Native Nomads’ Top 10 Sites To See In Your Lifetime
1. Chiapas, Mexico
Chiapas, Mexico is a state found as far south in Mexico as you can go, bordering Guatemala. We think it is a must-see destination in your lifetime. With beautiful cities, majestic waterfalls, ancient Mayan ruins with mysterious pasts, and much more, you will sure to be captivated. We have driven through this state a couple of times and always find something amazing to see and do. Noteworthy places to visit: Palenque Mayan Archeological Site, San Cristobal de las Casas, Chamula pueblo and cathedral. Itinerary coming soon….
2. Almafi Coast, Italy
A short distance from Rome the Almafi coast is everything that is needed for the most quintessential Italian trip. This beautiful coastline offers epic high views over sparkling, turquoise waters, and historic fishing villages with the best Italian food and wine we have ever had.
We chose to rent a car in Naples and make the short drive past historic Pompei and Herculaneum (which was convenient to roam around for a couple of hours on our way), before entering this magical area.
Make sure to try the fresh limoncello and fresh seafood when you visit this wonderful destination. If you can make it, walk down hundreds of stone steps down to one of the many beaches along the 34-mile stretch of coastline. Visit the famous Fiordo di Furore Beach, an especially scenic narrow beach situated under a pretty bridge.
Reserve a space on a boat to see the magical “Emerald Grotto” (Grotta dello Smeraldo) a watery cave under a cliff located in Conca dei Marini, Italy. For the extra adventurous, grab your camera and hike along the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) for extra stunning views.
End your evening strolling around the ancient Villa Rufolo (see picture to the top right), then eat fresh pizza watching the setting sun in the cobblestone village nearby called Ravello.
You can not go wrong when visiting the Amalfi Coast!
3. Bacalar, Mexico
Also known as The Laguna of 7 Shades of Blue for its glimmering waters that range from very light clear aqua, turquoise and dark azul, Bacalar is a feast for your senses and soul. Truly one of the most magnificent, beautiful places we have ever been. It is a couple of hours south of the more famous Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico and is slowly becoming more well known as a tourist destination. Shhhh, keep this a secret, is something you will hear from many, and for good reason. This well kept, tranquil and peaceful town will leave you feeling rejuvenated and serene the moment you step foot here.
If you can – pick a hotel or BnB with access to the laguna since much of the land along the lake is privately owned. Wake up with the sun rising above the water and go for an early morning kayak or stand up paddleboard ride and become one with nature while you respectfully observe the many amazing birds during this active time of day. Later, spend your time catching some rays on a hammock over the water or dock, eat some shrimp tacos at Playita under the trees overlooking the water, or head south to Cocalitos beach to swim and hang out. Be sure to steer clear of touching the fragile stromatolites, which filter the entire laguna and give it the gorgeous blue color Bacalar is known for! They look like giant rocks but in fact are living layers of millions of one-celled organisms.
Friends have also highly recommended driving south about 9 miles and hanging out for the day at beautiful Los Rapidos (we will be heading there next time we go). Book a boat tour around the laguna and see the famous Pirates Canal (the history is super interesting!). We booked a pontoon with a fun group through the spectacular eco-hotel Akalki. End your evening eating delicious dinner at Playita under the twinkling lights in the giant tree, or head over to Nixtamal – one of the most magical dinners we have ever had we had there. We got to know the chef who quite obviously was meant to be a chef. The food is beyond delicious and a piece of art as well!
4. Oaxaca City, Mexico
This is one of the spots in the world that we had wished to spend more time than we did. We can’t wait to go back for an extended period of time.
Walking around this historic Mexican destination we found secret gardens, mescal tasting rooms on rooftops, and some of the best Mexican cuisine in Mexico. Oaxaca is the birthplace of Mole, the famous chocolate sauce that is used worldwide, and you can choose from many varieties to suit your fancy.
Oaxaca City is also home to many art galleries and museums filled with amazing indigenous textile art. Roam the ancient streets and perhaps you will spontaneously see a passing parade with giant dancing puppets and beautifully dressed dancers during a festival like we did, such as the People’s Guelaguetza, which is a yearly event centered on the indigenous culture of Oaxaca.
Oaxaca is home to a high percentage of Indigenous populations and one-third of the population speaks its indigenous language. A very complex indigenous cultural state, the Zapotec and the Mixtec are the two largest indigenous groups in Oaxaca. Oaxaca is a must-see!
