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• 2022 IN REVIEW

These are the best travel photos of 2022

Explore the world in 17 stunning images from our contributors.

As travel returned this year, we ventured back into the world with a renewed sense of adventure. From Alaska’ s Denali National Park and Reserve to Indonesia ’s lush rainforests, the photographs we published in 2022 reflect the beauty of our world through fresh perspectives.  

Our National Geographic contributors were tasked with documenting the enduring essence of travel. They opened the aperture on innovative conservation efforts, vibrant cultural communities, and underappreciated destinations ready for future travel.

As we look to the new year, we hope these photographs ignite your adventurous spirit, encourage transformative experiences, and set you off on your next journey.

( Discover 25 amazing Best of the World destinations for 2023 .)

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100 Incredible Travel Photo Ideas to Inspire Your Next Adventure

By: Author Valerie Forgeard

Posted on Published: December 28, 2022  - Last updated: July 31, 2023

Categories Travel

Are you looking for creative ways to capture your travel memories? Whether you’re an experienced photographer or just starting, plenty of unique photo ideas will make your travel photos stand out from the rest.

From shooting at unusual angles and playing with perspective to finding exciting subjects, here are some great ideas and tips for taking beautiful and eye-catching vacation photos. So get ready to explore the world through your lens!

Landscape photography is an easy way to capture your travels and the beauty of nature.

When traveling, it can be difficult to find the time (or energy) to take a landscape photo. But if you have the opportunity, don’t miss it! Landscape photos are a great way to capture your trip’s incredible memories. Here are some great photo ideas that will help you keep fond memories of the different landscapes you encounter:

• Sunset over the sea
• Lighthouses
• The view from the top of a mountain
• Sunrise over the mountains
• Misty morning shots of a city skyline or a mountainside
• A rainbow after a thunderstorm
• The view from your hotel window
• A tree with leaves changing color in the fall
• An old building or structure that has been around for years
• A photo of a city skyline at sunset
• A picture with a landmark or other famous place in the background
• A full moon over a lake
• A street in a new city
• An old building with character that has been around for hundreds of years
• The landscape
• A lush green forest in spring
• A film location

When you’re traveling, don’t be afraid to take a selfie. It’s a great way to document your experiences and share them with everyone back home. Try out some of these photography ideas:

• A photo of you with a local friend
• A photo of the view outside your window
• Yourself at a tourist spot
• A photo of your reflection in the mirror
• A photo of you eating
• A selfie with a foreign language sign
• A photo of you in front of your window seat on an airplane
• A selfie with a statue of someone you admire
• A photo of yourself in front of a famous painting or sculpture
• A selfie with your favorite piece of street art or graffiti
• A selfie of you walking on the beach
• A selfie of you jumping into the water
• A photo of you having a drink at the airport
• A photo of you and your suitcase
• Selfie with a famous person you met on your trip
• Selfie in your hotel room
• Selfie while walking on the street
• A picture of you in front of a famous landmark
• Selfie with your favorite tourist attraction
• Selfie on a boat
• Selfie of you at a local event or concert
• Selfie with traditional clothes

Local Culture

Local culture is an essential indicator of a country’s identity. It’s essentially the way of life and habits of the people. It’s their way of thinking and acting that makes their country unique. Here are some ideas for travel photos that you can use to document the cultural side of your trip.

• The local color
• A poster of a local celebrity
• Architecture
• A photo in a museum or art gallery
• An animal you don’t see every day
• A photo of a local product purchased
• A local delicacy
• A selfie with a local statue
• A photo from a local market
• A photo of a festival or parade in the city
• A religious building
• A religious ritual or ceremony (if allowed)
• A local place to relax after a long day
• Local people in traditional dress (if approved)
• Local food stalls
• A local dance performance
• A local sports team playing a game
• Local transportation
• A game popular with the locals
• Cultural symbols

Capturing Moments

Capturing moments in photos is something I love to do. It’s a great way to express your feelings and emotions without having to say anything.

