Phoenix, Singapore, Halifax

50 Best Places To Travel, Maui Without Crowds

Author

David Rowe
March 29, 2025

In partnership with

“I need a 6-month vacation… twice a year”

In Today’s Newsletter:

Phoenix: A sun-soaked haven of rugged beauty and vibrant culture.
Singapore: It’s like the future, the past, and a food paradise all rolled into one super-clean, super-efficient city.
Halifax: where small-town charm meets coastal cool—with salty ocean air and historic streets.

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Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix might not be the first city that comes to mind for a vacation—but that’s exactly why it’ll surprise you. Tucked into the heart of the Sonoran Desert, it’s a sun-soaked haven of rugged beauty, vibrant culture, and yes, incredible tacos.

Start your day with a sunrise hike up Camelback Mountain or Piestewa Peak—it’s tough, but the views are pure magic.

If you prefer your adventure with A/C, the Desert Botanical Garden shows off the local cactus scene in style. (You’ll be surprised how photogenic a saguaro can be.)

Downtown Phoenix is full of personality, with artsy neighborhoods like Roosevelt Row offering colorful murals, indie shops, and food trucks galore.

Into the Wild West? Swing by Old Town Scottsdale for a blend of cowboy kitsch and upscale vibes.

Phoenix also has a killer food scene—Sonoran hot dogs, tamales, and southwest flavors that’ll have you hunting for seconds. Plus, with nearly 300 days of sunshine a year, patio dining is pretty much a lifestyle here.

Whether you're into golf, spa days, baseball spring training, or stargazing under wide desert skies, Phoenix delivers in its own bold, unbothered way.

Phoenix Walking Tour

Singapore

Singapore might be tiny on the map, but it packs a serious punch when it comes to things to see, eat, and experience. It’s like the future, the past, and a food paradise all rolled into one super-clean, super-efficient city.

Start with a stroll through Gardens by the Bay, where giant “Supertrees” light up the night and futuristic domes house indoor jungles and waterfalls. Then hop over to Marina Bay Sands—whether you splurge on a night there or just check out the infinity pool view (worth it!), it’s pure sci-fi luxury.

Hungry? You’re in luck. Singapore is a street food legend. Head to a hawker centre and dive into dishes like chicken rice, laksa, and chili crab for just a few bucks. It’s Michelin-star quality without the fancy prices.

The city’s neighborhoods each tell their own story—Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam all buzz with color, culture, and amazing eats. And when you need a break from the city, hop on a cable car to Sentosa Island for beaches, theme parks, and some seriously chill vibes.

It’s clean, safe, wildly diverse, and insanely efficient (hello, MRT!). Whether you’re a foodie, shopaholic, or curious explorer, Singapore makes it easy to fall in love—fast.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax is where small-town charm meets coastal cool—with salty ocean air, historic streets, and a seafood scene that’ll ruin you (in the best way) for anywhere else. It’s the kind of place that feels instantly friendly and effortlessly fun.

Start your adventure at the Halifax Waterfront, where boardwalks stretch along the harbor, buskers play tunes, and patios are perfect for people-watching (preferably with a lobster roll in hand).

History buff? Check out Citadel Hill, a star-shaped fortress with epic views and kilted guards who know their stuff.

The vibe here is laid-back but lively. You can sip local craft beer at a waterside brewery one minute, and explore the city’s artsy North End the next. Halifax punches way above its weight in music, culture, and personality.

Hop on a ferry for a quick ride to Dartmouth, or take a day trip to Peggy’s Cove—home to one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world. The rugged coastline and ocean breeze are pure Nova Scotia magic.

Whether you’re into fresh oysters, maritime history, or just watching the tide roll in, Halifax makes it easy to slow down and soak it all in.