Dubai is an insane city. Honestly there’s really nothing like it. It’s a city of superlatives – biggest mall, tallest building, largest water show, biggest floral structure, you name it and Dubai probably holds the record for it.

Up until this trip, we had only thought of Dubai as a layover stop, and didn’t really have it on our radar or bucket list. However, we ended up really enjoying our time there and think you will too!

Burj Khalifa is the tallest structure & building in the world, standing at a massive 160 stories tall! You can’t miss this crazy futuristic (gigantic!) building in Dubai’s skyline and when you’re at the observation deck the other skyscrapers look like ants. The elevator goes a crazy 2 floors per second and going up is definitely a must do in Dubai.

View from the top of the Burj Khalifa

Tips for visiting Burj Khalifa:

• Buy tickets online a day or two in advance to make sure you can get a ticket
• Expect lines & make sure you bring your patience with you. Even with buying tickets in advance you should expect to spend 3 hours here, accounting for almost 2 of those to be waiting in line to go up/down the elevator.
• You enter to go up on the LG floor of the Dubai Mall
• We went to the 124th/125th floor and don’t think it’d be worth the extra money to go any higher
• There are prime and non-prime hours. It cost us $40 USD per person during non-prime hours (8:30 am – 2:30 pm, 7pm to close). It costs almost double to go during prime hours (3 – 6:30 pm).

We never thought we’d put a mall on one of our “Top Things To Do” lists, but here we are! Dubai Mall is world’s largest mall and it’s truly a site to see.

Pretty much any brand you can think of is represented, and inside they have crazy attractions like a full aquarium and huge ice rink! There’s even a full grocery store inside it. You could get lost in this mall for hours, so it’s a great option for some of those super hot days in Dubai!

The Dubai Fountains are the world’s largest choreographed fountains and they even put the Bellagio ones in Vegas to shame. Seriously we had no idea a short water show could blow us away.

The fountains are located right outside the Dubai Mall next to Burj Khalifa. The shows are every half hour from 6 pm – 11 pm, as well as Saturday – Thursday 1 pm & 1:30, Fridays at 1:30 & 2.

Tip: They are extremely timely and you definitely want a front row seat, so try to get there at least 10 – 15 minutes before a showtime to secure your viewing spot. We’d recommend one shortly after sunset because with the city lights and Burj Khalifa lit up, it’s truly magical.

This whimsical garden is like nothing we’d ever seen before. It’s an explosion of color with over 150 MILLION flowers arranged in a myriad of arches & shapes, our favorites being the giant Disney characters and the heart shaped arches.

Dubai Miracle Garden is also home to World’s Largest Floral Structure, which is an entire Emirates Airbus A380 plane made out of flowers.

You can visit this gorgeous wonderland from mid-November to mid-May each year, and it costs about $14 USD for admission #worthit.

Jumeirah Mosque was probably our favorite experience in Dubai. It is one out of only 2 mosques in Dubai (that is home to 1500+) that allow non-Muslims to visit, and we were so grateful for the experience!

Every day (except Friday) you can take a 75 min tour of the Mosque at 10 am or 2 pm. The guide shows you around the mosque and then gives you a very nice overview of the Islam religion. There is even a part where they teach you exactly what they’re doing when they pray, and what all the movements mean. They also include local sweets and tea for refreshments.

After the presentation ends they hold a completely open Q&A where you are free and empowered to ask any question you have about the Islam religion. It sparked such a healthy curiosity and dialogue, and was such a mind-opening experience!

This whole experience cost less than $7 USD per person, and was absolutely worth it! It’s one that will stick with us for a long time.

Note: you should dress modestly (covering knees and shoulders), but they will provide both men & women official attire before entering the mosque. Men get the long white dress and women get an abaya gown and headscarf.

The grand nature and opulence of everything in Downtown Dubai in contrast to the souks of Old Dubai is really something else. It’s definitely something you need to see to understand the evolution of Dubai over recent years.

When you’re in Old Dubai make sure you walk through the Spice Souq & the Gold Souq. Don’t be surprised if the vendors have funny names for you – they called us “Shakira” and “Body Builder.”

After seeing the souqs, take an Abra (wodden boat) across Dubai creek. It costs about a quarter in USD and is really fun! It is also the best way to get between the 2 sides of Old Dubai. On the other side you’ll find the Dubai Musuem & Al Fahidi Fort, too.

Walking along the boardwalk of Marina Beach is a really nice way to spend the morning. This beach is home to many of the major hotel chains, and has so many activities – outdoor fitness clubs, huge playgrounds, food and coffee vendors, and more! We got dropped off at the Sheraton and started our walk from there.

Once the beach cuts off, you can stroll one street up by the Jumeirah Beach Residences. These are some of the most expensive apartments in Dubai which is really saying something! On this street you’ll find restaurants, cafes and cute shops.

If you’re up to it, from there you can walk to the Dubai Marina. It’s not necessarily a scenic walk (it’s along a highway amidst a bunch of construction) but it’s flat and seemed easier than catching a cab or bus.

In Dubai Marina you can find tons of impressive yachts to fawn over, and insane waterfront skyscrapers. If you were in any other city, the Dubai Marina skyline would be considered the downtown! It’s a nice area to walk around, and is also right by a tram station.

There is a nice monorail that goes straight through the “stem” of the Palm Islands, a series of manmade islands shaped like a Palm Tree. The monorail is a fun way to see the islands because you get a good vantage to see the leaf cut outs! It costs $8 USD for a round trip ticket on the monorail.

The last stop on the monorail is the “Atlantis, The Palm” resort which is home to Aquaventure waterpark & The Lost Chambers aquarium, both very popular attractions.

Note: don’t go here when you’re hungry unless you’re ready to fork over some major cash! We’d heard there were food trucks on the boardwalk outside the Atlantis but those have since been shut down.

This was one of our favorite spots in Dubai. It’s also a killer photo spot since the beach overlooks the Burj Al Arab, the sailboat hotel, which is the world’s only (self proclaimed) 7 star hotel.

For having such great views it really didn’t feel tourist-ridden, and was a very peaceful way to enjoy a great sunset!

Abu Dhabi is home to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which is the largest mosque in the country and a definite must see! This stunning white marble mosque has so much attention to detail and is even home to the largest rug in the world AND largest chandelier in the world!

This beautiful place of worship took 11 years to build, cost a hefty $550M USD and has the capacity to fit 40,000 worshippers at a time.

• The mosque opens at 9 am and fills up super quickly. We had no lines at 9 am but by 10 the lines were nuts!
• The mosque is completely FREE!
• You can see everything in about 45 minutes + picture time & however long your time in line is
• The entrance looks like a dome across the parking lot from the mosque, and you walk underground to the mosque after security

• There is a strict dress code for both men & women. Men must wear covered shoulders and pants to the ankle. Women must wear loose fitting clothing that is long sleeves and long pants, with hair covered. Note: they provide abayas (the full coverage dresses) for women at the entrance free of charge & they come in 3 colors. You can wear open toed or closed toed shoes.
• Men & women are not permitted to take pictures together
• They don’t let visitors walk around the center of the mosque, so for you fellow #doitforthegram folks, it’s actually possible to get good shots even when it’s crowded. Note: you can’t back-track, so make sure you take photos as you go!

Overall, visiting Abu Dhabi is an absolute must! This capital city definitely feels different from Dubai and it’s definitely more calm and traditional. We actually spent a night in Abu Dhabi, but we could’ve easily done everything in a day trip.

Cornish Beach is definitely a must see in Abu Dhabi. It’s a beautiful beach with a fun boardwalk that offers food trucks, parks and beachside skyline views.

Emirates Palace is an opulent hotel in Abu Dhabi and definitely worth checking out. Personally we found the outside to be more impressive than the inside, but that’s just our opinion.

Do note, there is a strict dress code at Emirates Palace! They will not allow you in if you’re wearing shorts, tanks or flip flops.

Our ideal Abu Dhabi day trip itinerary would look like:

• Take an early bus from Dubai (details below)
• 9 am: arrive at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
• Lunch: head to Cornish Beach and enjoy the beach, boardwalk & food trucks
• Afternoon/evening: take a nice walk from Cornish Beach to Emirates Palace – try to catch this place around sunset as it is super magical watching it light up!
• Later evening: after grabbing a quick bite, head back to the bus station and take the bus back to Dubai!

This place is in Old Dubai in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, which is on the side opposite the Spice Souq. It’s super cute with lace curtains, colorful benches and wicker chairs. It’s charm really takes you back to what Dubai was before the skyscrapers.

And the food here is even more incredible than the atmosphere! This tea house was definitely our favorite restaurant during our time there.

Circle Cafe is located in the medical center district of Dubai. This cute cafe has a menu full of vegetarian-friendly healthy options, but also serves meat. And on Fridays & Saturdays they have all-you-can-eat brunch for $15 USD – definitely a steal in this city!

You think we’re joking recommending a food court, but as we said – this mall will surprise you! There are dozens, if not hundreds, of food options to choose from at the food courts in Dubai Mall. They’re all decently affordable and everything we tried was very tasty!

Yep, THE Magnolia Bakery from New York City is also in the Dubai Mall. It’s on the LG level inside Bloomingdales Home Store and serves the famous banana pudding we know and love!

Honestly, after a long day of adventures we always want to try local foods but are sometimes too exhausted to go find a restaurant (especially if there’s not a lot in walking distance).

Luckily in Dubai they have tons of the delivery services we all know and love (Uber Eats/Deliveroo/Zomato/Careem Now/etc.), so this allowed us to have amazing local restaurants in the comfort of our hotel room.

Pro tip: Careem Now gives you 50% off your first order which makes this pretty dirt cheap. If you’re traveling with a partner or group, take turns downloading the app and ordering and you’ll have 50% off the whole time!

