John Morrison

Base in Funchal (the capital, where most stay), and consider the sunnier southwest (Calheta) or the wild north for nature.

Base in Banff townsite or Lake Louise inside the national park; Canmore, just outside the gate, is more affordable.

Most trips run Amman → Petra → Wadi Rum → Dead Sea, basing a night or two in each.

First-timers should stay in El Poblado (upscale, walkable, the best dining and nightlife) or Laureles for a more local, leafy feel and better value.

First-timers should stay in the Walled City (Centro Histórico) for colonial romance, or Getsemaní next door for street art, nightlife and better value. Bocagrande is the modern beach-hotel strip.

First-timers should stay in the Old City for the temples, moat and markets, or Nimmanhaemin (Nimman) for cafes, nightlife and a modern feel.

Is Japan Expensive? An Honest 2026 Cost Breakdown

The Cheapest Time to Book Flights (2026)

Base in Tirana (the capital) and the Riviera (Saranda/Ksamil) for beaches; add Berat and Gjirokastër for Ottoman old towns.

The New Seven Wonders of the World: the Great Wall, Petra, Christ the Redeemer, Machu Picchu, Chichen Itza, the Colosseum and the Taj Mahal, and how to visit each.