.  You will get so busy bargaining that you will not notice anything taking place around you.  Makoi Women’s Handicraft Centre is a quieter, community-run space offering authentic, handmade crafts with fair pricing and cultural storytelling. 2. Colo-i-Suva Forest Park (Unguided) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mike Duin (@mike_duin) Colo-i-Suva Forest Park has reported incidents of theft and assault on unguided trails. So, solo trips and late visits are risky here.  Get in touch with eco-certified guides for safety and provide cultural insights into the flora and fauna. 3. Victoria Parade At Night Victoria Parade is a popular nightlife strip. However, it can become unsafe after sundown due to petty crime, intoxicated crowds, and occasional scams targeting tourists. Cloud 9 Lounge or Traps Bar offers a more secure, well-managed nightlife with live music and local cocktails. 4. Suva Municipal Market (Late Hours) View this post on Instagram A post shared by DJKiwi (@djkiwinz) In the late afternoon, the Suva Municipal Market gets overcrowded. So, there are risks of overcrowding and overpricing.  Visit the market early in the morning and take a local guide with you to know where to shop safely.  Practices To Avoid While Exploring The Hidden Gems In Suva, Fiji Here are some more dos and don’ts while visiting Suva, Fiji.  Things to AvoidAlternativesTaking unlicensed taxi servicesHotel-booked or metered taxisOverpacked itinerariesFocus on 2–3 meaningful experiences per dayOver-negotiating at local shopsVisit fair trade shops such as Handmade Fiji and TappooCity Suva. Ignoring cultural etiquette at religious sitesJoin a cultural tour to learn about the spiritual and religious customs and beliefs of FijiMissing out Fiji’s rich culinary heritage and local food Try Kokoda, Lovo, and Roti Parcels Eco-Friendly Accommodations In Suva, Fiji Colo-i-Suva Eco Lodge: Nestled in the rainforest, this lodge uses solar power and rainwater harvesting. Rainforest Eco Retreat: Offers guided nature walks and supports local conservation efforts. Sustainable Travel Practices Use reusable water bottles and support community-based tourism. Choose locally owned transport services and farm-to-table eateries. A Hidden Gem Itinerary For Suva, Fiji View this post on Instagram A post shared by FIJI MUSEUM (@fijimuseum) Here are flexible 1, 3, and 5-day itineraries for exploring the hidden gems of Suva, Fiji.  Table 1: 1-Day Itinerary MorningVisiting Suva Market & Café Thirty-OneAfternoonExploring Fiji Museum & Thurston Gardens (Suva Botanical Gardens)EveningAttending a kava ceremony at the Cultural Centre Table 2: 3-Day Itinerary Days Activities Day 1• Colo-i-Suva hike• Eco-lodge stayDay 2• Art gallery tour• Dinner at a rooftop barDay 3• Village visit• Storytelling night Table 3: 5-Day Itinerary Days Activities Day 1• Colo-i-Suva hike• Eco-lodge stayDay 2• Art gallery tour• Dinner at a rooftop barDay 3• Village visit• Storytelling nightDay 4• Snorkeling at Nausori Reef• Folklore tourDay 5• Shopping at TappooCity A Budget Breakdown For Exploring Suva’s Hidden Gems An average 3-day trip in Suva, Fiji, will cost around FJD 500–800 or $220-352. Here is a quick breakdown of the expenses.  CategoryCost (FJD)NotesAccommodation80-150 (Per Night)• Boutique Hotels• Eco LodgesFood30-60 (Per Day)• Markets• Local CafesTransport20-40 (Per Day)• Buses• TaxisActivities50-100• Tours• WorkshopsSouvenirs30-70• Handicrafts• Art Travel Smart And Travel Deep: Exploring The Hidden Gems Of Suva, Fuji  Suva is a living museum of Fijian heritage, creativity, and community. Furthermore, it is a city of contrasts, with modern malls, colonial buildings, and bustling markets coexisting with serene gardens.  Furthermore, it is a melting ground of Indian, Chinese, Samoan, and other cultures. So, if you can keep your curiosity alive and respect the local culture, Suva will surprise you at every turn.  Suva Fiji Hidden Gems: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Suva Fiji hidden gems. 1. Is It Safe To Walk Around Suva At Night? The crime level in Suva, Fiji, is moderate. According to Numbeo, the cost of living here is 58.60. However, the rate of crime increase in the last 5 years is 70.12, which is high. So, it is better to avoid walking in Suva at night.  2. Why Is Fiji Called Mini India? The British brough indentured laborers from India in the 19th and early 20th centuries for working in sugar plantations. They stayed here for generations and preserved the Indian culture. Furthermore, today, a significant population here comes from the Indian origin. So, Indian festivals such as Diwali are celebrated here with great pomp.  3. Where Does Oprah Stay In Fiji?  The Laucala resort is a place frequented by the likes of Oprah Winfrey and George Clooney. Dietrich Mateschilz, the co-founder of Red Bull, has designed this resort.  Read Also: How To Plan A Kotor Montenegro Budget Travel? Cheap Ways To Travel To Kotor Montenegro For Backpackers  Luang Prabang Travel Guide: Why I Loved It? 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