#we are going to make it one reasonably sized walkable city where you can see all youd ever want to see

[carcarrot]

join me in my quest to shrink down los angeles

[thebestintoronto]

27 Toronto Tourist Attractions That You Shouldn’t Miss

These Are Some of the Top Toronto Tourist Attractions!

Intend to check out Toronto like a neighborhood? Toss TripAdvisor aside, you obtained a Canadian right here at Penguin and also Pia! Eric is from Ontario and grew up north of Toronto When it comes to us together, we lived in the city for the better part of a whole year and had fantastic adventures in Toronto. Allow's simply state that there is definitely no scarcity of special things to do in Toronto when you want to play visitor on your own!

We've already covered when the very best time to see Canada (and Toronto) is in an additional message. Basically, for Toronto May is great and also cooler, July is hot however there are outdoor patios, October is gorgeous with colours, as well as January is cool but there's skating. If you are searching for seasonal activities for the summer season for the winter months in Toronto, you'll see below which ones are which!

So, if you are looking for fun activities in Toronto for grownups, with the kids, or even today, we have actually obtained you covered. Allow's play Toronto vacationer! Oh, and also if you preparing a whole Toronto visit or you are seeking other places to go to in Ontario-- we've got lots much more about the city and also the district!

First Time in Canada? Vital Requirement to Know like Visas, Currency, and also Culture!

Wondering what to Load? Here's our Canada Packaging Checklist for all Seasons!

Here are 9 of our Favourite Coffee Shops in Toronto!

Find a Place to Stay with this Toronto Area and also Hotel Overview!

Discover Niagara on the Lake Wineries or Learn Just How to Lease a Cottage in Ontario!

Navigating Toronto.

Considering that there is a lot to see and also carry out in Toronto, doing it all will certainly take some planning. It's possible to see Toronto in a day-- but it would be a hectic one! While the city is essentially all flat as well as walkable-- the ranges between tourist attractions can be a little daunting.

You can hop on the TTC (Toronto Transportation) by utilizing the trams, buses, and also train lines to get around. You can take into consideration getting Presto card (the rechargeable card you just touch) as well as just loading it with cash at a device.

The TTC is actually relocating to Presto-only in the near future (early 2019?) so the infrastructure will ideally be caught up for site visitors to conveniently get their Presto and go. It wasn't very easy in years prior ... trust us.

Toronto Sightseeing And Tour City Tours

That being said, there are lots of excursions that are organized for you to discover one of the most without intending anything at all. You can take place the classic bus tour of Toronto and acquire a hop-on-hop-off bus Toronto trip ticket. These are good for various sizes of time to suit your trip.

Another prominent means to navigate Toronto in by bike-- and there are lots of great Toronto bike tours that will reveal you the way! Cycling is actually a terrific method to get around due to the fact that Toronto downtown core website traffic can be an absolute headache.

Obviously, bike tours just run in the warmer months yet absolutely something to think about. You can not beat a local guide, workout, and a quicker mode of transportation!

Lastly, if you just want to state screw it and also do it all-- you can do a supreme day trip that consists of a watercraft cruise ship on Lake Ontario. Being able to see the skyline from the beachfront is something that Eric hasn't also done!

Toronto Traveler Attractions

But that suffices excursion talk currently-- let's study the top destinations around Toronto! You'll see that they are in no certain geographical order. That stated, we did our best to offer you the general locations/directions.

CN Tower

The Canadian National Tower (additionally typically called the CN Tower) is like the crown jewel of the Toronto skyline. Constructed back in the 1970s, the CN Tower was the highest manufactured structure! Standing at 533 metres high, the views from the top are absolutely amazing. You can see for lots of miles and also right into the USA!

When you ride among the quick lifts to the major deck, there is lots to do up there! There is a renowned glass floor for those take on sufficient to walk on. The view to the ground is quite dizzying.

There is a restaurant up there-- 360 Restaurant-- that is known for serving high-class recipes with neighborhood ingredients. The coolest component? The restaurant makes a full rotation every hr so you really get sights of all over the city!

The CN Tower is understood for the Side Walk-- a thrill-seeker experience of hanging off the edge of the beyond the building. Finally, you can take the elevator to the Sky Shell-- one degree higher for views of the city. Comes at an entrance expense, though so plan accordingly! Here is the official website for the CN Tower.

Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

As a reasonably newer attraction to the city's line-up of awesome things to do, Ripley's Fish tank has actually certainly made a sprinkle in a short amount of time. See what we did there? Got ta love our fish tank word play heres!

The Fish tank is house to the lengthiest undersea glass tunnel in The United States and Canada-- it expands with "Hazardous Lagoon". This is where you come in person with some frightening killers like sharks and eels.

In all, there are 9 different galleries and also over 400 species to take a look at. You make certain to find something you enjoy! The area is so preferred-- they advise visiting before 10 am for after 3 pm to defeat the groups.

Pro Tip: If you are planning a visit to Ripley's Aquarium of Canada and recognize which day, think about a Ripley's Fish tank "After Hours" ticket that stands for a night see after 7:00 pm. Crowds can be smaller and admission is really minimized from the daily fare.

The Distillery District

Do you like beer, history, excellent food, as well as wonderful photo areas? Great-- it sounds like a browse through to the Distillery Area is for you! Situated to the eastern of midtown, this old enterprise zone was when the residence of many distilleries in the city-- for this reason the name!

These days, the weird distillery still exists and also is mixed in among the many shops, restaurants, coffee locations, and also breweries that have moved in! You can do a Distillery District walking trip to learn about the rich background of the red-bricked manufacturing facilities.

The Distillery District teems with intriguing art installations that draw crowds and make terrific photos. In the winter, the District is residence to amazing light screens and a winter heaven of Xmas Market stalls.

The District is likewise home to one of our favorite timeless breweries-- Mill Road. Recognized for their Signature Mill Street Organic Beer, you can also rest outside and also have a flight of beer for a fantastic price!

Pro Pointer: If beer is what you enjoy, Toronto has an insane dynamic beer scene. You can check it out on a Beer as well as Background Scenic tour of the city. The good news? You'll finish in the Distillery District!

Kensington Market

You might have become aware of this hip as well as alternative location that you have to go through? It's most likely Kensington Market-- and you must most definitely check it out.

Kensington is located to the west of Spadina Avenue, north of midtown, between College and Dundas Streets. It's close to Chinatown if you intend to see that too-- we state it listed below! This metropolitan forest of graffiti, awesome apparel shops, amazing restaurants, markets, probably has something for every person.

You do not even have to be trying to find anything-- simply a stray with to experience the area is enough. You can't miss points like the Yard Automobile-- you'll know it when you see it. Depend on us.

Pro Idea: Kensington is a distinctively old as well as modern neighbourhood with a remarkable immigrant history concerning it. So, it's fitting to read more regarding the history of Kensington Market with an impressive food scenic tour!

Bata Shoe Museum

Do you like footwear? Like, do you ACTUALLY like footwear? Would a museum loaded with shoes make you satisfied? If so, the BATA Footwear Gallery might be for you to look into!

Located on Bloor Street just north of midtown, the gallery has actually done a fantastic task of gathering and also showcasing shoes from all over the globe.

We have actually never been but strolled by several many times as well as constantly believed it looked very intriguing. If you want to check out, you can get a BATA Shoe entry ticket here.

Woodbine Beach

Ah, Woodbine Coastline-- what can we state? It's "home". The beach lies in the neighbourhood called "The Beaches". The Beaches remain in the city's east end-- as well as it's in fact specifically where we lived for the better part of 2017 when we stayed in Toronto!

Woodbine Coastline is a large (as well as massively preferred) sandy as well as rocky beach with accessibility to swim in Lake Ontario. There is a boardwalk that runs for kilometres through Ashbridge's Bay, various other walking tracks, parks, canine coastlines, and woody areas.

When it comes to things to do, the summertime is hectic with paddleboard renters, swimming, sunbathing, a couple of outdoor patios, and also beach volley ball. The fall is great for fall strolls along Lake Ontario.

The neighbourhood area along Queen Street East has plenty of restaurants, bars, and stores that you need to take a look at. It's amusing-- the Beaches is where we worked on Penguin as well as Pia in the early days! Just how times have transformed!

" The Toronto Indication" at Nathan Phillips Square

Travelling to Toronto and wishing to snap a picture for Instagram? Of course you do! Head north from Lake Ontario to Nathan Phillips Square. Located at Queen Road West simply west of Yonge, it's right here that you'll find Toronto Municipal government and the famous "Toronto Sign".

During the day, the indication of commonly themed for various festivals or celebrations. In the evening-- it's all lit up! Nathan Phillips Square is quite the gathering place in the city. At New Year's, the Square is loaded with performance stages and also party-goers-- Eric has actually even been a few times.

In the winter season, the fountain you see in front of the sign turns into an ice skating rink which is free to make use of (or costs a few bucks for a skate service). There are street food vehicles and also great deals of tourist buses park right here given that it's a wonderful location to begin any type of Toronto sightseeing experience.

Fort York

Are you right into finding out about Toronto's duty in military background? Intend to learn about just how we defeated the United States in the Battle of 1812? That's a true tale-- and you can find out all about it at Ft York.

The premises are located to the west of downtown-- squeezed between the Lake and also Liberty Town under the Gardiner Expressway. The historic site is in fact one of the biggest collection of 1812 Wartime structures.

They even have cannon shootings and also daily tours that run often. Several of the park ground are free to stroll with yet the displays as well as galleries are gotten in for a fee. To get more information regarding seeing Ft York and also the exhibits, go to the main Fort York web site.

St. Lawrence Market

The St. Lawrence Market is certainly a must-see if you are visiting the city. We visited the marketplace "playing vacationer" when Lisa was visiting prior to she transferred to Canada as well as it was a fantastic experience.

The present building where it lies was opened in 1902! Inside, there are 2 floors-- the major flooring extends the length of the main hall and the lower flooring is simply a part of the size. You'll locate a selection of fresh fruit and vegetables, fresh meats and seafoods, cheeses, prepared food, white wine, ornaments, you call it!

There are samples at different counters as well as areas to order lunch so you absolutely should not leave starving. If you are seeking very traveler Canadian mementos, there is additionally an area to purchase them here. You can learn more regarding the marketplace and also the area of Old Toronto on a historical food and also Market scenic tour of the area!

Pro Idea: -The marketplace lies just to the eastern of midtown on Front Street-- and you can have a look at The Gooderham Building for a wonderful photo. The Gooderham is that historic red-brick flatiron building at the crossway of Wellington Street and also Front Road!

Heavy Steam Whistle Brewery

All aboard the Vapor train ... to Steam Whistle Brewery! Situated very near to Ripley's Fish tank, the CN Tower, as well as the Rogers Centre, Heavy Steam Whistle has actually been a traveler magnet as well as popular brand in Toronto and also Canada for twenty years.

Started back in 1998, Heavy steam Whistle finds its home in the Roundhouse-- an old red-brick railway repair depot utilized in the past.

Nowadays, you can tour the brewery or simply belly up to bench for a pint of the timeless pilsner that has made them one of one of the most popular beers in Canada. To look into the Brewery or to reserve a tour, look into the official site of Heavy steam Whistle.

The Toronto Islands

Wanting to avoid the stress of midtown Toronto? Look into the Toronto Islands-- that could help! Found in Lake Ontario simply off the coast throughout from downtown, "the Islands" as they are known are popular for their coastlines, walking trails, as well as the historical Centreville Theme park.

The Islands themselves in fact have inhabitants-- and to reach them there is a ferry that leaves from the Ferryboat Incurable located on Queens Quay in between Yonge as well as Bay Streets. You can check out the Toronto Island ferryboat routine below.

Additionally, if you want a smaller sized trip of the harbour as well as bordering islands, have a look at this Toronto Harbour Boat Cruise Ship. You have to get off on the islands so the scenic tour functions as a water taxi-- as well as fantastic pictures of the skyline are essentially assured!

Casa Loma

It's a house? It's a castle? No, it's Casa Loma! Integrated in the early 1900s and situated in Toronto's midtown, Casa Loma is a leading visitor destination for a lot of factors.

This Gothic dream home was constructed by a wealthy Toronto entrepreneur-- Sir Henry Pellatt. After decades of history, the estate is now possessed by the city and admired for its numerous art pieces as well as abundant background.

As a result of the grand dimension of the estate as well as yards, Casa Loma is additionally the area for many events, festivals, and also even wedding events throughout the year.

If you are going to, you can get a ticket to go into and get on a directed excursion to discover all about among Toronto's most well-known tourist attractions! Below is the main Casa Loma site!

Hockey Hall of Fame

You can't most likely to Canada as well as not discover the abundant history of hockey! So, you ought to take a trip to the Hockey Hall of Fame! Located midtown on Front Street, the Hockey Hall of Fame is a terrific museum/exhibit with bunches to do and also lots to find out about.

The coolest part is that you will have the ability to see the Stanley Mug (the biggest prize in hockey and also among the oldest sports prizes in organized organizations around the world).

Eric went as a youngster several many times given that it was constantly a terrific place for a school to intend a day trip to. That stated, there is lots to do for adults also. Hockey is a massive part of Canadian culture and so a stop by is definitely worth your time! You can discover more at the official Hockey Hall of Fame internet site.

Dundas Square

If you are trying to find the "Times Square" however, for Toronto-- Dundas Square is it. From the street performers to the lights during the night, the corner near Yonge and also Dundas is a great area to experience Toronto industrious in the evening.

Besides malls and dining establishment, there isn't much to do there, however you would definitely travel through to break a few pictures in the evening! It's probably excellent to state that the southwest edge is where you get in the Eaton Centre-- a leading attraction however unsatisfactory for its own place on the list.

It's simply a really great mall that is rather big and features some preferred stores. There are fountains as well as at Xmas, they have a tree and also large reindeer!

Royal Ontario Gallery

The Royal Ontario Gallery (the ROM, for brief) lies at Bloor Street and Avenue Road as well as has a background of presenting simply a little bit of everything! Nevertheless, this makes good sense-- the ROM is the largest (and most checked out) gallery in Canada and one of the biggest in The United States and Canada.

With around 6 million items, the numerous galleries as well as shows function things from crawlers to art, society to dinosaurs, and also Rome!

Eric went as a youngster years back as well as remembers having a fantastic time at the ROM! If you are arriving by subway, you can get off at-- you thought it-- Museum Station!

Pro Suggestion: You can buy a ROM General Admission ticket in advance here if you pick!

Read more here

The post “ 27 Toronto Tourist Attractions That You Shouldn’t Miss “ was appeared first on Penguin and Pia

Dr. Amauri Caversan - Toronto Naturopathic Doctor

[lethaderr-blog]

The Glasgow Mural Trail showcases the best street art in Glasgow.

It’s no secret that I’m a massive fan of street art. I’ve written about incredible street art in Toronto that’s right in my own backyard, and murals from other spots around the world like Derry, Miami, and Buffalo. Glasgow graffiti is some of the best that I’ve seen in the world. It’s bright, colorful, and meaningful. Plus, you can embark on a free walking tour in Glasgow to see all of the art. All of the Glasgow murals are within walking distance of one another. I’ve even found a few bonus works of art in Glasgow to see beyond those found on the Glasgow Mural Trail.

Why Street Art in Glasgow?

Back in 2008, the very first piece of street art in Glasgow was splashed across a city wall. This collection grew over the last few years with something for every taste and style, from more conventional styles to ones that are quirky and strange. In 2014, the Glasgow Mural Trail in the city centre was officially launched to promote the growing collection of murals there.

Essentially, street art in Glasgow provides new life to tired buildings and vacant sites. These beautiful Glasgow murals revitalize these structures. Spectacular art all over the city allows both locals and tourists alike to have new appreciation for otherwise neglected and unsightly places. Furthermore, this Glasgow graffiti brings people to the city centre, inviting them to visit local businesses and attractions.

GLASGOW TRAVEL GUIDE

WHERE TO STAY IN GLASGOW: We adored our stay at the centrally located Grasshoppers Hotel. You can check out our review here [and more reviews here]. Hotels are very affordable in the city. Feel free to compare prices between hotels as you plan your holiday. To have your own place in Glasgow, browse the available listings on Airbnb.

GETTING AROUND GLASGOW: To get from the airport to the city, take the Glasgow Airport Express bus. Glasgow is a very walkable city and we rarely had to take any transportation. However, the subway system is very inexpensive and you can make your way around the city quickly and easily. You can also book tickets on the hop-on-hop-off bus to see the sights and be transported all over town.

THINGS TO DO IN GLASGOW: For a list of the best things to do in Glasgow, check out our 1 day Glasgow travel itinerary. If you’re looking for restaurant recommendations, check out my Glasgow vegan guide. 

PHOTOS OF GLASGOW: Check out our entire photo album of pictures from Glasgow to inspire your trip. You can also purchase prints, housewares, and all sorts of gifts made from any of our photos – just click the “buy” button on any picture.

Glasgow Mural Trail

Come along with me on a tour of the Glasgow Mural Trail. Nothing beats seeing it in person for yourself. But, I’ll give you the next best thing: viewing it through my lens from your own chair anywhere in the world.

Strathclyde University

The Strathclyde University “Wonderwall” mural tells the stories and achievements of Strathclyde and its students. There are three different murals on the sides of the seven story buildings, painted by Rogue-one and Ejek. This image shows many students that currently attend Strathclyde and celebrates its vibrant and diverse community. The staff and students of Strathclyde University come from over 100 countries around the world. It was our first stop on the Glasgow Mural Trail. You can see the second mural off in the distance, St Enoch and Child.

St Enoch and Child

Australian artist and Glasgow resident, Smug, has created several Glasgow murals that stunning and evocative. Smug painted this photo realistic work of street art in Glasgow using a cherry picker as it spans several stories of a building. St Enoch and Child depicts the patron saint of Glasgow, St Mungo, as a young child being breastfed by his mother, St Enoch. It is widely praised by Glaswegians. Not only does it encourage mothers to breastfeed their children, but it dispels the stigma against breastfeeding older children. 

Saint Mungo

The Saint Mungo mural is another fantastic work by Smug. It was never officially named; however, it acquired its name after the image was shared approximately 1.5 million times in its first week. It shows the patron saint of Glasgow, Saint Mungo, wearing modern street clothes. When Mungo was a child, some boys threw stones at some birds and struck a robin. While the boys ran away, Mungo picked up the bird, smoothed its feathers, and prayed. After a short period of time, the bird came back to life and flew away. It was a miracle.

Fellow Glasgow Residents

Smug does it again! This is one of the largest displays of art in Glasgow, spanning the entire wall facing a parking lot. It features “Fellow Glasgow Residents”, the animals that live in Glasgow’s parks and green spaces. You’ll see cows (“hairy coos”!), squirrels, chipmunks, birds, deer, foxes, and so many more. There’s so much to look at in this sprawling piece of street art in Glasgow. I love all of the intricate details and the shadows. It really appears to be so three dimensional, as though I’m transported right to that nearby forest or trail.

Badminton

There were a series of murals in Glasgow to promote the 2014 Commonwealth Games, and Badminton is one of them. There are some other ones depicting people playing rugby, hockey, and netball. You can find these other sports murals near the Partick train station.

Space Man

You might miss Spaceman if you aren’t looking for it. Tucked down a very narrow alleyway (which made it a challenge to capture with my camera), Spaceman features splashes of colors against an otherwise barren wall. Artists Recoat and Ali Wylie demonstrate their influences: Japanese design, pop art, and graphic novels.