I used to make the mistake of not taking photos to live better in the present, but now I know that memory can fade, and now I love capturing moments in photos because it brings back all the beautiful memories from the past.

• Sailing and boating
• A photo of your tour guide showing you something
• A photo of a map (or screenshot of Google Maps) or directions that help you reach your destination
• Your plane is making its way through the clouds to your destination
• A surfer riding the waves at sunset
• Trying to catch a wave
• A hike in the rainforest
• A photo of you or friends jumping into a pool
• A photo of something that represents what it means to be from where you’re from
• A photo from inside a vehicle
• Photos while riding in cabs or busses
• A photo with someone who makes you happy, such as a friend, family member, or even your pet!
• A photo of your feet in the sand
• A photo of a street performer
• Your going away party
• The reflection of something in the water, like an animal or a tree
• An empty bus stop on a rainy day
• An empty street in the rain
• The terrace of a café on a sunny day

Creating a Social Impact

Traveling is about more than just seeing the sights and taking selfies. It’s about taking in your surroundings, learning about other cultures, and connecting with the people around you. And when you travel to a place that needs more attention, it’s even more important to spread that awareness. After all, travel isn’t just about exploring new places – it’s also an opportunity to contribute to the lives of the people you meet.

• A place destroyed by natural disasters.
• Plastic bottles on the beach
• Taking a photo of an endangered species
• A national park
• Unusual weather
• The local school that needs help
• Local charity (make sure the organization is reputable)
• Photo of your donation
• The entrance to an orphanage (don’t take pictures of children unless you have official permission to do so)
• A picture of an abandoned building or house
• An animal shelter
• Local vegetarian or vegan food
• Local wildlife
• Take a picture of yourself holding up a handwritten sign that says, “I believe in peace.”
• A CO2-reduced mode of transportation

What Makes a Good Travel Photo?

Whether you’re traveling alone or with friends, taking photos is a great way to document your trip.

The best travel photos are those that capture the natural beauty of your surroundings. Whether you’re traveling alone or with friends, taking photos on the road is a great way to document your trip.

Here are a few photography tips on how to capture beautiful images and make sure they look their best:

Shoot in Color Instead of Black and White

Color is more than just a pretty face. It’s also your best friend when it comes to travel photography, helping you capture the vibrancy of your surroundings and giving your vacation pictures a time frame as technology advances.

When you shoot in color, you have the ability to capture every detail and texture of a scene. You don’t have to worry about getting the perfect exposure or how the image will look on paper – you can just focus on capturing what you have in front of you and worry about the rest later.

Black and white photography, on the other hand, requires you to think about what makes an image work, because there’s no color to cover imperfections or distract from flaws in composition or subject matter. Rather than focusing on getting everything right in every shot, black-and-white photography requires you to analyze every element in the image to ensure that everything fits together seamlessly for maximum impact – whether it’s making sure that each subject is sufficiently separated from the others, or ensuring that there is enough contrast between light sources and shadows within a scene so that there are no unwanted distractions from what should be the focus of the image.

What makes black and white photos special is that black and white photos are timeless, while color photos can quickly look dated as technology advances. Some photographers even choose to convert their images to black and white after the fact, believing that it gives them more creative freedom than shooting in color.

Color is vibrant and eye-catching, but black and white can be just as impressive – if not more so – than its counterpart.

When Possible, Use Natural Light

When traveling and taking photos, it’s easy to get into the habit of shooting only when the sun is shining. But if you have the time, you should shoot with natural light as much as possible.

Natural light is softer than artificial light and gives your photos a more flattering look. It also makes your subjects look more natural and less posed.

If you don’t have much time or access to natural light, find a place with good artificial lighting. If you’re at a restaurant, ask if there are any empty seats where the light isn’t too bright or harsh. If there isn’t, move outside or around the corner to another area where the lighting is better than your current spot.

Experiment With Angles and Perspectives

Photography is about capturing the world around you. It’s not just about taking a photo, it’s about conveying your feelings and emotions. The best travel photos are the ones that show you a place from an angle or perspective you’ve never seen before. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to make your photos even more interesting – you may discover something new about a place that no one has noticed!

