Chasing Travel Destinations

Author: Alan Staples

🌍 4 Travel Destinations That Are Gaining Popularity Fast

Travel trends are constantly shifting, and some destinations are quickly rising in popularity thanks to affordability, accessibility, and social media buzz. If you’re looking for a trip that feels exciting without being overcrowded, these destinations are gaining attention fast — and now is the perfect time to plan.

🇵🇷 Puerto Rico — No Passport, Big Island Energy

Puerto Rico continues to grow in popularity for travelers who want a Caribbean feel without international travel.

Why Puerto Rico is trending:

No passport required for U.S. travelers Beautiful beaches and rainforest adventures Rich culture, food, and history Easy flights from most major U.S. cities

Puerto Rico is perfect for couples, families, and first-time island travelers.

https://expedia.com/affiliates/chasingtraveldestinations/puertorico

🇯🇲 Montego Bay, Jamaica — Easy & Affordable Caribbean Escape

Montego Bay remains a top choice for travelers who want a relaxing tropical vacation with minimal planning.

Why travelers love Montego Bay:

All-inclusive resort options Short airport transfers Family-friendly accommodations Budget-friendly travel packages

This destination is ideal if you want to unwind without overthinking the details.

https://expedia.com/affiliates/chasingtraveldestinations/montegobay

🇵🇹 Lisbon, Portugal — Europe Without the High Price Tag

Lisbon is quickly becoming one of Europe’s most popular destinations thanks to its affordability and charm.

Why Lisbon is gaining popularity:

Lower costs compared to other European cities Beautiful architecture and coastal views Incredible food scene Easy public transportation

Lisbon is great for couples, solo travelers, and anyone visiting Europe for the first time.

https://expedia.com/affiliates/chasingtraveldestinations/lisbon

🇺🇸 Sedona, Arizona — Nature, Wellness & Scenic Beauty

Sedona is trending among travelers looking for scenic escapes and slower-paced vacations.

Why Sedona is on the rise:

Stunning red rock landscapes Hiking and outdoor activities Wellness retreats and spas Perfect for road trips

Sedona is ideal for travelers who want relaxation, nature, and unique scenery.

https://expedia.com/affiliates/chasingtraveldestinations/sedona

✨ Final Thoughts

Trending destinations aren’t always about hype — they’re often places that offer great value, easy planning, and memorable experiences.

Whether you’re dreaming of:

A Caribbean escape A European city adventure A U.S. nature retreat

These destinations are rising fast — and worth adding to your travel list.

At Chasing Travel Destinations, we focus on places that are:

Easy to plan Worth the cost Perfect for real travelers

📌 Save this post and check back weekly for new travel inspiration.

January 26, 2026
🌍 5 Trending Travel Destinations Everyone Is Booking Right Now

If you’ve been itching to travel but don’t know where to go next, these destinations are topping wish lists for a reason. From tropical escapes to culture-rich cities, these are some of the most talked-about and booked travel spots right now — and many are more affordable than you think.

🌴 1. Curaçao 🇨🇼 — Colorful, Relaxed & Underrated

Curaçao is quietly becoming one of the Caribbean’s most sought-after islands — without the crowds of Aruba or the Bahamas.

Why it’s trending:

Stunning beaches with calm, clear water European charm mixed with Caribbean vibes Excellent snorkeling right from shore

https://expedia.com/affiliates/chasingtraveldestinations/curacao

✨ Perfect for couples, families, and first-time Caribbean travelers.

🇲🇽 2. Tulum, Mexico — Boho Luxury Meets Nature

Tulum continues to dominate travel trends thanks to its laid-back luxury feel and natural beauty.

Why travelers love it:

Boutique hotels & eco-resorts Cenotes, ruins, and jungle experiences Great food scene

https://expedia.com/affiliates/chasingtraveldestinations/tulum

🌿 Best for travelers who want relaxation and adventure.

🇮🇹 3. Italy (Rome & Amalfi Coast) — Classic but Always Trending

Italy never goes out of style — but right now, Rome and the Amalfi Coast are especially popular for travelers wanting culture and scenery in one trip.

Why it’s hot right now:

History, food, and breathtaking views Easy to combine multiple cities Perfect for milestone trips

https://expedia.com/affiliates/chasingtraveldestinations/amalfi

🍝 Ideal for couples, anniversaries, or bucket-list vacations.

🏖️ 4. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic — Easy Tropical Escape

Punta Cana remains one of the most booked Caribbean destinations thanks to its affordability and all-inclusive options.

Why it stays trending:

Budget-friendly flight packages Tons of family-friendly resorts Minimal planning required

https://expedia.com/affiliates/chasingtraveldestinations/puntacana

☀️ Great for families, groups, and stress-free travel.