Study of a Woman in Black

Study of a Woman in Black is actually two murals featuring anonymous women wearing black clothing. James Klinge, formerly known as Klingatron, creates super detailed portraits from stencils. These women look incredibly lifelike in both murals, found just down the street from one another.

The Clutha

The Clutha bar made headlines back in 2013 when a police helicopter crashed into it, killing 10 people. The bar partially reopened a year and a half later, and this mural wraps around the building. It pays homage to the history of the area and the people who visited this iconic bar, known for its live music and vibrant atmosphere. Artists Ejek and Rogue-One painted this beautiful street art in Glasgow, featuring icons like Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

Billy Connolly

To celebrate his 75th birthday, BBC Scotland commissioned three Glasgow murals of actor Billy Connolly. This mural was created from an original work by John Byrne, and painted by Rogue-One. These were showcased as a surprise tribute in a special BBC programme, Billy Connolly: Portrait of a Lifetime. In the show, Connolly states, “I thought I’d be all light-hearted on seeing them and jokey – but they’re so big, the effect on me is so profound. People going to that length for me, it’s just taken my breath away.”

Argyle Street Cafe

Unfortunately, I couldn’t see the Argyle Street Cafe mural when I visited. There were large construction walls covering it up. Maybe it will be there when you visit Glasgow? It’s another beautiful piece of street art in Glasgow by Smug, featuring various animals enjoying some beverages together. It’s a reinterpretation and revamp of an older piece by Smug on the same wall.

Are Ye Dancin’

This stop on the Glasgow Mural Trail features two colorful walls on opposite sides of a tunnel. Painted by Conzo Throb, it’s right in the middle of a busy shopping area, tucked down a narrow passageway. It’s playful, quirky, and imaginative. You might recognize the figure on the “Are ye dancin'” side as the Duke of Wellington statue with the traffic cone on his head. On the “Are ye askin?” side, the girl has a bottle of Scotland’s popular Irn-Bru drink over her shoulder.

The World’s Most Economical Taxi

There’s a gritty, industrial feel as I stroll down Mitchell Street on an early morning. I couldn’t really see a reason to walk down this street, other than to view another work of Glasgow graffiti by Rogue-One. It might be one of the best ways to combat gridlock…have your taxi float up in the air above the roads! An interesting quote from the artist, “Can’t believe I painted a wall to look like a brick wall just because I wanted a brick wall!”

Honey…I Shrunk The Kids

It’s another super realistic and brilliant work by Glasgow resident, Smug. Just when you thought that your trip down Mitchell Street was over, this gorgeous work of art in Glasgow comes into view. It’s an over-sized woman with a magnifying glass, appearing to pick up something very small. I love the little details like the “Smug” necklace around her neck.

Wind Power

Rogue-One brings another spectacular work to the streets of Glasgow in the Wind Power mural. As a third mural on Mitchell Street, you’ll realize that it really was worth the trek down this fairly deserted road. You’ll see a woman blowing on a dandelion, and all of its seeds are actually windmills. As part of the Doors Open Day 2014 event, it represents and celebrates sustainable energy in Glasgow and Scotland. 

Glasgow Panda

Directly opposite one of my favorite attractions in Glasgow, The Lighthouse, you’ll find Glasgow’s Panda. Created by Klingatron, he used hand-cut stencils to paint this memorable piece of street art. It’s always unfortunate to see unsightly tags and graffiti painted nearly on top of other beautiful works, but it happens.

Dr Connolly I Presume?

It’s another commemorative Billy Connolly work by Rogue-One, and it represents a Jack Vettriano painting. It demonstrates Connolly on a stormy coastline near John O’Groats. This work on the Glasgow Mural Trail takes up an entire wall on Dixon Street.

Glasgow’s Tiger

The Glasgow Tiger is definitely my favorite artwork on the Glasgow Mural Trail. I might be a little bit biased as I love cats and big cats. Sorry, not sorry! Klingatron has illustrated another image of a tiger on top of the old one that used to live at this site. This tiger is highly intricate and detailed. I love how this wall looks with the buildings behind it, and it faces the River Clyde and the suspension bridge. Definitely go for a walk along the River Clyde and enjoy a few works of street art on this free walking tour in Glasgow on your way.

The Gallery

The Gallery is Smug’s interpretation of many famous works of art, including Van Gogh’s Starry Night, Munch’s The Scream, and the Mona Lisa. If you take a closer look at the Mona Lisa, you’ll notice that she’s holding a can of Irn-Bru in front of the Clyde Auditorium. She’s been dubbed, “The Mona Lassie” by Glaswegians. It’s another one that I noticed was sadly defaced.

The Swimmer

It’s one of Smug’s first works of street art in Glasgow. He painted The Swimmer for Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games. Beneath a highway overpass, it’s in surprisingly good condition as it’s protected from the elements. This piece on the Glasgow Trail Mural is fitting as it’s right beside the River Clyde. The piece is incredibly lifelike, except it’s absolutely massive. The water and waves look so realistic around the swimming man.

Glasgow Crocodile

There are a few pieces of street art that I missed along the Glasgow Mural Trail, but I’ll have to check them out the next time I’m in town. One of them is the Glasgow Crocodile, created by Klingatron. He uses the old brickwork to his advantage, using a gap in the bricks for its eye and other bricks around its scales. Similar to a crocodile lurking beneath the surface, you won’t grasp the scale of this creation until you view it from a certain angle.

Charing Cross Birds

At the Charing Cross Pedestrian Bridge, you’ll find the Charing Cross Birds by Little Book Transfers, an all female art and design collective from Glasgow. They’re part of the “STALK” series. You’ll find birds, foliage, and fruit painted on the pillars of this bridge.

Hand Shadow Puppets

Justin and I stumbled across Hand Shadow Puppets in a tunnel as we walked towards the University of Glasgow and Ashton Lane from Glasgow’s City Centre. Rogue-One brings life back to an otherwise dingy underpass. Hands cast shadows of animals on the wall, while other animals look on. 

The Musician

The Musician, by Rogue-One, is a tribute to Glasgow’s live music scene. It’s between two popular music venues, Howlin’ Wolf and Malone’s. The nearby Sauchiehall Street has loads of entertainment in the evenings, which means this colorful work of art is precisely in the proper place.

The Lost Giant

Right near The Musician, you’ll also find The Lost Giant (which is why I didn’t manage to see either of them!). Australian artist, Stormie Mills, has installed many works in his Lost Giant series across cities around the world. This special Lost Giant of Glasgow is wearing a scarf made from the Glaswegian tartan.

Bonus Glasgow Murals and Art

Beyond the Glasgow Mural Trail, there is even more street art to see in this vibrant and colorful city. 

Street Art by Fuse

Although the style is reminiscent of Banksy, small pieces of street art by Fuse are popping up all over Glasgow. I stumbled upon one as I searched for other art on the Glasgow Mural Trail. It’s always wonderful to accidentally come across even more outdoor art. When researching some information about Fuse after the fact, I saw that he painted a Pikachu and a Poke-Ball in other places around Glasgow. I wish I had stumbled upon those!

Ashton Lane

There are even more murals outside the City Centre. We found this wall around the corner from Ashton Lane, looking like a flight of stairs going up to the second level. There are painted flowerpots up the staircase to a window with real flowerpots and plants.

Inside Restaurants and Cafes

You might even find murals inside the restaurants and cafes themselves! The Glasvegan has a playful tribute to the Duke of Wellington equestrian statue, with a carrot on his head instead of a pylon (because: vegan). Papercup Coffee Company showcases art that inspires us all to “dream big”. And even though Picnic doesn’t necessarily have a mural inside its cafe, I loved this pastel watercolor wall.

PLANNING A TRIP TO SCOTLAND?

Book your accommodation, Airbnb rental, rental car, or train tickets.

Browse tours and excursions around the country for fun day trips.

Don’t forget to pack your rain jacket and umbrella!

Research even more with Scotland guide books to help plan your holidays.

Read the rest of my Scotland blog posts for the best trip ever.

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What’s your favorite place in the world for street art?

The post Glasgow Mural Trail: The Ultimate Guide for Street Art Lovers (Free Self-Guided Walking Tour) appeared first on Justin Plus Lauren.

[travelonlinetips-blog]

New Post has been published on https://travelonlinetips.com/things-to-do-in-savannah-georgia-where-to-eat-play-and-stay/

Things to Do in Savannah, Georgia: Where to Eat, Play, and Stay

We’re fresh back from our epic East Coast road trip! By the numbers, it was a doozy: over 70 days, we traveled more than 3,600 miles and stayed in 14 cities in 9 states. (All with our cat, by the way)

For us, it was part road trip and part reconnaissance mission. We’re on the hunt for our next place to move. While Chattanooga is still at the top of our list, Savannah surprised us. It’s charming, historic, beautiful, friendly, and right on the water. And all those things that make it a great place to live naturally make it an awesome place to visit.

Things to Do in Savannah GA

By the numbers — less than 150,000 Southern souls spread across just 100 square miles — Savannah is a small city. And the downtown core is only a tiny fraction of that. It’s perfectly walkable, especially for out-of-towners without a car. Of all the things to do in Savannah GA, these are our favorite places to eat, play, and stay.

Where to Eat + Drink in Savannah GA

Gryphon Cafe in Savannah GA © TD Brat

Situated in the century-old Scottish Rite building, Gryphon is quite a romantic, date-worthy lunch spot. The intimate elegance of the interior, where white-clothed tables, carved-mahogany bookcases, and original stained-glass panels convey warmth and graciousness, provides a front row seat to the iconic Bull Street. The focus is on organic, locally sourced Southern cuisine.

Panoramic Rooftop Views from Top Deck Bar (Savannah GA)

For cocktail hour, Top Deck Bar is a rooftop bar that deftly balances “swanky” and “relaxed” with a healthy dose of amazing views of the Talmadge Memorial Bridge, the Savannah River, and historical Bay Street.

The Terrace at Cotton & Rye

Service at Cotton & Rye is dinner-only. But, the food is so damn good, it’s worth the all-day wait to eat there. While it occupies a mid-20th-century bank building, the vibe is mostly relaxed and slightly chic with plenty of Southern charm. The menu runs the gamut from house-made sour corn succotash to Carolina trout to shrimp & grits. Be sure to ask for a seat on the outside terrace.

If things start to wind down too much, head to The Rail Pub. Situated in a century-old building (isn’t everything in Savannah?), this dive bar is a Savannah institution with plenty of indoor and outdoor space to keep the party going well after midnight six days a week. Along with plenty of beer and house cocktails, you’ll find Southern delicacies like pigs’ feet & pickles.

Iconic Things to Do in Savannah GA (Georgia)

Few cities nail the beautiful-spooky-historic-Southern-Gothic vibe like Savannah.

Charleston aside, few cities nail the spooky-historic-Southern chic vibe like Savannah. While a simple stroll around the city presents countless Instagram photos like the ones in this post, the best place to get a feel for the city’s Southern Gothic vibe along with a healthy dose of history is Bonaventure Cemetery. It’s consistently ranked among the most beautiful cemeteries in the world, and with good reason. Not surprising then that it’s appeared in countless Hollywood movies like Clint Eastwood’s Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.

It’s 100 acres of idyllic rolling hills dotted with centuries-old live oak trees covered in Spanish moss. Plan one hour for a quick peek, but I would allow two hours to tour it all and have plenty of time for photos. Bonus: it’s free.

Entry Gate at Wormsloe Plantation in Savannah

Wormsloe Plantation might be tied with Bonaventure Cemetery for the most popular and most Instagram’d attraction in Savannah. Upon entering, you’re overwhelmed with a breathtaking, mile-and-a-half-long avenue sheltered by live oaks and Spanish moss leading to the 18th-century tabby ruins of Wormsloe — the oldest standing structure in Savannah.

The avenue is iconic (see Forrest Gump), and it’s an ideal spot for weddings and professional photo ops. (Note: guests are requested to pay the entry fee before parking and photographing the avenue. Although, we found the caretakers pretty lax in this regard.)

Other Things to Do in Savannah GA (Georgia)

Looking for more things to do in Savannah GA? Take a stroll down Broughton Street. It’s the city’s main strip, where you can while away an afternoon of eating and perusing. Byrd’s Cookies is an iconic dessert shop that dates back to 1924. Be sure to grab a tin to go.

Savannah Bee Company (Broughton Street)

Also on Broughton Street, Savannah Bee Company got its start in — wait for it … — Savannah, Georgia. In the twenty years since the company’s launch in 1999, it’s turned into a global brand.

We love it not only for its amazing honey-centric products (grill honey, anyone?) but also for the worthy causes they support like The Bee Cause Project.

SCAD Museum of Art – Savannah GA

Located in a mid-19th-century rail depot, SCAD Museum of Art is arguably the best contemporary museum in The South. It’s a great way to break up an afternoon of eating and spending with a dose of culture. (Tip: they offer free admission on select weekends)

Lastly, do the River Walk. For all the right reasons, everyone will tell you to steer clear of this undeniable tourist trap. Make no mistake: it is an absolute tourist trap. It’s full of taffy shops, overpriced restaurants, and souvenir tchotchke peddlers. But, it’s an accurate snapshot of the city’s waterfront district and, even on a rainy day (and we had many), it provides a lovely photo backdrop.

Moody Afternoon Along River Street — Savannah GA

Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Savannah, GA

As y’all know, chain hotels aren’t usually our thing. We’ll take a boutique hotel, Airbnb stay, a sweet campground, or even a treehouse over a Holiday Inn or even a Four Seasons any day of the week. Thankfully, in addition to all the great things to do in Savannah GA, there are plenty of great places to stay (a surprising number actually, given the city’s tiny size).

CreekFire Motor Ranch in Savannah, Georgia

Entrance to CreekFire Motor Ranch in Savannah, GA

When we stumbled on CreekFire Motor Ranch, we were ecstatic. It’s billed as a luxury campground, but that’s quite an understatement. When we arrived, we found it to be a legit resort. Even though it opened in October 2017, it’s expanding at a lightning pace. There are plenty of primitive campsites, plus more than 100 RV sites with full hookups. So campers of all variety can find their perfect place to crash.

For us, the big get was to snag one of their “cabins.” I use that term loosely because the cabins are actually upscale, tiny-house-like accommodations. Our 400-square-foot cabin (cabin #1) featured a full master bedroom, a cozy kitchen with full-sized appliances, a full bathroom, a spacious living room with a giant TV, and an upstairs sleeping loft.

All the cabins at CreekFire Motor Ranch also feature a private deck overlooking a pristine lake, and a secluded backyard fire pit area.

Chairs by the Lake at CreekFire Motor Ranch

Plus, they offer all the bells and whistles you’d find at a traditional hotel: Wi-Fi, satellite TV, coffeemakers, and they’re pet-friendly which was obviously a huge plus or us. It was enough to coax us to stay inside most days!

If you manage to pull yourself away from your cabin or tent site for a few hours, the ranch is packed with resort-like amenities. There’s an outdoor pool, a lobby game area, a club area (with a basketball court, tennis courts, and a playground), a one-mile nature trail around the property, and fishing, kayak, and bike rentals.

There’s already a boatload of additional amenities in the works for 2018: a lazy river (!), a sandy beach, and a full lake house with a lounge, restaurant, and covered waterfront bar. When you’re ready to explore all the great things to do in Savannah GA, there’s even reasonably priced shuttle service to and from downtown.

Lobby Lounge at The Marshall House in Savannah, GA

While we absolutely loved CreekFire Motor Ranch, here are a few honorable hotel mentions in downtown Savannah:

The Brice: A Holiday-Inn-turned-boutique-hotel, The Brice is fun, comfortably chic, and pet-friendly. The free nightly wine hour and great people-watching along the boardwalk are bonuses.

Marshall House: For sheer historic Georgian charm, you can’t beat The Marshall House. As the oldest hotel in Savannah, it’s ideally sitated in the city’s Historic District, and offers vintage details like high ceilings, decorative fireplaces, and hardwood floors.

Nightfall Over the Cabins at Savannah’s CreekFire Motor Ranch

What are your favorite things to do in Savannah GA? Let us know in the comments!

The post Things to Do in Savannah, Georgia: Where to Eat, Play, and Stay appeared first on Vagabondish.

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[traceyropper-blog]

America's Safest Affordable Cities … That Won't Put You to Sleep

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Buying a home these days is a high-stakes, need-to-have/nice-to-have equation. You need a home within an hour's drive of work; it would be nice to have one that's in walkable distance. You need a full-size kitchen with room for your five-person brood; it would be nice to have a chef's kitchen with La Cornue Grand Palais range, Meneghini Arredamenti fridge, and, heck, a Mugnaini wood-fired pizza oven. You need at least 2.5 bathrooms; it would be nice to have a master en suite spa with a touchscreen-controlled smart bidet. Dream the dream, my friends!

So what's the neediest of all need-to-haves? You need to find a safe place to live where you can still afford a great home. And wouldn't it be nice if there were even fun stuff to do after work and on weekends? Yes, indeed.

Realtor.com set out to find these seductive strongholds where you can have it all. And we're not talking about the boonies: We zeroed in on metropolitan areas, which include cities and the surrounding suburbs. (Note: Cities often have higher crime rates than their less-populated surroundings.)

Research-and common sense-indicates that when crime goes up, property values go down. Meanwhile, home buyers will pay more to live in locations with lower rates of violent crime, according to a 2015 Auburn University study. It doesn't hurt that these areas typically also have top public schools.

“When homeowners think about the biggest investment of their life, top of mind is how safe an area would be to live in and raise a family,” says Rick Palacios Jr., director of research at John Burns Real Estate Consulting.

They also want to make sure that their investment appreciates over time, which it typically won't do as much in areas with growing crime. “High crime rates unnerve potential home buyers,” he says. Um, yeah.

The good news: Crime has declined sharply since the early '90s. Violent offenses, which include homicide, assault, and robbery, plummeted 49% from 1993 to 2017, according to FBI data. This explains why some of our safest places were once known for riots and rampant car thefts before they rebounded. (The downside: Gentrification is leading to some longtime residents being priced out.)

The places that made our affordable safe harbor ranking are a mix of smaller metros that never really struggled with high crime, and cities once riddled with problems that have successfully pulled off a turnaround. Our list is concentrated on resurgent Midwest, Southern, and Rust Belt cities. No Western metros were included because home prices are simply too high.

We analyzed crime data provided by NeighborhoodScout, a website that tracks community data, focusing on America's 150 largest metros. We eliminated those with high rates of violent or property crime, and with home prices above the (roughly) $300,000 national median. Next, we zeroed in on cities with great extracurriculars-running the gamut from nightlife, to kayaking, to great indie bookstores-as tracked on Yelp.com.**

Safety, affordability, and fun! Yep, they can coexist. Let's take a tour.

Safest affordable metros

Tony Frenzel

1. Grand Rapids, MI

Median home list rice: $280,000 Total crime rate: 18.38%

Luxury condo building in Grand Rapids, MI

realtor.com

As some Michigan cities, including Flint and Detroit, continue to face hard times, Grand Rapids is booming. The very low 2.5% metro unemployment rate is reason No. 1 for the upswing.

“The economy is strong here, with lots of jobs at different levels,” says Trisha Cornelius, a local real estate agent with Keller Williams. “The neighborhoods are affordable and clean. There isn't much in the way of urban blight.”

Indeed, only 2.2% of homes here are vacant, compared with 9.6% in Flint and 6.5% in Detroit, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Meanwhile, the metro has been attracting younger residents lured by those plentiful gigs, the affordable housing, and the influx of craft breweries in the area.

“A 25-year-old can actually afford to buy a home here,” Cornelius says. They're snagging luxury, one-bedroom condos priced at around $200,000 like this converted, historic school building spanning two city blocks.