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your camera. Using filters and other effects can add life to your images, but remember that these are just tools, not rules. If something doesn’t work for you, don’t use it again!

A photo should tell a good story. When choosing where to shoot, look for areas where there are lots of exciting objects that you can include in the shot – a fountain or sculpture would be ideal. If there are no apparent subjects, look for patterns in architecture or street signs; these can make great subjects for photos!

Get Up Close and Personal With Your Subject

Zoom in to see the details of a flower, or zoom out to capture the scene of a busy cityscape.

Zooming in allows you to focus on one part of the image while leaving other parts out of focus. This can be very effective at isolating your subject from its surroundings and focusing the viewer’s attention on what matters most to you.

When photographing landscapes and scenery, use a wide-angle lens that shows large areas of the landscape in one shot. If you’re photographing small objects like flowers or insects, you should use a macro lens that allows you to take extreme close-ups that show intricate details of small objects like petals and leaves.

How to Share Your Travel Photos

We used to organize an evening with family and friends to share our travel experiences. Nowadays, everything is shared instantly. So if you’re a photography enthusiast, it’s time to start thinking about your next trip.

There are many ways to share your photos online. Here are some tips on how to show off your travel photos online:

Set Up an Online Gallery

Setting up an online gallery is the easiest way to show off your travel pictures. There are many services on the Internet, including Flickr and SmugMug. You can also use your website or blog to showcase your photos.

The purpose of an online gallery is to share your best shots with friends and family, as well as potential clients and employers. If you’re serious about becoming a professional photographer, it’s a good idea to create such a gallery, even if you don’t plan to charge money to view photos.

Use Social Media

If you don’t have much time and don’t mind strangers seeing your pictures, you can post them on social media. Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat are easy ways to share photos with friends. You can also post them on travel forums or blogs if you want feedback and advice from other travelers.

• On Facebook, simply upload your favorite travel photos to your Timeline and tag them with where they were taken. Your friends will see them in their news feeds over time – some may even like them or comment on them!
• On Instagram, use hashtags to link your Instagram photo to other images from the exact location (e.g., “#paris”). This way, people can search for images related to their destination and find yours too!
• If you use Snapchat, create a story that lasts 24 hours so people can view a series of snaps together without having to keep going back to old snaps. If you’re on Twitter or Tumblr, try posting updates in real time by sharing photos with your followers every few minutes (or seconds!). This is fun for both sides because it creates a sense of excitement for what’s happening!

Create a Blog

A blog is one of the most effective ways to show off your travel memories of the best places you’ve been and the amazing people you’ve met, while detailing your trip. Nowadays, blogs are easy and intuitive to create and can be used to showcase your best shots from around the world.

Blogs are also great for sharing your experiences with others, such as advice on what to do or not do when visiting a particular place or region. For example, if you’ve been to Australia several times and know the best places to go, why not share some tips about those places on your blog? You might even want to share some stories about your experiences there!

Another reason blogging can be beneficial is the opportunity to connect with people who have traveled to similar places. This is especially important if you want to connect with like-minded people from around the world with similar interests.

The first step is to choose a platform on which to create your blog. There are many options, like WordPress or Tumblr, but they all offer similar features. The next step is to choose a template that fits your style and needs.

You can also use free websites like Weebly or Squarespace, which allow you to create a beautiful website without any coding knowledge.

A great way to showcase your photos is to use a grid layout, where each image fills an entire column or row. This way, users can see each travel photo without having to scroll down a lot, which makes browsing photos much easier.

Another good option is to add captions under each travel photo so viewers can read what’s happening in each image or why you chose it as one of your favorites.

Create a Physical Travel Photo Album With Your Favorite Photos

A physical travel photo album of your favorite photos is a great way to showcase your photos, especially for those who don’t use the internet, like older people.

It’s also a great way to preserve your memories and share them with family and friends. Or maybe you want to stay offline to protect your privacy.

You can create a photo book at home or hire someone to create it. Many companies offer a photo book service where the book is designed and printed for you.