5. North Coast, Kauai, Hawaii USA,
Hiking trails, beautiful beaches, surfing, delicious food… you can not ask for much more with the Island of Kauai. You can watch surfers migrate up and down the island with the rains or walk along the sometimes treacherous, epic Napali coast trail for some of the best views in the world.
During half of our stay, we decided to rent camping supplies and camp at the Anini Beach campground. Camping directly on the white sandy beach in the little tranquil, clear aqua cove was heaven on earth.
Head a little west along the coastline and stop at Tunnels beach to swim out and snorkel with giant sea turtles! This was one of our favorite memories. Just a little further west puts you at the start of the famous Napali Coast’s Kalalau 22 mile trail, where if you are prepared and in shape for it, you can backpack and camp over the course of a few days along the trail. We instead just went for a few-mile day hike and were blown away by the views of the magical sea.
Get tickets to go on a boat tour and see where the Pirates of the Caribbean was filmed including hard to get to secret coves too. We didn’t have a chance to do it, but we also heard wonders about the helicopter tours of the largely unexplored and uninhabited volcanic center and lush forests located in the center of the island. This little island is one of our favorite places on earth.
6. Big Sur, California USA
One of the most beautiful coastal drives in the entire USA. Big Sur is packed full of sealife birds, whales, elephant seals along with all of the land animals that make up an amazing natural ecosystem. Along with the wildlife make sure to stop into one of the natural areas and see the coastal redwoods and other plants and trees.
With jaw-dropping views around each corner and majestic beaches, this area of the world is amazing. If you are anywhere near the west coast of the USA make sure to rent a car and explore up highway 1 into Big Sur.
7. Rishikesh, India
The Beatles stayed in Rishikesh, India in 1968 in one of the Ashrams (now abandoned, but equally captivating and bizarre), while they were writing some of their most iconic songs.
Once you arrive it is easy to see why as you explore the Indian city that sits right at the northern start of the famous, sacred Ganga River, originating from the mouth of the foothills of the snowy topped Himalaya mountains to the north. This magical land is filled with mysterious green jungles, several kinds of monkeys, rolling mountains and what many consider the heart of yoga itself.
Rishikesh is where we spent most of our three and a half weeks in India back in 2014 while immersing ourselves in Cassie’s LA-based teacher’s yoga pilgrimage and “sat sang” with other yoga practitioners and gurus. Rishikesh was definitely a magical, electric place that we can see why so many flock to it for a mix of soul searching, yoga and serenity.
8. Merida, Mexico
We may be biased as we now live here, but Merida is by far one of our favorite places we have ever been. It may be underestimated, but that is what gives Merida much of its charm. Although it is now becoming more well known in tourist circles, especially off the beaten track (in contrast to Cancun and Cabo, Mexico), Merida is rich in charm, culture and hospitality. All things we believe will make your stay here in incredible, Merida subtly yet powerfully soaks in your heart and soul and you will find yourself not wanting to ever leave! With special Yucatecan cultural events (a hybrid of preHispanic Mayan and Mexican) happening all over the city every day and night, including dancing, music, art, theater and a growing foodie scene, Merida will be sure to whisk you off your feet and keep you perfectly stimulated. In pretty much any main plaza including Plaza Grande, you will find cultural activities going on or plain people watching. At the same time, Merida still keeps that “tranquil,” chill vibe going with its balmy, palm-filled area while you sip on coconut water by the poolside in your back patio.
We suggest looking for a quirky, unique renovated historic BnB in Centro with its characteristically white limestone, bright and cheerful Yucatecan architecture. Spend the day traipsing around town or visiting nearby cenotes, beaches along the Gulf coast or bird watching flamingos in the nearby mangrove filled Lagunas. See more of our top favorite day trips from Merida here.
Eat dinner at one of our favorite restaurants. End your day learning to dance salsa at La Mezcaleria or watching a Cubano live band at La Negrita cantina or strolling down Paseo de Montejo. Merida will be sure to enchant you, just be careful or you may end up moving here like we did 🙂
9. Paris, France
With its grand boulevards, to its bustling, cafe-lined streets, Paris is simply an amazing, romantic place that you must go at least once in your lifetime. Stroll down the Seine River as you explore flower gardens, boats passing by and take the bridge across to the tiny “island,” Ile de la Cite nearby the famous Notre Dame Cathedral. (*We visited in 2016 before the unfortunate fire of 2019, however, Paris plans to have it back to fully restored by 2024).