But bargain prices won't last forever. While the national housing market is starting to slow, realtor.com projects Grand Rapids will be the second-hottest market in 2019, with a 8.2% projected sales price growth.

Local R&R: Buckle your blades on for ice-skating in Rosa Parks Circle.

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2. Pittsburgh, PA

Median home list price: $173,000 Total crime rate: 18.44%

Home in Brighton Heights neighborhood of Pittsburgh, PA

realtor.com

As Pittsburgh's steel mills shuttered and residents pulled up stakes, many neighborhoods fell into a crime-ridden, downward spiral. But that feels like ancient history these days, as the city continues to reinvent itself as a thriving corporate center for startups and tech biggies like Uber and Google alike. Now those once-hurting neighborhoods, like Brighton Heights, are seeing their fortunes rise and rise, with an influx of new workers moving in.

Brighton Heights “is a neighborhood in transition. … When I was growing up in the '90s, it was certainly not a place for a first-time home buyer; but that's changed,” says local restate agent Bobby West of Coldwell Banker.

Young professionals and home flippers are buying up many of the community's Craftsman-style homes built in the early 1900s for under $150,000.

The number of violent crimes plummeted 24.8% from 2000 to 2014, according to the most recent FBI data. While crime is low in the metro, there are still some problem areas within the city limits. And residents are still hurting from last October's tragic shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue, a hate crime that left 11 dead.

Local R&R: Fixate on flora fantasies at the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

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3. Port St. Lucie, FL

Median home list price: $285,100 Total crime rate: 19.16%

Four-bedroom home in Port St. Lucie, FL

realtor.com

About two hours north of Miami, Port St. Lucie is a quiet Atlantic beach town, long a magnet for  retirees.

“Here, it's just a really calm mix of people, mostly families and retirees,” says Richard L. McKinney, a real estate agent at Atlantic Shores Realty Expertise. “People are just coming here to live and commute to work, so we don't get all that ruckus that comes with tourism” in other Florida ocean areas.

This beach town is made up of lots of new single-home and condo communities. And prices are still reasonable, leading realtor.com to name Port St. Lucie one of the most affordable beach towns in June. Buyers can find condos just minutes from the beach for $150,000, says McKinney.

Local R&R: Gaze or gape at gators at the Savannas Preserve State Park.

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4. El Paso, TX

Median home list price: $175,800 Total crime rate: 20.48%

El Paso, TX, ranch house

realtor.com

A combination of tougher police action and changing demographics has led to substantial decline in violent crime in this once-dicey metro on the U.S.-Mexico border. In the early '90s, El Paso often had more than 50 homicides a year. But from 2012 to 2016, the city averaged fewer than 18 homicides, according to the city's police department. That's good news for locals, and for long-term property values.

Finding a single-story, brick ranch under $200,000 in El Paso is a breeze. In fact, last year realtor.com named El Paso one of the best markets for middle-class home buyers. Developer-friendly zoning laws and low land costs make building homes here cheaper than in other parts of the country.

Local R&R: Manage your mountain mania! Start climbing at Franklin Mountains State Park.

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5. Syracuse, NY

Median home list price: $160,000 Total crime rate: 21.4%

Condos in Syracuse, NY

realtor.com

In the early 2000s, former industrial center Syracuse began pumping millions into renovating crime-ridden communities near downtown to entice college students to live there after graduation, instead of scramming as soon as possible. Crime dropped so much that everyone from young professionals to empty nesters bought up remodeled condos there.

“Over a decade, downtown Syracuse went from being unsafe to the hottest spot to live” in the area, says Amber Spain-Mosher, a real estate agent at Re/Max in Syracuse. “The residential growth downtown is unlike anything we've seen before. And it shows no sign of slowing down.”

Homes in nearby urban neighborhoods have also received a boost. As the city became safer, more people swooped in and bought up fixer-uppers just above the $100,000 price range. That's played a role in home prices rising 9.6% over the past year.

Local R&R: The 13-day Great New York State Fair attracts nearly a million visitors annually.

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6. Hartford, CT

Median home list price: $260,000 Total crime rate: 21.97%

Three-bedroom home in Parkville in Hartford, CT

realtor.com

Hartford is a charming town with stately, older homes and rich history dating to Colonial America. And it's packed with affluent and highly educated homeowners who live in the burbs.

But that's not the only reason crime is low here. Several neighborhoods in the city proper, which has a higher crime rate than the metro, have seen an increase in development. Investors are setting their sights on areas such as Parkville, a once-dicey neighborhood that now has a burgeoning startup and art scene. They're flipping 100-year-old multifamily homes, then selling or renting them out to Connecticut College grads.

“All the work to make downtown safer is paying dividends: Standard old office buildings are being converted into nice apartments,” says David Griggs, president and CEO of the MetroHartford Alliance, Hartford's economic development arm

Local R&R: Huckleberry hysteria! Go nuts visiting the Mark Twain House, where the American Master lived from 1874 to 1891.

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7. Fayetteville, AR

Median home list price: $272,600 Total crime rate: 23.21%

Two-bedroom home in Fayetteville, AR

realtor.com

Retail giant Walmart has its headquarters in Bentonville, in the Fayetteville metro, and that's long ensured high property values and low crime. And as the company continues to expand, so does the real estate market here.

“We don't have the wrong side of the tracks here,” says Jill Bell, a local real estate agent at Crye-Leike. “[Even neighborhoods like] far south Fayetteville that had a bad reputation in the past has been revitalized.”

Local R&R: Get your theater on! See nationally acclaimed productions in an intimate setting at TheatreSquared.

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8. Springfield, MA

Median home list price: $244,950 Total crime rate: 26.14%

This four-bedroom Cape Cod in Springfield, MA, is listed for $249,900.

realtor.com

Massachusetts has the top public schools in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report. It's no wonder buying a home in the state isn't cheap-the median list price is $450,000. That's where the Springfield metro sets itself apart: Folks can score reasonably priced homes, enroll their children in high-performing schools, and live in a low-crime area.

Communities such as East Longmeadow, home to East Longmeadow High School, which boasts a 98% graduation rate, are highly sought-after. And buyers can find many four-bedroom, Cape Cod–style homes priced around $250,000.

But crime within the Springfield city limits is higher, with neighborhoods such as McKnight and Forest Park all having some issues. In Forest Park, the vehicle theft rate is three times higher than the statewide rate-so be cautious.

Local R&R: Ramp up your roller-coaster love with a trip to Six Flags New England.

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9. Cincinnati, OH

Median home list price: $233,600 Total crime rate: 26.26%

Renovated condos in Over-the-Rhine in Cincinnati, OH

realtor.com

Cincinnati doesn't exactly spring to mind when most folks think about low crime. In 2001, the city burst onto the national consciousness when riots broke out after the police shooting of an unarmed 19-year-old black man. In the years that followed, many avoided the city.

But in recent years, things have improved. The Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, where much of the rioting took place, might be the city's biggest success story. Many of the three-story brick buildings, built 150 years ago by German immigrants, have been remodeled and turned into condos that sometimes sell for over $500,000. And OTR, as it's known by the locals, is among the region's top spots to be on a Saturday night with bars and nightclubs.

The Cincinnati metro is packed with booming, low-crime suburbs with good schools and new, sprawling subdivisions, including some just across the Ohio River and in Warren County, one of the state's fastest-growing counties.

Local R&R: Chow down on Cincinnati-style chili-with spaghetti and copious amounts of cheese, natch.

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10. Fort Wayne, IN

Median home list price: $180,000 Total crime rate: 26.62%

Buyers can snag four-bedroom homes in Fort Wayne, IN, for $150,000.

realtor.com

These days, the streets of downtown Fort Wayne are lined with new businesses, restaurants, and moving trucks. But this Midwestern destination for young professionals wasn't always like this.

“A decade ago, Fort Wayne's downtown wasn't the best place after dark,” says Ryan Dollens, a real estate agent and appraiser with Keller Williams Realty in Fort Wayne. “There was nothing going on-it was eerie.”  

Things started to change in 2010, when the city spent $30 million on Parkview Field, now home to Fort Wayne's popular minor-league team, the TinCaps. Then the city started to renovate Harrison Square in downtown, which included building new apartment complexes, a hotel, and a park with amphitheater. The efforts paid off.

“By adding all these businesses, restaurants, and apartments, they've really been able to clean up the streets,” Dollens says.

Buyers have responded, with prices soaring 11.1% over the past 12 months. Last July, it was ranked second on realtor.com's hottest markets list. But despite the hype, buyers can still snag three- to four-bedroom, two-story homes just outside downtown for under $200,000.

Local R&R: Soar with the butterflies and other wildlife at the Eagle Marsh Nature Preserve.

* A metropolitan statistical area is a designation that includes the urban core of a city and the surrounding smaller towns and cities. We limited our rankings to just one metro per state to ensure some geographic diversity.

** We used Yelp.com for the number of per capita nightlife venues, highly rated restaurants, kayaking/rafting/scuba diving opportunities, gyms, libraries, bookstores, and campgrounds.

Allison Underhill contributed to this report.

The post America's Safest Affordable Cities … That Won't Put You to Sleep appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

[slvrdlphn]

Yakikai, what a funny name to say. 🙂  ‘Tis the season to forget about that diet and indulge, as they say, and Yakikai is definitely a place to indulge our appetite. 🙂  A couple of days ago I had the opportunity to eat at Yakikai Grill and Fusion Buffet located at Scout Dr. Lazcano Street near Tomas Morato in Quezon City.  For those who can’t quite imagine where this is, your nearest landmark would be Starbucks Reserve across from BPI on Tomas Morato Avenue.  Yakikai is on the block where Starbucks is. 🙂

This restaurant was easy for me to find for these reasons:

I live nearby

this used to be Bagoong Club which I once frequented

it is a stone’s throw away from my favorite Starbucks branch, the Starbucks Reserve Legacy Store on Tomas Morato. 🙂

For people with cars, if you arrive early enough you can park right in front of Yakikai, otherwise, your next available parking will be on Tomas Morato.  Not to worry, though, as Tomas Morato is a very short distance from the restaurant … very walkable.

The first time I heard about Yakikai I couldn’t help but wonder if this was going to be any different from other samgyupsal restaurants I have visited in the past.  While there are definitely similarities, the owner, Ms. Sam, introduced us to some features that make this restaurant stand out.  FYI, Ms. Sam used to be the owner of Sodam, a samgyupsal restaurant in Greenhills, which she has since sold before she opened this place.

Dining Area

Since I have been to this building before when it was a different restaurant I was interested to note if they changed anything about its appearance or layout.  So far, they have made the dining area brighter and, of course, there is the addition of the ventilation pipes for the hoods over each table.

There are three dining areas on the ground floor: the main area near the buffet which can seat approximately 24 or more people, another one just to the right of the main dining area which can comfortably seat 30 people, and an outdoor seating area at the lanai which can comfortably seat another 24 people.

On the second floor, there are two rooms.  The room on the right could possibly seat around 20 people while the room on the left could possibly seat 50 people.  This set up makes Yakikai ideal for big groups.  While their Zomato page says they do not take table bookings, I think they do take reservations for special events.

Restrooms

It is important to note that there are two gender-neutral restrooms, one on each floor.  This is a carryover from Bagoong Club.  However, I wish they could maintain it better.  One tip I would possibly give them is to have one of their staff check the restrooms every 30 minutes or every hour to make sure it is still clean (and not stinky) and clean it when necessary.

The Menu

As with other restaurants they have an ala carte menu and an “eat all you can” menu.  In this review, I will focus on the latter because this is the menu that they really want to push.  That is my gorgeous sister holding up the menu for me. 😀

They only have 2 sets to choose from.  The premium set and the emperor set.

Premium Set

The first is the PREMIUM SET.  This was originally priced at P499 but, at the moment is available for P339.  Unlike other restaurants, this package is composed of chicken, pork, beef, and shrimp, cheese, plus the buffet!  Talk about value for money.

The meat selection is basically the same as what you would find in every other samgyupsal place but the addition of the shrimp and cheese (which is a mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheese) at no extra cost brings them up a notch.  I even noticed that there was one table that ordered just the fresh shrimp!  That was so smart!  I should do that next time.

Emperor Set

The second set is called the EMPEROR SET and is, of course, the one they highly recommend.  Originally priced at P699, it is currently available for P599.  The emperor set is composed of chicken, pork, beef, shrimp, fish, Jjampong nabe soup, and cheese!  Specifically, what makes the emperor set are the following:

salmon sashimi

chuck eye steak

shrimp tempura

and Jjampong Nabe

salmon sashimi

chuck eye steak

shrimp tempura

When cooking any kind of meat (and steak especially) it is important to know when to stop cooking it so that the meat is still edible.  When it comes to the steak which compared to the other meats served is thick, cooking it too long will make the steak hard and dry.  Your goal should always be medium.  Some like it medium-rare, others medium-well.

We asked Ms. Sam if they served tuna sashimi aside from salmon sashimi and she said that they don’t serve tuna as it spoils faster so if it is not consumed quickly they end up throwing it away.  Salmon, on the other hand, handles better and lasts longer.  I love salmon anyway so this was no hardship for me. 😀

The Jjampong Nabe might be removed from the menu as they have received feedback that many patrons find it too spicy.  They are still thinking about what to replace it with if they decide to remove it.  Any suggestions?

Buffet

Both the premium and emperor set comes with the buffet which is self-service and you can go back as often as you want and get as much as you want.

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At first, it would appear as though the buffet offerings are limited, but as each dish is emptied, it is replaced with a different dish (if similar) dish, which makes for an almost limitless buffet.

In this photo here you can see that the options have already changed.  The dishes that I kept going back for are the shredded sweet Japanese corn and the japchae.  For those who do not know, japchae is a Korean noodle dish made with vermicelli noodles with vegetables and beef tossed in.

Sushi options at the buffet

On the far left of the buffet is a selection of different kinds of sushi from the all-time favorite California Maki to salmon, shrimp, and tamago (egg) variations. At the window above the buffet are the chefs who were busy preparing refills of all the dishes in the buffet.

I am very keen on anything spicy I sampled the spicy tuna.  The sushi tasted as expected, which is a good thing. 🙂  I had a few pieces of spicy tuna and tamago sushi. 😀

Is “buffet only” an option?

We asked Ms. Sam if it were possible for guests to order just the buffet and no grilling and she said no.  When I think about it, though, that really isn’t too bad since the price of their premium set is not really that expensive.

Dessert and drinks

For dessert, you can ask for any of the Korean ice cream available from the freezer at an additional cost (they are not part of the package).  Same with the drinks, the packages only come with water but you can order soda or juices from the menu at an additional cost.

Eat-All-You-Can

I ate all I could and there were still so many dishes that I was not able to taste.  A tip to beginners, make sure you are hungry when you go here because I promise you, there is almost no waiting time between sitting at your table and eating.  While they set up your table you could already start on the buffet.

Yakikai Grill and Fusion Buffet, A Review Yakikai, what a funny name to say. 🙂  'Tis the season to forget about that diet and indulge, as they say, and Yakikai is definitely a place to indulge our appetite.

[wikitopx]

Rennes polled the list of France's most livable cities, which is not shocking: The city has green spaces, preserves its history carefully and has the attractions of A large city on a walkable scale.

There are 90 historic monuments in the old center, where imposing 18th-century mansions are side-by-side with medieval timber-framed houses. You may also notice Rennes’ youthful feel, and this is because more than a quarter of its 207,000 residents are students. Have a vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions and one of France's leading weekly markets at the Place des Lices every Saturday morning. Discover the best things to do in Rennes.

[toc]

1. Old Rennes

Rennes was almost completely razed by a great fire in 1720, which explains why there are so many dignified late-18th-century houses in the city. But around the church is a network of streets where semi-wooden houses exist.

The Rue de la Psalette and the Rue du Chapitre have surprisingly deformed houses hanging on cobblestone streets. Stop for a moment to appreciate the centuries-old carvings on their timbers.

In addition to the Rue du Chapitre is the Hôtel de Blossac, dating from 1728 and one of the most beautiful neoclassical houses built after the fire. These are private apartments now but you can enter the front yard to get a better view of this magnificent villa.

2. Parc du Thabor

On the highest hill in the city, Parc du Thabor is ten hectares of the most amazing gardens you'll ever see. If you need to convince, just picture the rose gardens in the summer, where more than 2,000 varieties bloom each year.

Until the Revolution, the garden belonged to Ste-Melanie Monastery, just outside the Rennes wall, and was cared for by monks. In the 19th century, it was landscaped by the master gardener Eugène Bühler, who added the French parterre and English gardens.

Maintaining many flower gardens in the park is not a feat: In two five-week periods each year, about 60,000 trees are replanted by a team of gardeners.

3. Palais du Parlement de Bretagne

After the Brittany and France Union in 1532, the importance of Rennes increased almost overnight and it became home to one of the regional governments of France. This added prestige and drew the aristocracy, imbuing the city with mansions and a stately ambiance it still has today.

The Palais du Parlement was started in 1618 but wouldn’t be completed for another century.

Despite a fire in 1994, the interior was richly decorated: the Grand DaiChamoust avoided any damage and was a lavish hall with gilded ceilings that were shipped from workshops in Paris to Rennes by wooden rafts in the 1650s.

4. Musée des Beaux-Arts

Like many regional French museums, the Rennes Islamic Musée des Beaux-Arts opened right after the Revolution with confiscated works from religious buildings and stately houses in the area.

Among these are collections of the 18th-century historian, Kouthe-Paul de Robien, who has some intricate artifacts from Egypt, Greece, Etruscan, and Rome, still on display for to this day.

The art galleries stretch from the 1300s to the present day, with emphasis on 17th-century baroque.

From this period you can check out pieces by Georges de la Tour, Maarten van Heemskerck and Rubens, or fast-forward to the late-19th century represented by Sisley, Boudin, and Gauguin.

Finally, there’s a trove of drawings by history’s masters like Donatello, Albrecht Dürer, Michelangelo, Rembrandt, and Leonardo da Vinci.

5. Écomusée du Pays de Rennes

On the southern edge of the city is a preserved historic farmhouse, presenting five centuries of Breton agricultural heritage. On the property are typical crops, orchards, kitchen gardens, honeycomb, and all farm animals.

This pet is entirely from Breton breeds, such as the cow Froment du Léon and Bretonne Pie Noir. The amazing farm building dates back to 1500 and its exhibition is located on three floors.

The tour tracks the development of agriculture in the region with scenes, historical machines, interactive games, and documentaries.

6. Parc des Gayeulles

Stretching across a large stretch of northeast Rennes, Parc de Gayeulles is a way to soak up nature without having to go outside the Rennes Weather N136 ring road. If you are a runner and don't want to miss a workout when visiting the city, you can't choose a better place than a hundred acres of greenery and woodland.

There are also extensive facilities, such as campsites, indoor ice rinks, zoos, donkeys and horses, as well as five lakes, one of which has pedal boats and on-shore bar restaurants.

7. Les Champs Libres

This creative cultural center in Rennes took 13 years to complete from 1993 to 2006 and was designed by architect Christian Portzamparc. The project combined the Museum of Brittany with the city’s new library and science center and will fascinate any connoisseurs of urban design.

It's fascinating to see how the three elements fit together and combine to create an exhibition space on the ground floor. We will visit the Brittany Museum later, but the Science Center is worth your time with a planetarium with a capacity of 96 people and a 14-meter widescreen.

8. Marché des Lices

For a mid-sized city, Rennes has more market share, accounting for a total of 20 markets. But the father of all took place on the Place des Lices on Saturday morning. This market is a Rennes organization since 1622 and is the third-largest in the country, with 300 manufacturers, traders, and artisans.