You can also design a photo book yourself at home or hire someone to create it. Many companies offer a photo book service where they design and print the book for you.

Here are some tips on how to create a physical photo album:

• Select your favorite travel photos from your collection . It’s better to start with fewer photos than too many, because it can be difficult to choose which vacation photos to put in an album.
• Select your favorite photos in terms of quality and content – this will ensure that all the images go well together. For example, if you’re creating a vacation album, all the pictures should have been taken during that road trip so they have similar backgrounds and lighting conditions.
• Create a theme for your album (e.g., “vacation,” “family portrait,” “friends”). If you give yourself guidelines for what kind of photos you need, it’ll be easier for you to choose good photos from your collection.
• Consider adding captions or short descriptions next to each photo . These little extras make the album more personal and interactive – perfect if it’s intended as a gift!

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Wealth of Geeks

31 Cheap Places to Travel in the US That Won’t Break the Bank

Posted: March 4, 2024 | Last updated: March 4, 2024

Cheap places to travel in this economy? It’s more likely than you think. Despite rising costs, some places in the United States remain affordable and, therefore, accessible to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, bachelorette trip, or solo adventure, our list of cheap places to travel will have you ready to pull the trigger on booking that flight. The only thing you’ll need to worry about is what to pack while you’re away!

1. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

National parks make great vacation destinations precisely because they’re usually inexpensive to visit, and Grand Teton National Park is no different. Although the entrance fee is usually $35 per car and covers up to 15 passengers, there are multiple days each year when fees are waived. Camp-style, co-ed accommodations at resorts like the  Climber’s Ranch  start at just $35 per night.

2. St. Augustine, Florida

Culturally rich cities with historic sites to visit always rank high in terms of affordable travel, and St. Augustine is the oldest in the United States. With its public beaches, Fort Matanzas, Castillo de San Marcos, and Fort Mose , St. Augustine is the perfect cheap place to travel. The forts afford beautiful views, nature trails, and live demonstrations.

3. Yachats, Oregon

Located on the Oregon Coast, Yachats is full of wildlife, natural beauty, and tons of free outdoor activities. Visitors will love Tillicum Beach, just four miles north, with plenty of parking and public restrooms. There are also multiple local hotels and inns  to choose from.

4. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Cuyahoga Valley  offers a great day trip from Cleveland, Ohio, or as a standalone outdoor adventure. There are more than 125 miles of hiking trails available, ranging from easy to challenging. For cheaper accommodations, camping is available less than 10 miles away from the park.

5. Moab, Utah

Another excellent choice for multi-talented adventurers,  Moab  offers hiking, mountain biking, and river rafting in the Colorado River. Visitors can enjoy free art trails and a fare-free transit service that serves the city. You’ll also love the unique, rust-colored desert views and vistas!

6. Detroit, Michigan

There are so many free things to do in Detroit it’s impossible to list them all, but one must-see is the  Belle Isle Aquarium , the oldest original aquarium in the country! Although a $5 donation is encouraged, it isn’t required. Over 16 months of the pandemic, the aquarium invested $1.2 million in renovations and new exhibits, so there are tons of brand new water creatures and wildlife to spy.

7. Branson, Missouri

Noël Russell, CXO and co-founder of  Whimstay , a budget-friendly platform for booking last-minute vacation rentals, calls Branson “a blend of entertainment and serene landscapes.” Russell encourages visitors to enjoy a meal at BillyGail’s Cafe, known for massive, delicious pancakes and country-style meals at affordable prices. Tickets at the Titanic Museum are reasonably priced and offer family-friendly fun. As if to underscore her point, Branson was previously featured in a shorter Wealth of Geeks collection of  affordable travel spots !

8. Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga is an outdoorsy city home to the ever-popular Lookout Mountain and Ruby Falls. Tours of the falls, which utilize a glass-front elevator to descend more than 260 feet below the surface, cost just $39. With multiple attractions within 15 minutes of each other, you could spend all day with your family and not see the entire thing!