4 days is plenty to see both Dubai & Abu Dhabi. We were originally supposed to have only 2 days in Dubai and 2 days in Abu Dhabi, but ended up with 6 total days. There was ample to do to fill our time but we think 4 days would be the perfect amount of time to adequately see both of these cities.

Uber and Careem (another app similar to Uber but a bit cheaper) were the best options for transportation in Dubai.

Honestly, transportation is Dubai is a little tough, especially on a budget, since everything is so spread out. It isn’t a very walking-friendly, either, which is usually our go-to method of transport.

There is a bus system and a metro, though the metro only has 2 lines. Since it’s so spread out, if your hotel or destination is not on the metro line directions for public transit will often be 5x as long as driving and say “bus to metro to other metro to bus,” which isn’t really something we’re up for.

The best budget option (without going stir-crazy) would probably be to Uber or Careem to the metro line and then take the metro if your destination is close to a stop!

Over by Dubai Marina and Marina Beach there is a tram you can take that was pretty simple and to get to the Palm Islands there is a nice Monorail!

The public bus from Dubai is the best way to get to Abu Dhabi. It takes 2 hours, runs every 20 minutes and costs $7 – $8 USD per person. You can buy tickets at the ticket counter at the bus stop.

The busses run from 4:30 AM to 12:05 AM, so you can definitely use the bus for a day trip to Abu Dhabi.

We just took a Careem to the bus stop and the whole thing was super seamless! Also, they’re coach buses so they have a place for your luggage underneath, very comfortable seats & A/C.

Note: the busses don’t have bathrooms – so use the one at the station before you get on!

November to April is the best time to visit Dubai. It is super hot there – even in February, the dead of their winter – so we can’t even imagine what it would be like in the Summer!

Dress conservatively. Generally women should wear shirts that cover your shoulders and skirts/pants that cover your knees. If you plan to visit a mosque, women must wear loose fitting clothing and cover their legs, arms & head, so be sure to plan ahead. Men must cover their knees and shoulders at the mosques.

UAE is an Islamic country, and though Dubai is very modern and is sometimes compared to Vegas, it’s important to be respectful in the way you dress.

• The currency is dirhams (AED)
• Dubai is not a very budget-friendly place, though you can definitely make it work!
• Men and women are not supposed to show affection in public towards one another. No hugging or kissing, and even holding hands is only permitted for married couples. Make sure to be respectful when you’re trying to take couple’s pics or even just walking around town. Even if you see other’s doing it, it doesn’t mean it’s not culturally insensitive.
• UAE is an Islamic country, so you’ll here the call to prayer everywhere 5x a day. There are also interesting cultural things to note like having separate mens and women’s ticket lines at the bus station & if a grocer sells pork it’s in its own section since it is forbidden for Muslims.
• Friday is their holy day, so many things are closed or have different hours. Friday and Saturday are their weekends, and Sun – Thurs is the work week.
• You don’t need a tourist visa
• UAE doesn’t require any special pills or vaccinations to visit
• For pictures, most of our shots we didn’t have to wake up at the crack of dawn to get a good one at sunrise like we often do in tourist-ridden places. (Hallelujah!)
• Know what terminal your flight is leaving out of! Dubai airport is unlike an other airport and if you go to the wrong terminal, the only way to get to the other terminal is a 20 minute, $22 Taxi!

Happy Traveling!

Kylie & Scott

(Want to know more? Comment below! And make sure to follow along on Instagram @LoveHardTravelOften)

If you’re wondering how to visit Antarctica, you’ve come to the right place! While it may be daunting to plan a trip to the end of the world (heck, we had no clue where to start!), we’re here to help. We just returned from the most life-changing trip there and we’re sharing all the details on how you can too!

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Okay, here’s everything you need to know to visit Antarctica!

Antarctica was our 7th continent and 52nd country and we can wholeheartedly say there is no place like it. There is a beauty and a serenity about it that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. The landscapes are overwhelming and legitimately left us speechless. Watching the wildlife in their natural habitats is beyond mesmerizing – the whales rolling around with their friends, curious seals swimming up to the boat, penguins hopping and swimming.. it’s magical.

There were so many times we had to pinch ourselves to believe this experience was really happening. So why Antarctica? Because it will change you, in the best way, and show you the beauty of this world in a whole new light. This experience is once in a lifetime and you’ll never want it to end.

Yes! Starting in the 1960’s Antarctica started welcoming tourists via the sea and nowadays tourists can visit by boat or by plane. Under the Antarctic Treaty tour companies must have a permit to land in Antarctica.

No, you cannot visit Antarctica without a tour group. I know I know, we aren’t necessarily tour people either, but hear me out. This is not your standard tour or cruise. There are so many logistics of how to safely visit the 7th continent, and there is SO much to learn from the guides. Each guide has a specialty (be it photography, marine biology, ecosystems, you name it) and experiencing this place with their expertise makes it 100x better. We never felt like we were just being herded from place to place like a tour through Rome, thank goodness. AND the people that go to Antarctica have some pretty darn cool stories, so we loved getting to know our shipmates from around the world!

Our Quark Expeditions cruise ship

Above all else, choose an ETHICAL company who is committed to sustainability and keeping this unique part of the world pristine. That was one of the main reasons we chose to use Quark Expeditions. Not only were they professional & logistically savvy, but it was so clear they cared about the ecosystems and environment we were experiencing together.

In 1991 the International Association of Antarctic Tourism Operators (IAATO) was founded to “advocate and promote the practice of safe and environmentally responsible private-sector travel to the Antarctic“. These days over 100 tour companies are a part of this, but some still aren’t. So make sure to choose one who has these values!

Another aspect to take into consideration is the size of the ship and the number of passengers. Since 2009 Antarctica does not allow ships to land that carry more than 500 passengers, which means if you go on a big ship you won’t be able to actually walk onto Antarctica. Another rule is that only 100 people can be on land at a time. So for us on a ship of 199 people that meant two waves of people which was no biggy since we’d just take turns going on zodiac cruises and being on shore. Logistically it was really smooth. However, if you have say 400 passengers you’ll have 4 waves of people at every landing, and that can really slow you down.

Overall, we absolutely recommend going with Quark Expeditions and honestly don’t think you need to look any further than their website. They have the BEST staff, incredible programming, unbelievable ships and food and the most pure hearts. (We didn’t work for them on our trip but we just loved them this much! Plus, they went above and beyond taking care of us and helping us get home during the Covid-19 crisis, so we are beyond grateful.)

Our ship, the Ocean Endeavor

Each cruise option is packed with its own adventures and some key differences. Some take you to different islands but don’t land on the mainland continent of Antarctica, some sail over the Drake Passage while some fly over, some cross the Antarctic circle, some leave from Chile and others from Argentina, etc. Comparing them all can be a bit confusing – we’ll give you a summary of our thoughts below but I’d definitely recommend calling Quark! We stayed on the phone for hours weighing options, etc. and their team was so helpful.

We chose to do the “Discovering the 7th Continent” cruise for a few reasons: you got to actually land on the mainland of Antarctica, it was 11 days long and it was the least expensive.

If we went next year, in 2021, we would’ve chosen their newest expedition, “Crossing the Circle Southern Expedition.” With this new cruise you get a brand new ship AND get to cross the Antarctic Circle (the one thing we wish we’d experienced), and it’s not much more expensive. It also includes a FREE helicopter ride to see Antarctica from above – yes please! Honestly wish we would’ve known haha. The only downside is you need a full 14 days for it.

If you’re nervous about sailing the Drake Passage and would rather fly, you can do either the “Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle” or the “Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake.” While sailing the Drake Passage may not be the most enjoyable, the price difference to fly just wasn’t worth it to us. But it’s definitely an option!

Getting to Antarctica is no easy feat (duh!) but it’s so worth the trip. Most trips leave from either Punta Arenas, Chile or Ushuaia, Argentina. Our journey began by flying into Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE). From there we drove across town to the local airport (AEP) and caught a flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. Ushuaia is where we boarded our ship to sail to Antarctica. If your ship leaves from Punta Arenas I assume you fly into Santiago and then to Punta Arenas but I’m not 100% sure.

Note: ships don’t wait so make sure you’re set to arrive at your embarkation city at least a day early!

From the embarkation site, you start the journey to Antarctica. This includes crossing the Drake Passage (the roughest water in the world!) and then onwards to the 7th continent. Our first few stops were at some islands like the South Shetlands before we reached the mainland of Antarctica, but each cruise will differ. In any case you will likely only go as far as the Antarctic Peninsula since it is the easiest part of the mainland to reach.

Our twin porthole suite Sitting area in our suite

Whether you fly or sail over the Drake Passage, you will sleep onboard on a cruise ship for your time in Antarctica. However, some cruises do offer a night of camping on Antarctica as an add-on excursion for your trip, so if spending a night on the 7th Continent is on your bucket list – fear not!

The “Antarctic Season” is November to March. Each month offers something different and in my opinion you can’t go wrong with any time. November is the coldest but the most pristine, with massive icebergs and untouched landscapes. The most coveted time to go is December and early January, where the days are super long, it’s a bit warmer and there are tons of penguin chicks. However, note that most coveted means priciest and books up the quickest. February and March are the best for whales and March is the best for potential sunsets.

Antarctica in March

We went in March and we were worried it wouldn’t be as pristine or magical… it’s safe to say we had NOTHING to worry about. We saw plenty of icebergs, plenty of snow, tons of wildlife and gorgeous light. Plus, March is a less expensive time to go so you can save a bit of money by going in this shoulder season!

Most cruises are 11-14 days but there is one Quark Expedition, the “Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake” that is only 8 days. I would recommend spending as many days as you can, because it’s a once in a lifetime trip! However, if getting time off or scheduling is concerned, this abbreviated option could be a good thing to look into. I would also recommend budgeting 2 days before your trip and at least 1 day after for travel days, as getting to these embarkation towns is no easy feat.

