Trip Ideas

New Orleans’ Haunted History: A Ghost Tour

New Orleans, the Crescent City, is renowned for its vibrant music, delectable cuisine, and unique cultural blend. But beneath the surface of jazz-filled streets and colorful balconies lies a darker, more mysterious side: a history steeped in tragedy, Voodoo, and countless restless spirits. If you’re looking for an adventure that will send shivers down your spine and ignite your imagination, a ghost tour in New Orleans is an absolute must-do!

Imagine walking through the dimly lit cobblestone streets of the French Quarter, the gas lamps casting long, dancing shadows, as a seasoned storyteller regales you with tales of centuries-old hauntings. This isn’t just about jump scares; it’s an immersive journey into the city’s past, where every building seems to hold a chilling secret.

What Makes New Orleans So Haunted?

New Orleans Street — Visittheusa.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.visittheusa.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

The city’s tumultuous history has created fertile ground for paranormal activity. From devastating fires and rampant epidemics like yellow fever to the brutal realities of slavery and violent crimes, New Orleans has witnessed its share of profound suffering. This rich, often tragic, past has left an indelible mark, and many believe the spirits of those who lived and died here still linger.

Iconic Haunted Locations You Might Encounter:

A good ghost tour will take you to some of New Orleans’ most infamous spectral hotspots. Here are a few you’re likely to hear about:

The LaLaurie Mansion — Al.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.al.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

The LaLaurie Mansion (1140 Royal Street): Perhaps the most notorious haunted house in America, this grand mansion was once home to Madame Delphine LaLaurie, a wealthy socialite infamous for her horrific cruelty towards her enslaved people in the early 19th century. The tales of torture and suffering within its walls are truly unsettling, and many claim the tormented spirits of her victims still haunt the property.

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 — Cemeterytourneworleans.com. (2025). Available at: https://cemeterytourneworleans.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1: As the oldest cemetery in New Orleans, established in 1789, it’s a labyrinth of above-ground tombs and crumbling mausoleums. It’s the final resting place of many notable figures, including the legendary Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau. Visitors often report seeing ghostly figures, hearing whispers, and feeling an eerie presence among the ornate tombs.

The Ursuline Convent — Tripadvisor.com. (2025). Available at: https://dynamic-media-cdn.tripadvisor.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

The Ursuline Convent: This imposing building, dating back to the 1750s, holds tales of mysterious deaths and sightings of ghostly nuns. It’s also famously associated with the “Casket Girls” legend – young French women who arrived with small chests, rumored to be vampires by some, though history tells a less sensational story of their belongings.

Hotel Monteleone — Phgcdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://phgcdn.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

Hotel Monteleone: This luxurious hotel has a long history and a reputation for being exceptionally haunted. Guests and staff have reported encounters with spectral children, including a young boy named Maurice who is said to roam the 14th floor, still searching for his parents.

Muriel's Jackson Square — Thevendry.com. (2025). Available at: https://thevendry.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

Muriel’s Jackson Square: This restaurant is reportedly haunted by its former owner, Pierre Antoine Lepardi Jourdan, who committed suicide upstairs after losing the property in a poker game. Diners have reported moving objects, disembodied voices, and a general feeling of being watched.

Beyond the Ghosts: A Historical Perspective

New Orleans ghost tours are more than just spooky stories; they offer a unique way to delve into the city’s complex history. You’ll learn about the origins of Voodoo in New Orleans, the impact of significant historical events, and the lives of the colorful, and often tragic, characters who shaped this remarkable city. The guides are often captivating storytellers, blending historical facts with local legends to create an unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, a New Orleans ghost tour promises an evening of intrigue, history, and a touch of the supernatural. It’s a chance to see the city in a different light, to feel the echoes of its past, and perhaps, to even encounter a friendly (or not-so-friendly) spirit.

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Oceanside’s Farm-to-Table Dining: A Foodie’s Guide

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Myrtle Beach’s Family-Friendly Fun: A Parent’s Guide

Oceanside

Oceanside’s Farm-to-Table Dining: A Foodie’s Guide

If you’ve ever dreamed of devouring a just-plucked salad while staring at the Pacific, then buckle up, buttercup—Oceanside farm-to-table dining is calling your name.