Rent bikes like we did and see the city as you head up the Seine River to the famous Louvre Museum and check out the famous Mona Lisa. Grab a bite to eat and a drink at one of the outdoor cafes. Or grab a picnic to go to a nearby market filled with fresh strawberries, cherry tomatoes, French bread and an assortment of fancy cheeses (go crazy!) and top it off with some champagne. Head to the grassy park lawn underneath the gigantic Eiffel Tower and take in the awe of the sight. Head up to explore the famous Père Lachaise cemetery where Oscar Wilde, James Morrison and Frédéric Chopin are buried. Then before sunset head up to Basilique du Sacre-Coeur de Montmartre, the popular hill where a cathedral was built, for awesome views of the gorgeous city with many other onlookers. No matter where you go in Paris, you will not be disappointed. We loved exploring this magnificent city!
10. Fez, Morocco
Fez, Morocco was where we got engaged. Reminding us of the Disney movie Alladin, Fez is filled with magical roof tops above traditional, stunning Moorish designed “Riad” houses which boast some of the most epic panoramic views of a city stuck in time. In fact it is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a walled-in medina built during the middle ages with old traditional practices still booming (ie famous handmade dyes, textiles and leather).
This great city seems to have been built during a time when architecture was at its peak and it is forever held in that historic beauty. Everywhere you go, you will see beautiful, artistic sights. Huge vats of hand dye in all shades of natural pigments in enormous areas. Beautiful giant rugs meticulously designed and woven in packed in shops. Sip on mint tea on a tiny street as you watch passersby or stroll through the elaborate, maze of the old market in search of colorful spices, leather shoes and fresh produce. The city feels somewhat like a “honey comb” as our guide succintly put it, so it can be fun to get a little lost or hire a guide to take you to the best spots in town. End your day sipping on a glass of wine on your panoramic roof top as the sun sets behind ancient architecture. You will surely feel like you are in one of the most romantic places of all time, and who knows, you may declare your love from the rooftops and get engaged just like we did!
Native Nomads Top 10 Places to See
1. Chiapas, Mexico
Chiapas, Mexico is a state found as far south in Mexico as you can go, bordering Guatemala. We think it is a must see destination in your lifetime. With beautiful cities, majestic waterfalls, ancient Mayan ruins with mysterious pasts, and much more, you will sure to be captivated. We have driven through this state a couple of times and always find something amazing to see and do. Noteworthy places to visit: Palenque Mayan Archeological Site, San Cristobal de las Casas, Chamula pueblo and cathedral. Itinerary coming soon….
2. Almafi Coast, Italy
A short distance from Rome the Almafi coast is everything that is needed for the most quintessential Italian trip. This beautiful coastline offers epic high views over sparkling, turquoise waters, and historic fishing villages with the best Italian food and wine we have ever had.
We chose to rent a car in Naples and make the short drive past historic Pompei and Herculaneum (which was convenient to roam around for a couple of hours on our way), before entering this magical area.
Make sure to try the fresh limoncello and fresh seafood when you visit this wonderful destination. If you can make it, walk down hundreds of stone steps down to one of the many beaches along the 34-mile stretch of coastline. Visit the famous Fiordo di Furore Beach, an especially scenic narrow beach situated under a pretty bridge.
Reserve a space on a boat to see the magical “Emerald Grotto” (Grotta dello Smeraldo) a watery cave under a cliff located in Conca dei Marini, Italy. For the extra adventurous, grab your camera and hike along the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) for extra stunning views.
End your evening strolling around the ancient Villa Rufolo (see picture to the top right), then eat fresh pizza watching the setting sun in the cobblestone village nearby called Ravello.
You can not go wrong when visiting the Amalfi Coast!
3. Bacalar, Mexico
Also known as The Laguna of 7 Shades of Blue for its glimmering waters that range from very light clear aqua, turquoise and dark azul, Bacalar is a feast for your senses and soul. Truly one of the most magnificent, beautiful places we have ever been. It is a couple of hours south of the more famous Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico, and is slowly becoming more well known as a tourist destination. Shhhh, keep this a secret, is something you will hear from many, and for good reason. This well kept, tranquil and peaceful town will leave you feeling rejuvenated and serene the moment you step foot here.