9. Broken Bow, Oklahoma

Russell says Broken Bow is “a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor adventures.” Beavers Bend State Park is free to access and offers hiking trails, which visitors can follow up with affordable meals at Grateful Head Pizza Oven & Tap Room. The Forest Heritage Center Museum, with its nominal entrance fee, offers insights into the region’s rich forestry history. Affordable cabin rentals abound in Broken Bow, ranging from tiny rustic hideaways to sprawling estates. With Whimstay, Russell says travelers can expect an average savings of at least 24 percent.

10. Gulf Shores, Alabama

If you’re in the mood for a beach vacation but don’t want the high prices of other coastal cities, Gulf Shores has all the amenities you’re craving at lower costs. With miles of public beach and hotels and condos that range from affordable to fancy, there’s something here for every budget range. Gift shops, restaurants, mini-golf courses, and other activities abound.

11. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis is known for its pizza style, but one of its most popular attractions is the City Museum. Single-day tickets to the multi-story extravaganza cost $20, but kids under two play for free. Basic passes cost $45 and include access to many special events, plus come with a parking discount. Of course, you’d be remiss to miss out on taking a tiny elevator tube up to the top of the St. Louis Arch!

12. Raleigh, North Carolina

Much like Detroit, Raleigh is packed full of free activities that families and solo travelers will love. There’s no admission fee for the African American Cultural Center, Buckhorn Disc Golf Course, or the City of Raleigh Museum. While there are nicer boutique hotels available, there are also easily accessible and more affordable chain hotels as well.

13. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

According to Russell, one of many key highlights in Gatlinburg is the Gatlinburg Trail, one of the few dog-friendly trails in the area. It’s dotted with old settlements, and Russell calls it a “hiker’s paradise.” Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies offers admission for around $35, as well as discounts for children and seniors. Using Whimstay, guests could expect to save an average of 22 percent on hotel accommodations. 

14. Sedona, Arizona

Surrounded by seven wilderness areas, Sedona is the spot for hikers, outdoor lovers, and anyone interested in Native American heritage and history. Sedona is about three hours away from three separate tribal parks and has six national monuments within a three-hour drive. You’ll love having so many day trip options — perfect for a multi-night stay!

15. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

For a taste of local flavor, Russell says visitors should check out River City Cafe for mouthwatering burgers at wallet-friendly prices. Families and solo travelers will love the SkyWheel, a towering Ferris wheel with stunning views that offers affordable ticket options. The Carolina Country Music Fest brings the beach to life with tunes and ocean breeze each summer. 

16. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

With 250 blooming cherry trees in North Park, Pittsburgh comes alive with a beautiful pink color each spring. However, visitors can enjoy the 60-acre  Pittsburgh Botanic Garden , complete with a lotus pond, all year long. Admission starts at just $15, and there are multiple discounts available.

17. Big Bear Lake, California

Big Bear Lake offers outdoor adventure all year long, in any season. Travelers will love snowboarding, fishing, skiing, mountain biking, hiking, and more. From cozy rental cabins to resorts, private homes, and bed and breakfasts, there are also  accommodations  to fit every price range.

18. Bailey, Colorado

Bailey is home to the uber-funky Sasquatch Outpost, only a couple hours’ drive away from the larger city of Denver. Enjoy the quirky museum with interactive exhibits on a day trip, then head to the small downtown area to refuel at Aspen Peak Cellars. The winery features tastings, pick-up dinner nights, and even live bluegrass music.

19. Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is the far more affordable sister to the state capitol of Nashville. A stroll down historic Beale Street offers live jazz and blues drifting from bars and restaurants at no cost, and visitors will love seeing the daily Duck March at the Peabody Hotel.

20. Fredericksburg, Texas

With its unique German heritage and picturesque Texas Hill Country scenery, Russell says Fredericksburg is one of the most enchanting cheap places to travel in Texas. Wine enthusiasts will adore the affordable tastings at local vineyards like Grape Creek Vineyards. Each spring, the town comes alive with the vibrant Fredericksburg Crawfish Festival, and the beauty of Wildseed Farms, a stunning display of Texas wildflowers, is always free.