Tucked between sun-soaked beaches and rolling inland hills, this Southern California gem has quietly grown into a haven for food lovers who like their meals local, their chefs bold, and their plates—well, Instagram-ready.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just someone who really really likes brunch, Oceanside farm-to-table dining offers more than sea views. We’re talking heirloom tomatoes kissed by morning fog, craft cocktails that double as magic tricks, and chefs who are basically artists with aprons. Here’s your ultimate guide to getting fed, farm-fresh style.

What Is Oceanside Farm-to-Table Dining, Really?

Let’s clear the table for a sec. Farm-to-table isn’t just some trendy buzzword chefs slap on menus to sound eco-chic. At its core, it means sourcing ingredients locally—often directly from farms—and serving them up with minimal processing and maximum flavor. In Oceanside, this goes beyond just taste. It’s a philosophy. A lifestyle. Dare we say… a movement?

And the best part? You’re supporting local growers, reducing your carbon footprint, and probably tasting the juiciest strawberry of your life. Win-win-win.

Best Oceanside Farm-to-Table Restaurants You Need to Try

1. The Plot

Facade of The Plot restaurant in Oceanside, CA. — Visitoceanside.org. (2025). Available at: https://visitoceanside.org/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

This zero-waste, plant-based spot is straight-up revolutionary. Their ingredients come from their own nearby farm, and the dishes? Think beet poke, jackfruit tacos, and other delicious curveballs that even die-hard carnivores can’t resist. Oh, and they compost everything. If guilt-free indulgence had a home address, this would be it.

2. Dija Mara

A group of people eating at Dija Mara restaurant in Oceanside CA. — Visitoceanside.org. (2025). Available at: https://visitoceanside.org/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

Farm-to-table meets Southeast Asian street food in a vibe-heavy spot that’s as edgy as it is flavorful. The grilled octopus is legendary, and if you skip the charred broccolini, you’re doing it wrong. The chef draws heavily from local produce, giving traditional Balinese flavors a SoCal twist. It’s bold, it’s funky, and it absolutely slaps.

3. Piper at The Seabird Resort

Menu at Piper restaurant in Oceanside, CA. — Theseabirdresort.com. (2025). Available at: https://theseabirdresort.com/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

Piper doesn’t mess around. Set inside a dreamy oceanside resort, this airy spot serves up locally-sourced everything—from the eggs in your shakshuka to the basil in your spritz. It’s coastal chic meets farmers market brunch, with a pastry chef who deserves a standing ovation. Try the house-made granola, and prepare to get hooked.

4. Wrench & Rodent Seabasstropub

Wrench & Rodent Seabasstropub. Oceanside farm-to-table dining. — Squarespace-cdn.com. (2022). Available at: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

Don’t let the name throw you. This place is an Oceanside staple, known for its punk-rock approach to sushi and unwavering dedication to sustainability. Chef Davin Waite works with local fishermen and farms to craft rolls that are inventive, wild, and weirdly poetic. Like a sea urchin haiku with a wasabi kick.

Markets & Makers: Take the Experience Home

Oceanside’s Downtown Farmers Market. Oceanside farm-to-table dining.

Don’t just eat it—live it. Oceanside’s Downtown Farmers Market is held every Thursday and is your golden ticket to the freshest produce, local honey, and homemade everything. Chat up the farmers. Sample the stone fruit. Grab some sourdough that might change your life. It’s laid-back, lively, and just the right amount of chaotic.

While you’re at it, check out Cyclops Farms, a certified organic urban farm that supplies many of Oceanside’s restaurants. They host events, dinners, and even let you pick your own produce. Warning: you might leave with a crate of kale and a deep desire to start gardening.

Final Bites: Why Oceanside’s Food Scene Hits Different

Let’s be honest—farm-to-table is often tossed around in cities that feel more like curated museum exhibits than real, lived-in communities. But Oceanside? It’s gritty, it’s growing, and it’s got soul. The chefs here aren’t following trends; they’re setting them. The food isn’t pretentious; it’s passionate. And every bite tells a story that started just down the road.

So, next time you find yourself in this coastal corner of California, come hungry—and maybe wear pants with an elastic waistband. You’re gonna need it.

Planning Your Visit?
Make sure to check restaurant hours, reserve ahead if you can, and leave room in your suitcase for jam jars and handmade pasta. This isn’t just a dining experience—it’s a full-on flavor adventure.

Dig in.

South Carolina

Myrtle Beach’s Family-Friendly Fun: A Parent’s Guide

People Enjoying The Beach at Myrtle Beach, SC

Alright, parents—let’s be real for a second. Planning a family vacation can feel like trying to juggle flaming beach balls while balancing on a boogie board.