No reason: If you think about a weekend trip or are on a vacation rental, it would be a crime not to shop here. In the covered Halles Martenot, there are 40 butchers alone, and outside you have flower counters, bakers, cheese sellers and artisans who make Breton's specialty dishes.

This is also where you can get some proper Breton snacks, like the galette-saucisse, a sausage wrapped in a buckwheat crêpe and best washed down with local cider.

9. Rennes Cathedral

The city’s cathedral, with its sober neoclassical facade, isn’t the most beautiful in France, but it has an absorbing story to tell.

It has been the site of the city’s cathedral since the 500s, but the one built in the 1100s collapsed in stages between 1490 and 1754, when it was decided to tear down almost everything and start again.

Now the interior is a radiant extravaganza of gilding and frescoes, which seem to cover every inch of the church, including the long cylindrical vault in the nave. The Grand Organ dates back to 1874 and was built by Aristide Cavaillé-Coll, an excellent Frenchman of the 19th century.

10. Opéra de Rennes

An outstanding city opera hall on the Place de la Mairie, opposite Rennes, is an equally striking 18th-century baroque city building.

The opera dates back to 1836 and is labeled a historical monument of France, with a hall painted in the early 20th century by the talented artist Jean-Julian Lemordant, who was later blinded during World War II. Best.

If you like to watch a show, it's worth planning ahead because the opera has nearly 100% of attendees. It also reaches out to new fans by hosting open days that allow you to watch rehearsals and attend seminars.

More ideals for you: Top 10 things to do in Messina

From : https://wikitopx.com/travel/top-10-things-to-do-in-rennes-706945.html

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15 Best Friendscation Spots To Rent A Summer Beach House

Summer beach house season is just around the corner, and if you’re scouting out the best destinations for group-friendly rentals—the perfect friendscation, perhaps—you’ve come to the right place. We’re highlighting 15 spots with crowd-pleasing properties that you won’t have to crowd into, because a getaway with your friends shouldn’t feel like a game of sardines.

Summer Beach House Rentals

From splashy beachfront rentals overlooking the Gulf to airy island homes on Oahu, you’ll have your pick of multi-bedroom rentals designed with large groups in mind. Open floor plans, extra living areas, and large dining rooms make it easy to ensure that everyone gets a seat at the table.

Use FlipKey to find the right home at the right price, with some fun extras to boot. From tiki bars to heated pools, you could get a whole lot more than beautiful views and five-star reviews when you book a rental in these hot spots—and we’re not just talking about amenities. Many of these beaches boast top-notch boardwalks and buzzworthy entertainment options so you can make the most of every minute with your squad.

Miami Beach, Florida

“Whether you’re with family or friends, you can save a considerable amount by getting a group together and staying here.” – Guest Review

When it comes to affordable group getaways, it’s not hard to make a case for Miami Beach. Thanks to our selection of dreamy waterfront estates, finding your summer beach house has never been easier. Choose from multi-bedroom villas and squad-sized suites with all the bells and whistles (think dock access and rooftop decks). Sure, it sounds extravagant—until you do the math. Split the cost with friends, and you’ll spend less on that private tropical oasis than a budget hotel room.

See all rentals in Miami Beach!

Long Beach, California

“This home was great for our large group. The location was spot-on—close to the water, without a lot of traffic to worry about.” – Guest Review

Plan a friends trip to Long Beach, and you’ll spend your vacation enjoying miles of sunny coastline and unbeatable Pacific views. One of the city’s most popular beachside neighborhoods, Belmont Shore—”the Shore” to locals—is a top spot for beach house rentals. Book a stay in this walkable area for easy access to the beach, bike paths, tennis courts, coffee shops, and a variety of trendy shops and restaurants.

See all rentals in Long Beach!

South Padre Island, Texas

“Everything that I can think of was fabulous during our group trip. We fished off the dock and caught tons of ‘keepers.’ Staying on the bay side provided calm waters and beautiful sunsets.” – Guest Review

Whoever said three’s a crowd never booked a summer beach house in South Padre Island. This resort town off the tip of Texas boasts dozens of roomy rentals, so there’s no need to choose between your friends and your personal space. With amenities like game rooms and hot tubs, you don’t have to worry about catching cabin fever, but there’s also plenty to do nearby. Go jet-skiing, parasailing, or exploring; reviewers recommend Port Isabel Lighthouse and the South Padre Island Dolphin Research & Sea Life Nature Center.

See all rentals in South Padre Island!

Santa Cruz, California

“The house was a quarter of a block from the ocean. I can’t say enough about how nice it was for us to have two indoor gas fireplaces and a stunning kitchen to cook in.” – Guest Review

Even if your crew isn’t spread out across the country, choosing a destination can be the hardest part about planning a trip with friends—especially if you each define “vacation” a little differently. Santa Cruz hits the sweet spot between big-wave adventures and lazy beach days. This coastal city is home to famous surf spots like Pleasure Point, and some summer house rentals offer boogie boards and wetsuits as amenities. Of course, if your picture of paradise involves chilling out on the shore, Santa Cruz also offers 29 miles of beaches.

See all rentals in Santa Cruz!

Wildwood, New Jersey

“We were located near the Surfside Pier at the heart of the boardwalk. The house was exactly as advertised, and we saved plenty of money by using the barbecue grill instead of going out to eat.” – Guest Review

We’re not one to play favorites, but with its pristine beaches and colorful boardwalk, Wildwood ranks among the prettiest vacation spots on the New Jersey coast. From airy condos to rambling Victorians, this time-honored resort town offers perfectly sized properties for friend groups. When you’re not spoiling your dinner with a bucket of Curley’s boardwalk fries, you’ll have all the kitchen essentials you need to make a crowd-pleasing meal for the whole crew.

See all rentals in Wildwood!

Daytona Beach, Florida

“This property was great for our large group. Bedding set-ups were very flexible, and the fact that the rental was pet-friendly was icing on the cake. The front porch was a good gathering spot.” – Guest Review

If you’re looking for a summer house near one of the most popular beaches in the country, then it’s only natural to start your search in Daytona. Dubbed “The World’s Most Famous Beach” in the 1920s, when drivers held races on the hard-packed sand, this coastal hot spot is now home to Daytona International Speedway. Other top attractions include the boardwalk, Main Street Pier, and Seabreeze Boulevard, a popular place to shop. After an afternoon of sightseeing or a lazy beach day, head back to your rental to sip mojitos on the deck.

See all rentals in Daytona Beach!

Oceanside, California

“We had about 16 people here for a girlfriends getaway, and this rental fit us (and our bags) perfectly! It was nice to have tons of places to sit and sleep. To top it off, dolphins swam by every morning!!” – Guest Review

Gather your friends and get your beach fix in Oceanside this year. Known for its laid-back vibe and beautiful weather, this gem is central to all the activities SoCal has to offer. Bike the San Luis Rey River Trail, play a round of 18 at La Costa Resort, or take a whale watching tour. Whether you book a summer beach house on the coast or a few miles away, the perks of staying in a rental add up fast. You’ll spend less by sharing the cost—not to mention the cooking duties!—which means extra cash for happy hour drinks and jet ski rentals.

See all rentals in Oceanside!

Panama City Beach, Florida

“Our stay at this house was amazing! There was more than enough room, and each floor had its own hangout area and patio.” – Guest Review

You’re traveling with a group, and everyone wants to stay together. Easier said than done, right? If you’re on the hunt for a rental with multiple bedrooms and a massive dining room table, your search ends here. Panama City Beach offers summer beach houses that tick all the boxes and then some—think private pools and sprawling balconies overlooking the Gulf. The neighborhood’s not too shabby, either; this resort city is a hidden paradise for golfers, and outdoor mall Pier Park is a short drive from the beach.

See all rentals in Panama City Beach!

Honolulu, Hawaii

“The house was near all the activities we planned: hiking up Diamond Head, swimming at Hanauma Bay, and dinner in Waikiki.” – Guest Review

What’s that? You’re in desperate need of a tropical escape? We’ve got just the thing: a summer house in Honolulu with all your favorite people. Leave the daily grind behind for an island rental near downtown or your own private cove. No matter where you stay, you’ll enjoy easy access to Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay State Park—plus an enviable variety of activities from surfing and sunbathing to snorkeling and world-class golfing.

See all rentals in Honolulu!

San Diego, California

“We went out to San Diego for a bachelor party with 15 guys and had an unbelievable trip. The house was so incredible that we didn’t go out the first night just so we could enjoy all of the amenities.” – Guest Review

San Diego offers a luxe selection of beach house rentals, from cliffside mansions to modern oceanfront villas. Multiple living areas and lots of kitchen space go a long way toward keeping the peace on a group trip, but that’s not the only reason to book a summer house here. With so many sun-kissed beach spots (including La Jolla Shores and Mission Bay), it’s easy to find somewhere surf, swim, or shop by waves.

See all rentals in San Diego!

Dewey Beach, Delaware

“My kids think this is our beach house. It is exactly what you want for your Dewey Beach vacation: charming, well-maintained, and large enough to sleep multiple families.” – Guest Review

Tucked between the Atlantic Ocean and Rehoboth Bay, Dewey Beach is a destination for classic beach eats, live music, and—you guessed it—great rentals for groups. We can give you a few good reasons to book a summer house here, starting with events like the Solstice Celebration (June 21st) and Summer Vibes Fest (August 11–20). Throw in tax-free shopping and trolley service to Rehoboth Boardwalk, and you’ve got the ingredients for a memorable trip with the girls/guys/whole gang.

See all rentals in Dewey Beach!

Redondo Beach, California

“This house is perfect for a group that wants a nice place to come back to from the beach. I would rent it again for sure.” – Guest Review

This easygoing beach town is just a few miles from the bright lights of LA, but you won’t find chaos and congestion here. If you’re looking for a place where you can walk to the grocery store and hear the waves crash at night, Redondo is the perfect spot. Enjoy the cool breeze and California sun as you catch a wave, build a sandcastle, or start up a game of beach volleyball. Keep an eye out for frequent art festivals and free concerts at the pier.

See all rentals in Redondo Beach!

Topsail Island, North Carolina

“What a great vacation! We didn’t feel like we were tripping over each other. The kitchen was a dream, and being able to sit around the table for dinner together was great.” – Guest Reviewer

This barrier island south of the Outer Banks may be one of North Carolina’s quieter beach spots, but Topsail offers a solid selection of activities for groups. From surfing at public beaches to fishing along the Intracoastal Waterway, you won’t struggle to catch some sun here. With so many group beach houses on the island, it’s easy to find a home with enough space for everyone. Better yet? Design details like floor-to-ceiling windows and cathedral ceilings make local rentals feel equal parts spacious and glamorous. Translation: your real estate wish list is about to get even longer.

See all rentals in Topsail Island!

Cannon Beach, Oregon

“Everything you need is here. We were so surprised how well-stocked the entire home is. They’ve thought of everything.” – Guest Review

Stunning views, coastline hikes, and quaint cafes make Cannon Beach a super romantic spot to rent a summer beach house. Whether you want to hunt for tide pools or hike through Ecola State Park, you’ll find a rental in Cannon with your name on it—within walking distance of the waves. Top area attractions include art galleries, outdoor concerts, and a summer farmer’s market.

See all rentals in Cannon Beach!

Isle of Palms, South Carolina

“I stayed at this home with a group of women. The common areas easily held all of us, and the access to the beach was ideal.” – Guest Review

A picture-perfect location for girlfriend getaways and bonding with the guys, Isle of Palms is located just 20 minutes from downtown Charleston. Choose from beach house rentals with oceanfront views and over-the-top amenities like industrial kitchen appliances, so no one goes hungry. Fill your vacation with charter fishing trips and walking tours in Charleston, or clear your calendar for a week of endless beach days; either way, this gorgeous spot is a win-win for everyone.

See all rentals in Isle of Palms!

This post was originally published on the TripAdvisor Rentals blog. FlipKey is a TripAdvisor company.

The post 15 Best Friendscation Spots To Rent A Summer Beach House appeared first on The FlipKey Blog.

from Tips For Traveling https://www.flipkey.com/blog/2019/07/10/15-best-friendscation-spots-rent-summer-beach-house/

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Boomer Boomtowns: America’s 10 Fastest-Growing Retirement Hot Spots

realtor.com

There has never been a generation quite as consequential as the baby boomers. They forever transformed music and politics, ushered in the computer era, pioneered fanciful notions like free love, recreational drugs, Amazon.com, and Hot Pockets. So what do they do for an encore?  Completely reshape retirement.

Get ready for a graying tsunami: Nearly 50 million of the enormous cluster of 74 million Americans born between 1946 and 1964 have yet to hit 65—with around 10,000 a day making that milestone over the next decade.

This massive surge of retirees is already reshaping real estate markets across the county. In fact, nearly 1.2 million people 55 or older relocated out of state last year, the highest number on record. Where are they all going? This generation of Americans, renowned for doing things their way, are eschewing some of the traditional communities favored by their parents in their later years. So realtor.com® set out to find the nation’s fastest-growing retirement destinations.

“Baby boomers are so hard to pin down,” says Rodney Harrell, director of livability thought leadership at the AARP Public Policy Institute. “There are so many of them, and they’re choosing a wider range of options than previous generations. …There’s no one size fits all.”

All the places that have made our list are walkable, tourist-friendly destinations—and that’s where the similarities end. Many of these retirement havens are in warmer climates in the South and Southwest. A few are in the chilly Northeast and Midwest, and one is about as far north as you can get without going to Alaska. Some have long been popular with seniors, while others were places where new retirees vacationed as children. And those that can’t boast ocean, lake, or mountain views often make up for it with their dry heat.

One troubling note: Boomers have less in retirement savings than previous generations, a vexing problem, since they’re expected to live longer than their parents, according to the Stanford Center on Longevity. They’ve only socked away a median $209,000—while one in three have no nest egg at all for their so-called golden years. This explains why some of the more luxurious locations on our list are popular with more affluent boomers, while the appeal of others lies in their affordability.

We came up with our rankings by looking at every metropolitan statistical area* and zeroing in on places where at least a quarter of the population are age 60 or above; we perused our listings for phrases such as “aging in place,” “senior-friendly,” and “ground-floor master bedrooms.” Then we looked at the number of folks ages 55 and up who moved into new metros between 2016 and 2017.**

Since not everyone who lives in a retirement town is there year round, we added in the increase in the percentage of second homes in these metros. And we only included two metros per state, to ensure some geographic diversity.

So where are the places that are booming with boomers?

Fastest-growing retirement towns

Claire Widman

1. Punta Gorda, FL

Median list price: $275,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up***: 47% Population: 182,033

Three-bedroom home in Punta Gorda, FL

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Hurricane Charley and its 145-mile-per-hour winds hit Punta Gorda head on in 2004, devastating the community. The city was rebuilt, but with much stricter building codes, to make sure these new homes could withstand high winds. Those newer abodes have become magnets for retirees who want to make sure their forever homes on the Gulf Coast can withstand future storms.

“They did a great job keeping a small-town feel. We don’t have anything that is too commercial, not even a McDonalds drive-thru,” says Patricia McGuire, a broker associate with Coldwell Banker Sunstar Realty, describing the area. “Instead, there’s lots of walking tours and bike paths.”

Retirees especially like Punta Gorda Isles, a neighborhood of single-family homes offering breathtaking views of the ocean and easy access for boaters. Homes range from $200,000 to over $1 million.

But the cherry on the top of Punta Gorda for aging Americans is that there is no state income tax to eat away at their nest eggs. Nada. Zero. Zilch.

2. Cape Coral, FL

Median list price: $299,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 35% Population: 739,224

Cape Coral three-bedroom home

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Cape Coral’s selling points are its warm weather, its coastal location on the western side of the state, its chill vibe, and much lower prices than Miami ($390,000) or Key West, FL ($699,000). And it’s become even more appealing in recent years, with home prices falling in Cape Coral, down 3.5% year over year.

The decrease is the result of overbuilding and, like Punta Gorda 30 miles to the north, storm damage. In 2017, Hurricane Irma caused water to flood up from the 400-mile canal system that runs through the backyards of thousands of homes.

But that unique canal system remains this community’s centerpiece, treasured for transportation and recreation alike.

The area has seen a surge in retired veterans buying three-bedroom homes with palm trees out front. The reason? In 2012, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs opened the Lee County VA Healthcare Center, a 220,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art VA hospital in Cape Coral. Others are investing in custom dream homes.

“We’re seeing a lot of retirees buy [land] lots for just $5,000 to build homes on,” says Mike Lombardo, a local real estate agent at Old Glory Realty.

3. Prescott, AZ

Median list price: $399,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 40.1% Population: 228,168

Neighborhood in Prescott

realtor.com

Every evening, locals in Prescott can take in the glorious sunsets behind Thumb Butte, a mountain that towers in the distance. This low-key mountain town is drawing retirees seeking the outdoors, with plenty of hiking and mountain biking opportunities at nearby Prescott National Forest.

And the word is getting out: Where to Retire Magazine ranked Prescott the fourth-best place for retirees to put down roots. But moving here won’t be cheap. Last year, realtor.com named Prescott one of the most expensive retirement towns. That’s because Californians are driving up prices by selling their seven-figure homes and using the proceeds to buy up properties here.

Seniors with cash reserves can find places in upscale 55-plus retirement communities like Touchmark at The Ranch, a 44-acre community known for its lodge-style homes.

4. Santa Fe, NM

Median list price: $580,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 30.4% Population: 148,750

Homes in Santa Fe

Michael Warren/iStock

The historic downtown district of Santa Fe Plaza is packed with unique art galleries, shops, restaurants—and lots of boomers. This neighborhood with its pueblo-style and adobe architecture is the prime stop for retirees who want to soak up Santa Fe’s cultural scene.

As real estate prices reach scarily high levels in some West Coast cities, Santa Fe is one of the places reaping the benefits.

“We’ve always been seen as a retirement community, but in the last two years, things have really picked up,” says Brett Hultberg, a real estate agent in Santa Fe. “People are getting pushed out of absurdly expensive markets like California, so they come here because it’s more affordable.”

Retirees often buy pueblo-style homes, boxy sandy-colored homes with flat roofs that are built to stay cool during those hot summers. They start around $300,000. Or they’ll put that 300 grand down for a condo downtown, which is harder to find these days.

“Walkability is a huge deal for retirees, one of the main reasons they migrate to Santa Fe,” says Hultberg.

5. Tucson, AZ

Median list price: $279,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 25.7% Population: 1,022,769

Three-bedroom ranch in Tucson

realtor.com

For those who crave dry heat but can’t quite swing the pricier destinations in Arizona and New Mexico, Tucson has become a hot ticket. It’s the cheapest big city in Arizona.

Savvy buyers can still find some one-story homes at about half of the metro’s median price. Look no further than this three-bedroom ranch with a sidewalk leading right up to its front door, priced at just $142,000.

Retirees who see age as just a number have plenty of fun outdoor and cultural options here. Tucson is only an hour’s drive to Mount Lemmon Ski Valley, the southernmost ski resort in the United States. Or they visit the Mission San Xavier del Bac, a historic Catholic church founded by the Spanish in the 17th century.

6. Morehead City, NC

Median list price: $325,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 32.5% Population: 68,881

Condo community in Morehead City

realtor.com

This town on the Crystal Coast, a lovely 85-mile long stretch of Atlantic coastline, revolves around fishing, with folks casting reels on many of the city’s ocean piers or Sugarloaf Island. Diehards can even charter a boat for some deep-sea excursions.