We started planning Antarctica 6 months before our trip which for us it NUTS. We have never planned a trip more than a month out like… ever. However, if you want your choice of ship, excursions, dates, etc. I’d highly recommend planning sooner rather than later. There is also a ton of paperwork required before you go so take that into account.

However, if you are flexible on dates you can always keep an eye out for last minute deals to hop on if they have extra space onboard. AND if you’re feeling really bold, you can just fly to Ushuaia and see if there are any last minute deals for cruises leaving soon. That’s calling it a little too close for our comfort level.. However, if you’re into that and looking to get the best price, it might be a risk worth taking!

Using the Sony 70-200 f/2.8 G-master to capture penguins

This is all of the camera gear we brought to Antarctica:

>> Check out all of our photography gear and the Lightroom Presets we use to edit our photos in 1-click!

Seal with the sniffles

It’s definitely important to stay healthy when visiting Antarctica. Being on a ship in uneasy waters, dry air (yes, Antarctica is a desert!) and lots of new elements means you’ll want to be prepared. Although every boat should have a doctor on staff, here are. a few things you should bring:

• Scopolamine patches – these are little patches for nausea that you put behind your ear for 3 days at a time. You need to get a prescription for them and they have quite a few side effects. However, they’re very useful when crossing the rocky Drake Passage.
• Bonine – I’ve always called this my miracle drug for seasickness. While you shouldn’t take it with the patch, we both took this daily instead of the patch once we finished crossing the Drake.
• Throat lozenges – one of the biggest side effects of the nausea patch is unbelievable dry mouth.
• Advil/Tylenol – always good to have on hand, especially for the headaches that come with the nausea meds
• Extra of your usual medications (you can’t refill in Antarctica!)
• Chapstick & lotion – Antarctica is indeed a desert and it is SO dry. Definitely take care of your skin and pack extra of these!

I’m sure every company is different but we were required to have up to $50,000 worth of medical insurance to go on our expedition. This is definitely something to talk with your cruise company about to clarify what type of coverage you need.

We are currently working on all of our Antarctica vlogs for our YouTube channel, and this is our first! Watch us freeze our butts off jumping into the Antarctic water!

All of these blogs are coming soon…

• 10 Reasons to visit Antarctica
• What to wear in Antarctica and not freeze your booty off
• Quarantined in Antarctica – what’s the story??

Make sure to subscribe below to get all of our stories and info on visiting Antarctica straight to your inbox!

Kylie & Scott

(If you liked this article or have any questions, please comment below! And make sure to follow along on Instagram @LoveHardTravelOften)

If you’re looking for the most Instagrammable photo spots in Joshua Tree you’ve come to the right place! This spot in California has beauty around every corner and is just begging to be photographed. In this blog we’ll share all the best spots we found during our amazing day trip to Joshua Tree National Park so that you can get the best insta shots when you visit.

We also put location, GPS coordinates and tips on everything we post on Instagram @LoveHardTravelOften so make sure to follow along and “Save” those posts to refer back to!

The Joshua Tree – the most iconic Instagram spot

Of course the most iconic Joshua Tree photo spot is by the famous Joshua Tree. There are tons and tons of these trees lining the main road of the park (I mean let’s be real – it wasn’t named after this tree for nothing!). However, we found our favorite trees along the main road between the West Entrance Station and Jumbo Rocks. No two Joshua Trees are the same, though, so as you drive along just look for one you think looks photogenic.

With the famous Joshua Tree Along the main road in Joshua Tree

There’s no denying that Joshua Tree is the perfect place to grab that perfect road Instagram shot. Almost anywhere along the main road in the park is a great place to try this shot but we took ours around here.

Do note, though, to be extremely cautious while attempting this shot. We went on a weekday and shot this late in the day, so there were very few cars. Even then we had two other people helping us look both ways while we were shooting.

About halfway through the Hidden Valley hike

The Hidden Valley loop trail is not only one of the best hikes in the park, but it’s also one of the best photo spots in Joshua Tree. Along the hike there are plenty of Joshua Trees to take photos by, as well as insane rock formations that serve as the perfect backdrop!

Along the Hidden Valley Trail

Even the entrance of the hike is a perfect place to snap a picture because of the dramatic golden rocks surrounding it! This hike is all-around super photogenic and doesn’t require much effort. It is a 1 mile loop and including all of our photo stops it took less than 1 hour.

At the entrance of the Hidden Valley hike At the top of Keys View

At an elevation of 5,185 feet, Keys View viewpoint is an amazing Joshua Tree photo spot. From this point you can see the San Andreas Fault, the Salton Sea and even as far as the US-Mexico border!

Keys View Viewpoint

You can drive to this viewpoint and it’s the perfect place for both portrait and landscape photography.

>> Check out our 2020 Travel Photography Gear! Do note that drones are not allowed inside Joshua Tree.

Joshua Tree town welcome sign Welcome sign on highway 62

Did you even go if you didn’t get a picture by the welcome sign? While we didn’t see a “Welcome to Joshua Tree National Park”, the “Welcome to Joshua Tree” sign is certainly worth a stop. The sign is right along Highway 62 after going through Yucca Valley. The GPS coordinates for the sign are 34.134750, -116.366589.

>> Check out our custom Lightroom Presets that will make your photos come to life in 1-click!

6. Cholla Cactus Garden

Cholla Cactus Garden at sunset

Before this trip I’m not sure I would’ve put cacti on a “most instagrammable” list, but boy did this place change my mind! The Cholla Cactus Garden has more cacti than I’ve ever seen in my life and is certainly one of the best Joshua Tree photo spots. While it’s probably beautiful at all times of day, at sunset this place is breathtaking!

Cholla Cactus Garden at sunset Skull Rock in Joshua Tree

There are hundreds (maybe thousands!) of impressive rock formations through the park and we loved playing the game where you come up with what you think the rock looks like. However, Skull Rock leaves very little to the imagination! This rock that resembles a human skull is definitely a park favorite, and one of the most Instagrammable spots in Joshua Tree!

>> Also read: Death Valley’s Most Instagrammable Places!

Photo credit: @leajayd via Instagram

While we didn’t have time to photograph #8-10 during our day trip to the park, they are still some of the best photo spots in Joshua Tree! Arch Rock is such an iconic photo spot in the park and we were so bummed to miss it. This place looks stunning to photograph at any time of day and is definitely worth prioritizing during your trip.

Photo credit: @haeunsunny via Instagram

Barker Dam is a 1-mile loop trail in the park that is similar to the Hidden Valley loop trail. The reflections here look insane and it’s definitely one of the most picturesque places in Joshua Tree. According to the park rangers this is also one of the best spots in the park to spot wildlife, which would be super neat to catch on camera.

Tip: before you enter the park, check with a park ranger at the visitor center to see if there is still water in the dam. Apparently certain times of year it is dried up and that could be a bummer.

Photo credit: @carsonburkee via Instagram

Joshua Tree is the perfect place for nighttime photography. On a clear night you can capture the most beautiful silhouettes and stars from the park. Plus, good news, even if you aren’t camping you can still photograph the stars since the park gates are open 24/7!

Here is a handy map of the best Joshua Tree Photo Spots! You can click the Star next to the map name to save it to your Google Maps as a reference!

Check out our online photography course where we teach everything from posing to camera settings to editing in Lightroom! Also take a look at the camera & gear we use as full-time bloggers and Instagrammers.

Want to edit like us? Check out our Lightroom Presets (custom photo filters) that will make editing SO easy. All you need is the free Lightroom Mobile app and a camera phone to get started!

Make sure to read our Joshua Tree Day Trip blog before you go! It’s jam packed with everything you need to know before visiting and the best 1-day park itinerary.

We hope your trip to Joshua Tree is the most Instagrammable trip yet! Happy Traveling!

Kylie & Scott

(Want to know more? Comment below! And make sure to follow along on Instagram @LoveHardTravelOften for daily travel and photo tips!)

If you’re looking for the best editing apps for Instagram, you’ve come to the right place! There are so many apps out there right now that it can be hard to decide which are worthwhile. It’s also hard to know if you need expensive photo or video editing software to take your content to the next level. But the good news is, we’ve done the hard work and research for you!

We’ve rounded up our top 15 editing apps for photos, videos & stories to up your insta game without breaking the bank. As travel bloggers and content creators we use these all the time (pretty much daily!) and because they’re so good, we hardly do any of our content creation on our laptops anymore. We know they’ll help you on your creative journey, as well!

Lightroom editor view

There’s no denying that Lightroom is the premiere photo editing app out there. The amount of control it allows you to have over your photos is second to none, and it’s FREE! Whether we’re posting a quick iPhone photo to our stories or editing a Raw Image from our camera, we always edit in Lightroom. We used to predominately use the desktop version, which is a paid subscription service, but now we do more than 50% of all our edits in the mobile app. It’s AMAZING how easy it is and how quickly we can turn around content this way!

Before and After with one of our presets called “Mt. Cook”

To make our edits even quicker and easier we designed our own Lightroom Presets (which are like custom photo filters). They’re made to work with the free Lightroom app and make your photos pop in 1-click. Then you can use the app to quickly make any adjustments to the edit so it’s perfect for that specific photo!

You can check out our Mobile Presets here and see our editing tutorials on our preset Instagram @lhto_presets!

Before and After with one of our presets called “Tuscany”

The TouchRetouch app is a godsend when it comes to removing unwanted objects or people in your photos! I’m not sure why we were so late to the game on this, but until recently we had to use our laptops and Photoshop ($$$!) to edit people and objects out. Not the most fun process when you just want a quick edit!