🌆 5. New York City 🇺🇸 — A City That Never Stops Trending

NYC continues to trend as a top destination for quick getaways and first-time city travelers.

Why it’s popular now:

Endless food, shows, and attractions Perfect for weekend trips No car needed

https://expedia.com/affiliates/chasingtraveldestinations/nyc

🗽 Ideal for couples, solo travelers, and quick escapes.

✨ Final Thoughts

Travel trends change, but the desire to explore doesn’t.

Whether you’re dreaming of:

Tropical beaches European culture Stress-free resort stays Iconic city escapes

There’s never been a better time to start planning your next trip.

At Chasing Travel Destinations, we share:

Trending destinations Affordable travel tips Family-friendly ideas Easy booking inspiration

📌 Save this post for later & check back weekly for new destinations.

January 14, 2026
🇫🇷 French vs 🇳🇱 Dutch Side: Where to Stay in Saint Martin / Sint Maarten

A Simple Guide for Travelers & Families

One island. Two countries. Very different vibes.

The island of Saint Martin / Sint Maarten has been shared by France and the Netherlands since 1648, when the two countries signed the Treaty of Concordia. Instead of creating borders, the island remained open, allowing cultures, people, and commerce to move freely between both sides. Today, this unique history gives travelers two distinct experiences — French and Dutch — on one small island.

When planning a trip to Saint Martin / Sint Maarten, one of the first decisions you’ll face is where to stay — the French side or the Dutch side.

Both are beautiful, but they offer very different experiences. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you choose the side that fits your travel style best.

🇫🇷 Staying on the French Side (Saint Martin)

The French side is known for a relaxed, European feel.

Why travelers love it:

Quiet beaches Excellent food and cafes Slower pace of life Less nightlife, more relaxation

Best for:

Couples Families who want calm beaches Travelers focused on food and scenery

Areas like Grand Case are popular for charming stays and easy beach access.

🇳🇱 Staying on the Dutch Side (Sint Maarten)

The Dutch side is more lively and resort-focused.

Why travelers love it:

Larger resorts and hotels Casinos, nightlife, and shopping Easy airport access More entertainment options

Best for:

Families who want amenities Resort-style vacations First-time visitors who want convenience

Maho Beach and Simpson Bay are popular areas on this side.

🏨 Which Side Is Better for Families?

It depends on your travel style:

French side: quieter, calmer, less crowded Dutch side: more hotels, pools, activities, and dining options

Many families choose the Dutch side for convenience, then explore the French side during the day.

✈️ Best Part: You Don’t Have to Choose Just One

The island is small, and driving between sides is easy. Some travelers stay on one side and enjoy both — beaches, food, and experiences from each.

✈️ Ready to Book Your Stay?

Whether you prefer a peaceful beachfront stay or a lively resort experience, comparing hotels on both sides helps you book the best fit.

👉 Compare hotels and resorts on both sides of the island here

(https://expedia.com/affiliates/chasingtraveldestinations/stmaarten)

✨ Final Thought

Saint Martin / Sint Maarten offers the best of both worlds. Choosing the right side comes down to how you want to spend your time — relaxing, exploring, or enjoying resort life.

That’s what Chasing Travel Destinations is about: helping you choose smarter stays and better trips.

January 7, 2026
🏨 How to Choose the Best Hotels for Family Travel

What Actually Matters When Booking With Kids

When traveling as a family, where you stay can make or break the trip. The best family hotels aren’t about luxury — they’re about space, convenience, and stress-free nights.

Here’s exactly what we look for when booking family-friendly hotels and how to make smarter choices every time.

🛏️ 1) Space Comes First

More space = better sleep = better trip.

Look for:

Family rooms or suites Two beds or separate sleeping areas Extra room to unpack

Crowded rooms lead to tired kids and frustrated parents.

📍 2) Location Beats Luxury

A great location saves time, money, and energy.

Prioritize hotels that are:

Close to attractions Walkable to food and activities Easy to get in and out of

Less commuting = more family time.

🏊 3) Amenities That Matter for Families

Not all amenities are created equal.

Family-friendly hotel features we prioritize:

Pools Free breakfast On-site dining Easy parking or transportation

These small things add up fast when traveling with kids.

💳 4) Flexible Booking Is Key

Plans change — especially with children.

Booking platforms that allow:

Easy comparison Clear cancellation policies One-place trip management

make family travel far less stressful.

✈️ Ready to Find the Right Family Hotel?

Comparing family-friendly hotels, resorts, and suites in one place makes booking easier — whether you’re planning a weekend trip or a longer vacation.