Unlike other nearby cities on the water, Morehead City doesn’t have as many tourists who could disturb the fish. And those who don’t engage in the sport can sunbathe on Serenity Bay Beach. Or try some grub at the annual North Carolina Seafood Festival.

Retirees here don’t have to break the bank to own something right on the beach. Some two- and three-bedroom condos sell for around $200,000, with access to amenities like swimming pools, racquet ball courts, and fitness centers.

7. Asheville, NC

Median list price: $375,000 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 29.1% Population: 456,145

Three-bedroom home in Historic Montford

realtor.com

The one-time hippie town of Asheville in the Blue Ridge Mountains is popular with millennials and boomers alike. Known for its art galleries, music scene, local food restaurants, and craft breweries, it’s no surprise that its nickname is the “San Francisco of the East.”

Downtown, you’ll find the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of North Carolina Asheville, offering classes for retirees looking to learn new skills. Not the classroom type? You can hike through the nearby Pisgah National Forest or visit the 250-room Biltmore Estate, George Vanderbilt‘s former home, once the biggest private residence in the United States.

“We have a lot of what we call half-backs,” says local broker Molly de Mattos at Keller Williams Realty. “These are people from New York and New Jersey that move down to Florida to retire and hate it. They realize they don’t like the humidity and hurricanes, so they come halfway back up and settle in Asheville.”

Many of these older, new residents are purchasing $350,000 to $500,000 suburban homes, Mattos says. The most active retirees are buying in Historic Montford, a neighborhood lined with 100-year-old homes and within walking distance of breweries and art galleries.

8. Barnstable Town, MA

Median list price: $525,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 38.9% Population: 213,444

Barnstable Town

realtor.com

The white sandy beaches of Cape Cod (part of the Barnstable Town metro) have long been prized vacation refuges for New Yorkers and Bostonians looking for a getaway. But in recent years, there’s been an influx of retirees moving in—or, perhaps more accurately, back. Many of these folks spent their working careers vacationing here and now want to live out their golden years here full-time.

“[That familiarity] makes it easier to sell that big house in the suburbs and buy a smaller home in a beach destination like Cape Cod,” says Chuck Tuttle, a broker associate at Kinlin Grover Real Estate.

Barnstable Town tends to attract more affluent retirees who buy summer homes and then head to Florida for the winter. In recent years, when stocks hit record highs, more of these folks cashed in and bought second homes here. Indeed, 40% of all homes here are secondary residences.

9. Traverse City, MI

Median list price: $319,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 29.7% Population: 148,671

Traverse City five-bedroom

realtor.com

Traverse City brings back a lot of nostalgic memories for Midwestern baby boomers who remember coming here as kids and fishing and swimming in Lake Michigan. Now that they’re retiring, many are returning to the city.

“They finally say … “I’m moving where it’s beautiful,’” says Bart Ford, managing broker at Coldwell Banker Schmidt Realtors. These retirees are often buying up older cottages in the woods or plots of land along the lake to build their dream homes on.

There’s no shortage of things to do for those no longer ruled by 9-to-5 schedules. Folks can attend the annual Traverse City Film Festival, co-founded by documentary filmmaker Michael Moore, or hit up the National Cherry Festival, which dates back to 1925.

“Some people spend $20,000 to stay here in the summer,” Ford says. “Why do that when you could just buy something and snow bird to Palm Springs, Florida, or Arizona?”

10. Ocean City, NJ

Median list price: $424,800 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 34.8% Population: 93,553

Ocean city townhome

realtor.com

Ocean City, on the Jersey shore, was rocked hard by Hurricane Sandy in 2012. But now that it’s been rebuilt and the nearby gambling mecca, Atlantic City (located in the metro), is on the upswing, Northeast retirees are moving here again. It was even named the “happiest seaside town in the U.S.,” according to Coastal Living magazine.

“I’m seeing a recent surge in condo high-rise [sales] on the beach,” says Todd Gordon, a real estate agent at Hartman Home Team in New Jersey. “People are buying ocean-front, two-bedroom condos that they’ll retire in, and maybe snowbird to Florida in the winter.” Some condos can be snagged at around $200,000, while some fetch above $1 million.

Last year realtor.com named Ocean City among the most expensive retirement towns in America. But retirees are willing to pay that high cost to access the area’s beaches, nightlife, and evening strolls on the Ocean City Boardwalk. Happy doesn’t come cheap.

* A metropolitan statistical area is a designation that includes the urban core of a city and the surrounding smaller towns and cities. We limited our rankings to just one metro per state to ensure some geographic diversity.

** We looked at U.S. Census Bureau migration data to figure out how many people ages 55 and up relocated to new metros. We then divided that number by the population of those metros to find the ones with the highest ratio of new residents ages 55 and up who had moved there in 2016 or 2017. 

*** We included the percentage of residents 60 and up, instead of 55 and older, because that is how the U.S. Census Bureau groups the ages of residents in metros. 

Allison Underhill contributed to this report.

The post Boomer Boomtowns: America’s 10 Fastest-Growing Retirement Hot Spots appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

from DIYS http://bit.ly/2Mop69s

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Boomer Boomtowns: America’s 10 Fastest-Growing Retirement Hot Spots

realtor.com

There has never been a generation quite as consequential as the baby boomers. They forever transformed music and politics, ushered in the computer era, pioneered fanciful notions like free love, recreational drugs, Amazon.com, and Hot Pockets. So what do they do for an encore?  Completely reshape retirement.

Get ready for a graying tsunami: Nearly 50 million of the enormous cluster of 74 million Americans born between 1946 and 1964 have yet to hit 65—with around 10,000 a day making that milestone over the next decade.

This massive surge of retirees is already reshaping real estate markets across the county. In fact, nearly 1.2 million people 55 or older relocated out of state last year, the highest number on record. Where are they all going? This generation of Americans, renowned for doing things their way, are eschewing some of the traditional communities favored by their parents in their later years. So realtor.com® set out to find the nation’s fastest-growing retirement destinations.

“Baby boomers are so hard to pin down,” says Rodney Harrell, director of livability thought leadership at the AARP Public Policy Institute. “There are so many of them, and they’re choosing a wider range of options than previous generations. …There’s no one size fits all.”

All the places that have made our list are walkable, tourist-friendly destinations—and that’s where the similarities end. Many of these retirement havens are in warmer climates in the South and Southwest. A few are in the chilly Northeast and Midwest, and one is about as far north as you can get without going to Alaska. Some have long been popular with seniors, while others were places where new retirees vacationed as children. And those that can’t boast ocean, lake, or mountain views often make up for it with their dry heat.

One troubling note: Boomers have less in retirement savings than previous generations, a vexing problem, since they’re expected to live longer than their parents, according to the Stanford Center on Longevity. They’ve only socked away a median $209,000—while one in three have no nest egg at all for their so-called golden years. This explains why some of the more luxurious locations on our list are popular with more affluent boomers, while the appeal of others lies in their affordability.

We came up with our rankings by looking at every metropolitan statistical area* and zeroing in on places where at least a quarter of the population are age 60 or above; we perused our listings for phrases such as “aging in place,” “senior-friendly,” and “ground-floor master bedrooms.” Then we looked at the number of folks ages 55 and up who moved into new metros between 2016 and 2017.**

Since not everyone who lives in a retirement town is there year round, we added in the increase in the percentage of second homes in these metros. And we only included two metros per state, to ensure some geographic diversity.

So where are the places that are booming with boomers?

Fastest-growing retirement towns

Claire Widman

1. Punta Gorda, FL

Median list price: $275,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up***: 47% Population: 182,033

Three-bedroom home in Punta Gorda, FL

realtor.com

Hurricane Charley and its 145-mile-per-hour winds hit Punta Gorda head on in 2004, devastating the community. The city was rebuilt, but with much stricter building codes, to make sure these new homes could withstand high winds. Those newer abodes have become magnets for retirees who want to make sure their forever homes on the Gulf Coast can withstand future storms.

“They did a great job keeping a small-town feel. We don’t have anything that is too commercial, not even a McDonalds drive-thru,” says Patricia McGuire, a broker associate with Coldwell Banker Sunstar Realty, describing the area. “Instead, there’s lots of walking tours and bike paths.”

Retirees especially like Punta Gorda Isles, a neighborhood of single-family homes offering breathtaking views of the ocean and easy access for boaters. Homes range from $200,000 to over $1 million.

But the cherry on the top of Punta Gorda for aging Americans is that there is no state income tax to eat away at their nest eggs. Nada. Zero. Zilch.

2. Cape Coral, FL

Median list price: $299,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 35% Population: 739,224

Cape Coral three-bedroom home

realtor.com

Cape Coral’s selling points are its warm weather, its coastal location on the western side of the state, its chill vibe, and much lower prices than Miami ($390,000) or Key West, FL ($699,000). And it’s become even more appealing in recent years, with home prices falling in Cape Coral, down 3.5% year over year.

The decrease is the result of overbuilding and, like Punta Gorda 30 miles to the north, storm damage. In 2017, Hurricane Irma caused water to flood up from the 400-mile canal system that runs through the backyards of thousands of homes.

But that unique canal system remains this community’s centerpiece, treasured for transportation and recreation alike.

The area has seen a surge in retired veterans buying three-bedroom homes with palm trees out front. The reason? In 2012, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs opened the Lee County VA Healthcare Center, a 220,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art VA hospital in Cape Coral. Others are investing in custom dream homes.

“We’re seeing a lot of retirees buy [land] lots for just $5,000 to build homes on,” says Mike Lombardo, a local real estate agent at Old Glory Realty.

3. Prescott, AZ

Median list price: $399,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 40.1% Population: 228,168

Neighborhood in Prescott

realtor.com

Every evening, locals in Prescott can take in the glorious sunsets behind Thumb Butte, a mountain that towers in the distance. This low-key mountain town is drawing retirees seeking the outdoors, with plenty of hiking and mountain biking opportunities at nearby Prescott National Forest.

And the word is getting out: Where to Retire Magazine ranked Prescott the fourth-best place for retirees to put down roots. But moving here won’t be cheap. Last year, realtor.com named Prescott one of the most expensive retirement towns. That’s because Californians are driving up prices by selling their seven-figure homes and using the proceeds to buy up properties here.

Seniors with cash reserves can find places in upscale 55-plus retirement communities like Touchmark at The Ranch, a 44-acre community known for its lodge-style homes.

4. Santa Fe, NM

Median list price: $580,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 30.4% Population: 148,750

Homes in Santa Fe

Michael Warren/iStock

The historic downtown district of Santa Fe Plaza is packed with unique art galleries, shops, restaurants—and lots of boomers. This neighborhood with its pueblo-style and adobe architecture is the prime stop for retirees who want to soak up Santa Fe’s cultural scene.

As real estate prices reach scarily high levels in some West Coast cities, Santa Fe is one of the places reaping the benefits.

“We’ve always been seen as a retirement community, but in the last two years, things have really picked up,” says Brett Hultberg, a real estate agent in Santa Fe. “People are getting pushed out of absurdly expensive markets like California, so they come here because it’s more affordable.”

Retirees often buy pueblo-style homes, boxy sandy-colored homes with flat roofs that are built to stay cool during those hot summers. They start around $300,000. Or they’ll put that 300 grand down for a condo downtown, which is harder to find these days.

“Walkability is a huge deal for retirees, one of the main reasons they migrate to Santa Fe,” says Hultberg.

5. Tucson, AZ

Median list price: $279,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 25.7% Population: 1,022,769

Three-bedroom ranch in Tucson

realtor.com

For those who crave dry heat but can’t quite swing the pricier destinations in Arizona and New Mexico, Tucson has become a hot ticket. It’s the cheapest big city in Arizona.

Savvy buyers can still find some one-story homes at about half of the metro’s median price. Look no further than this three-bedroom ranch with a sidewalk leading right up to its front door, priced at just $142,000.

Retirees who see age as just a number have plenty of fun outdoor and cultural options here. Tucson is only an hour’s drive to Mount Lemmon Ski Valley, the southernmost ski resort in the United States. Or they visit the Mission San Xavier del Bac, a historic Catholic church founded by the Spanish in the 17th century.

6. Morehead City, NC

Median list price: $325,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 32.5% Population: 68,881

Condo community in Morehead City

realtor.com

This town on the Crystal Coast, a lovely 85-mile long stretch of Atlantic coastline, revolves around fishing, with folks casting reels on many of the city’s ocean piers or Sugarloaf Island. Diehards can even charter a boat for some deep-sea excursions.

Unlike other nearby cities on the water, Morehead City doesn’t have as many tourists who could disturb the fish. And those who don’t engage in the sport can sunbathe on Serenity Bay Beach. Or try some grub at the annual North Carolina Seafood Festival.

Retirees here don’t have to break the bank to own something right on the beach. Some two- and three-bedroom condos sell for around $200,000, with access to amenities like swimming pools, racquet ball courts, and fitness centers.

7. Asheville, NC

Median list price: $375,000 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 29.1% Population: 456,145

Three-bedroom home in Historic Montford

realtor.com

The one-time hippie town of Asheville in the Blue Ridge Mountains is popular with millennials and boomers alike. Known for its art galleries, music scene, local food restaurants, and craft breweries, it’s no surprise that its nickname is the “San Francisco of the East.”

Downtown, you’ll find the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of North Carolina Asheville, offering classes for retirees looking to learn new skills. Not the classroom type? You can hike through the nearby Pisgah National Forest or visit the 250-room Biltmore Estate, George Vanderbilt‘s former home, once the biggest private residence in the United States.

“We have a lot of what we call half-backs,” says local broker Molly de Mattos at Keller Williams Realty. “These are people from New York and New Jersey that move down to Florida to retire and hate it. They realize they don’t like the humidity and hurricanes, so they come halfway back up and settle in Asheville.”

Many of these older, new residents are purchasing $350,000 to $500,000 suburban homes, Mattos says. The most active retirees are buying in Historic Montford, a neighborhood lined with 100-year-old homes and within walking distance of breweries and art galleries.

8. Barnstable Town, MA

Median list price: $525,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 38.9% Population: 213,444

Barnstable Town

realtor.com

The white sandy beaches of Cape Cod (part of the Barnstable Town metro) have long been prized vacation refuges for New Yorkers and Bostonians looking for a getaway. But in recent years, there’s been an influx of retirees moving in—or, perhaps more accurately, back. Many of these folks spent their working careers vacationing here and now want to live out their golden years here full-time.

“[That familiarity] makes it easier to sell that big house in the suburbs and buy a smaller home in a beach destination like Cape Cod,” says Chuck Tuttle, a broker associate at Kinlin Grover Real Estate.

Barnstable Town tends to attract more affluent retirees who buy summer homes and then head to Florida for the winter. In recent years, when stocks hit record highs, more of these folks cashed in and bought second homes here. Indeed, 40% of all homes here are secondary residences.

9. Traverse City, MI

Median list price: $319,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 29.7% Population: 148,671

Traverse City five-bedroom

realtor.com

Traverse City brings back a lot of nostalgic memories for Midwestern baby boomers who remember coming here as kids and fishing and swimming in Lake Michigan. Now that they’re retiring, many are returning to the city.

“They finally say … “I’m moving where it’s beautiful,’” says Bart Ford, managing broker at Coldwell Banker Schmidt Realtors. These retirees are often buying up older cottages in the woods or plots of land along the lake to build their dream homes on.

There’s no shortage of things to do for those no longer ruled by 9-to-5 schedules. Folks can attend the annual Traverse City Film Festival, co-founded by documentary filmmaker Michael Moore, or hit up the National Cherry Festival, which dates back to 1925.

“Some people spend $20,000 to stay here in the summer,” Ford says. “Why do that when you could just buy something and snow bird to Palm Springs, Florida, or Arizona?”

10. Ocean City, NJ

Median list price: $424,800 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 34.8% Population: 93,553

Ocean city townhome

realtor.com

Ocean City, on the Jersey shore, was rocked hard by Hurricane Sandy in 2012. But now that it’s been rebuilt and the nearby gambling mecca, Atlantic City (located in the metro), is on the upswing, Northeast retirees are moving here again. It was even named the “happiest seaside town in the U.S.,” according to Coastal Living magazine.

“I’m seeing a recent surge in condo high-rise [sales] on the beach,” says Todd Gordon, a real estate agent at Hartman Home Team in New Jersey. “People are buying ocean-front, two-bedroom condos that they’ll retire in, and maybe snowbird to Florida in the winter.” Some condos can be snagged at around $200,000, while some fetch above $1 million.

Last year realtor.com named Ocean City among the most expensive retirement towns in America. But retirees are willing to pay that high cost to access the area’s beaches, nightlife, and evening strolls on the Ocean City Boardwalk. Happy doesn’t come cheap.

* A metropolitan statistical area is a designation that includes the urban core of a city and the surrounding smaller towns and cities. We limited our rankings to just one metro per state to ensure some geographic diversity.

** We looked at U.S. Census Bureau migration data to figure out how many people ages 55 and up relocated to new metros. We then divided that number by the population of those metros to find the ones with the highest ratio of new residents ages 55 and up who had moved there in 2016 or 2017. 

*** We included the percentage of residents 60 and up, instead of 55 and older, because that is how the U.S. Census Bureau groups the ages of residents in metros. 

Allison Underhill contributed to this report.

The post Boomer Boomtowns: America’s 10 Fastest-Growing Retirement Hot Spots appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

Boomer Boomtowns: America’s 10 Fastest-Growing Retirement Hot Spots

[restate30201]

Boomer Boomtowns: America’s 10 Fastest-Growing Retirement Hot Spots

realtor.com

There has never been a generation quite as consequential as the baby boomers. They forever transformed music and politics, ushered in the computer era, pioneered fanciful notions like free love, recreational drugs, Amazon.com, and Hot Pockets. So what do they do for an encore?  Completely reshape retirement.

Get ready for a graying tsunami: Nearly 50 million of the enormous cluster of 74 million Americans born between 1946 and 1964 have yet to hit 65—with around 10,000 a day making that milestone over the next decade.

This massive surge of retirees is already reshaping real estate markets across the county. In fact, nearly 1.2 million people 55 or older relocated out of state last year, the highest number on record. Where are they all going? This generation of Americans, renowned for doing things their way, are eschewing some of the traditional communities favored by their parents in their later years. So realtor.com® set out to find the nation’s fastest-growing retirement destinations.

“Baby boomers are so hard to pin down,” says Rodney Harrell, director of livability thought leadership at the AARP Public Policy Institute. “There are so many of them, and they’re choosing a wider range of options than previous generations. …There’s no one size fits all.”

All the places that have made our list are walkable, tourist-friendly destinations—and that’s where the similarities end. Many of these retirement havens are in warmer climates in the South and Southwest. A few are in the chilly Northeast and Midwest, and one is about as far north as you can get without going to Alaska. Some have long been popular with seniors, while others were places where new retirees vacationed as children. And those that can’t boast ocean, lake, or mountain views often make up for it with their dry heat.

One troubling note: Boomers have less in retirement savings than previous generations, a vexing problem, since they’re expected to live longer than their parents, according to the Stanford Center on Longevity. They’ve only socked away a median $209,000—while one in three have no nest egg at all for their so-called golden years. This explains why some of the more luxurious locations on our list are popular with more affluent boomers, while the appeal of others lies in their affordability.

We came up with our rankings by looking at every metropolitan statistical area* and zeroing in on places where at least a quarter of the population are age 60 or above; we perused our listings for phrases such as “aging in place,” “senior-friendly,” and “ground-floor master bedrooms.” Then we looked at the number of folks ages 55 and up who moved into new metros between 2016 and 2017.**

Since not everyone who lives in a retirement town is there year round, we added in the increase in the percentage of second homes in these metros. And we only included two metros per state, to ensure some geographic diversity.