If you can – pick a hotel or BnB with access to the laguna since much of the land along the lake is privately owned. Wake up with the sun rising above the water and go for an early morning kayak or stand up paddleboard ride and become one with nature while you respectfully observe the many amazing birds during this active time of day. Later, spend your time catching some rays on a hammock over the water or dock, eat some shrimp tacos at Playita under the trees overlooking the water or head south to Cocalitos beach to swim and hang out. Be sure to steer clear of touching the fragile stromatolites, which filter the entire laguna and give it the gorgeous blue color Bacalar is known for! They look like giant rocks but in fact are living layers of millions of one celled organisms.
Friends have also highly recommended driving south about 9 miles and hanging out for the day at beautiful Los Rapidos (we will be heading there next time we go). Book a boat tour around the laguna and see the famous Pirates Canal (the history is super interesting!). We booked a pontoon with a fun group through the spectacular eco-hotel Akalki. End your evening eating delicious dinner at Playita under the twinkling lights in the giant tree, or head over to Nixtamal – one of the most magical dinners we have ever had we had there. We got to know the chef who quite obviously was meant to be a chef. The food is beyond delicious and a piece of art as well!
4. Oaxaca City, Mexico
This is one of the spots in the world that we had wished to spend more time than we did. We can’t wait to go back for an extended period of time.
Walking around this historic Mexican destination we found secret gardens, mescal tasting rooms on rooftops, and some of the best Mexican cuisines in Mexico. Oaxaca is the birthplace of Mole, the famous chocolate sauce that is used worldwide, and you can choose from many varieties to suit your fancy.
Oaxaca City is also home to many art galleries and museums filled with amazing indigenous textile art. Roam the ancient streets and perhaps you will spontaneously see a passing parade with giant dancing puppets and beautifully dressed dancers during a festival like we did, such as the People’s Guelaguetza, which is a yearly event centered on the indigenous culture of Oaxaca.
Oaxaca is home to a high percentage of Indigenous populations and one-third of the population speaks its indigenous language. A very complex indigenous cultural state, the Zapotec and the Mixtec are the two largest indigenous groups in Oaxaca. Oaxaca is a must-see!
5. North Coast, Kauai, Hawaii USA,
Hiking trails, beautiful beaches, surfing, delicious food… you can not ask for much more with the Island of Kauai. You can watch surfers migrate up and down the island with the rains or walk along the sometimes treacherous, epic Napali coast trail for some of the best views in the world.
During half of our stay, we decided to rent camping supplies and camp at the Anini Beach campground. Camping directly on the white sandy beach in the little tranquil, clear aqua cove was heaven on earth.
Head a little west along the coastline and stop at Tunnels beach to swim out and snorkel with giant sea turtles! This was one of our favorite memories. Just a little further west puts you at the start of the famous Napali Coast’s Kalalau 22 mile trail, where if you are prepared and in shape for it, you can backpack and camp over the course of a few days along the trail. We instead just went for a few-mile day hike and were blown away by the views of the magical sea.
Get tickets to go on a boat tour and see where the Pirates of the Caribbean was filmed including hard to get to secret coves too. We didn’t have a chance to do it, but we also heard wonders about the helicopter tours of the largely unexplored and uninhabited volcanic center and lush forests located in the center of the island. This little island is one of our favorite places on earth.
6. Big Sur, California USA
One of the most beautiful coastal drives in the entire USA. Big Sur is packed full of sealife birds, whales, elephant seals along with all of the land animals that make up an amazing natural ecosystem. Along with the wildlife make sure to stop into one of the natural areas and see the coastal redwoods and other plants and trees.
With jaw-dropping views around each corner and majestic beaches, this area of the world is amazing. If you are anywhere near the west coast of the USA make sure to rent a car and explore up highway 1 into Big Sur.
7. Rishikesh, India
The Beatles stayed in Rishikesh, India in 1968 in one of the Ashrams (now abandoned, but equally captivating and bizarre), while they were writing some of their most iconic songs.
Once you arrive it is easy to see why as you explore the Indian city that sits right at the northern start of the famous, sacred Ganga River, originating from the mouth of the foothills of the snowy topped Himalaya mountains to the north. This magical land is filled with mysterious green jungles, several kinds of monkeys, rolling mountains and what many consider the heart of yoga itself.