TouchRetouch home scren

A few days ago we edited people out on a patterned staircase as well as edited out a piece of furniture using TouchRetouch, and it was pretty darn impressive! It’s only $1.99 in the Apple app store, and worth every penny. (We also have tutorials showing this app on @lhto_presets)

Have you seen those carousel posts on IG where there’s one landscape image split across two photos (like photos 2 & 3 in the carousel below)? If so, it was likely done in the Sliidr app ($0.99 in the app store)! Because splitting landscape shots like this is its primary purpose, the app is super simple. However, if you want to play around with different types of posts it’s a nice one to use to add variety in your feed!

Lens Distortions is an awesome app for adding lens flares into your photos without using Photoshop! There are dozens of different lens flares to use and you can adjust them for the setting as you see fit.

Here is a tutorial on how we use it!

PicsArt has taken the place of Photoshop in my editing flow for quite a few things! It’s so great for adding things into your images (think fireworks, flowers, leaves, etc) since they have a huge stock image library. The app is also great for layering photos on top of each other to combine the two (like how in the above I added a different photo to the iPhone screen).

There’s actually so much you can do to get creative with this app – I definitely recommend playing around with it!

Tezza App is great for both editing photos and videos! It includes a small library of filters if you don’t want to use Lightroom, and allows you to adjust quite a few of the settings. The real reason we downloaded it, though, was for the “dust” effect and the yellow subtitles you see tons of creators using.

If we’re being honest, learning video was the most daunting part of becoming travel bloggers. All the programs seemed super complex (& pricey!!) and we had no idea where to begin. And then we found this app – InShot (which is free in the app store)! GAME CHANGER!

InShot editor view

You can make video montages, cut, slice, reverse, change the speed, etc. all in a super intuitive app! You can also change the aspect ratio of videos and add transitions, music, filters & text. Oh, and you can also use photos too if you want to make a slideshow of sorts.

Whether we’re stitching together a quick TikTok or IG video (below) …

Or editing a video for a client (like below), InShot is our go to.

One thing InShot is not the best at, in our opinion, is filters. We find that making adjustments/filters in the app causes a degradation of quality, so now we first edit the colors in Video LUT or Creator Hub (see below) and then import to InShot to put the whole video together!

Video LUT is like Lightroom but for videos! It gives you the same control over the colors in your videos and allows you to make individual adjustments (instead of just applying an overall filter). They also have built-in video presets to use, and some creators also offer Video LUT presets to purchase just like Lightroom.

Video LUT editor view

We’re admittedly pretty new to the Video LUT train, but it’s the one of the only video color editing apps we’ve found that doesn’t seem to degrade the quality. Plus, if you want to post both photos and videos in your Instagram feed and keep the colors looking consistent, this is a great tool!

A couple downsides of Video LUT, though, are that it’s $4.99 to buy and can be a little tricky to ramp up on. So before buying it we’d suggest really thinking about how much you’ll use it and how much time you’re willing to spend learning the app features.

VSCO is an editing app that’s been around a long time but their video editing keeps getting better and better! There are SO many presets and effects to choose from and the app is super intuitive (a lot easier to use than Video LUT above). It also allows you to have a really good amount of control over the adjustments after applying a preset (including the HSL tab!). Overall, if you’re looking for an easy video color grading app, VSCO would get my vote.

VSCO is a subscription-based app and it’s $19.99 for the whole year. Given the fact that is has hundreds of pre-loaded video and photo presets and many other fun ways to create, it’s definitely worth it.

Like I mentioned above, the Tezza App can be used for editing both videos and photos. For me, I love the video presets and the effects you can add to videos! You can add dust, subtitles, frames, and other effects that make videos super fun and vintage. Plus you can turn a normal video into a stop motion video in the app!

If you want to create your own GIF (like the one in the carousel below), IMGplay is going to be your best friend. This app makes it sooo simple to make a GIF from your photos. All you have to do is take a series of photos and them import them into the app. Then you can change the speed of the GIF, canvas size, etc.

When you’re done you’re given the option to save it in a video or GIF format (highly recommend video for IG posting!), choose how many times it loops, and determine what quality you’d like. It’s so simple and can really add a lot of fun to your content! Plus, it’s FREE in the app store!

In our opinion Unfold is the OG Insta-story app. We used it for a long time before we became bloggers, and we still use it to this day! You can import both videos and photos and it allows you to make fun collages and storylines for your Instagram stories. Plus, it’s super simple to use.

One story template from the Unfold FF1 pack

Some templates in the app come free, others you pay per design pack (usually around $2), and then recently they released “exclusive” designs for people with a monthly membership. We just use the free ones and a couple packs we purchased (RP1 and FF1) and that’s ample for us.

Mojo is a super fun app to make stories that have movement! I’m sure you’ve seen the stories where the photos float in and then the text writes beautifully over it. There are quite a few templates to choose from but once you click into one you can just start playing around and make it your own – that’s what we do!

Example of a Mojo story template (it animates all the photos and text in a video)

We use this app a lot to promote blogs in our stories, answer Q&A or show editing before and afters. It’s free in the app store and then you have the option to upgrade to “Pro” (which we haven’t done).

Canva is the Holy Grail for Instagrammers and bloggers wanting to do any sort of graphic design. It’s free in the app store and you can also use it on your laptop and the designs will sync!

We predominately love using Canva to make all of our blog’s Pinterest graphics, but there is so much more you can do with it! It has templates for Instagram stories, logos, social media posts, Pinterest covers, media kits – you name it. Whether you want to design unique stories to launch a new product or make your own cute story game templates (“this or that” anyone??) for your audience to participate in, Canva has a design for it.

Example story template from Canva

TBH we’re looking at the app right now and we’ve already taken screenshots of 10 fun insta story templates we want to try.. So if you’re following us on IG apologies in advance for the templated game overload in our stories hehe.

Mache is relatively new and super similar to Unfold, but it has a few other templates that are super cute! Just like Unfold, you get a pack or two of templates for free and then you pay per pack after that. We really like their Classic Collection and their Film & Photography pack.

Example story template from Mache

Mosaic is a new IG stories app by @katerinandyinon and it’s so much fun! It’s a great app for creating engaging stories with still photos. It seamlessly allows you to put together a multi-slide story to unveil a photo and tell a story (I’m sure you’ve seen creators using this recently!).

Well, there we have it – our Top 15 Editing Apps for Instagram! Did we miss any of your favs? Have you tried any of these? Comment below & let’s connect!

If you’re interested in learning more about our photography tips, check out our Photography Course! Also check out our Photography Gear that we use for all of our photos and videos!

XO,

Kylie & Scott

With some of the most unique landscapes in the world, there are so many incredible things to do in Komodo National Park! The beautiful Komodo Islands are located in Indonesia off the coast of Flores Island. During your trip you can hike to gorgeous viewpoints, swim with manta rays and even see a Komodo Dragon in the wild.

Below we’ve detailed the best things to do in Komodo National Park (and a few things not to do) to help you plan your trip!

1. Hike Padar Island
2. Swim with Manta Rays
3. Visit the Pink Beach
4. Trek Kelor Island
5. Chill on Taka Makassar sand bank
6. See Komodo Dragons on Rinca or Komodo Island

Hiking to the top of Padar Island was our favorite thing to do in Komodo National Park. While the hike has a nice trail, it is a solid 25-30 minute hot uphill trek to the top. Don’t worry, though, because the views are certainly worth every step!

From the top of Padar Island you can see some of the most incredible landscapes in the world. You can also see three of the island’s beaches in distinct inlets. These beaches are the most unique part of the view since one has black sand, one has pink and one has white!

Pro tip: watch the sunset here! The sunset at Padar Island is definitely in our top 5 sunsets in the world.

>>Read: How to visit world’s largest Buddhist temple in Java, Indonesia

Swimming with Manta Rays in the wild is easily one of the best things to do in Komodo National Park. At certain times of day you can go to “Manta Point” and try to spot one of these magnificent creatures.

While seeing them is not guaranteed, the chase is half the fun. The act of spotting them, chasing them in a small boat and swimming after them is an absolute thrill!

It goes without saying, though, that you should keep appropriate distance and respect these beautiful animals in their natural habitat.

>> Read: Everything you need to know before visiting Komodo

Pink Beach in the Komodo Islands is what dreams are made of! The mountain backdrop looks like it is out of a Jurassic Park movie and the pink sand looks like cotton candy.

The Pink Beach gets its unique color from the corals, but unfortunately it’s getting less pink over time as the corals are dying. Make sure to pack reef-safe sunscreen to help do your part to save the corals!

>>Read: What to pack for the Komodo Islands

The 10-15 minute trek up Kelor Island is one of the best things to do in Komodo National Park because of the views. From the top you can see the mountainous landscape of the surrounding islands, the bright blue water and the small white beach peninsula.

On Kelor Island you can also take a quick swim or snorkel and relax on this completely uninhabited island!

>> Read: Komodo Tour – how to choose what’s best for you!

Taka Makassar is a sand bank in the middle of Komodo National Park that is pink and teardrop-shaped. This spot is completely surrounded by water and also changes shape with the tides. It’s unique topography is definitely worth seeing!

Here you can snorkel, swim, build sandcastles, and just enjoy this slice of paradise. Do note, though, that there is no shade so you should limit your time in the intense Komodo sun.

Tip: Drones are allowed and provide the best vantage for photographing this place.

>>Read: Our travel camera and drone gear

>>Learn how to take photos like us in our online Photography Course!

We couldn’t make a list of the top things to do in Komodo National Park and leave off seeing Komodo dragons! Komodo Dragons live on both Rinca and Komodo Islands and are protected under UNESCO and the national park.

These dragons are native to these islands and are insane animals to learn about. They’re technically lizards, but their giant size, cannibalism, and venomous bite put them into a league of their own.

They are a must-see in Komodo National Park, however you should have a guide and be smart when you’re on Rinca or Komodo Island.

>>Read: Is Komodo Island Safe?

**Also note that it is rumored that they will close one or both of Rinca and Komodo Island in early 2020 for conservation efforts. The date and certainty are yet to be confirmed, but both were open in October 2019 during our visit. Regardless if these islands close, though, the other islands and the rest of the top things to do in Komodo National Park will remain open.