So where are the places that are booming with boomers?

Fastest-growing retirement towns

Claire Widman

1. Punta Gorda, FL

Median list price: $275,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up***: 47% Population: 182,033

Three-bedroom home in Punta Gorda, FL

realtor.com

Hurricane Charley and its 145-mile-per-hour winds hit Punta Gorda head on in 2004, devastating the community. The city was rebuilt, but with much stricter building codes, to make sure these new homes could withstand high winds. Those newer abodes have become magnets for retirees who want to make sure their forever homes on the Gulf Coast can withstand future storms.

“They did a great job keeping a small-town feel. We don’t have anything that is too commercial, not even a McDonalds drive-thru,” says Patricia McGuire, a broker associate with Coldwell Banker Sunstar Realty, describing the area. “Instead, there’s lots of walking tours and bike paths.”

Retirees especially like Punta Gorda Isles, a neighborhood of single-family homes offering breathtaking views of the ocean and easy access for boaters. Homes range from $200,000 to over $1 million.

But the cherry on the top of Punta Gorda for aging Americans is that there is no state income tax to eat away at their nest eggs. Nada. Zero. Zilch.

2. Cape Coral, FL

Median list price: $299,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 35% Population: 739,224

Cape Coral three-bedroom home

realtor.com

Cape Coral’s selling points are its warm weather, its coastal location on the western side of the state, its chill vibe, and much lower prices than Miami ($390,000) or Key West, FL ($699,000). And it’s become even more appealing in recent years, with home prices falling in Cape Coral, down 3.5% year over year.

The decrease is the result of overbuilding and, like Punta Gorda 30 miles to the north, storm damage. In 2017, Hurricane Irma caused water to flood up from the 400-mile canal system that runs through the backyards of thousands of homes.

But that unique canal system remains this community’s centerpiece, treasured for transportation and recreation alike.

The area has seen a surge in retired veterans buying three-bedroom homes with palm trees out front. The reason? In 2012, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs opened the Lee County VA Healthcare Center, a 220,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art VA hospital in Cape Coral. Others are investing in custom dream homes.

“We’re seeing a lot of retirees buy [land] lots for just $5,000 to build homes on,” says Mike Lombardo, a local real estate agent at Old Glory Realty.

3. Prescott, AZ

Median list price: $399,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 40.1% Population: 228,168

Neighborhood in Prescott

realtor.com

Every evening, locals in Prescott can take in the glorious sunsets behind Thumb Butte, a mountain that towers in the distance. This low-key mountain town is drawing retirees seeking the outdoors, with plenty of hiking and mountain biking opportunities at nearby Prescott National Forest.

And the word is getting out: Where to Retire Magazine ranked Prescott the fourth-best place for retirees to put down roots. But moving here won’t be cheap. Last year, realtor.com named Prescott one of the most expensive retirement towns. That’s because Californians are driving up prices by selling their seven-figure homes and using the proceeds to buy up properties here.

Seniors with cash reserves can find places in upscale 55-plus retirement communities like Touchmark at The Ranch, a 44-acre community known for its lodge-style homes.

4. Santa Fe, NM

Median list price: $580,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 30.4% Population: 148,750

Homes in Santa Fe

Michael Warren/iStock

The historic downtown district of Santa Fe Plaza is packed with unique art galleries, shops, restaurants—and lots of boomers. This neighborhood with its pueblo-style and adobe architecture is the prime stop for retirees who want to soak up Santa Fe’s cultural scene.

As real estate prices reach scarily high levels in some West Coast cities, Santa Fe is one of the places reaping the benefits.

“We’ve always been seen as a retirement community, but in the last two years, things have really picked up,” says Brett Hultberg, a real estate agent in Santa Fe. “People are getting pushed out of absurdly expensive markets like California, so they come here because it’s more affordable.”

Retirees often buy pueblo-style homes, boxy sandy-colored homes with flat roofs that are built to stay cool during those hot summers. They start around $300,000. Or they’ll put that 300 grand down for a condo downtown, which is harder to find these days.

“Walkability is a huge deal for retirees, one of the main reasons they migrate to Santa Fe,” says Hultberg.

5. Tucson, AZ

Median list price: $279,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 25.7% Population: 1,022,769

Three-bedroom ranch in Tucson

realtor.com

For those who crave dry heat but can’t quite swing the pricier destinations in Arizona and New Mexico, Tucson has become a hot ticket. It’s the cheapest big city in Arizona.

Savvy buyers can still find some one-story homes at about half of the metro’s median price. Look no further than this three-bedroom ranch with a sidewalk leading right up to its front door, priced at just $142,000.

Retirees who see age as just a number have plenty of fun outdoor and cultural options here. Tucson is only an hour’s drive to Mount Lemmon Ski Valley, the southernmost ski resort in the United States. Or they visit the Mission San Xavier del Bac, a historic Catholic church founded by the Spanish in the 17th century.

6. Morehead City, NC

Median list price: $325,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 32.5% Population: 68,881

Condo community in Morehead City

realtor.com

This town on the Crystal Coast, a lovely 85-mile long stretch of Atlantic coastline, revolves around fishing, with folks casting reels on many of the city’s ocean piers or Sugarloaf Island. Diehards can even charter a boat for some deep-sea excursions.

Unlike other nearby cities on the water, Morehead City doesn’t have as many tourists who could disturb the fish. And those who don’t engage in the sport can sunbathe on Serenity Bay Beach. Or try some grub at the annual North Carolina Seafood Festival.

Retirees here don’t have to break the bank to own something right on the beach. Some two- and three-bedroom condos sell for around $200,000, with access to amenities like swimming pools, racquet ball courts, and fitness centers.

7. Asheville, NC

Median list price: $375,000 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 29.1% Population: 456,145

Three-bedroom home in Historic Montford

realtor.com

The one-time hippie town of Asheville in the Blue Ridge Mountains is popular with millennials and boomers alike. Known for its art galleries, music scene, local food restaurants, and craft breweries, it’s no surprise that its nickname is the “San Francisco of the East.”

Downtown, you’ll find the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of North Carolina Asheville, offering classes for retirees looking to learn new skills. Not the classroom type? You can hike through the nearby Pisgah National Forest or visit the 250-room Biltmore Estate, George Vanderbilt‘s former home, once the biggest private residence in the United States.

“We have a lot of what we call half-backs,” says local broker Molly de Mattos at Keller Williams Realty. “These are people from New York and New Jersey that move down to Florida to retire and hate it. They realize they don’t like the humidity and hurricanes, so they come halfway back up and settle in Asheville.”

Many of these older, new residents are purchasing $350,000 to $500,000 suburban homes, Mattos says. The most active retirees are buying in Historic Montford, a neighborhood lined with 100-year-old homes and within walking distance of breweries and art galleries.

8. Barnstable Town, MA

Median list price: $525,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 38.9% Population: 213,444

Barnstable Town

realtor.com

The white sandy beaches of Cape Cod (part of the Barnstable Town metro) have long been prized vacation refuges for New Yorkers and Bostonians looking for a getaway. But in recent years, there’s been an influx of retirees moving in—or, perhaps more accurately, back. Many of these folks spent their working careers vacationing here and now want to live out their golden years here full-time.

“[That familiarity] makes it easier to sell that big house in the suburbs and buy a smaller home in a beach destination like Cape Cod,” says Chuck Tuttle, a broker associate at Kinlin Grover Real Estate.

Barnstable Town tends to attract more affluent retirees who buy summer homes and then head to Florida for the winter. In recent years, when stocks hit record highs, more of these folks cashed in and bought second homes here. Indeed, 40% of all homes here are secondary residences.

9. Traverse City, MI

Median list price: $319,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 29.7% Population: 148,671

Traverse City five-bedroom

realtor.com

Traverse City brings back a lot of nostalgic memories for Midwestern baby boomers who remember coming here as kids and fishing and swimming in Lake Michigan. Now that they’re retiring, many are returning to the city.

“They finally say … “I’m moving where it’s beautiful,’” says Bart Ford, managing broker at Coldwell Banker Schmidt Realtors. These retirees are often buying up older cottages in the woods or plots of land along the lake to build their dream homes on.

There’s no shortage of things to do for those no longer ruled by 9-to-5 schedules. Folks can attend the annual Traverse City Film Festival, co-founded by documentary filmmaker Michael Moore, or hit up the National Cherry Festival, which dates back to 1925.

“Some people spend $20,000 to stay here in the summer,” Ford says. “Why do that when you could just buy something and snow bird to Palm Springs, Florida, or Arizona?”

10. Ocean City, NJ

Median list price: $424,800 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 34.8% Population: 93,553

Ocean city townhome

realtor.com

Ocean City, on the Jersey shore, was rocked hard by Hurricane Sandy in 2012. But now that it’s been rebuilt and the nearby gambling mecca, Atlantic City (located in the metro), is on the upswing, Northeast retirees are moving here again. It was even named the “happiest seaside town in the U.S.,” according to Coastal Living magazine.

“I’m seeing a recent surge in condo high-rise [sales] on the beach,” says Todd Gordon, a real estate agent at Hartman Home Team in New Jersey. “People are buying ocean-front, two-bedroom condos that they’ll retire in, and maybe snowbird to Florida in the winter.” Some condos can be snagged at around $200,000, while some fetch above $1 million.

Last year realtor.com named Ocean City among the most expensive retirement towns in America. But retirees are willing to pay that high cost to access the area’s beaches, nightlife, and evening strolls on the Ocean City Boardwalk. Happy doesn’t come cheap.

* A metropolitan statistical area is a designation that includes the urban core of a city and the surrounding smaller towns and cities. We limited our rankings to just one metro per state to ensure some geographic diversity.

** We looked at U.S. Census Bureau migration data to figure out how many people ages 55 and up relocated to new metros. We then divided that number by the population of those metros to find the ones with the highest ratio of new residents ages 55 and up who had moved there in 2016 or 2017. 

*** We included the percentage of residents 60 and up, instead of 55 and older, because that is how the U.S. Census Bureau groups the ages of residents in metros. 

Allison Underhill contributed to this report.

The post Boomer Boomtowns: America’s 10 Fastest-Growing Retirement Hot Spots appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

from DIYS http://bit.ly/2Mop69s

[gillespialfredoe01806ld]

Boomer Boomtowns: America’s 10 Fastest-Growing Retirement Hot Spots

realtor.com

There has never been a generation quite as consequential as the baby boomers. They forever transformed music and politics, ushered in the computer era, pioneered fanciful notions like free love, recreational drugs, Amazon.com, and Hot Pockets. So what do they do for an encore?  Completely reshape retirement.

Get ready for a graying tsunami: Nearly 50 million of the enormous cluster of 74 million Americans born between 1946 and 1964 have yet to hit 65—with around 10,000 a day making that milestone over the next decade.

This massive surge of retirees is already reshaping real estate markets across the county. In fact, nearly 1.2 million people 55 or older relocated out of state last year, the highest number on record. Where are they all going? This generation of Americans, renowned for doing things their way, are eschewing some of the traditional communities favored by their parents in their later years. So realtor.com® set out to find the nation’s fastest-growing retirement destinations.

“Baby boomers are so hard to pin down,” says Rodney Harrell, director of livability thought leadership at the AARP Public Policy Institute. “There are so many of them, and they’re choosing a wider range of options than previous generations. …There’s no one size fits all.”

All the places that have made our list are walkable, tourist-friendly destinations—and that’s where the similarities end. Many of these retirement havens are in warmer climates in the South and Southwest. A few are in the chilly Northeast and Midwest, and one is about as far north as you can get without going to Alaska. Some have long been popular with seniors, while others were places where new retirees vacationed as children. And those that can’t boast ocean, lake, or mountain views often make up for it with their dry heat.

One troubling note: Boomers have less in retirement savings than previous generations, a vexing problem, since they’re expected to live longer than their parents, according to the Stanford Center on Longevity. They’ve only socked away a median $209,000—while one in three have no nest egg at all for their so-called golden years. This explains why some of the more luxurious locations on our list are popular with more affluent boomers, while the appeal of others lies in their affordability.

We came up with our rankings by looking at every metropolitan statistical area* and zeroing in on places where at least a quarter of the population are age 60 or above; we perused our listings for phrases such as “aging in place,” “senior-friendly,” and “ground-floor master bedrooms.” Then we looked at the number of folks ages 55 and up who moved into new metros between 2016 and 2017.**

Since not everyone who lives in a retirement town is there year round, we added in the increase in the percentage of second homes in these metros. And we only included two metros per state, to ensure some geographic diversity.

So where are the places that are booming with boomers?

Fastest-growing retirement towns

Claire Widman

1. Punta Gorda, FL

Median list price: $275,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up***: 47% Population: 182,033

Three-bedroom home in Punta Gorda, FL

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Hurricane Charley and its 145-mile-per-hour winds hit Punta Gorda head on in 2004, devastating the community. The city was rebuilt, but with much stricter building codes, to make sure these new homes could withstand high winds. Those newer abodes have become magnets for retirees who want to make sure their forever homes on the Gulf Coast can withstand future storms.

“They did a great job keeping a small-town feel. We don’t have anything that is too commercial, not even a McDonalds drive-thru,” says Patricia McGuire, a broker associate with Coldwell Banker Sunstar Realty, describing the area. “Instead, there’s lots of walking tours and bike paths.”

Retirees especially like Punta Gorda Isles, a neighborhood of single-family homes offering breathtaking views of the ocean and easy access for boaters. Homes range from $200,000 to over $1 million.

But the cherry on the top of Punta Gorda for aging Americans is that there is no state income tax to eat away at their nest eggs. Nada. Zero. Zilch.

2. Cape Coral, FL

Median list price: $299,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 35% Population: 739,224

Cape Coral three-bedroom home

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Cape Coral’s selling points are its warm weather, its coastal location on the western side of the state, its chill vibe, and much lower prices than Miami ($390,000) or Key West, FL ($699,000). And it’s become even more appealing in recent years, with home prices falling in Cape Coral, down 3.5% year over year.

The decrease is the result of overbuilding and, like Punta Gorda 30 miles to the north, storm damage. In 2017, Hurricane Irma caused water to flood up from the 400-mile canal system that runs through the backyards of thousands of homes.

But that unique canal system remains this community’s centerpiece, treasured for transportation and recreation alike.

The area has seen a surge in retired veterans buying three-bedroom homes with palm trees out front. The reason? In 2012, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs opened the Lee County VA Healthcare Center, a 220,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art VA hospital in Cape Coral. Others are investing in custom dream homes.

“We’re seeing a lot of retirees buy [land] lots for just $5,000 to build homes on,” says Mike Lombardo, a local real estate agent at Old Glory Realty.

3. Prescott, AZ

Median list price: $399,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 40.1% Population: 228,168

Neighborhood in Prescott

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Every evening, locals in Prescott can take in the glorious sunsets behind Thumb Butte, a mountain that towers in the distance. This low-key mountain town is drawing retirees seeking the outdoors, with plenty of hiking and mountain biking opportunities at nearby Prescott National Forest.

And the word is getting out: Where to Retire Magazine ranked Prescott the fourth-best place for retirees to put down roots. But moving here won’t be cheap. Last year, realtor.com named Prescott one of the most expensive retirement towns. That’s because Californians are driving up prices by selling their seven-figure homes and using the proceeds to buy up properties here.

Seniors with cash reserves can find places in upscale 55-plus retirement communities like Touchmark at The Ranch, a 44-acre community known for its lodge-style homes.

4. Santa Fe, NM

Median list price: $580,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 30.4% Population: 148,750

Homes in Santa Fe

Michael Warren/iStock

The historic downtown district of Santa Fe Plaza is packed with unique art galleries, shops, restaurants—and lots of boomers. This neighborhood with its pueblo-style and adobe architecture is the prime stop for retirees who want to soak up Santa Fe’s cultural scene.

As real estate prices reach scarily high levels in some West Coast cities, Santa Fe is one of the places reaping the benefits.

“We’ve always been seen as a retirement community, but in the last two years, things have really picked up,” says Brett Hultberg, a real estate agent in Santa Fe. “People are getting pushed out of absurdly expensive markets like California, so they come here because it’s more affordable.”

Retirees often buy pueblo-style homes, boxy sandy-colored homes with flat roofs that are built to stay cool during those hot summers. They start around $300,000. Or they’ll put that 300 grand down for a condo downtown, which is harder to find these days.

“Walkability is a huge deal for retirees, one of the main reasons they migrate to Santa Fe,” says Hultberg.

5. Tucson, AZ

Median list price: $279,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 25.7% Population: 1,022,769

Three-bedroom ranch in Tucson

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For those who crave dry heat but can’t quite swing the pricier destinations in Arizona and New Mexico, Tucson has become a hot ticket. It’s the cheapest big city in Arizona.

Savvy buyers can still find some one-story homes at about half of the metro’s median price. Look no further than this three-bedroom ranch with a sidewalk leading right up to its front door, priced at just $142,000.

Retirees who see age as just a number have plenty of fun outdoor and cultural options here. Tucson is only an hour’s drive to Mount Lemmon Ski Valley, the southernmost ski resort in the United States. Or they visit the Mission San Xavier del Bac, a historic Catholic church founded by the Spanish in the 17th century.

6. Morehead City, NC

Median list price: $325,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 32.5% Population: 68,881

Condo community in Morehead City

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This town on the Crystal Coast, a lovely 85-mile long stretch of Atlantic coastline, revolves around fishing, with folks casting reels on many of the city’s ocean piers or Sugarloaf Island. Diehards can even charter a boat for some deep-sea excursions.

Unlike other nearby cities on the water, Morehead City doesn’t have as many tourists who could disturb the fish. And those who don’t engage in the sport can sunbathe on Serenity Bay Beach. Or try some grub at the annual North Carolina Seafood Festival.

Retirees here don’t have to break the bank to own something right on the beach. Some two- and three-bedroom condos sell for around $200,000, with access to amenities like swimming pools, racquet ball courts, and fitness centers.

7. Asheville, NC

Median list price: $375,000 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 29.1% Population: 456,145

Three-bedroom home in Historic Montford

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The one-time hippie town of Asheville in the Blue Ridge Mountains is popular with millennials and boomers alike. Known for its art galleries, music scene, local food restaurants, and craft breweries, it’s no surprise that its nickname is the “San Francisco of the East.”

Downtown, you’ll find the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of North Carolina Asheville, offering classes for retirees looking to learn new skills. Not the classroom type? You can hike through the nearby Pisgah National Forest or visit the 250-room Biltmore Estate, George Vanderbilt‘s former home, once the biggest private residence in the United States.

“We have a lot of what we call half-backs,” says local broker Molly de Mattos at Keller Williams Realty. “These are people from New York and New Jersey that move down to Florida to retire and hate it. They realize they don’t like the humidity and hurricanes, so they come halfway back up and settle in Asheville.”

Many of these older, new residents are purchasing $350,000 to $500,000 suburban homes, Mattos says. The most active retirees are buying in Historic Montford, a neighborhood lined with 100-year-old homes and within walking distance of breweries and art galleries.

8. Barnstable Town, MA

Median list price: $525,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 38.9% Population: 213,444

Barnstable Town

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The white sandy beaches of Cape Cod (part of the Barnstable Town metro) have long been prized vacation refuges for New Yorkers and Bostonians looking for a getaway. But in recent years, there’s been an influx of retirees moving in—or, perhaps more accurately, back. Many of these folks spent their working careers vacationing here and now want to live out their golden years here full-time.

“[That familiarity] makes it easier to sell that big house in the suburbs and buy a smaller home in a beach destination like Cape Cod,” says Chuck Tuttle, a broker associate at Kinlin Grover Real Estate.

