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Author: Taylor Ikemiya

New York State’s Hudson Valley

New York State’s Hudson Valley

The Hudson Valley (also known as the Hudson River Valley) is a region in Upstate New York that stretches from the Capital District to Yonkers in Westchester County, which borders New York City. It’s divided into three subregions: the Upper, Mid, and Lower Hudson Valley. Named after the Hudson River, a tidal estuary that ebbs and flows with the ocean tide, the region is abundant in natural resources and beauty. From the Catskill Mountains to the Adirondack Range as well…

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Montréal

Montréal

Montréal is the largest city in Canada’s French-influenced province of Québec. It is named after Mount Royal, the stunning triple-peaked hill at the city’s center. The city itself is located on the largest island of the Hochelaga Archipelago off of the Saint Lawrence River; nine bridges of various sizes and designs connect Montréal to the surrounding areas. Morning in Montréal For those who require, or simply enjoy, starting their day with a cup of coffee, there are countless places to…

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Meandering Around Matosinhos

Meandering Around Matosinhos

Matosinhos (pronounced “ma-toh-ZEEN-yos”) is a major port, fishing area, and beach town in northern Portugal a few kilometers away from Porto. It is known for its abundance of tasty fish and seafood restaurants as well as for its long stretch of beach. Matosinhos can get quite busy with locals and tourists during the summer months, making warmer off-season months like May, September, and October perfect. How to Get to Matosinhos Matosinhos can be accessed via metro, bus, and tram from…

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Two Different Vibes within Puntarenas

Two Different Vibes within Puntarenas

Puntarenas Province is one of the most important tourism regions in Costa Rica thanks to its rich Pacific coastline that is full of islands, inlets, beaches, and wildlife. Tourists flock to this area every year to visit Manuel Antonio and Manuel Antonio National Park, with Quepos being known as the gateway to both and neighboring Dominical being popular for surfing, its beach, and the laidback atmosphere. Did you know… that Costa Rica is politically and administratively divided into seven provinces: Alajuela, Cartago,…

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Pura Vida & Relaxing in the Costa Rican Rainforest

Pura Vida & Relaxing in the Costa Rican Rainforest

San Lorenzo de Tarrazú is a mountainous area in southern San José Province that borders Puntarenas Province. The Naranjo River has carved gorgeous terrain and stunning natural landscapes amidst the Central American rainforest. White water rafting, hiking, ziplining, and biking are popular activities that draw people to the region. Additionally, the serenity of the beautiful regional flora and fauna further captivate all who visit. I recommend staying in this region for several nights because it’s peaceful, calm, and centering. My…

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Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica’s Most Popular National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica’s Most Popular National Park

Costa Rica is known for its commitment to maintaining its lush landscape and diverse wildlife; its national parks and other protected areas serve as a model of sustainable conservation with roughly 28% of the land in Costa Rica being a park or reserve. The Central American nation has 28 national parks in total, 3 of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Manuel Antonio National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most popular national parks, hosting over 150,000 visitors annually. Within Puntarenas…

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Escaping to Dún Laoghaire

Escaping to Dún Laoghaire

Dún Laoghaire (“dun leer-ee”) is a stone’s throw away from bustling Dublin. It’s home to Dún Laoghaire Harbor, Ireland‘s largest pleasure sailing base, making it a lovely place to watch various yachts and boats along East Pier on a nice day. Whether you’re spending a morning, afternoon, or evening in Dún Laoghaire, this quaint coastal suburb will help you escape the crowded streets of Dublin for a few hours while you breathe in the salty sea air. How to Get…

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24 Hours in Athens, Greece

24 Hours in Athens, Greece

Athens is the capital of Greece as well as Europe’s oldest capital. It is known to be the birthplace of democracy, in which all citizens should have a voice in governing their society. As the heart of Ancient Greece, Athens was home to a powerful civilization and empire. Evidence of this past is scattered throughout the city, with 5th-century BC landmarks—Acropolis, Parthenon temple, and theaters—being defining sights. 24 hours is definitely not enough time to fully experience this monstrosity of…

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