• Don’t spend much time at Kanawa Island – Kanawa Island isn’t worth spending much, if any, time at. The entrance fee is $7 USD per person and they have one “restaurant” (shack) that was out of stock of everything. They do, however, have a beach swing and a few chairs to lay out on, as well as calm water for snorkeling. We would have cut this from our tour itinerary and spent more time elsewhere.
• Don’t feed the animals! This should go without saying but it’s important not to feed the wild life you encounter in Komodo National Park.
• Don’t litter! It is so sad how much trash we saw floating in different areas. One of the pink beaches is also now completely covered in litter, which is incredibly disappointing. We all need to do our part to keep our world clean and beautiful.

Below is a map of the best things to do in Komodo National Park so you can see their relative locations. Click the ‘star’ next to the map name in order to save this map under “your places” in Google Maps.

>> Make sure you read this before you visit!

We know you’ll love experiencing the best things to do in Komodo National Park. Enjoy your trip!

Kylie & Scott

(If you liked this article or have any questions, please comment below! And make sure to follow along on Instagram @LoveHardTravelOften)

If you’re looking for the best Glacier National Park photo spots, we’ve got you covered! Assuming you’ve already read our article on the top things to do and everything you need to know to visit Glacier, this is a natural next read. This national park is oozing with gorgeous spots just waiting to be photographed. We spent days rounding up the best Instagram spots in the area and are excited to share them with you below!

Please note: we are sharing these locations so that you can experience these places like we did! Please follow LEAVE NO TRACE principles always, follow local guidelines, and be one of the “good” Instagrammers, k? 🙂

Alright without further adieu, here are the best photo spots in Glacier!

Hidden Lake is such a stunning spot for photos, particularly at sunrise and sunset. There is a gorgeous viewing deck for amazing shots from above, and then you can hike down to the lake for different angles.

The hike is pretty easy (only 2.7 miles round trip) but do note if you’re going for golden hour you should shoot quickly and get out of there. Bears frequent the area, particularly in the dark, so be prepared with bear spray, don’t go alone and be vigilant.

We loved using our 16-35 mm wide angle lens here to capture the whole landscape! All of the gear we use to shoot can be found here.

Bowman Lake is one of the hidden gems in the park. It’s in the least visited area of the park, North Fork, but it’s worth the journey there!

It can get crowded with locals during the day but early/late in the day is great for shooting here. We ended up shooting so many shots here as we just couldn’t get enough of this spot!

We went in the evening and got beautiful/super soft light but sunrise is likely the best for colors based on the direction the sun rises.

Virginia Falls was the biggest surprise for us when it comes to photo spots in Glacier National Park. We really weren’t expecting much on this hike and then BAM here comes this Iceland-esque waterfall!

There are so many angles to shoot here as there is one path that gets you right up next to the waterfall and another that leads you down where you can shoot the entirety of the waterfall.

This place is great for non-sunrise or sunset shots as there is a lot of tree coverage and shade. We took our shots around 9 am and the lighting was great. Woohoo for a little extra sleep!

Lake McDonald is one of the most famous photo spots in Glacier National Park, and it’s for good reason. From the lake you can get gorgeous reflections, amazing sunrises and sunsets, and stunning mountain views.

There are many pull offs along Going-To-The-Sun road where you can access Lake McDonald (be on the lookout though, because there aren’t signs). However, the best views are from the Apgar areas.

Both sunset and sunrise are magical here, but at sunrise you have a better chance of getting beautiful reflections since the water is more still.

>> Check out our 2020 Travel Photography Gear! Do note that drones are not allowed inside national parks.

Polebridge is such a cute old town, you can’t NOT take a picture of it! The Polebridge Mercantile is certainly insta-famous and I can promise you it’s even cuter in real life!

While you’re there don’t forget to snap a picture of the famous huckleberry bear claw before you devour it.

Pro tip: don’t try to share one with your spouse. You will absolutely have to go back for another.

>> Check out our custom Lightroom Presets that will make your photos come to life in a click!

6. Big Bend

Big Bend is the most picturesque pull-off on Going-to-the-sun road. There are stunning purple flowers and fields that will make you feel like you’re in the sound of music. There isn’t a sign for Big Bend but there is a large turnoff area before the Weeping Wall.

This spot is honestly pure magic at any time of day, but when we drove by at sunset the light was magical.

While you’re here, please do not trample any flowers for a photo! There are plenty of pathways where you can get a shot without doing so.

I know what you’re probably thinking.. a parking lot? On a best photo spots list? This girl is crazy. But hear me out. So the deal is, the Logan Pass parking lot gets full SUPER early (like 7 am early). That said, if you want a morning spot to hike in this area you have to arrive around sunrise.

Anyways, we did that a few times and we couldn’t believe how beautiful the view from the parking lot was! I hadn’t even brushed my hair this morning (camping life right?) and we just started shooting because it was so breathtaking.

If you head the opposite direction from the trail heads and visitor center you’ll see a ledge where you can take photos and enjoy the sunrise. 10/10 recommend.

8. Haystack Butte

Haystack Butte is along the Highline Loop Trail, about 3.6 miles from the Logan Pass trailhead. After a few switchbacks there is a natural break in the hike and then you can take a small side trail to the top of Haystack Butte (versus continuing on the main trail).

There are gorgeous mountain views up here that make you feel like you’re in a dome! We loved using both our zoom lens and our wide angle lens to capture different views up here.

Photo credit:

@glacier_national_park via Instagram

While we didn’t have time or the ability to photograph #9-11 during our trip to Glacier National Park, they are still some of the best photo spots in the park! Avalanche Lake is a stunning lake in the west side of the park that only requires a moderate 4 mile hike to reach. This place looks stunning to photograph, especially in the morning light. A friend we met in the park said that the sun comes over a bit after sunrise which gives you some time to get up, and also said it was magical up there!

Photo credit: @doyoutravel via Instagram

Cracker Lake is the brightest turquoise lake in the park. It requires a steep hike to get there, but the views payoff bigtime! Unfortunately Cracker Lake is closed for the 2020 season, but keep it on your list to photograph next year.

Iceberg Lake is a gorgeous lake in East Glacier that is often filled with floating icebergs. From pictures it takes us back to our trip to Antarctica! Similar to Cracker Lake, it requires quite a hike to get to this lake. It is also closed for 2020.

Here is a handy map of the best Glacier National Park Photo Spots! You can click the Star next to the map name to save it to your Google Maps as a reference!

Check out our online photography course where we teach everything from posing to camera settings to editing in Lightroom! Also take a look at the camera & gear we use as full-time bloggers and Instagrammers.

Want to edit like us? Check out our Lightroom Presets (custom photo filters) that will make editing SO easy. All you need is the free Lightroom Mobile app and a camera phone to get started!

Make sure to read our 18 CAN’T MISS things to do in Glacier + top tips for visiting before you go! It’s jam packed with everything you need to know before you go.

Make sure to subscribe below to get all of our travel guides and photography tips straight to your inbox!

We hope your trip to Glacier is full of amazing photos and even more amazing experiences! XO

Kylie & Scott

(Want to know more? Comment below! And make sure to follow along on Instagram @LoveHardTravelOften for daily travel and photo tips!)

Let’s cut to the chase: Oman needs to be on your bucket list. This country has tons of fun things to do, great infrastructure, stunning sites & incredibly kind people, so it’s definitely a great place to visit!

If you’re wanting to explore more of the Middle East but are wary of some of the current unrest in some countries, Oman is a great option. It’s not that big in the tourism scene just yet, but take our word for it that it will be soon! We spent 5 days here and honestly we didn’t want to leave.

• Oman is located on the Arabian peninsula, and is the most southeastern country of the peninsula
• The country borders the UAE, Saudi Arabia & Yemen
• Oman is a coastal country, with much of the country bordering the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman

Oman is the one country that has maintained its neutrality in the midst of the unrest everywhere else in the middle east. For that reason, it’s perceived as the Switzerland of the Middle East. In addition, it’s been named in the top 10 for safest countries in the world, according to the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism report. We generally felt very safe our entire time there and never felt uneasy!

Oman is an awesome country to experience a diverse set of activities all in one vacation spot. For instance, there’s the capital city, amazing beaches, refreshing swimming holes, stunning mountains, and vast desert all in this one country.

Located in Muscat, this stunning mosque is sprawling and filled with beautiful prayer halls, gardens and stunning architectural details. It’s home to the 2nd largest rug and chandelier, just behind the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, so in other words, it’s a total work of art.

Tips for visiting Sultan Qaboos Mosque:

• The mosque is FREE to visit, so don’t worry about getting your rials ready!
• It is open to visitors from 8-11 am every day except Friday, because it’s their holy day. Note that it gets incredibly crowded with tour groups, especially after 9/9:30, so go right at 8 if you want a more peaceful experience.
• Dress code: Both men and women must have long pants. Women must also have long sleeves and a head scarf, however if you don’t have the proper attire packed you can rent an abaya dress with head covering at the entrance for $5 USD.

>>Read: another impressive place of worship – Borobudur Temple in Indonesia!

Muttrah Souq in Muscat dates back to the late 1500s, which makes it one of the oldest marketplaces in the world. The souq (market) is filled with both Omani and Indian shops and goods.

It’s honestly the most chill and friendly souq experience we’ve ever had. All of the vendors are very kind & not super pushy, so you actually feel like you can breathe and browse.

Tip: some vendors close on the weekends, which are Friday & Saturday here, so be sure to go Sunday to Thursday!

The Royal Opera House in Muscat was finished in 2011 and is a stunning state-of-the-art masterpiece. The opera house is designed with screens on the back of each seat that translate the show into 3 languages, and both the stage and the box seats are moving platforms that shift depending on the performance.