Barnstable Town tends to attract more affluent retirees who buy summer homes and then head to Florida for the winter. In recent years, when stocks hit record highs, more of these folks cashed in and bought second homes here. Indeed, 40% of all homes here are secondary residences.

9. Traverse City, MI

Median list price: $319,100 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 29.7% Population: 148,671

Traverse City five-bedroom

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Traverse City brings back a lot of nostalgic memories for Midwestern baby boomers who remember coming here as kids and fishing and swimming in Lake Michigan. Now that they’re retiring, many are returning to the city.

“They finally say … “I’m moving where it’s beautiful,’” says Bart Ford, managing broker at Coldwell Banker Schmidt Realtors. These retirees are often buying up older cottages in the woods or plots of land along the lake to build their dream homes on.

There’s no shortage of things to do for those no longer ruled by 9-to-5 schedules. Folks can attend the annual Traverse City Film Festival, co-founded by documentary filmmaker Michael Moore, or hit up the National Cherry Festival, which dates back to 1925.

“Some people spend $20,000 to stay here in the summer,” Ford says. “Why do that when you could just buy something and snow bird to Palm Springs, Florida, or Arizona?”

10. Ocean City, NJ

Median list price: $424,800 Percentage of residents age 60 and up: 34.8% Population: 93,553

Ocean city townhome

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Ocean City, on the Jersey shore, was rocked hard by Hurricane Sandy in 2012. But now that it’s been rebuilt and the nearby gambling mecca, Atlantic City (located in the metro), is on the upswing, Northeast retirees are moving here again. It was even named the “happiest seaside town in the U.S.,” according to Coastal Living magazine.

“I’m seeing a recent surge in condo high-rise [sales] on the beach,” says Todd Gordon, a real estate agent at Hartman Home Team in New Jersey. “People are buying ocean-front, two-bedroom condos that they’ll retire in, and maybe snowbird to Florida in the winter.” Some condos can be snagged at around $200,000, while some fetch above $1 million.

Last year realtor.com named Ocean City among the most expensive retirement towns in America. But retirees are willing to pay that high cost to access the area’s beaches, nightlife, and evening strolls on the Ocean City Boardwalk. Happy doesn’t come cheap.

* A metropolitan statistical area is a designation that includes the urban core of a city and the surrounding smaller towns and cities. We limited our rankings to just one metro per state to ensure some geographic diversity.

** We looked at U.S. Census Bureau migration data to figure out how many people ages 55 and up relocated to new metros. We then divided that number by the population of those metros to find the ones with the highest ratio of new residents ages 55 and up who had moved there in 2016 or 2017. 

*** We included the percentage of residents 60 and up, instead of 55 and older, because that is how the U.S. Census Bureau groups the ages of residents in metros. 

Allison Underhill contributed to this report.

The post Boomer Boomtowns: America’s 10 Fastest-Growing Retirement Hot Spots appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

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[maizestove]

5 Reasons to visit Malmö in Sweden

Last weekend I was invited by the Tourism Office of Malmö to spend a few days in their charming city Malmö. The tour was organized in collabortion with my friend and fellow blogger Niki of My Scandinavian Home and I was up for a new discovery – it was my first time in Malmö! I did not know what to expect. So I was pumped with excitement – not only to discover Malmö in Sweden but also to meet some of my good ol’ blogger friends – Stefan from Trend Stefan, Agata from Passion Shake, Mette from Monsters Circus and Elisabetta from Italian Bark. Holly from decor8 was supposed to be part of the trip too, but had to cancel due to other obligations. But let me tell you more about Malmö! First let’s answer one important question: Where to stay in Malmö?

Hotel Duxiana: This boutique hotel is located right in the old town of Malmö and is very close to the central station. Upon arrival it takes roughly 10 minutes to walk there. This hotel is the best place to immerse yourself into Scandinavian design right from the beginning. The rooms are beautifully equipped and styled featuring a line-up of Scandinavian design classics and real plants. Moreover, you will sleep like a baby in the divine beds because this hotel is the extension of the renown Swedish bed design brand Dux. You can thank me later!

Here are five good reasons why you should visit Malmö in Sweden:

1) Mix of European Vibes: Malmö is located in the far south of Sweden, in a region called Skane. It’s proximity to Denmark makes it easily accessible through the Copenhagen airport. Additionally, Malmö is a very vibrant city with a big population of mixed origins. But not only the people add to a certain mix, also the city itself has a great mix of European vibes. To me, it felt a bit Swedish, a bit Danish, even a bit Dutch. You might wonder how come Dutch? Well, first of all the Netherlands are not that far away. But mostly I got this feeling due to the canals stretching through the city. They connect the city center with the port, industrial areas as well as residential parts. The canals meander through a green park with a windmill – I could literally see a loaf of Gouda around the corner. But then again I am a very imaginative person:-) Our captain Niki took us on a wonderful boat trip along the canals on a sunny Sunday morning courtesy of ‘Book a Boat’. Definitely something you should consider when in Malmö! It is so much fun!

2) Perfect Size: Size matters – and when it comes to a city weekend, a smaller size is what you should be aiming at. Why? Because it makes a weekend getaway much more pleasant! Malmö is a perfectly walkable city and offers sights, galleries, great shops, cool cafés and fine restaurants all in walking distance. The old town is a compact entity with cute little streets, small and colourful houses, lovely cafés. Speaking of cafés: When in Sweden, never miss the traditional fika time – a little coffee & cake break in the afternoon. I have two café tips for you:

Noir Kaffekultur: A very cool & urban little café in the old town. Great seating space outside, it has almost a Parisian vibe. Inside think of dark walls, the scent of fresh coffee and cinnamon rolls. Great for a little break!

Konditori Katarina: Very beautiful pâtisserie in the old town with a great selection of pastries, chocolates, and bread. Go for a cup of good coffee and a cardamom-cinnamon roll, so delicious! And very instagrammable!

3) Good Design: One of the main reasons for our visit in Malmö was the design scene. Malmö is a great place for anyone interest in Scandinavian design as well as art. Luckily, we had two experts on Scandinavian design in our group, Niki and Stefan, so we got a few first-hand insights into the history of Scandinavian design as well as its definition. Little did I know that Scandinavian design as we know it today was induced by the state in order to make Scandinavian dwellings brighter, better and healthier for its citizens! But let me give you a few top design addresses and shops to visit in Malmö:

Form Design Center & Shop: Located in a dream like courtyard, this gallery will satisfy all your cravings for art, design and Scandinavian craftsmanship. On three floors you can visit exhibitions of varying international artists, enjoy a coffee in the café, and shop Scandinavian and local design in the shop.

Olsson & Gerthel: A great design shop with renown Scandinavian design labels as well as designs by local creatives. I loved the ceramics and art in this place.

Formargruppen: This design shop unites the work of several local artists and desingers offering local arts & crafts. Great shop to find a unique souvenir or gift. Look out for nice ceramics there!

AB Smaland: Now here your vintage and plant loving heart will skip a beat! At least mine did! This huge concept store features a fabulous collection of vintage and contemporary items ranging from furniture over home textiles to decorative pieces. I had a huge crush on their vintage ceramics. Also swoon worthy is their plant shop and cute café space. Plan some extra time for this gem!

Grandpa: A pretty hipster mix of home items, stationery and fashion can be found at Grandpa. Funky name for a funky shop! Go there for the typical outdoorsy Scandi look!

Konsthall Malmö: Another great gallery if you like contemporary art. A good adjacent shop offers books on design and art as well as come creative postcards.

Florista: A beautiful florist with an extraordinary selection of flowers, plants and dried flowers. They also offer workshops to create wreaths – we attended a cool workshop and created our own dried flower wreaths.

Blomster Pigan: Another great florist with great flowers, plants, and pots to take home!

Roy & Son: In case you feel the urge for a hipster haircut or barber service, go to Roy & Son. You will be served drip coffee and listen to vintage records.

4) Good Food: As much as I love design, I also loooove good food. So this is a crucial factor too when choosing a travel destination. In a nutshell: Malmö did not disappoint on that level either. I enjoyed some delicious treats while in Malmö. Here are a few great addresses for you:

Bastard: This Michelin starred restaurant is focused on nose-to-tail food with a Scandinavian twist and earthy flavors. Very popular among Malmö citizens. Think of open kitchen, bar area, dark industrial style. And good and delicious plates!

Raw Food House: A great address for an organic lunch in town. Healthy food choices are on offer and the atmosphere is airy, bright and relaxed. It can get crowded at noon though.

Mineral: Very urban, very cool, very young – this restaurant looks like a creative hub for young chefs and is very popular among a younger, hip crowd. My personal highlight: the huge Ficus plant indoors. Ha!

Smak: Smak means ‘taste’ in Swedish and they are not short of delicious tastes here! Next to the Konsthall Malmö, this is a great option for lunch. Don’t be fooled by the canteen like system – the food is exquisite!

Malmö Saluhall: This market/food hall is a safe option if you are unsure what you want to eat. A wide selection of food stands and indoor restaurants offer culinary delights. And afterwards you can stroll away and do some food shopping for home too. Look out for delicious local chocolates!

5) Green Spaces: Another reason why you should consider a visit of Malmö are the abundant green spaces in Sweden’s third largest city. As a coastal town there is already plenty of nature and water around. The canals stretching throughout the city add more natural vibes to the city. Additionally, the city has several parks to enjoy and relax in the midst of greens. Lush and centrally located is the ‘Slottsträdgarden’, the ‘castle park’. The park offers playgrounds, a café, gondolas to enjoy the canals, greenhouses for plant lovers, and even a windmill. Opposite of it is an old cemetery in a park-like ambiance, and even though it might sound bizarre, but I love to stroll through old cemeteries. Malmö has a great balance of urban vibes and laid-back green spaces so it’s a great weekend escape for anyone looking for a bit of city buzz and nature alike.

This tour was organized by Malmö Tourism. As always all opinions and photos are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands who support this blog!

Photography by Igor Josifovic, hotel room & Grandpa shop picture by Agata Dimmich, group and gallery pic by Stefan Nilsson

    The post 5 Reasons to visit Malmö in Sweden appeared first on Happy Interior Blog.

from Happy Interior Blog https://happyinteriorblog.com/5-reasons-visit-malmo-sweden/

[eatdrinkandsavemoney]

Heading to Universal Studios Orlando soon? If so, you’ll definitely want to plan out where to eat at Universal CityWalk. After a long day in the park, it’s refreshing to sit down at one of the many restaurants in CityWalk Universal. Breaking bread with family or friends (or both) on vacation is always worth the splurge for me. That’s why I’ve put together this post of where to eat at Universal CityWalk. Look no further for the best restaurants in CityWalk.  I want you to be able to enjoy a fun meal that is worth every penny on your next vacation to Universal Studios Orlando.

Why I Love Dining at Universal CityWalk

Those of you who know me well know that I travel mostly to enjoy new foods. Other than my family, nothing brings me more joy than eating a new dish at a new restaurant on vacation.  Which is why I am always searching for unique places to eat, even at theme parks. So when I visited Orlando with the We Grow Retreat I knew I wanted to find the best restaurants in Universal CityWalk, you know, the ones that are totally worth the splurge!

When we visit theme parks like Universal Studios Orlando, we try to do something for each member of the family. The kids get to ride rides (that don’t scare them) and meet characters, but Tom and I go for the food. My requirements for dining out at theme parks include a unique menu and decent prices. I don’t mind splurging on good food, but I’m not about to pay for fine dining prices with kids at a theme park! That’s why I love the restaurant selection at Universal CityWalk. Every single restaurant is reasonably priced and themed just well enough to delight and entertain small children.

Related Post: How to Save Money Traveling with Kids

What is Universal CityWalk?

Before I can tell you where to eat in CityWalk at Universal Studios, I need to explain CityWalk to you. Already know all about it? Feel free to skip ahead to the next section.

Universal CityWalk is the entertainment and dining hub of Universal Studios Orlando. There is no entry fee, and parking is free after 6 pm (except during Halloween Horror Nights when parking is $22-30).

It’s located between Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios, which means it’s completely walkable and accessible to everyone who enters either park. This makes it a great option for dinner and entertainment when visiting Universal Studios Resort. All of the resorts are in walking distance too.

There are restaurants, a movie theater, mini golf, and the Blue Man Group show. With so much to do you could make a whole day of exploring Universal CityWalk if you need a day off from rides or just want a fun day in Orlando.

The Three Best Restaurants in Universal CityWalk Orlando

If you’re like me, you are probably trying to figure out what to eat at Universal CityWalk. Some people research rides before visiting theme parks, I research food.

Keep scrolling to view the complete list of restaurants in CityWalk, but before you do, take a little detour here to read about the three places you must eat when visiting CityWalk. Since I’m a huge fan of unique food, I’m always trying to avoid the tourist traps to seek out the best restaurants. This can be difficult on vacation with kids… at theme parks. Lucky for me, Universal CityWalk caters to grows ups like me and has some of the coolest places to eat that make kids and adults happy. Here are the three that you absolutely have to try because they are not only delicious, but totally worth the money.

Where to Eat at Universal City Walk: The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen

When I asked my Instagram and Facebook followers where I should eat in CityWalk, every single person who responded said I should eat at Toothsome. Every. Single. One.

BTW- click those links above for Instagram and Facebook and give me a follow! I’m always asking my Insta and Facebook friends and followers questions like this. I’d love for you to be a part of my community too.

If you know me at all, you know that I’m a fan of chocolate, but I’m much more into savory than sweets. I was a little nervous to eat at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium because I figured it would be too touristy and full of overpriced and overly sweet treats. I couldn’t have been more wrong. Toothsome includes “Savory Feast Kitchen” in the name because the savory menu items truly are feast worthy.

Every item on the menu is unique and everyone at my table (12 people) was happy with the food. While we all enjoyed our meals, I’m confident that everyone was most excited about dessert. Toothsome is known for over the top milkshakes that come in a plastic mason jar that you can take home!

You can order a Toothsome milkshake to go!

It’s not uncommon to see people walking around CityWalk Universal with these enormous milkshakes in their hands. Want one, but don’t want to sit down? You’re in luck! You can order a milkshake to go at the chocolate shop downstairs.

Where to Eat at Universal City Walk: The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar

Have you ever wanted to eat sushi, but someone else in the family wanted a burger? If so, The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar is the place for you.

Someone on Instagram messaged me and asked why it was called Cowfish and it took me a few minutes to realize that it’s called Cowfish because the restaurant serves cows and fish. Get it? Total blonde moment for me (and I’m not even blonde).

Anyway, this place is known for- you guessed it-  sushi and burgers. Want both? You’re in luck! You can order a bento box that comes with sushi and a burger!

Even the kids can get in on the fun with a kid sized bento box.

Of course I had to get a speciality drink too. The Bacon Bourbon did not disappoint.

Where to Eat at Universal City Walk: Voodoo Doughnuts

A trip to Universal Orlando CityWalk isn’t complete without a stop at Voodoo Doughnuts. Even if you don’t like donuts, this is worth it. The prices are actually shocking. In a good way. I was expecting to spend $5 for a donut, but was happy to see the prices range from $1.75 to $4.

Since we were there for Halloween Horror Nights, I had to try the special donut made just for the event.

Related Post: How to Save Money at Halloween Horror Nights

Let me tell you something: I’m not a fan of filled donuts, but the filling on this was amazing. I’ve never in my life been so impressed with a jelly filled donut.

Pro tip: Get a Voodoo Doughnut at Universal CityWalk when you see a short line. The line can literally be hours long just to get a donut! Don’t pass up the opportunity to get one when the line is short.

Complete List of Restaurants in CityWalk Universal

Now that you know my favorite places to eat in CityWalk, I’ll list all the restaurants. I realize that not everyone likes to eat the way I do, so here is a complete list of all the places to eat in CityWalk Universal.

When it comes to dining at Universal CityWalk, there truly is something for everyone. There are uber touristy places and unique spots that you probably have never heard of. You can even find quick fast food joints. Here is a list of all the places to eat in CityWalk Universal.

Sit Down Restaurants in CityWalk Universal

The Cowfish

Vivo Italian Kitchen

Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food

The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen

The Bubba Gump Shrimp Company

Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville

Bob Marley- A Tribute to Freedom

Hard Rock Cafe- Orlando

Emeril’s

Pat O’Briens

NBC Sports Grill and Brew

Quick Service Restaurants in Universal’s CityWalk

Red Oven Pizza Bakery

Breadbox Hand Crafted Sandwiches

Hot Dog Hall of Fame

Moe’s Southwest Grill

Panda Express

Cinnabon

Fusion Bistro Sushi and Sake Bar

Burger King

Voodoo Doughnut

Menchie’s

Cold Stone Creamery

Starbucks

Bars and Lounges in Universal Orlando CityWalk

Fat Tuesday

Red Coconut Club

Rising Star

Does Universal Have a Dining Plan Option?

Yes! If you buy a Universal Studios Resort vacation package then you have the option to buy a Universal Dining Plan.

Which CityWalk Restaurants Participate in the Universal Dining Plan?

When you buy a Universal Dining Plan, you can pick from a large list of places to eat in the parks and in CityWalk. Here are the CityWalk options:

Full Service

The Cowfish® Sushi Burger Bar

Bob Marley—A Tribute to Freedom℠

Jimmy Buffett’s® Margaritaville®

Red Oven Pizza Bakery™

Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food™

Pat O’Brien’s®

VIVO Italian Kitchen™ (seasonal)

NBC Sports Grill & Brew™

Quick Service & Snacks

Hot Dog Hall of Fame®

Bread Box Handcrafted Sandwiches™

Cinnabon®

Starbucks®

Cold Stone Creamery®

Blue Man Group Theater

Coke® Icon Hub Cart

Dining at Universal CityWalk is Worth the Splurge

It’s my professional opinion that dining at Universal CityWalk is worth the splurge. You know I’m not one to sugar coat things. I’ve been very open and honest about my opinions. For instance- I’ll never eat a meal at SeaWorld ever again (Discovery Cove is another story- I’ll eat there all day). I have high standards for dining out. I need my food to be amazing and well worth the money. I’m happy to report that the food at Universal CityWalk won’t leave you disappointed!

Best Restaurants in Universal CityWalk that are Worth the Splurge Heading to Universal Studios Orlando soon? If so, you'll definitely want to plan out where to eat at Universal CityWalk.

[janerchambers88]

15 Best Friendscation Spots To Rent A Summer Beach House

Summer beach house season is just around the corner, and if you’re scouting out the best destinations for group-friendly rentals—the perfect friendscation, perhaps—you’ve come to the right place. We’re highlighting 15 spots with crowd-pleasing properties that you won’t have to crowd into, because a getaway with your friends shouldn’t feel like a game of sardines.

Summer Beach House Rentals

From splashy beachfront rentals overlooking the Gulf to airy island homes on Oahu, you’ll have your pick of multi-bedroom rentals designed with large groups in mind. Open floor plans, extra living areas, and large dining rooms make it easy to ensure that everyone gets a seat at the table.

Use FlipKey to find the right home at the right price, with some fun extras to boot. From tiki bars to heated pools, you could get a whole lot more than beautiful views and five-star reviews when you book a rental in these hot spots—and we’re not just talking about amenities. Many of these beaches boast top-notch boardwalks and buzzworthy entertainment options so you can make the most of every minute with your squad.