Rishikesh is where we spent most of our three and a half weeks in India back in 2014 while immersing ourselves in Cassie’s LA-based teacher’s yoga pilgrimage and “sat sang” with other yoga practitioners and gurus. Rishikesh was definitely a magical, electric place that we can see why so many flock to it for a mix of soul searching, yoga and serenity.
8. Merida, Mexico
We may be biased as we now live here, but Merida is by far one of our favorite places we have ever, even been. It may be underestimated, but that is what gives Merida much of its charm. Although it is now becoming more well known in tourist circles, especially off the beaten track (in contrast to Cancun and Cabo, Mexico), Merida is rich in charm, culture and hospitality. All things we believe will make your stay here in incredible, Merida subtley yet powerfully soaks in your heart and soul and you will find yourself not wanting to ever leave! With special Yucatecan cultural events (a hybrid of preHispanic Mayan and Mexican) happening all over the city every day and night, including dancing, music, art, theater and a growing foodie scene, Merida will be sure to whisk you off your feet and keep you perfectly stimulated. In pretty much any main plaza including Plaza Grande, you will find cultural activities going on or plain people watching. At the same time Merida still keeps that “tranquil,” chill vibe going with its balmy, palm filled area while you sip on coconut water by the poolside in your back patio.
We suggest looking for a quirky, unique renovated historic bnb in Centro with its characteristically white limestone, bright and cheerful Yucatecan architecture. Spend the day traipsing around town or visiting nearby cenotes, beaches along the Gulf coast or bird watching flamingos in the nearby mangrove filled lagunas. See more of our top favorite day trips from Merida here.
Eat dinner at one of our favorite restaurants. End your day learning to dance salsa at La Mezcaleria or watching a Cubano live band at La Negrita cantina or strolling down Paseo de Montejo. Merida will be sure to enchant you, just be careful or you may end up moving here like we did too! 🙂
9. Paris, France
With its grand boulevards, to its bustling, cafe-lined streets, Paris is simply an amazing, romantic place that you must go at least once in your lifetime. Stroll down the Seine River as you explore flower gardens, boats passing by and take the bridge across to the tiny “island,” Ile de la Cite nearby the famous Notre Dame Cathedral. (*We visited in 2016 before the unfortunate fire of 2019, however Paris plans to have it back to fully restored by 2024).
Rent bikes like we did and see the city as you head up the Seine River to the famous Louvre Museum and check out the famous Mona Lisa. Grab a bite to eat and a drink at one of the outdoor cafes. Or grab a picnic to go at a nearby market filled with fresh strawberries, cherry tomatoes, French bread and an assortment of fancy cheeses (go crazy!) and top it off with some champagne. Head to the grassy park lawn underneath the gigantic Eiffel Tower and take in the awe of the sight. Head up to explore the famous Père Lachaise cemetary where Oscar Wilde, James Morrison and Frédéric Chopin are buried. Then before sunset head up to Basilique du Sacre-Coeur de Montmartre, the popular hill where a cathedral was built, for awesome views of the gorgeous city with many other onlookers. No matter where you go in Paris, you will not be disappointed. We loved exploring this magnificent city!
10. Fez, Morocco
Fez, Morocco was where we got engaged. Reminding us of the Disney movie Alladin, Fez is filled with magical rooftops above traditional, stunning Moorish designed “Riad” houses which boast some of the most epic panoramic views of a city stuck in time. In fact, it is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a walled-in medina built during the middle ages with old traditional practices still booming (ie famous handmade dyes, textiles and leather).
This great city seems to have been built during a time when architecture was at its peak and it is forever held in that historic beauty. Everywhere you go, you will see beautiful, artistic sights. Huge vats of hand dye in all shades of natural pigments in enormous areas. Beautiful giant rugs meticulously designed and woven in packed in shops. Sip on mint tea on a tiny street as you watch passersby or stroll through the elaborate, maze of the old market in search of colorful spices, leather shoes and fresh produce. The city feels somewhat like a “honeycomb” as our guide succinctly put it, so it can be fun to get a little lost or hire a guide to take you to the best spots in town. End your day sipping on a glass of wine on your panoramic rooftop as the sun sets behind ancient architecture. You will surely feel like you are in one of the most romantic places of all time, and who knows, you may declare your love from the rooftops and get engaged just like we did!
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