It’s also home to the biggest organ in the world which has 4600 pipes and weighs over 50 tons.

The Opera House is open for tours from 8:30 – 5:30 pm and it costs $8 USD.

Note: if you want to go for a show they have a strict formal dress code! Women should be in long sleeve dresses below the knees, and men should be in a suit or at least a jacket.

This place is our absolute favorite spot in Oman, and certainly made for some of our best memories! Located about an hour and 45 minutes outside of Muscat, Wadi Shab consists of a hike through palm trees which leads to a series of stunning swimming holes.

It’s a pretty flat hike through the gorge, but some of the rocks are slick so make sure to wear tennis shoes or hiking sandals. Once you reach the swimming holes you can go for a refreshing swim from one pool to the next, and at the last one there is a waterfall and cave!

Tips for visiting Wadi Shab:

• Rent a car to get here, though a 4×4 is not required.
• It’s open from 7 am – 5:30 pm and was relatively crowded at 10 am but not unbearable at all.
• It costs $2.50 USD (1 rial) per person to take the boat to cross the river from the parking lot to the hike, but other than that this place is FREE.

Processed with VSCO with e1 preset

• Pack water, sunscreen & water shoes if you have them, since the shallow parts of the swimming holes are very rocky and water shoes would’ve come in clutch!
• You’re “there” on the hike when you reach the 1st swimming hole, but for the best views and photo ops of this place you should keep hiking a bit and look back.
• Plan to spend 3+ hours here
• You have to leave your stuff to swim unless you have a waterproof bag, so don’t bring too many valuables.
• They didn’t seem too strict on swimwear dress code, but to be respectful Kylie wore pants and covered her shoulders until we got to the swimming hole.

About an hour outside of Muscat you’ll find Bimmah Sinkhole, which is a beautiful blue natural pool in the middle of a nice park.  In addition to being stunning, the water is insanely clear and makes for a super refreshing dip in the pool! This spot is only 20 minutes from Wadi Shab, so it’s best to combine the two for a fun-filled day of swimming!

Tips for visiting Bimmah Sinkhole:

• Rent a car to get here, but a 4×4 is not required.
• It’s open from 8 am – 8 pm, however we showed up at 7:45 am and they let us in early no problem. We highly suggest going early – we had the place to ourselves for over an hour!
• It’s completely FREE to visit
• The park rules state no swimwear, so we stayed covered up until the sinkhole and made sure to re-cover ourselves after our swim before walking through the park.
• The parking lot is the first dirt turn-in after you u-turn off the highway, but it’s easy to miss so you should use the Here We Go app to navigate here.
• This is a great spot to play with a GoPro, so get it ready!

Yiti Beach is off the beaten path, however it was our favorite find of the trip. It’s a stunning beach spot nestled amongst the rocks and mountains about 30 minutes outside of Muscat, which makes it the perfect spot to spend an evening.

This place is an epic spot to watch the sunset. When we went the only other people there were locals having a picnic or camping for the night, so it was extremely peaceful.

Tips for visiting Yiti Beach:

• Use the Waze app to get there
• Aim to arrive well before sunset since it sets earlier behind the mountains
• It is easier with a 4×4 but not required
• The locals may want to chat with you, so be sure to embrace them. Also be sure to accept their offerings since it is rude in their culture to turn down an offering.

Nizwa Fort is another quick hour and a half drive from Muscat, in the opposite direction of Bimmah Sinkhole and Wadi Shab. Even though this spot is Oman’s most visited monument, it didn’t feel crowded at all! We loved seeing the beautiful Omani architecture here.

Tips for visiting Nizwa fort:

• Open from 8 am – 6 pm but go early, not for crowds’ sake but because it seemed like by 1 pm most of the surrounding shops and souqs were closing up shop.
• Costs $12 USD/person which is a little steep, but it’s worth it!
• You can climb to the top of the castle, so head up there to get the best photos

Kargeen is super cute restaurant in Muscat that’s nestled in the trees and gives us all the earthy vibes. They had a buffet authentic food to choose from and it felt like a little oasis in the city.

Note: not a very budget friendly dining option, for example the buffet was $20 USD per person.

Two other things to do worth noting are visiting Jebel Akhdar mountains & going on a desert safari. If we’d had longer in the country both of these were on our list!

Your best options for transportation in Oman are:

We’d actually suggest a combination of the two, which we’ll go into detail about below. Unfortunately, there isn’t Careem or Uber yet in Oman, and we didn’t see much in terms of public transit. It also isn’t a very walkable country.

Unless you rent a car at the airport, the only way to go is a taxi.

Note: Taxis are all cash only, so make sure to get some rials at the airport ATM. Also note that not all of the taxis are metered, so make sure to do your research and negotiate.

A taxi is a great way to see the sprawling city of Muscat. It’s normal to hire a taxi for a full day, so we called one in the morning to take us to Sultan Qaboos Mosque and he then drove us to all the sites we wanted to visit. He just dropped us at a site and we would WhatsApp him when we were ready and he’d be there within 10 minutes (kind of like old school Uber).

This cost us $50 USD for the day (which we negotiated ahead of time), and it was nice to not have to worry about parking at each place with a rental car.

Transportation outside of Muscat: rent a car (details below)

Renting a car in Oman is the best way to see beyond Muscat, and there are tons of amazing sites within a couple hours drive that you won’t want to miss.

Things to note for renting a car in Oman:

• You ONLY need a 4×4 if you’re going to the Jebel Akhdar mountains or the desert. If you get a sedan it will cost you about $60/day plus fuel. A 4×4 costs about $140/day plus fuel, so to be budget conscious you should really assess what areas you’re trying to visit and whether a 4×4 is really necessary. We thought we needed a 4×4 and totally blew our budget for no reason.
• Google Maps isn’t great with turn by turn directions here (and isn’t aware of all the road construction), so be sure to download both the Waze and Here We Go apps. The Here We Go app doesn’t have all the landmarks/hotels but is pretty good and allows you to download offline maps so you can navigate without using data. Waze works pretty well in most areas, but the road names and highway signs almost never match. We ended up using a combo of those two to navigate around.
• Make sure to travel with your drivers license & not just your passport
• The infrastructure and roads are really well-done
• They drive on the right side of the road like the US

Oman is a Muslim country so be sure to dress conservatively. Generally women should wear shirts that cover your shoulders and skirts/pants that cover your knees. If you plan to visit a mosque, women must wear loose fitting clothing and cover their legs, arms & head, so be sure to plan ahead. Men must cover their knees and shoulders at the mosques.

Traveling from Dubai to Oman is super simple. We took a flight from Dubai Airport on Salam Air for $100 USD and it was a 1 hour flight. There is also a bus that goes from Dubai to Muscat that takes approx. 5 hours and costs about ~$15 USD.

Since it’s so easy to travel between the two, Oman is a great country to couple with Dubai in a trip.

The currency is Oman is Omani Rials, and it’s one of the most valuable currencies in the world (1 Omani rial = $2.6 USD).

It’s very weird being in a country where you multiply instead of divide to understand how much you’re spending. It also makes it harder to stay on budget because the numbers seem so small in Omani rial! (“Wow it’s so cheap! Only 5 rial!” …. $12 later…) 

Muscat is a great place to use as home base if you don’t want to bop around hotels too much. It’s very centrally located for exploring Muscat and for the day-trips to Nizwa and Wadi Shab, and it has the most lodging options since it is the capital. If you are planning to go to Jebel Akhdar or the desert trip, you should consider staying the night there since both are about a 4 hour drive from Muscat.

We stayed at Al Murooj Grand Hotel and had a great stay. The room was very comfortable, the staff was super friendly & the food was incredible!

You do need a visa for Oman. You can apply for an Oman evisa online here for $13 USD. Once your evisa is approved it is emailed to you and all you have to do is print it and present it at the passport control at the Muscat Airport, or wherever you are crossing the border.

You need a minimum of 3 days to really do this place justice. We stayed for 5 days and would’ve loved 7-10 to really see the whole country.

You can do Muscat + Yiti beach in a day or two, Bimmah Sinkhole & Wadi Shab in a day, Nizwa in day, then spend some time in the Jebel Akhdar mountains and also on a desert safari in the south.

Oman has a very warm climate. Summers are May/June – August/September and get extremely hot, so October to April is the most pleasant time to visit. Even in their winters the temperatures are in the 70s & 80s (F)!

Omani people are incredibly kind, peaceful & giving, and the nature of the locals is really what sets this place apart.

We were so lucky to experience their kindness firsthand at Yiti Beach when a man came up to us while we were taking photos, brought us coffee and fruit, and invited us to join his family’s picnic.

It was an extremely touching experience, and this is only one example of the kindness we experienced in the country. The people here are always looking out for one another, offering what they have to give & just generally behaving as compassionate human beings. It is such a special culture to witness!

• Oman is not a super budget country like you’d expect in Southeast Asia. It’s by no means Dubai or Maldives, but things are not dirt cheap. We stayed in a nice hotel for $70 USD/night.
• Nearly everyone spoke English
• Pack sunglasses! The sun is insanely bright here
• Friday is their holy day, so many things are closed or have different hours. Friday and Saturday are their weekends, and Sunday to Thursday is the work week.
• Men and women are not supposed to show affection in public towards one another. No hugging or kissing, and even holding hands is only permitted for married couples. Be respectful if you’re trying to take couple’s pics or even just walking around town.

Happy Traveling!

Kylie & Scott

(Want to know more? Comment below! And make sure to follow along on Instagram @LoveHardTravelOften)

The Nusa Penida Tree House (formally known as “Rumah Pohon Treehouse”) is a dreamy and whimsical spot on Nusa Penida Island. While it started as a gorgeous and hidden place to camp for the night, it has now become a popular place to visit and a photography hot-spot.

This treehouse is literally your childhood dream come true and a must-see on Nusa Penida. Here’s everything you need to know before you go!