You want fun, but not too wild. You want the kids entertained, but also a little downtime for yourself (because, let’s face it, you deserve it). Enter: Myrtle Beach. This sunny South Carolina gem is more than just surf and sand—though the 60 miles of coastline sure don’t hurt.

Myrtle Beach is packed with family-friendly adventures, delicious eats, and just enough chaos to keep the kids happy without driving you totally bonkers. Let’s dive into all the stuff that makes Myrtle Beach a no-brainer for your next family getaway.

Hit the Beach—Obviously

Kids at the beach. — Visitmyrtlebeach.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.visitmyrtlebeach.com/[Accessed 13 Jun. 2025].

First things first, the beach itself is a total win. Soft sand, gentle waves, and plenty of room to spread out. Whether your little ones are building the world’s most crooked sandcastle or you’ve got teens perfecting their skimboarding skills, there’s something for everyone.

Pro tip: Head out early to snag a good spot and avoid that midday meltdown (you know the one). Pack snacks, sunscreen, and a beach umbrella you won’t wrestle with for 20 minutes.

Broadway at the Beach: Where It All Happens

Aerial View of Broadway at the Beach — Paradiseresortmb.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.paradiseresortmb.com [Accessed 13 Jun. 2025].

If your crew’s got energy to burn, Broadway at the Beach is the place to go. This buzzing entertainment district is basically a playground—for all ages. You’ll find everything from Ripley’s Aquarium (yes, the jellyfish tunnel is awesome) to amusement rides, shops, and quirky little snack stands.

Let the kids feed the fish, grab an ice cream, then wind down with a breezy boat ride around the lake. It’s kind of impossible not to have fun here.

SkyWheel Rides and Ocean Views

View of the Skywheel Myrtle Beach. — Skywheelmb.com. (2025). Available at: https://skywheelmb.com/ [Accessed 13 Jun. 2025].

Feeling brave? Take the fam up on the SkyWheel, Myrtle Beach’s iconic Ferris wheel that towers 200 feet above the ocean. The views are next-level, and it’s surprisingly chill—even if you’re a little scared of heights (speaking from experience here).

And hey, it makes for a killer family selfie backdrop, so make sure someone brings their phone—or three.

Mini Golf: Battle for the Family Title

A family at a mini golf course. — Squarespace-cdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/ [Accessed 13 Jun. 2025].

You can’t come to Myrtle Beach and not play mini golf. Seriously, it’s like a rite of passage here. The town is packed with wild, themed courses—think pirates, dinosaurs, and even jungle safaris.

Our favorite? Mt. Atlanticus. It’s got towering tiki heads, tricky holes, and views that make you feel like you’ve leveled up in vacation mode. Plus, a little friendly family competition never hurt anyone (just try not to gloat when you win).

The Great Food Hunt (For Picky and Adventurous Eaters)

Myrtle Beach Food Truck. — Squarespace-cdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/ [Accessed 13 Jun. 2025].

Finding food that works for everyone can be, well, a bit of a circus. But Myrtle Beach makes it easier. Got a kid who only eats chicken tenders? You’re covered. Want to sneak in some fresh seafood for the grown-ups? There are tons of beachside spots that hit both.

Try Sea Captain’s House for ocean views and shrimp-and-grits that’ll knock your flip-flops off. Or go casual with River City Cafe, where burgers come stacked and messy—just the way kids love ’em. And if you’re out exploring and need a quick bite, keep an eye out for local food trucks—you’ll find everything from tacos to gourmet grilled cheese, perfect for a laid-back beach day.

Chill Time: Parks, Piers, and Sunsets

Myrtle Beach Pier — Reddit. (2025). Available at: https://www.reddit.com/ [Accessed 13 Jun. 2025].

When the high-energy activities start catching up to everyone, it’s time to slow things down. Take a sunset stroll along Myrtle Beach State Park, let the kids run wild on the playgrounds, or drop a line off the 2nd Avenue Pier.

It’s the kind of low-key magic that reminds you why family trips are worth every snack spill and sunscreen tantrum.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, Myrtle Beach hits that sweet spot between laid-back and full-on fun. It’s got just enough of everything—a beach for the bucket lists, attractions that make memories, and food you’ll dream about long after you’re home.

So pack the car, wrangle the crew, and set your GPS to good times. Myrtle Beach is waiting, and trust me, it’s one trip you’ll want to repeat.

