One thing that we frequently hear from readers, friends and family members is amazement that we’re able to travel as much as we do. It may seem like we’re always going somewhere…and usually we are. One way we’re able to travel so much is through strategic use of our very limited vacation time. Like most Americans, we have a limited 2-3 weeks (10-15 days) per year. That means we need to be really smart in how we use our time.
One way we’re able to make the most of our limited vacation time is through weekend getaways. These two- to four-day breaks give us the chance to see the “best of” a destination in a short amount of time. The articles in our weekend getaway section are the best of these experiences. This is how we make the most out of a limited amount of vacation time and still see the world.
Mount Airy, North Carolina–affectionately known as Mayberry–was Andy Griffith’s hometown and the inspiration for the setting of The Andy Griffith Show. This charming town offers good eats, excitement in the great outdoors, and unexpected history lessons, with a bit of moonshine thrown in.
Over 25 years ago at summer camp, I met a young woman from Bath. She told me stories about a beautiful town in the west of England that had hot springs and looked like it was right out of a movie set. It turns out she wasn’t lying.
The beauty of Lubeck, Germany, is complemented by divine food, great shopping, and a proud history still visible across the city today. With so much to offer, this northern German city is not to be missed, even if you’re short on time.
Despite its proximity to big cities, Fredericksburg, Texas, is popular because it maintains a small town feel while having so many things to see and do. From wine tasting to taking in the local history, you’ll never be bored in Fredericksburg.
Tirana, Albania isn’t at the top of most travelers’ lists. Even in Europe, it has a rather checkered reputation. But we found the Albanian capital city to be a fun and lively place.
Provence has something for just about everyone.
Gettysburg is one of our favorite places on the East Coast. Popular for history, its attractive downtown, and excellent restaurants and bars, there are plenty of great things to do in Gettysburg.
Luxembourg is one of Europe’s smallest countries. Despite its prime location between Belgium, Germany, and France, it sometimes gets overlooked in favor of its bigger neighbors.
Ghent may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think about traveling to Europe, and that may be one of the top reasons to go.
Saratoga Springs is a city filled with music. It has fabulous parks, amazing food, and an overall joie de vivre.