The Nusa Penida Tree House is on Google Maps as “Rumah Pohon Tree House” (here) and is located on the east coast of Nusa Penida Island. Nusa Penida is an hour off the coast of Bali, Indonesia and the tree house is about another hour drive from the main port.

Stairs leading down

After you park you will begin your hike down to the Rumah Pohon Tree House. The hike starts here and is pretty simple since the whole thing is just 5 minutes of stairs. As you hike you can see where the treehouses are and also get a feel for where to go to continue your trek to Thousand Islands Viewpoint.

View of the treehouses and Thousand Islands Viewpoint in the distance

Note: while getting down to the treehouses is easy, the stairs are pretty steep so be prepared for the hike back up.

Entering into the area of the 3 treehouses

Once you hike down you’ll find there are actually three treehouses in the area that are all rented out as Airbnbs. The most popular one for photos is the furthest away and situated closest to the coast.

Posted rules and photo fee at the treehouse

Since it depends on what time of day you visit, there may or may not be a queue lining up for photos already once you arrive. On the stairs leading up to the treehouse you can see the signs stating that it is 50K IDR per person for photos and also stating that each person has a 3 minute time limit for photos. The guys running this spot were even there to collect money for photos at 5:45 am!

Left to right: Thousand Islands Viewpoint, Rumah Pohon Treehouse, Birds Nests, stairs to hike back up

After you take photos here you can continue your trek another minute or two up to the beautiful Thousand Islands Viewpoint for more photos and to get a unique vantage of Diamond Beach. At Thousand Island Viewpoint photos are free – woohoo! There are also a couple of the insta-famous birds nest apparatuses to take photos on next to the treehouse, but we aren’t sure what they charge for those since we skipped them.

• On the steps of the treehouse
• Bird’s Nest apparatus to the left of the treehouse
• Thousand Island Viewpoint (1 minute hike up further past the treehouse)
• Diamond Beach (nearby, 10 minute walk)

Do note that each person can only take photos on the treehouse steps for 3 minutes, and while you are there you should stay quiet to minimize the disturbance for the guests staying there.

>> Check out the photography gear we bring with us & if you want to up your photo game, also look into our online photography course!

From Bali you first need to take a ferry to Nusa Penida. Then from the main harbor, Toya Pakeh Harbour, Nusa Penida Tree House is only about an hour drive. It is easiest to hire a driver to get here and take you around Nusa Penida for the day, instead of trying to drive yourself. The roads in Nusa Penida are notoriously terrible, so it’s much safer to hire a local.

>> Tip: You also can’t miss Angel’s Billabong while you’re in Nusa Penida!

It costs 50,000 IDR ($3.50 USD) per person to take photos at the Tree House in 2019.

The tree houses are open 24 hours a day, however it’s important to be mindful that people have booked them as their accommodation.

Sunrise at Rumah Pohon Tree House

Sunrise is certainly the best time to visit Rumah Pohon Treehouse. Because it is situated on the east coast of the island, the sunrise here is just indescribable. Not only is it beautiful, but going early also allows you to beat the crowds to this spot.

You can actually book these treehouses on Airbnb and stay here overnight. While it sounds amazing to wake up to this view, with how popular it is for photos we don’t think it’d be a very relaxing stay.

We ended up chatting with the people staying here the night we visited and they were honestly disappointed in their stay. The guys collecting money for photos even tried to make them get in line and pay the fee! So since there is no priority given to you for photos and little to no privacy, we would recommend just coming to visit and staying the night elsewhere.

When you go to the Nusa Penida Tree House certainly don’t forget your camera (this is what we gear we bring), cash, water and sunscreen. If you also plan to visit Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach make sure to bring a swimsuit, shoes to trek down in and potentially a towel.

For access to the treehouse and all of the surrounding attractions, you can park at the Atuh Beach Parking Lot. Make sure you bring cash because the 5,000 IDR parking fee is cash only. Also note that the parking fee should be included if you hire a driver for the day.

View from Thousand Islands Viewpoint

Yes! Because this spot is so unique and beautiful, it’s absolutely worth visiting. While it’s become a popular insta-spot, it’s still an amazing place to see with your own eyes whether you’re going for photos or not.

>> Also don’t miss Broken Beach while you’re in Nusa Penida!

Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach and Thousand Islands Viewpoint are all within walking distance from the treehouse. Once you park here you can spend a half or full day exploring these east-coast hot spots on foot.

With a 2-day itinerary on the next day you can finish exploring all of the best things to do in Nusa Penida!

>> Make sure to visit the famous Kelingking (T-Rex) Beach while you’re on the island!

View from Thousand Islands Viewpoint

If you continue your hike another minute or two past the treehouses you will find Thousand Islands Viewpoint. Here you can get a unique vantage of Diamond Beach and the surrounding coastline. It’s also a fantastic spot to catch the sunrise, so don’t miss this place if you’ve already made the effort to come to the treehouses!

While Google Maps shows a crazy long route to get from the treehouse to Diamond Beach, you just need to walk the trail along the coast for about 10 minutes and you will be there.

Once you hike back up to where you started your hike to the treehouse (here), just continue straight along the coast. After about 7 minutes you will encounter a turn (here, pictured below) and it’s a bit of a tight squeeze. While it may not feel like it, you’re going in the right direction!

Turn on hike to Diamond Beach

From there just keep walking on the dirt path along the coast for another 3-4 minutes and you’ll find the entrance sign to Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach. The whole trek takes about 10 minutes and isn’t very difficult terrain.

Enjoy your time at the Nusa Penida Tree House!

Kylie & Scott

(If you liked this article or have any questions, please comment below! And make sure to follow along on Instagram @LoveHardTravelOften)

The Nusa Penida Tree House (formally known as “Rumah Pohon Treehouse”) is a dreamy and whimsical spot on Nusa Penida Island. While it started as a gorgeous and hidden place to camp for the night, it has now become a popular place to visit and a photography hot-spot.

This treehouse is literally your childhood dream come true and a must-see on Nusa Penida. Here’s everything you need to know before you go!

The Nusa Penida Tree House is on Google Maps as “Rumah Pohon Tree House” (here) and is located on the east coast of Nusa Penida Island. Nusa Penida is an hour off the coast of Bali, Indonesia and the tree house is about another hour drive from the main port.

Stairs leading down

After you park you will begin your hike down to the Rumah Pohon Tree House. The hike starts here and is pretty simple since the whole thing is just 5 minutes of stairs. As you hike you can see where the treehouses are and also get a feel for where to go to continue your trek to Thousand Islands Viewpoint.

View of the treehouses and Thousand Islands Viewpoint in the distance

Note: while getting down to the treehouses is easy, the stairs are pretty steep so be prepared for the hike back up.

Entering into the area of the 3 treehouses

Once you hike down you’ll find there are actually three treehouses in the area that are all rented out as Airbnbs. The most popular one for photos is the furthest away and situated closest to the coast.

Posted rules and photo fee at the treehouse

Since it depends on what time of day you visit, there may or may not be a queue lining up for photos already once you arrive. On the stairs leading up to the treehouse you can see the signs stating that it is 50K IDR per person for photos and also stating that each person has a 3 minute time limit for photos. The guys running this spot were even there to collect money for photos at 5:45 am!

Left to right: Thousand Islands Viewpoint, Rumah Pohon Treehouse, Birds Nests, stairs to hike back up

After you take photos here you can continue your trek another minute or two up to the beautiful Thousand Islands Viewpoint for more photos and to get a unique vantage of Diamond Beach. At Thousand Island Viewpoint photos are free – woohoo! There are also a couple of the insta-famous birds nest apparatuses to take photos on next to the treehouse, but we aren’t sure what they charge for those since we skipped them.

• On the steps of the treehouse
• Bird’s Nest apparatus to the left of the treehouse
• Thousand Island Viewpoint (1 minute hike up further past the treehouse)
• Diamond Beach (nearby, 10 minute walk)

Do note that each person can only take photos on the treehouse steps for 3 minutes, and while you are there you should stay quiet to minimize the disturbance for the guests staying there.

>> Check out the photography gear we bring with us & if you want to up your photo game, also look into our online photography course!

From Bali you first need to take a ferry to Nusa Penida. Then from the main harbor, Toya Pakeh Harbour, Nusa Penida Tree House is only about an hour drive. It is easiest to hire a driver to get here and take you around Nusa Penida for the day, instead of trying to drive yourself. The roads in Nusa Penida are notoriously terrible, so it’s much safer to hire a local.

>> Tip: You also can’t miss Angel’s Billabong while you’re in Nusa Penida!

It costs 50,000 IDR ($3.50 USD) per person to take photos at the Tree House in 2019.

The tree houses are open 24 hours a day, however it’s important to be mindful that people have booked them as their accommodation.

Sunrise at Rumah Pohon Tree House

Sunrise is certainly the best time to visit Rumah Pohon Treehouse. Because it is situated on the east coast of the island, the sunrise here is just indescribable. Not only is it beautiful, but going early also allows you to beat the crowds to this spot.

You can actually book these treehouses on Airbnb and stay here overnight. While it sounds amazing to wake up to this view, with how popular it is for photos we don’t think it’d be a very relaxing stay.

We ended up chatting with the people staying here the night we visited and they were honestly disappointed in their stay. The guys collecting money for photos even tried to make them get in line and pay the fee! So since there is no priority given to you for photos and little to no privacy, we would recommend just coming to visit and staying the night elsewhere.

When you go to the Nusa Penida Tree House certainly don’t forget your camera (this is what we gear we bring), cash, water and sunscreen. If you also plan to visit Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach make sure to bring a swimsuit, shoes to trek down in and potentially a towel.

For access to the treehouse and all of the surrounding attractions, you can park at the Atuh Beach Parking Lot. Make sure you bring cash because the 5,000 IDR parking fee is cash only. Also note that the parking fee should be included if you hire a driver for the day.

