K.C. Dermody – Trips To Discover

12 Best Places for Fall Foliage in Vermont

K.C. Dermody — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 13:15:45 +0000

Vermont is one of the world’s best destinations for fall foliage viewing, with three-quarters of the state covered in forests. They’re home to the highest concentration of sugar maples in the U.S., show-stoppers when it comes to colors, with their leaves turning vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, not to mention the serene farms with red barns and charming villages that create scenes that look like they were made for postcards. The color begins in early September in the northernmost areas and higher elevations before moving over the next several weeks into the valleys and valley towns from north to south, hanging around as late as the end of October, with these destinations being some of the best for enjoying it.

Top 12 Adults-Only Resorts in Jamaica

K.C. Dermody — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 13:00:40 +0000

If you’re looking for a resort in Jamaica, you have a long list of options to choose from, many of which sit on gorgeous stretches of pristine white sands while offering enticing pools, swim-up bars, and much more. Couples seeking a romantic getaway or anyone else who wants to enjoy a blissful retreat that’s difficult to accomplish if there are a lot of kids running around might want to narrow it down to the adults-only properties. For the best of the best, book one of these incredible properties from Oyster Bay to Negril and beyond.

Top 13 Boutique Hotels in Seattle, Washington

K.C. Dermody — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 13:00:21 +0000

I love staying in boutique hotels when I’m traveling. Instead of being just another one of hundreds of guests, they tend to offer much more personalized service and, often, some unique perks like complimentary wine tastings while being set within a history building or a modern building with funky, unexpected decor. When it comes to boutique hotels in Seattle, there are many choices that are just a short walk away from the city’s wealth of attractions like the waterfront and Pike Place Market, including these.

12 Best Places to Experience Day of the Dead in Mexico

K.C. Dermody — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 13:15:15 +0000

While Día de Muertos, Day of the Dead, is a holiday that revolves around death, it’s not a somber affair and arguably makes Mexico one of the world’s best places to visit in November. Before I moved to Mexico, I didn’t know much about it, but this isn’t a time of mourning, rather a time to celebrate life, honoring those who have departed. It officially takes place on November 1st and 2nd, when the veil between the living and the dead is said to be thin enough that the departed can cross back over, allowing friends and families to reunite. The parties sometimes last for days and include colorful costumes, elaborate decor, music, dancing, and lots of food. While specific traditions can vary depending on the destination, it’s an important event throughout Mexico. If you want to experience Day of the Dead, these are the best places to be in the country to do it.

Top 12 Northern Lights Hotels in Norway

K.C. Dermody — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 13:00:31 +0000

Seeing the aurora borealis, the spectacular display that occurs when solar particles enter our planet’s atmosphere and emit burning gases upon impact that produce various colored lights, was on my bucket list for years. Having visited many countries in the far north during my travels, I’ve been lucky to see the northern lights many times now, and it definitely doesn’t disappoint. The further north you go and the more solar activity there is, the better, which is why visiting Norway, especially the most northern destinations, will significantly increase your chances of witnessing this breathtaking natural phenomenon. These hotels can all provide the perfect base for your getaway and the opportunity to watch without leaving the property itself.

13 Best Pumpkin Patches in California

K.C. Dermody — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 13:15:22 +0000

Growing up in Northern California, one of my favorite months of the year was October, as that meant making a fun day out of going to a pumpkin patch to pick out the best pumpkins for carving Jack o’ Lanterns. That tradition continued with my own kids, where we’d have fun searching for places with all sorts of activities like farm animals to pet, hay rides, and corn mazes, in addition to great pumpkins and the chance to take advantage of great photo ops. If you’re looking for one of the best pumpkin patches in California to score your own, you’ll want to head to one of these.

15 Best Off-The-Beaten-Path Vacation Destinations in the U.S.

K.C. Dermody — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 13:00:48 +0000

While they’re certainly worthy of a visit, places like Yellowstone National Park, Los Angeles, and New York City are often jam-packed with tourists. For those who want to avoid the masses, fortunately, there are still plenty of hidden gems that manage to fly beneath the radar. As the type of traveler who almost always prefers going off-the-beaten path, I’ve scoped out many of them over the years. For your next trip, consider an escape to one of my favorite destinations, from lesser-known national parks to small towns with an interesting history and a wealth of outdoor adventure nearby.

6 Iconic Fall Activities & Where to Enjoy Them

K.C. Dermody — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 13:00:46 +0000

Fall has always been my favorite season. The cooler temperatures and the beautiful changing of the leaves, along with the many fun activities it’s known for make it especially enjoyable. Having lived in quite a few different areas of the country and visiting many more, I’ve been able to enjoy the delights of fall in multiple cities and small towns from California, the Pacific Northwest, and the Rockies to the Midwest, New England, and beyond. The result is this list featuring some of the best pumpkin patches, apple orchards, leaf-peeping spots, haunted houses, corn mazes, and apple cideries across the nation.

Iconic Activities

Pumpkin Patches
Corn Mazes
Apple Picking
Fall Foliage
Cider Tasting
Haunted Houses

Top 13 Boutique Hotels in Mexico

K.C. Dermody — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 13:15:26 +0000

Living in Mexico, I’ve had the opportunity to stay at a variety of boutique hotels, often providing a more authentic experience along with some fabulous perks. They offer a unique kind of experience, with a more intimate stay that typically has a distinct personality along with warm, personalized service. While many people envision sprawling resorts with pools when thinking about a vacation in Mexico, it’s well worth considering one of its impressive boutique properties, from magical Mexico City to Cabo, Tulum, and alluring destinations in between.