Miami Beach, Florida

“Whether you’re with family or friends, you can save a considerable amount by getting a group together and staying here.” – Guest Review

When it comes to affordable group getaways, it’s not hard to make a case for Miami Beach. Thanks to our selection of dreamy waterfront estates, finding your summer beach house has never been easier. Choose from multi-bedroom villas and squad-sized suites with all the bells and whistles (think dock access and rooftop decks). Sure, it sounds extravagant—until you do the math. Split the cost with friends, and you’ll spend less on that private tropical oasis than a budget hotel room.

See all rentals in Miami Beach!

Long Beach, California

“This home was great for our large group. The location was spot-on—close to the water, without a lot of traffic to worry about.” – Guest Review

Plan a friends trip to Long Beach, and you’ll spend your vacation enjoying miles of sunny coastline and unbeatable Pacific views. One of the city’s most popular beachside neighborhoods, Belmont Shore—”the Shore” to locals—is a top spot for beach house rentals. Book a stay in this walkable area for easy access to the beach, bike paths, tennis courts, coffee shops, and a variety of trendy shops and restaurants.

See all rentals in Long Beach!

South Padre Island, Texas

“Everything that I can think of was fabulous during our group trip. We fished off the dock and caught tons of ‘keepers.’ Staying on the bay side provided calm waters and beautiful sunsets.” – Guest Review

Whoever said three’s a crowd never booked a summer beach house in South Padre Island. This resort town off the tip of Texas boasts dozens of roomy rentals, so there’s no need to choose between your friends and your personal space. With amenities like game rooms and hot tubs, you don’t have to worry about catching cabin fever, but there’s also plenty to do nearby. Go jet-skiing, parasailing, or exploring; reviewers recommend Port Isabel Lighthouse and the South Padre Island Dolphin Research & Sea Life Nature Center.

See all rentals in South Padre Island!

Santa Cruz, California

“The house was a quarter of a block from the ocean. I can’t say enough about how nice it was for us to have two indoor gas fireplaces and a stunning kitchen to cook in.” – Guest Review

Even if your crew isn’t spread out across the country, choosing a destination can be the hardest part about planning a trip with friends—especially if you each define “vacation” a little differently. Santa Cruz hits the sweet spot between big-wave adventures and lazy beach days. This coastal city is home to famous surf spots like Pleasure Point, and some summer house rentals offer boogie boards and wetsuits as amenities. Of course, if your picture of paradise involves chilling out on the shore, Santa Cruz also offers 29 miles of beaches.

See all rentals in Santa Cruz!

Wildwood, New Jersey

“We were located near the Surfside Pier at the heart of the boardwalk. The house was exactly as advertised, and we saved plenty of money by using the barbecue grill instead of going out to eat.” – Guest Review

We’re not one to play favorites, but with its pristine beaches and colorful boardwalk, Wildwood ranks among the prettiest vacation spots on the New Jersey coast. From airy condos to rambling Victorians, this time-honored resort town offers perfectly sized properties for friend groups. When you’re not spoiling your dinner with a bucket of Curley’s boardwalk fries, you’ll have all the kitchen essentials you need to make a crowd-pleasing meal for the whole crew.

See all rentals in Wildwood!

Daytona Beach, Florida

“This property was great for our large group. Bedding set-ups were very flexible, and the fact that the rental was pet-friendly was icing on the cake. The front porch was a good gathering spot.” – Guest Review

If you’re looking for a summer house near one of the most popular beaches in the country, then it’s only natural to start your search in Daytona. Dubbed “The World’s Most Famous Beach” in the 1920s, when drivers held races on the hard-packed sand, this coastal hot spot is now home to Daytona International Speedway. Other top attractions include the boardwalk, Main Street Pier, and Seabreeze Boulevard, a popular place to shop. After an afternoon of sightseeing or a lazy beach day, head back to your rental to sip mojitos on the deck.

See all rentals in Daytona Beach!

Oceanside, California

“We had about 16 people here for a girlfriends getaway, and this rental fit us (and our bags) perfectly! It was nice to have tons of places to sit and sleep. To top it off, dolphins swam by every morning!!” – Guest Review

Gather your friends and get your beach fix in Oceanside this year. Known for its laid-back vibe and beautiful weather, this gem is central to all the activities SoCal has to offer. Bike the San Luis Rey River Trail, play a round of 18 at La Costa Resort, or take a whale watching tour. Whether you book a summer beach house on the coast or a few miles away, the perks of staying in a rental add up fast. You’ll spend less by sharing the cost—not to mention the cooking duties!—which means extra cash for happy hour drinks and jet ski rentals.

See all rentals in Oceanside!

Panama City Beach, Florida

“Our stay at this house was amazing! There was more than enough room, and each floor had its own hangout area and patio.” – Guest Review

You’re traveling with a group, and everyone wants to stay together. Easier said than done, right? If you’re on the hunt for a rental with multiple bedrooms and a massive dining room table, your search ends here. Panama City Beach offers summer beach houses that tick all the boxes and then some—think private pools and sprawling balconies overlooking the Gulf. The neighborhood’s not too shabby, either; this resort city is a hidden paradise for golfers, and outdoor mall Pier Park is a short drive from the beach.

See all rentals in Panama City Beach!

Honolulu, Hawaii

“The house was near all the activities we planned: hiking up Diamond Head, swimming at Hanauma Bay, and dinner in Waikiki.” – Guest Review

What’s that? You’re in desperate need of a tropical escape? We’ve got just the thing: a summer house in Honolulu with all your favorite people. Leave the daily grind behind for an island rental near downtown or your own private cove. No matter where you stay, you’ll enjoy easy access to Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay State Park—plus an enviable variety of activities from surfing and sunbathing to snorkeling and world-class golfing.

See all rentals in Honolulu!

San Diego, California

“We went out to San Diego for a bachelor party with 15 guys and had an unbelievable trip. The house was so incredible that we didn’t go out the first night just so we could enjoy all of the amenities.” – Guest Review

San Diego offers a luxe selection of beach house rentals, from cliffside mansions to modern oceanfront villas. Multiple living areas and lots of kitchen space go a long way toward keeping the peace on a group trip, but that’s not the only reason to book a summer house here. With so many sun-kissed beach spots (including La Jolla Shores and Mission Bay), it’s easy to find somewhere surf, swim, or shop by waves.

See all rentals in San Diego!

Dewey Beach, Delaware

“My kids think this is our beach house. It is exactly what you want for your Dewey Beach vacation: charming, well-maintained, and large enough to sleep multiple families.” – Guest Review

Tucked between the Atlantic Ocean and Rehoboth Bay, Dewey Beach is a destination for classic beach eats, live music, and—you guessed it—great rentals for groups. We can give you a few good reasons to book a summer house here, starting with events like the Solstice Celebration (June 21st) and Summer Vibes Fest (August 11–20). Throw in tax-free shopping and trolley service to Rehoboth Boardwalk, and you’ve got the ingredients for a memorable trip with the girls/guys/whole gang.

See all rentals in Dewey Beach!

Redondo Beach, California

“This house is perfect for a group that wants a nice place to come back to from the beach. I would rent it again for sure.” – Guest Review

This easygoing beach town is just a few miles from the bright lights of LA, but you won’t find chaos and congestion here. If you’re looking for a place where you can walk to the grocery store and hear the waves crash at night, Redondo is the perfect spot. Enjoy the cool breeze and California sun as you catch a wave, build a sandcastle, or start up a game of beach volleyball. Keep an eye out for frequent art festivals and free concerts at the pier.

See all rentals in Redondo Beach!

Topsail Island, North Carolina

“What a great vacation! We didn’t feel like we were tripping over each other. The kitchen was a dream, and being able to sit around the table for dinner together was great.” – Guest Reviewer

This barrier island south of the Outer Banks may be one of North Carolina’s quieter beach spots, but Topsail offers a solid selection of activities for groups. From surfing at public beaches to fishing along the Intracoastal Waterway, you won’t struggle to catch some sun here. With so many group beach houses on the island, it’s easy to find a home with enough space for everyone. Better yet? Design details like floor-to-ceiling windows and cathedral ceilings make local rentals feel equal parts spacious and glamorous. Translation: your real estate wish list is about to get even longer.

See all rentals in Topsail Island!

Cannon Beach, Oregon

“Everything you need is here. We were so surprised how well-stocked the entire home is. They’ve thought of everything.” – Guest Review

Stunning views, coastline hikes, and quaint cafes make Cannon Beach a super romantic spot to rent a summer beach house. Whether you want to hunt for tide pools or hike through Ecola State Park, you’ll find a rental in Cannon with your name on it—within walking distance of the waves. Top area attractions include art galleries, outdoor concerts, and a summer farmer’s market.

See all rentals in Cannon Beach!

Isle of Palms, South Carolina

“I stayed at this home with a group of women. The common areas easily held all of us, and the access to the beach was ideal.” – Guest Review

A picture-perfect location for girlfriend getaways and bonding with the guys, Isle of Palms is located just 20 minutes from downtown Charleston. Choose from beach house rentals with oceanfront views and over-the-top amenities like industrial kitchen appliances, so no one goes hungry. Fill your vacation with charter fishing trips and walking tours in Charleston, or clear your calendar for a week of endless beach days; either way, this gorgeous spot is a win-win for everyone.

See all rentals in Isle of Palms!

This post was originally published on the TripAdvisor Rentals blog. FlipKey is a TripAdvisor company.

The post 15 Best Friendscation Spots To Rent A Summer Beach House appeared first on The FlipKey Blog.

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15 Best Friendscation Spots To Rent A Summer Beach House

Summer beach house season is just around the corner, and if you’re scouting out the best destinations for group-friendly rentals—the perfect friendscation, perhaps—you’ve come to the right place. We’re highlighting 15 spots with crowd-pleasing properties that you won’t have to crowd into, because a getaway with your friends shouldn’t feel like a game of sardines.

Summer Beach House Rentals

From splashy beachfront rentals overlooking the Gulf to airy island homes on Oahu, you’ll have your pick of multi-bedroom rentals designed with large groups in mind. Open floor plans, extra living areas, and large dining rooms make it easy to ensure that everyone gets a seat at the table.

Use FlipKey to find the right home at the right price, with some fun extras to boot. From tiki bars to heated pools, you could get a whole lot more than beautiful views and five-star reviews when you book a rental in these hot spots—and we’re not just talking about amenities. Many of these beaches boast top-notch boardwalks and buzzworthy entertainment options so you can make the most of every minute with your squad.

Miami Beach, Florida

“Whether you’re with family or friends, you can save a considerable amount by getting a group together and staying here.” – Guest Review

When it comes to affordable group getaways, it’s not hard to make a case for Miami Beach. Thanks to our selection of dreamy waterfront estates, finding your summer beach house has never been easier. Choose from multi-bedroom villas and squad-sized suites with all the bells and whistles (think dock access and rooftop decks). Sure, it sounds extravagant—until you do the math. Split the cost with friends, and you’ll spend less on that private tropical oasis than a budget hotel room.

See all rentals in Miami Beach!

Long Beach, California

“This home was great for our large group. The location was spot-on—close to the water, without a lot of traffic to worry about.” – Guest Review

Plan a friends trip to Long Beach, and you’ll spend your vacation enjoying miles of sunny coastline and unbeatable Pacific views. One of the city’s most popular beachside neighborhoods, Belmont Shore—”the Shore” to locals—is a top spot for beach house rentals. Book a stay in this walkable area for easy access to the beach, bike paths, tennis courts, coffee shops, and a variety of trendy shops and restaurants.

See all rentals in Long Beach!

South Padre Island, Texas

“Everything that I can think of was fabulous during our group trip. We fished off the dock and caught tons of ‘keepers.’ Staying on the bay side provided calm waters and beautiful sunsets.” – Guest Review

Whoever said three’s a crowd never booked a summer beach house in South Padre Island. This resort town off the tip of Texas boasts dozens of roomy rentals, so there’s no need to choose between your friends and your personal space. With amenities like game rooms and hot tubs, you don’t have to worry about catching cabin fever, but there’s also plenty to do nearby. Go jet-skiing, parasailing, or exploring; reviewers recommend Port Isabel Lighthouse and the South Padre Island Dolphin Research & Sea Life Nature Center.

See all rentals in South Padre Island!

Santa Cruz, California

“The house was a quarter of a block from the ocean. I can’t say enough about how nice it was for us to have two indoor gas fireplaces and a stunning kitchen to cook in.” – Guest Review

Even if your crew isn’t spread out across the country, choosing a destination can be the hardest part about planning a trip with friends—especially if you each define “vacation” a little differently. Santa Cruz hits the sweet spot between big-wave adventures and lazy beach days. This coastal city is home to famous surf spots like Pleasure Point, and some summer house rentals offer boogie boards and wetsuits as amenities. Of course, if your picture of paradise involves chilling out on the shore, Santa Cruz also offers 29 miles of beaches.

See all rentals in Santa Cruz!

Wildwood, New Jersey

“We were located near the Surfside Pier at the heart of the boardwalk. The house was exactly as advertised, and we saved plenty of money by using the barbecue grill instead of going out to eat.” – Guest Review

We’re not one to play favorites, but with its pristine beaches and colorful boardwalk, Wildwood ranks among the prettiest vacation spots on the New Jersey coast. From airy condos to rambling Victorians, this time-honored resort town offers perfectly sized properties for friend groups. When you’re not spoiling your dinner with a bucket of Curley’s boardwalk fries, you’ll have all the kitchen essentials you need to make a crowd-pleasing meal for the whole crew.

See all rentals in Wildwood!

Daytona Beach, Florida

“This property was great for our large group. Bedding set-ups were very flexible, and the fact that the rental was pet-friendly was icing on the cake. The front porch was a good gathering spot.” – Guest Review

If you’re looking for a summer house near one of the most popular beaches in the country, then it’s only natural to start your search in Daytona. Dubbed “The World’s Most Famous Beach” in the 1920s, when drivers held races on the hard-packed sand, this coastal hot spot is now home to Daytona International Speedway. Other top attractions include the boardwalk, Main Street Pier, and Seabreeze Boulevard, a popular place to shop. After an afternoon of sightseeing or a lazy beach day, head back to your rental to sip mojitos on the deck.

See all rentals in Daytona Beach!

Oceanside, California

“We had about 16 people here for a girlfriends getaway, and this rental fit us (and our bags) perfectly! It was nice to have tons of places to sit and sleep. To top it off, dolphins swam by every morning!!” – Guest Review

Gather your friends and get your beach fix in Oceanside this year. Known for its laid-back vibe and beautiful weather, this gem is central to all the activities SoCal has to offer. Bike the San Luis Rey River Trail, play a round of 18 at La Costa Resort, or take a whale watching tour. Whether you book a summer beach house on the coast or a few miles away, the perks of staying in a rental add up fast. You’ll spend less by sharing the cost—not to mention the cooking duties!—which means extra cash for happy hour drinks and jet ski rentals.

See all rentals in Oceanside!

Panama City Beach, Florida

“Our stay at this house was amazing! There was more than enough room, and each floor had its own hangout area and patio.” – Guest Review

You’re traveling with a group, and everyone wants to stay together. Easier said than done, right? If you’re on the hunt for a rental with multiple bedrooms and a massive dining room table, your search ends here. Panama City Beach offers summer beach houses that tick all the boxes and then some—think private pools and sprawling balconies overlooking the Gulf. The neighborhood’s not too shabby, either; this resort city is a hidden paradise for golfers, and outdoor mall Pier Park is a short drive from the beach.

See all rentals in Panama City Beach!

Honolulu, Hawaii

“The house was near all the activities we planned: hiking up Diamond Head, swimming at Hanauma Bay, and dinner in Waikiki.” – Guest Review

What’s that? You’re in desperate need of a tropical escape? We’ve got just the thing: a summer house in Honolulu with all your favorite people. Leave the daily grind behind for an island rental near downtown or your own private cove. No matter where you stay, you’ll enjoy easy access to Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay State Park—plus an enviable variety of activities from surfing and sunbathing to snorkeling and world-class golfing.

See all rentals in Honolulu!

San Diego, California

“We went out to San Diego for a bachelor party with 15 guys and had an unbelievable trip. The house was so incredible that we didn’t go out the first night just so we could enjoy all of the amenities.” – Guest Review

San Diego offers a luxe selection of beach house rentals, from cliffside mansions to modern oceanfront villas. Multiple living areas and lots of kitchen space go a long way toward keeping the peace on a group trip, but that’s not the only reason to book a summer house here. With so many sun-kissed beach spots (including La Jolla Shores and Mission Bay), it’s easy to find somewhere surf, swim, or shop by waves.

See all rentals in San Diego!

Dewey Beach, Delaware

“My kids think this is our beach house. It is exactly what you want for your Dewey Beach vacation: charming, well-maintained, and large enough to sleep multiple families.” – Guest Review

Tucked between the Atlantic Ocean and Rehoboth Bay, Dewey Beach is a destination for classic beach eats, live music, and—you guessed it—great rentals for groups. We can give you a few good reasons to book a summer house here, starting with events like the Solstice Celebration (June 21st) and Summer Vibes Fest (August 11–20). Throw in tax-free shopping and trolley service to Rehoboth Boardwalk, and you’ve got the ingredients for a memorable trip with the girls/guys/whole gang.

See all rentals in Dewey Beach!

Redondo Beach, California

“This house is perfect for a group that wants a nice place to come back to from the beach. I would rent it again for sure.” – Guest Review

This easygoing beach town is just a few miles from the bright lights of LA, but you won’t find chaos and congestion here. If you’re looking for a place where you can walk to the grocery store and hear the waves crash at night, Redondo is the perfect spot. Enjoy the cool breeze and California sun as you catch a wave, build a sandcastle, or start up a game of beach volleyball. Keep an eye out for frequent art festivals and free concerts at the pier.

See all rentals in Redondo Beach!

Topsail Island, North Carolina

“What a great vacation! We didn’t feel like we were tripping over each other. The kitchen was a dream, and being able to sit around the table for dinner together was great.” – Guest Reviewer

This barrier island south of the Outer Banks may be one of North Carolina’s quieter beach spots, but Topsail offers a solid selection of activities for groups. From surfing at public beaches to fishing along the Intracoastal Waterway, you won’t struggle to catch some sun here. With so many group beach houses on the island, it’s easy to find a home with enough space for everyone. Better yet? Design details like floor-to-ceiling windows and cathedral ceilings make local rentals feel equal parts spacious and glamorous. Translation: your real estate wish list is about to get even longer.

See all rentals in Topsail Island!

Cannon Beach, Oregon

“Everything you need is here. We were so surprised how well-stocked the entire home is. They’ve thought of everything.” – Guest Review

Stunning views, coastline hikes, and quaint cafes make Cannon Beach a super romantic spot to rent a summer beach house. Whether you want to hunt for tide pools or hike through Ecola State Park, you’ll find a rental in Cannon with your name on it—within walking distance of the waves. Top area attractions include art galleries, outdoor concerts, and a summer farmer’s market.

See all rentals in Cannon Beach!

Isle of Palms, South Carolina

“I stayed at this home with a group of women. The common areas easily held all of us, and the access to the beach was ideal.” – Guest Review

A picture-perfect location for girlfriend getaways and bonding with the guys, Isle of Palms is located just 20 minutes from downtown Charleston. Choose from beach house rentals with oceanfront views and over-the-top amenities like industrial kitchen appliances, so no one goes hungry. Fill your vacation with charter fishing trips and walking tours in Charleston, or clear your calendar for a week of endless beach days; either way, this gorgeous spot is a win-win for everyone.

See all rentals in Isle of Palms!

This post was originally published on the TripAdvisor Rentals blog. FlipKey is a TripAdvisor company.

The post 15 Best Friendscation Spots To Rent A Summer Beach House appeared first on The FlipKey Blog.

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