TRAVELING WITH MIXED COMPANY
You’re looking forward to a month-long getaway with your BFF, but they want remote nature, and you’re looking for a bit of city life and culture. Here are 3 locations that fit the bill for both!
Traveling with mixed company can be a challenge, especially when you and your travel buddy have different preferences for what you want to do and see. You may be looking for a mix of city life and culture, while your BFF may be seeking remote nature and solitude. However, there are plenty of destinations that offer both, and here are five locations that fit the bill for both city life and nature:
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver is a city that has it all. It is surrounded by natural beauty, with mountains, forests, and beaches nearby, while also boasting a vibrant downtown area with plenty of culture and nightlife. Whether you want to hike in the mountains or explore the city's art galleries and museums, Vancouver has something for everyone.
One of the top attractions in Vancouver is Stanley Park, a massive urban park that covers over 1,000 acres of land. The park has miles of walking and biking trails, as well as beaches, gardens, and even a zoo. You can spend an entire day exploring the park and taking in the stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
Another must-see attraction in Vancouver is Granville Island, a former industrial area that has been transformed into a hub for arts and culture. You can visit the Public Market to sample local foods and crafts, or check out the numerous art galleries and studios that line the island's streets.
Accommodations in Vancouver can be pricey, but there are plenty of options for budget-conscious travelers. Hostels and budget hotels can be found for under $50 per night, while mid-range hotels and Airbnb rentals start at around $100 per night.
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is a city that offers stunning natural beauty, with beaches, mountains, and national parks nearby, while also boasting a rich history and culture. You can explore the city's museums and galleries during the day, and then head out to the mountains or the beach for some outdoor adventure.
One of the top attractions in Cape Town is Table Mountain, a flat-topped mountain that offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding coastline. You can take a cable car to the top, or hike up one of the numerous trails that wind their way up the mountain.
Another must-see attraction in Cape Town is Robben Island, a former prison that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nelson Mandela was imprisoned here for 18 years, and you can take a tour of the island to learn more about its history and significance.
Accommodations in Cape Town can be found for a range of budgets, with hostels and budget hotels starting at around $20 per night, and mid-range hotels and Airbnb rentals starting at around $50 per night.
Sydney, Australia
Sydney is a city that offers a mix of natural beauty and urban attractions. You can explore the city's famous landmarks, such as the Opera House and the Harbor Bridge, and also take day trips to nearby national parks and beaches.
One of the top attractions in Sydney is Bondi Beach, a world-famous beach that offers excellent surfing and swimming. You can also explore the nearby coastal walk, which offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding cliffs.
Another must-see attraction in Sydney is the Royal Botanic Garden, a 74-acre garden that is home to thousands of plant species from around the world. You can take a guided tour of the garden or explore on your own, and there are also numerous events and festivals held here throughout the year.
Accommodations in Sydney can be pricey, but there are plenty of options for budget-conscious travelers. Hostels and budget hotels can be found for under $50 per night, while mid-range hotels and Airbnb rentals start at around $100 per night.
You might as well have it all.
In the end, you and your travel buddy just need to communicate and align your desires. If a day at the beach, a long stroll through a park, or a night under the stars is what your companion needs to reset, most major cities are within a day trip’s distance of something that fits the bill. Happy travels!