Top 13 Boutique Hotels in London

K.C. Dermody — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 13:00:34 +0000

There are hundreds of hotels in London, making it difficult to choose where to stay. Boutique hotels tend to be more intimate, with fewer rooms to ensure a more personalized stay. Many are design-driven, and some are located in grand historic buildings, but all tend to be overflowing with charm. From five-star luxury in Soho to a classic in Mayfair, among these boutique hotels in London, you’re sure to find one that perfectly fits the bill.

Top 12 Luxury Hotels in Sonoma Valley Wine Country

K.C. Dermody — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 13:00:57 +0000

Just 45 minutes north of the Golden Gate Bridge, Sonoma Valley is an ideal wine country destination with over 500 wineries and many farm-to-table restaurants helmed by acclaimed chefs. Enjoy special wine-tasting experiences like cycling through the vineyards or even on horseback, along with classic multi-course meals with wine pairings. For the best base, you’ll want to consider one of these dreamy luxury hotels in the heart of Sonoma Valley Wine Country.

14 Best Fall Festivals in the United States

K.C. Dermody — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 13:30:17 +0000

It’s almost that time of year, my favorite season, offering everything from fall activities like apple picking to visiting pumpkin patches and corn mazes, while the air is fresh and crisp and the scent of cinnamon and cloves is practically everywhere. There are also many fall festivals held across the country that are worth planning on visiting around or perhaps just enjoying as a day trip close to home. These are some of the best you’ll find across the country, from the foggy California coast to New England with its breathtaking autumn foliage.

12 Best Spa Hotels in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

K.C. Dermody — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 13:00:17 +0000

One of the most popular vacation destinations in Mexico, Puerto Vallarta sits along the Bay of Bandera on the country’s Pacific coast, offering a wide range of activities from snorkeling and diving to hiking through the rainforest. It’s also the perfect place to simply relax on miles of gorgeous sandy beaches, shop at Marina Vallarta and the little boutiques along cobbled streets, and dine on mouthwatering cuisine. For those who want to enjoy some pampering with their stay, these spa hotels in Puerto Vallarta are sure to be ideal.

12 Best California Beach Resorts for Families

K.C. Dermody — Thu, 24 Aug 2023 13:15:36 +0000

As a native Californian, I grew up visiting beautiful beaches up and down the state. Some are lively, packed with sunbathers and surfers, while others are serene and wild, tucked away in coves with tide pools to search through. There are hundreds of resorts and hotels that provide easy access to some of the best beaches from San Diego to the Mendocino coast and beyond, but these are the very best for families, offering activities for all ages and much more.

14 Best Places to Visit in September

K.C. Dermody — Thu, 24 Aug 2023 06:51:13 +0000

September has long been one of my favorite months to travel. With the heat of summer starting to cool and tourist crowds thinning, it’s an optimal month for visiting many destinations around the world. While I’d avoid most Caribbean islands, which have one of the highest risks for tropical storms and hurricanes this time of year, there are countless others to consider. These destinations offer something for everyone as some of the best places to visit in September.

14 Most Romantic Getaways in Vermont

K.C. Dermody — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 13:15:43 +0000

With Vermont’s serene landscapes that include rolling hills and mountains, sparkling lakes, and charming towns with covered bridges and quaint red barns, it’s idyllic for a romantic getaway. Every season brings something special, from the flowers that burst in the spring and the long days of summer with lively farmers’ markets to fall’s brilliant foliage and winter’s magical snowy wonderland. No matter when you plan to come, make the most of your time here with a stay at one of these hotels, which are sure to please couples of all types looking for that perfect escape in Vermont.

12 Best Spa Resorts in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

K.C. Dermody — Tue, 22 Aug 2023 13:15:33 +0000

Cabo isn’t just about partying and letting loose at places like Cabo Wabo. Those who are seeking a tranquil oasis for enjoying pampering treatments will find some fabulous spa hotels that sit right along beautiful golden sands. Many offer all sorts of desirable features, like gorgeous pools and fine dining eateries too. These are some of the best spa hotels in Cabo, sure to provide the ultimate retreat.

14 Best Hotels in Downtown Seattle, WA

K.C. Dermody — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 13:15:54 +0000

Downtown Seattle makes a great base for tourists who want to enjoy a myriad of attractions while being steps from shops and eateries. This is where you’ll find Pike Place Market and the beautiful waterfront with the Seattle Great Wheel, as well as the fantastic Seattle Art Museum and the aquarium. There are some excellent public transport options when you don’t feel like walking, including the monorail, streetcars, and light rail. When considering where to stay, these hotels are some of the best you’ll find in downtown Seattle.

12 Best Family Resorts in Northern California

K.C. Dermody — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 13:00:31 +0000

With everything from a dramatic coastline, redwood forests, soaring mountains, and sparkling lakes, Northern California has lots to offer when it comes to family vacations. Your getaway can be as relaxed or as active as you’d like, with resorts offering everything from golfing, hiking, and biking to swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. These properties, in particular, are some of the best for families in the northern part of the state, from Monterey to Yosemite and Lake Tahoe.

13 Best Spa Hotels in Ireland

K.C. Dermody — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 13:00:11 +0000

When thinking about Ireland, pubs, castles, and lush green landscapes probably come to mind, but did you know you can enhance your trip with a stay at an Irish spa hotel? After a day of exploring, you’ll be able to come back and indulge in all sorts of decadent treatments, perhaps soak in a hot tub or enjoy a relaxing swim in the pool. Some are worth spending a full day drifting between the numerous pampering options, including a few that are tucked away in castle hotels for a magical stay that will make you feel like royalty. No matter which you choose on this list, you’re sure to enjoy an unforgettable experience.