Ready to plan your Myrtle Beach adventure? Book early, build that itinerary, and get ready for a family vacation that hits all the right notes—without hitting your stress limit.

Punta Cana

Beach Bliss in Punta Cana: Top All-Inclusive Resorts

Punta Cana, with its endless stretches of powdery white sand, swaying palm trees, and turquoise waters, is the quintessential Caribbean escape. And what better way to experience this slice of paradise than with the ease and luxury of an all-inclusive resort? From romantic adults-only havens to fun-filled family adventures, Punta Cana offers a resort for every type of traveler.

If you’re dreaming of a hassle-free vacation where your every whim is catered to, look no further. We’ve rounded up some of the top all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana, designed to deliver unforgettable beach bliss.

For the Romantic Escape: Adults-Only Serenity

Couples seeking tranquility and romance will find their perfect match in Punta Cana’s adults-only resorts. Imagine candlelit dinners by the sea, relaxing spa treatments, and uninterrupted moments with your loved one.

Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa: Tucked away in the exclusive Cap Cana enclave, this resort promises opulent luxury with Unlimited-Luxury® inclusions. Think gourmet dining, endless top-shelf spirits, and impeccable service, all set against a backdrop of pristine beaches.
Excellence Punta Cana: Known for its refreshing child-free ambiance, this resort in northern Punta Cana offers a myriad of dining and drinking options. Indulge in poolside and beachfront wait service, and consider a couples’ spa day in an ocean-view massage cabana.
Meliá Punta Cana Beach Wellness Inclusive – Adults Only: For those seeking a holistic approach to relaxation, this resort offers a unique wellness concept designed to rejuvenate body and mind. Enjoy upscale accommodations, diverse restaurants, and a serene spa.
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana: Located on the stunning Juanillo Beach, this five-star adults-only resort boasts an impressive array of amenities, including a swimmable beach, multiple pools, and world-class dining.

For the Ultimate Family Fun: Adventures for All Ages

Punta Cana also shines as a fantastic destination for families. Many all-inclusive resorts here go above and beyond to provide entertainment and activities for kids of all ages, ensuring parents can relax while the little ones have a blast.

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana: If your kids are fans of SpongeBob or Paw Patrol, this playful, all-inclusive resort is a dream come true. With character breakfasts, slime parties, and the huge Aqua Nick water park, it’s non-stop fun for the whole family.
Barceló Bávaro Palace: This sprawling beachfront resort is a family favorite, offering a private beach, a golf course, and a casino. Kids will love the children’s pool, kids’ club, playground, arcade, and even a bowling alley!
Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana: One of Punta Cana’s newer family resorts, Dreams Macao boasts a fantastic water park with slides, a lazy river, and splash pads, all set on a swimmable beach. Spacious family suites ensure comfort for everyone.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana: This mega-resort brings the energetic Hard Rock vibe with a plethora of family-friendly amenities. Featuring 13 pools, waterslides, a kids’ club, an arcade, bowling alley, mini-golf, and even a FlowRider, boredom is simply not an option.

For the Thrill-Seekers: Resorts with Epic Water Parks

Want to make a splash? Several Punta Cana resorts are renowned for their incredible on-site water parks, promising exhilarating fun for guests of all ages.

Royalton Splash Punta Cana, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort & Casino: Home to one of the largest water parks in the Caribbean, Royalton Splash offers towering slides, a wave pool, and splash zones, making it a paradise for water lovers.
Grand Sirenis Punta Cana Resort & Aquagames: Located on the beautiful Uvero Alto Beach, this resort features a fantastic water park with a variety of slides and attractions suitable for families.
Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino: Their “Splash Island” water park spans an impressive 1,500m², with palm trees, marine life, and a mix of gentle fun for little ones and thrilling elevated slides for the adventurous.

Read More: Hidden Gems in Orlando

Planning Your Punta Cana Escape

When choosing your all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana, consider what’s most important to you:

Travel companions: Are you looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly adventure?
Desired atmosphere: Do you prefer a lively, energetic resort or a more serene and relaxed environment?
Specific amenities: Are water parks, golf courses, or extensive spa facilities a priority?

No matter what your ideal beach vacation looks like, Punta Cana’s all-inclusive resorts are ready to deliver an unforgettable experience. Pack your swimsuits, leave your worries behind, and get ready for some true beach bliss!