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Six Reasons Why Banff, Alberta Should Be Your Next Vacation Destination

Six Reasons Why Banff, Alberta Should Be Your Next Vacation Destination

The Great White North is picturesque out and out. And one of its most pristine and beautiful locations is Banff National Park. If you’re ready to see something unique, this destination should make your list.

Planning a trip to Canada and already running out of ideas? Perhaps a trip to Banff, Alberta might be in order. A top tourist destination, it offers a bit of everything – especially activities for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.

It’s one of the finest places to visit in the winter. And for some, it’s even better in the spring or summer. Banff also lets you take some of the best wildlife photos to date. Whether you plan on traveling alone or with your family, Banff isn’t going to disappoint.

Here are some of the reasons why plenty of tourists make Banff their priority.

Reason #1 – The Scenery

Like any other unspoiled mountainous region, Banff has great scenery. But it’s a little bit more special.

The Canadian Rockies are remarkable throughout the year, with March perhaps showing them in the best light. Not only that, but the weather in the area is also advantageous, too. It’s one of the few mountain destinations that get a lot of sunlight throughout the year.

Banff is also home to Banff National Park, a World Heritage Site that spans an area of 2,555 square miles. It has everything you can expect and more in terms of fauna, geography, and wildlife.

Although the mountain range is not that high, it still offers a picturesque backdrop for all the resorts in the area.

Reason #2 – For the Lakes

Banff is not just snowy peaks, forests, and animals – there’s more to the park than that. One of the things that set it apart is the predominantly glacier-fed lakes. It elevates the scenery to a whole new level.

That’s why one of the most relaxing things to do in Banff is sightseeing. And photography, of course. You can visit any lake in the area by taking a tour or venturing off on your own. The lakes offer a great opportunity to see more wildlife.

Some companies also organize horseback rides and canoeing – two more great ways for nature lovers to get around.

Reason #3 – The Wildlife Experience

If you want to get close to moose and elk, Banff is a perfect place to do so. It’s because the varied mountain wildlife is easy to interact with. And apart from guided tours, you can also hike on your own and look for animals at your own pace.

Seeing bighorn sheep is also quite common. You’ll even find them sometimes near populated areas or on the roads. Of course, the black bear is the main attraction. It’s best to go near the lakes to spot one or more. Just keep in mind that Banff National Park is bear territory.

However, you can’t feed the wild bears or any other animals. But you can get close enough to watch them interact with the environment. And, of course, take fantastic snapshots.

Reason #4 – Dog Sled Rides

Of the many things to do in Banff, dog sledding is one of the best. Many companies around Banff National Park offer dog sledding rides. Whether for sightseeing or checking out the wildlife, this is an excellent method to get around.

The dogs you’ll encounter are native huskies. They are fast, very affectionate, and provide a unique experience to any tourist. Obviously, this activity is only available during the winter season. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t more things to do in Banff all year round.

Reason #5 – To Go Skiing

One of the main reasons to go to Banff in the winter is for the ski slopes. The area is home to some of the best slopes in the country. It’s where you can experience thrilling descents that excite even the most experienced skiers. But that doesn’t mean that there aren’t plenty of places for beginners, too.

That said, Banff is an excellent spot if you like very long descents. And the occasional half-pipes along the way.

Another reason to choose skiing in Banff is the cross-country skiing experience. Many of the trails run alongside dog sled trails. And there are even more that take you through flat woodlands. It’s easy to get distracted by the beauty of the landscape.

Of course, some avoid this by going skiing in the moonlight. That’s another common activity here. Don’t worry, the headlamps on the slopes help skiers find their way.

The scenery you see from 3,000ft. and more above sea level is fantastic. Especially given all the sun that Banff gets in winter.

Reason #6 – Winter Outdoor Swimming

Swimming outdoors in the winter is a common pastime in the region. And Banff hot springs are famous throughout the country. So if you want to do something different during your vacation, this is one of the best things to do in Banff.

Going for a swim or simply relaxing in a hot spring is beyond fun. Even more so when you have Mount Rundle as a backdrop. One of the springs is, in fact, at an elevation of 5,200ft. Now, if that doesn’t make for a fantastic view, few things will.

You can also find numerous resorts with their own swimming pools. No need to fret about the cold because you’ll find these heated outdoor swimming pools open all year round.

A Canadian Rockies Experience Like No Other

Banff, Alberta, may be all about its national park. Yet given its size and all that it offers, it’s more than enough for any visitor.

Visit Lake Louise or take a dog sled ride to see as much as you can in a short amount of time. Spot iconic local wildlife in its natural habitat and see how the animals interact. Take one of the numerous hiking trails or horseback trails to see all that Banff has to offer.

Why not do something wild and swim (heck, skinny dip) in one of the outdoor heat pools or hot springs?

Whichever way you look at it, Banff offers a complete vacation experience in any season.

Best Cities

Myrtle Beach’s Best Golf Courses: A Golfer’s Guide

When it comes to world-class golf destinations, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, stands tall as a premier choice for enthusiasts of the sport.

