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5 Ways to Travel Abroad Without Leaving the Country
I would love to take a couple of weeks off for a leisurely vacation in an international destination, but losing an entire day (or more!) in flight, and then again at the end of the trip, is a pain. But you can have that global adventure without the lost hours thanks to these locations that might be closer to home than you think. And these towns offer so much more than just a unique look — you can explore rolling hills, visit big cities, and get lost in small-town rural charm when you visit one of these five US cities.
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Helen, GA
Tucked at the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains on the Chattahoochee River, Helen is basically a re-creation of an alpine resort with cobblestone alleys and old-world charm. Plan a visit around a special event such as Fourth of July fireworks and Christmas parades — or check out the famed Oktoberfest.
Venice Canals, CA
If you're dreaming of visiting Italy, book a flight to LA and then visit Venice, CA, where you can stroll or even float along the canals. Wonderfully romantic and enchanting, it's a fun day trip while you're taking in all the other SoCal sights.
Boston
This world-class city is filled with charm, leaving you feeling like you're meandering the streets of Dublin or exploring the excitement of Prague. And you can find tons of stuff to do in Boston, from touring the Museum of Art to shopping Newbury Street.
Solvang, CA
Located in Santa Barbara County, Solvang is a small community that was founded in 1911 by a group of Danes who wanted to create a town far away from the Midwest winters. The city is filled with bakeries and restaurants that offer a touch of the Danish experience. It's like visiting Copenhagen right in the heart of Southern California.
Frankenmuth, MI
This unique town was settled by immigrants from a small region in Germany, resulting in quaint covered bridges and timber-framed buildings that are filled with charm. Also known as Little Bavaria, Frankenmuth is the home to the World Expo of Beer, making it a must visit for beer-lovers.