View from Thousand Islands Viewpoint

Yes! Because this spot is so unique and beautiful, it’s absolutely worth visiting. While it’s become a popular insta-spot, it’s still an amazing place to see with your own eyes whether you’re going for photos or not.

>> Also don’t miss Broken Beach while you’re in Nusa Penida!

Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach and Thousand Islands Viewpoint are all within walking distance from the treehouse. Once you park here you can spend a half or full day exploring these east-coast hot spots on foot.

With a 2-day itinerary on the next day you can finish exploring all of the best things to do in Nusa Penida!

>> Make sure to visit the famous Kelingking (T-Rex) Beach while you’re on the island!

View from Thousand Islands Viewpoint

If you continue your hike another minute or two past the treehouses you will find Thousand Islands Viewpoint. Here you can get a unique vantage of Diamond Beach and the surrounding coastline. It’s also a fantastic spot to catch the sunrise, so don’t miss this place if you’ve already made the effort to come to the treehouses!

While Google Maps shows a crazy long route to get from the treehouse to Diamond Beach, you just need to walk the trail along the coast for about 10 minutes and you will be there.

Once you hike back up to where you started your hike to the treehouse (here), just continue straight along the coast. After about 7 minutes you will encounter a turn (here, pictured below) and it’s a bit of a tight squeeze. While it may not feel like it, you’re going in the right direction!

Turn on hike to Diamond Beach

From there just keep walking on the dirt path along the coast for another 3-4 minutes and you’ll find the entrance sign to Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach. The whole trek takes about 10 minutes and isn’t very difficult terrain.

Enjoy your time at the Nusa Penida Tree House!

Kylie & Scott

(If you liked this article or have any questions, please comment below! And make sure to follow along on Instagram @LoveHardTravelOften)

Chasing New England Fall Foliage is a magical experience everyone should have in their lifetime! After having it on our bucket list for years, Scott and I road tripped across the country on a whim to see it this year and it did NOT disappoint. If you’re heading to the Northeast or considering doing so, you’re in for a real treat. The crisp air, warm apple cider, breathtaking hikes and the most scenic drives all await you. That said, you’re already here so I certainly don’t have to convince you that this place is worth your while!

In this article we’ll cover all the best places to see fall foliage in New England, our favorite hikes, the best time to go, the best scenic drives, and everything you need to know before you go. Hopefully this article will help you plan the most iconic fall getaway.

First things first, here are a few things you need to know before chasing fall foliage in New England. These reminders should help you get in the right mindset and prepare to make the most of your trip!

• Let’s talk crowds. Many people, like you and I, want to see the fall foliage. People come from around the country (and world!) to see the vibrant changing colors of the leaves. Be prepared for crowds!
• Expectations are the thief of joy. So is comparison. Every year will be different – we’re talking about a natural process, not Disneyland, after all! The time, length and colors of peak foliage vary year to year. No matter if you see the colors pre-peak, post-peak or just in that sweet spot in the middle, take in the magic of this season. (We technically went pre-peak season and still had the most incredible experience!)
• Logistics wise, you’ll need a car. I’ll talk more on that below but just keep that in mind!
• There is limited cell service in many areas in New England so plan ahead and make sure you have offline Google maps downloaded.
• Make sure you know the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace and take care of our beautiful outdoors!

If you’re planning to travel to New England for the 2020 Fall Season, make sure you read up on all of the current travel restrictions. They change frequently and some states are stricter than others, but definitely do some research before you book anything! Here are some resources for Vermont, New York, Maine and New Hampshire‘s restrictions.

The best time to see fall foliage is mid-September to mid-October, depending on where you are. The more north you go, the earlier the colors start to change. That said, if you’re going towards the beginning of the season, it’s good to start at your most northern spot.

It’s really best to stay flexible, because every year is different and you may need to alter your plans to find the best colors. Keep an eye on the Peak Fall Foliage tracker for predictions on which spots will peak at what time.

3 to 5 days should be plenty to see tons of fall foliage in New England. Of course, you can add or subtract from your itinerary to fit it into a weekend or stretch it to a week!

The easiest ways to get to New England are either via road-trip or flying into Boston or Burlington.

The best way to get around New England is by car. Whether you road trip here or rent a car, you will want a car to see all of the beautiful places. I have heard of some tours, too, though so if you aren’t keen on driving consider looking into those!

Dixville Notch State Park was our first real taste of fall foliage in the Northeast and it truly took our breath away. Since it’s the most northern of these spots, the colors change up here first. The hike up to Table Rock quickly jumped to the top of our favorite hikes list and gave our favorite hikes in Washington a run for their money!

I’d honestly say if you only have time for one hike in New England, this is it. The hike rewards you with the most gorgeous view of Lake Gloriette and the surrounding forest, and the “table rock” is such a unique summit!

Depending on which route you take, the hike to Table Rock is pretty moderate. We accidentally took the climbing trail #57 and it was the steepest hike we’ve ever done, but we came down trail #50 and it wasn’t bad at all! That said, I probably wouldn’t recommend this for those afraid of heights.

After the hike head into the adorable town of Colebrook. There is one of the famous New Hampshire covered bridges there and plenty of restaurants to grab a bite before continuing onwards.

>> Everything you need to know before this hike is here!

No trip to New England is complete without driving the Kancamagus Highway which winds through the breathtaking White Mountains of New Hampshire! This scenic highway is lined with the most dense forest that looks like skittles from above.

There are tons of turn offs to take photos and take in the scenery along the 32 mile drive. This is definitely not a highway you want to rush through! Make sure to stop at Kancamagus Pass (the tallest point on the drive) and Rocky Gorge (which deserves it’s own section below!). It’s also the perfect place to fly drone and get the birds eye view of the unbelievable colors.

Rocky Gorge is a stop along the Kancamagus Highway, but we enjoyed it so much that I felt like it deserved it’s own spot on the list! This stop consists of a beautiful nature walk along the gorge, lined with colorful trees and a picturesque bridge. It’s the perfect spot along the drive to stretch your legs and take in the scenery from a different perspective.

Do note, though, that this gorge is part of the White Mountain National Forest and requires a $5 fee per car to park. They also accept the interagency America The Beautiful pass which is what we use!

Woodstock, Vermont feels like it’s home to all of the New England farms I always pictured in my head! The adorable barn-style homes with long driveways lined with fallen leaves with a colorful forest backdrop. Honestly, it felt like a postcard here! The above is taken from the breathtaking Elm Grove Farm (also called Sleepy Hollow Farm) which is private property. Make sure you don’t go past the gates without permission and be respectful of the residents!

Another must-visit in Woodstock is Sugarbush Farms which was one of our favorite experiences in Vermont! Here you can take a nature walk through the maple trees and see how they tap the trees for syrup, take a tour of the syrup factory and, the best part, partake in their famous cheese and maple syrup tastings! We went on a day when they were smoking their award-winning smoked cheese and it was AMAZING to taste and smell and learn about the process.

Stowe, Vermont is the most adorable town I’ve ever seen. I mean honestly, is this Stowe or Stars Hollow (Gilmore Girls, anyone?). Anyways, I would say hands down that Stowe is a must-visit on a New England itinerary. It’s the perfect place to experience the charm of a small New England town and take in all the quintessential fall experiences like cider tasting, etc. It’s also home to the Von Trapp Family Lodge (from Sound of Music) and the original Ben & Jerry’s!

There are so many fun and iconic things to do in Stowe that it deserves its own article – read all about it here!

Smugglers Notch is a really neat area right outside of Stowe, Vermont. The windy road curves through gorgeous lush forest land in the Green Mountains and takes you to a beautiful hiking area. You can even take a gondola ride near here that is supposed to be stunning! (Note: the gondola is only available mid-July to mid-October)

Crawford Notch State Park has tons of hiking trails that are perfect for leaf peeping! Our favorite was Mount Willard which is a moderate 3.2 mile hike with stunning views at the top. If you’re lucky you’ll even see a train go by below!

If you pass through the town of Conway on your way to Crawford Notch, definitely check out the Swift River Bridge – one of the famous New Hampshire covered bridges!

Franconia Notch State Park is home to Artist’s Bluff which is an easy hiking trail with major views! We spent sunrise up here which was extremely peaceful but I think the colors may be even better with more sunlight. After the hike head to Polly’s Pancake Parlor for the perfect New England diner experience, complete with local maple syrup!

Do note that both Google Maps and All Trails lead you to the wrong place for the Artist Bluff hike (we almost abandoned ship on the hike because we couldn’t find it in the dark!). Instead, follow the GPS to 44.1788661, -71.6948606 (which is the trailhead) and then park in the Echo Lake Beach parking lot.

Note: drones are not allowed here.

Autumn in Acadia National Park is supposed to be AMAZING. Clearly we didn’t catch the peak colors in Acadia National Park, but it was still incredible! This national park had never been on our radar but I’m sure glad we made the trip over here. Besides gorgeous hikes and leaf peeping (during the right season), you can also enjoy the beach, admire historical lighthouses and watch the very first sunrise in the US!

Note: due to popularity, some parts of the park require vehicle reservations during the fall. For 2020 they required reservations October 1 through 18. You can get more info about the reservations on nps.gov/acadia.

Full Acadia National Park travel guide is coming soon!

The Adirondacks in New York is the one place on our New England fall bucket list that remains. If you have extra time in the Northeast, definitely check out this area! The hikes here look insanely stunning.

Below is a map of the best places to see fall foliage in New England that we covered above. You can use this for relative location of the different things to do and to plan your route! Just click the ‘star’ to save it to your Google Maps!

I hope you have the most incredible time in New England! Happy leaf peeping!

Kylie

(If you liked this article or have any questions, please comment below! And make sure to follow along on Instagram @LoveHardTravelOften)

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