With over 80 golf courses to explore, this seaside paradise offers something for every golfer—from breathtaking oceanfront layouts to meticulously designed championship courses. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual player, Myrtle Beach promises a golfing experience like no other. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best golf courses in Myrtle Beach.

1. Caledonia Golf & Fish Club

Visitmyrtlebeach.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.visitmyrtlebeach.com [Accessed 10 Jan. 2025]

Nestled among centuries-old live oaks, Caledonia Golf & Fish Club is widely regarded as one of the top golf courses in Myrtle Beach. Designed by Mike Strantz, this course combines natural beauty with challenging play. From its picturesque fairways to its iconic 18th hole, Caledonia offers a memorable round for players of all skill levels.

Highlights:

Stunning Lowcountry scenery
Award-winning course design
Exceptional dining at the clubhouse

2. Barefoot Resort & Golf

Golfdigest.com. (2016). Available at: https://www.golfdigest.com [Accessed 10 Jan. 2025]

Barefoot Resort boasts four distinct courses designed by golfing legends: Greg Norman, Davis Love III, Tom Fazio, and Pete Dye. Each course offers a unique layout, ensuring an unforgettable experience every time you tee off. The resort’s attention to detail and impeccable course conditions make it a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.

Highlights:

Variety of course styles
Challenging layouts
Scenic views of the Intracoastal Waterway

3. The Dunes Golf & Beach Club

Playgolfmyrtlebeach.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.playgolfmyrtlebeach.com [Accessed 10 Jan. 2025]

As one of Myrtle Beach’s most prestigious courses, The Dunes Golf & Beach Club offers a masterful Robert Trent Jones Sr. design. This course has hosted numerous professional tournaments and features the iconic “Waterloo” hole, a par-5 with a dramatic dogleg around a lake.

Highlights:

Historic championship course
Beautiful coastal views
Exclusive membership perks

4. Tidewater Golf Club

Brightspotcdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://golf-pass.brightspotcdn.com [Accessed 10 Jan. 2025]

Often referred to as the “Pebble Beach of the East,” Tidewater Golf Club is known for its stunning marshland views and challenging play. Designed by Ken Tomlinson, this course seamlessly blends natural beauty with strategic design.

Highlights:

Panoramic views of the Intracoastal Waterway
Challenging holes for seasoned golfers
Recognized by Golf Digest as one of the “Top 100 Public Courses”

5. Kings North at Myrtle Beach National

Onthegreenmagazine.com. (2022). Available at: https://www.onthegreenmagazine.com [Accessed 10 Jan. 2025]

Designed by Arnold Palmer, Kings North is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This course is famous for its unique holes, including the “Gambler,” a par-5 featuring an island fairway that dares golfers to take a risk.

Highlights:

Signature Arnold Palmer design
Iconic risk-reward holes
Excellent course conditions year-round

Tips for Planning Your Myrtle Beach Golf Trip

To make the most of your golfing adventure, consider these tips:

Book Early: Myrtle Beach’s popularity means tee times fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Stay at a Golf Resort: Resorts often offer packages that include accommodations, tee times, and other perks.
Mix It Up: With so many courses to choose from, try playing a variety of layouts to experience the diversity of Myrtle Beach golf.
Bring the Right Gear: South Carolina’s coastal climate can be humid, so pack breathable clothing and stay hydrated.

Why Myrtle Beach Should Be Your Next Golf Destination

Myrtle Beach is a golfer’s paradise, offering an incredible array of courses that cater to all skill levels and preferences. From iconic designs to breathtaking scenery, each course delivers its own unique charm and challenges. Whether you’re planning a solo trip or a group outing, Myrtle Beach is sure to provide an unforgettable golfing experience. Pack your clubs, book your tee times, and get ready to explore the best golf courses the Grand Strand has to offer!

Tennessee

Nashville’s Historic Landmarks: A Walking Tour

Nashville, Tennessee, is known for its vibrant music scene, Southern hospitality, and rich history. While many visit for the honky-tonks and live music, the city also offers a treasure trove of historic landmarks perfect for exploration on foot. Embark on a walking tour that showcases the storied past and cultural heritage of Music City.

Starting Point: The Ryman Auditorium

Begin your tour at the iconic Ryman Auditorium, often called the “Mother Church of Country Music.” Built in 1892, this National Historic Landmark originally served as a tabernacle before becoming the home of the Grand Ole Opry. Today, it’s a revered concert venue and a must-see for history buffs and music lovers alike. Don’t forget to step inside for a self-guided tour to learn about the legends who’ve graced its stage.

Second Stop: Printer’s Alley

From the Ryman, take a short stroll to Printer’s Alley, a historic district that once housed the city’s thriving publishing industry. This narrow alleyway later became a nightlife hotspot, famous for its speakeasies during Prohibition. As you walk through, you’ll feel the echoes of its colorful past, with historic buildings and vintage signage adding to its charm.

Third Stop: The Tennessee State Capitol

Head up the hill to the Tennessee State Capitol, a stunning Greek Revival building completed in 1859. Designed by William Strickland, who is also interred in its walls, the Capitol is one of the oldest functioning capitol buildings in the U.S. Stroll through the surrounding grounds, which feature statues and monuments dedicated to Tennessee’s notable figures, including President Andrew Jackson.