👉 Find family-friendly hotels and stays here

(https://expedia.com/affiliates/chasingtraveldestinations/chasingtravelchicago)

✨ Final Thought

The right hotel gives families space to relax, recharge, and actually enjoy the destination. When you book smart, travel feels easier — and that’s the goal.

That’s why Chasing Travel Destinations focuses on practical travel that works for real families.

January 3, 2026
🎆 New Year’s Day Family Travel: Easy Trips to Start the Year Right ✈️

Stress-Free Destinations Families Love

New Year’s Day is one of the best underrated times to travel as a family. Holiday crowds start to thin out, kids are still on break, and it’s the perfect reset before routines kick back in.

If you’re thinking about starting the year with a family trip, here are easy, low-stress travel ideas that work well for New Year’s travel.

🌴 Warm-Weather Getaways

Perfect for families looking to escape winter and recharge.

Great options include:

Caribbean islands Florida beach destinations Family-friendly resorts

These trips work well because travel demand dips right after New Year’s, often making flights and hotels easier to find.

🏙️ City Trips With Family Appeal

If warm weather isn’t the goal, city getaways can be just as rewarding.

Look for cities with:

Walkable attractions Museums and kid-friendly activities Family-sized hotel rooms or suites

New Year’s Day travel often means calmer streets and shorter lines.

🏨 Why Where You Stay Matters

For family travel, the right stay makes all the difference.

We always prioritize:

Space for everyone Convenient locations Easy check-in and flexible options

Booking through one platform helps keep everything organized, especially when traveling with kids.

✈️ Ready to Plan a New Year’s Family Trip?

Whether you’re looking for a warm escape or a simple city break, comparing family-friendly hotels and vacation rentals in one place makes planning easier.

👉 Search family-friendly stays and travel deals here

(https://expedia.com/affiliates/expedia-home.A1nMH7Q)

✨ Final Thought

New Year’s travel doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right destination and the right stay, it can be a relaxed way to start the year with family time and new memories.

January 1, 2026
How to Book Family Travel Without Overspending

A Simple Travel Planning Approach That Actually Works

Traveling as a family gets expensive fast — flights, hotels, and logistics add up quickly. Over time, we’ve learned that how you book matters just as much as where you go.

Here’s the simple approach we use to plan family trips that stay affordable, flexible, and stress-free.

🧭 Step 1: Choose Flexibility Over Perfection

We don’t chase the “perfect” travel date. Flexible dates often unlock better pricing on flights and hotels — especially for families booking multiple tickets.

🏨 Step 2: Book Stays With Family Space in Mind

For family travel, space matters more than luxury.

We look for:

Family-friendly hotels Resorts with amenities Vacation rentals with room to breathe

Convenience beats five-star every time when traveling with kids.

💰 Step 3: Bundle When It Makes Sense

Booking flights and hotels together can often save money and simplify planning. One platform, one itinerary, fewer headaches.

This is especially helpful when traveling with kids and tight schedules.

✨ Why We Use Expedia for Family Travel

We use Expedia because it makes it easy to:

Compare hotels, resorts, and rentals Bundle flights + stays Filter for family-friendly options Manage trips in one place

It keeps planning simple — which matters when you’re booking for more than just yourself.

✈️ Ready to Start Planning?

Whether you’re booking a beach getaway, city trip, or international adventure, start by comparing your options in one place.

👉 Plan your next trip here

(https://expedia.com/affiliates/chasingtraveldestinations/chasingtraveldestinationsexpedia)

December 31, 2025
🌴 Is Curaçao Affordable for a Family of 4? 🇨🇼

Travel hits different when you have kids.

When our family of four visited Curaçao, we weren’t just thinking about beaches — we were thinking about cost, safety, and real-life living.

So the big question became:

👉 Could a family actually afford to live here — not just vacation?

💰 Real Monthly Cost of Living in Curaçao (Family of 4)

This is what comfortable living realistically looks like — not luxury, not struggling.

🏠 Housing: $1,800 – $3,000 ⚡ Utilities & Internet: $300 – $450 🍎 Groceries: $700 – $1,200 🚗 Transportation: $350 – $600 🏥 Healthcare: $200 – $400 🏫 Schooling (optional): $600 – $1,600

👉 Comfortable Monthly Range: $4,500 – $6,500

🇨🇼Curaçao vs the Midwest USA 🇺🇸

This surprised us.

In many ways, Curaçao’s monthly overhead feels very similar to living in the Midwest.

The trade-off:

Curaçao = better lifestyle 🌊☀️ Midwest = easier income & convenience

Curaçao isn’t a “cheap escape” — it’s a lifestyle upgrade if your income is structured right.

December 26, 2025