5 top dream destinations to escape in fall
Photo, viewingmalta.com
Dream destinations for fall
St. Petersburg, Florida
Let go of your preconceived notions about St. Petersburg, Florida. This corner of the Sunshine State is no longer a destination dominated by senior travellers. Enticing restaurants, the cutting edge Salvador Dali Museum, and a flourishing craft beer scene are injecting a young, trendy vibe into the city. “There is a shift happening in St. Petersburg, and a younger generation is moving into the area,” says Allison Wallace, director of media relations and communications for Flight Centre Canada. The city’s youth movement signals the arrival of happening beer gardens, revitalized heritage buildings, and a redeveloped waterfront. “Visit 3 Daughters Brewing, a craft beer establishment that offers tours, tastings and life-sized games (think Jenga, ping pong, darts, etc),” says Wallace. And don’t forget to top up your summer tan with a relaxing spell on one of St. Petersburg’s famous sandy beaches.
Malta
Beach lovers, and history buffs will be smitten with an autumn getaway to Malta. Nestled in the Mediterranean Sea — only 93 kilometres south of Italy — Malta sees warm temperatures and an abundance of sunshine making it the ideal respite for an extended summer break. “Malta’s got that beautiful balance where you can get your historical fix, as well as your beach fix,” says Wallace. Be sure to visit the city of Valletta where you can marvel at grand Baroque palaces, and breathtaking Renaissance buildings as you wind your way through the narrow streets of this UNESCO heritage site. Wallace recommends a visit to the Casa Rocco Piccola, a privately owned 16th century palace that conceals a network of intriguing underground tunnels.
Perth, Australia
No longer in the shadows of Sydney, Perth is becoming the go-to destination for inventive restaurants, fine regional wines, hip boutiques, and a thriving west coast beach scene. Celebrated as the sunniest city in Australia, Perth’s Mediterranean-style warmth makes the area a year-round haven for sun worshippers, urban explorers, and fans of unique dining experiences. “Our Aussie employees recommend the Print Hall, a multi-level dining/bar establishment in an old heritage newspaper house,” says Wallace. For wine aficionados and nature lovers, your oasis awaits just two hours outside of Perth. “The Margaret River wine region is getting a lot of world recognition,” says Wallace. Visitors can indulge in wine tastings, food pairings, and boutique breweries, while outdoor adventurers can discover ancient caves, breathtaking trails, and whale watching in a region famous for its 12,000+ species of wild flower.
The Maldives
If an extravagant, yet relaxed beach holiday tops your to-do list this autumn, head to the Maldives. “It feels luxurious,” says Wallace. “The Maldives is becoming more affordable, and is a popular honeymoon destination.” Situated just north of the equator in the Indian Ocean, this nation consists of over 1,000 mostly uninhabited islands. Grab a cocktail and enjoy the warm breezes rustling through majestic palm trees along the extensive sandy beaches. Go diving in the clear, refreshing waters and swim beside colourful fish and coral reef formations. To pamper yourself, book a stay at the opulent Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. Awarded a place on Condé Nast Traveler’s 2013 Gold List of the Best 100 Hotels in the World, the Conrad Maldives offers beach and water villas, 11 gourmet eateries including the world’s first all-glass undersea restaurant, spa services, and an open-air cinema.
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Here’s a bucket list travel destination that won’t disappoint. Formed through centuries of volcanic eruptions, the 19 Galapagos Islands sit 1,000 km off the coast of Ecuador, and are protected by UNESCO as a world heritage park. The islands remote Pacific Ocean location has created a unique and unusual eco-system that’s home to giant tortoises, land iguanas, Darwin finches, fluorescent seahorses, manta rays, and tropical fish — species that you’ll only find here. “The Galapagos Islands are a magical place,” says Wallace. “The animals are within feet of you. The lizards are like little dinosaurs, so there’s a prehistoric feel.” The best way to visit the Galapagos Islands is with an experienced tour company. “I went with G Adventures, and did the land tour. My expectations were exceeded,” says Wallace. Go snorkeling, biking, and hiking in this once-in-a-lifetime wonderland.
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