Fourth Stop: Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

Adjacent to the Capitol, the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park offers a beautifully landscaped space brimming with history. Highlights include the Tennessee Map Plaza, a 200-foot granite map of the state, and the Court of 3 Stars, which honors Tennessee’s three Grand Divisions. The park also features a series of 95 carillon bells that play Tennessee-inspired songs.

Fifth Stop: The Hermitage Hotel

Just a few blocks away, step into the opulence of the Hermitage Hotel, which opened in 1910. This Beaux-Arts masterpiece has hosted presidents, celebrities, and suffragists. Its stunning lobby and renowned Art Deco men’s restroom are worth a peek. The hotel’s role in the women’s suffrage movement adds a layer of historical significance to your visit.

Sixth Stop: The Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum

Wrap up your walking tour at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum. Located in the historic Nashville Municipal Auditorium, this museum celebrates the unsung heroes behind some of the greatest recordings in music history. Exhibits include instruments, memorabilia, and interactive displays that appeal to all ages.

Bonus Stops

If you have extra time, consider venturing to:

Fort Nashborough: A reconstructed log fort that tells the story of Nashville’s early settlers.
The Johnny Cash Museum: A tribute to the Man in Black, filled with personal artifacts and exhibits.

Tips for Your Tour

Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Bring a water bottle and sunscreen, especially during warmer months.
Check the hours and ticket requirements for each landmark in advance.

Exploring Nashville on foot allows you to immerse yourself in the city’s history and charm. Whether you’re a local rediscovering your hometown or a first-time visitor, this walking tour promises a memorable journey through the heart of Music City.

Family Travel

Cabo San Lucas’ Best Whale Watching Experiences

Imagine this: the sun’s warming your skin, a salty breeze is tousling your hair, and out of nowhere—bam! A majestic humpback breaches right in front of you.

It’s one of those moments that makes you feel tiny and awestruck all at once. That’s exactly what Cabo San Lucas delivers during whale-watching season. If you’re ready for an unforgettable adventure, here’s everything you need to know about spotting these ocean giants in one of the world’s best whale-watching destinations.

Why Cabo Is the Ultimate Whale-Watching Spot

First off, let’s talk about why Cabo San Lucas is a whale-watching paradise. Every year, between December and April, thousands of whales migrate from Alaska to Baja California’s warm waters to mate and give birth. This means you’re not just likely to see whales here—you’re practically guaranteed. Think of it as the whale equivalent of a family reunion, but with way cooler moves.

From humpbacks showing off their acrobatic breaches to gray whales swimming calmly with their calves, there’s no shortage of jaw-dropping moments. Cabo’s crystal-clear waters make spotting these massive creatures even easier, whether you’re out on a boat or watching from the shore.

Top Whale-Watching Tours in Cabo

If you want front-row seats to the action, hopping on a tour is the way to go. Cabo is brimming with operators who’ll take you straight to the whales’ playground. Here are a few standout options:

1. Cabo Adventures Whale Watching

Cabo Adventures is one of the most popular operators in town, and for good reason. They use zodiac boats, which are small and fast, so you can get up close and personal with the whales (in a safe and respectful way, of course). Plus, their guides are marine biologists who dish out all kinds of fascinating whale facts.

2. Ocean Riders

This one’s for the thrill-seekers. Ocean Riders is all about speed, so you’ll zip across the water, covering more ground (er, sea?) to find the best whale hotspots. The bonus? Their tours are small and intimate, which makes the experience feel super personal.

3. Cabo Expeditions

For something a little more laid-back, Cabo Expeditions offers eco-friendly tours that focus on the natural beauty of the region. They even offer hydrophones so you can listen to the whales’ haunting songs—talk about goosebumps.

Whale Watching from Land

Don’t feel like hopping on a boat? No problem. Cabo offers plenty of land-based spots where you can see the whales doing their thing. Head to El Arco, the iconic rock formation at Land’s End, or find a cozy spot on Lover’s Beach. Both places offer killer views of the ocean, and during whale season, you’re bound to catch some action. Bring a pair of binoculars, and you’re all set.

Tips for an Epic Whale-Watching Adventure

Go Early: The whales are more active in the morning, so try to book an early tour. Bonus: the lighting is perfect for snapping some incredible photos.
Pack Smart: Sunscreen, a hat, and a lightweight jacket are must-haves. Even in sunny Cabo, it can get chilly out on the water.
Stay Patient: Whale watching is a bit of a waiting game, but trust me, the payoff is worth it.

A Whale of a Good Time

Whale watching in Cabo San Lucas isn’t just an activity—it’s an experience you’ll remember forever. Whether it’s a humpback leaping out of the water or a mama gray whale gliding by with her calf, there’s something magical about seeing these gentle giants up close. So, if you’re heading to Cabo between December and April, don’t miss your chance to catch the show. It’s nature at its finest, and you’ll have a whale of a time. (Sorry, I had to.)