21. Washington, D.C.

One of the best parts about Washington, D.C., is all the free historical sightseeing and museums. Whether you stroll down Pennsylvania Avenue to see the White House or ponder the giant statue of founding father Abe Lincoln at the Lincoln Memorial, there’s something here for every history buff.

22. Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City is a haven for beach lovers and budget travelers, according to Russell. The Ocean City Boardwalk offers endless free entertainment, from people-watching to stunning ocean views. Thrasher’s French Fries, a beachside staple, is known for its simple yet delicious fries. For a tranquil escape, visit Northside Park, a perfect spot for a serene stroll or picnic by the bay.

23. Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City features an excellent, free streetcar that has 16 stops in the  Crossroads Arts District ,  Power & Light District , and  River Market . After 2 pm, get free admission to Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, which hosts hundreds of animals families will love to pet and learn about.

24. Pensacola, Florida

Pensacola offers all the beachy activities of Miami at a fraction of the cost. With dozens of hotels, inns, and condos that span a giant price range, you’re sure to find something in your budget. Although travelers will enjoy the stereotypical gift shops and seafood restaurants, the city also features late-night Irish pubs, dive bars, and other forms of nightlife.

25. Plains, Georgia

Plains makes for a cute, cozy trip in the Southeast. It’s the home of former President Jimmy Carter, so you can expect plenty of peanut-related merchandise paying homage to the peanut-farming executive at local gift shops. The Windsor Hotel is stunning and historic, and other chain hotels offer less expensive accommodations.

26. Portland, Maine

The Old Port district is the best of both worlds, combining pubs and nightlife with historic cobblestone streets, boutique shopping, and more. On Fridays, from 4 to 8 pm, the Portland Museum of Art offers free admission. There aren’t many other places where you can see original Andy Warhol paintings at no charge!

27. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Much like Washington, D.C., Gettysburg is home to a history that’s integral to the United States. The town might be quaint, but many of the downtown activities and even some of the memorials are still dog-friendly, a rare amenity while traveling. Gettysburg National Military Park is one such location, allowing you to walk in the footsteps of soldiers who fought on that spot more than 160 years ago. 

28. Salem, Massachusetts

Although best known for its Halloween-themed activities, Salem is a beautiful New England town all year round. The Salem Witch Trials Memorial is free to visit, as is Old Burying Point Cemetery. This quaint, albeit dark, town offers a bewitching getaway for travelers who don’t mind getting a little spooked.

29. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville offers both outdoor and free historical adventure. Being nestled just outside the Appalachian Mountains, visitors can choose from literally hundreds of miles of hiking trails that begin around the city. With soccer fields, picnic areas, disc golf, walking trails, bocce courts, sand volleyball courts, and a playground,  Buncombe County’s parks  are a cut above.

30. Baraboo, Wisconsin

Baraboo makes the perfect day trip getaway from the busy Chicagoland area. It’s best known for Devil’s Lake, a beautiful glacial lake ringed by hiking trails that offer challenging treks and unique rock formations. Dogs are allowed, a rarity for parks and trails!

31. Kissimmee, Florida

Just a stone’s throw from Orlando’s theme parks, Russell says Kissimmee offers its own affordable adventures. Explore the Shingle Creek Regional Park, where kayaking unveils Florida’s natural beauty and wildlife. Savor the flavors of Florida at Abracadabra Ice Cream Factory, where the treats are as magical as the prices. History buffs will enjoy the Osceola County Welcome Center and History Museum, which offers free admission.

No matter which state you’re from or hoping to visit, the US has some truly affordable day trips and cheap places to travel. While you should be on the lookout for cheap travel hacks that actually have the  potential to ruin your trip , these destinations aren’t a danger! Luckily, there’s something on this list for both nature lovers and those who prefer to have fun indoors. From free museum admission to national parks and more, you can easily travel on a budget if you get creative.

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Voluntourism and educational travel experiences exist for all ages.

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Guests and natives alike can experience educational activities.

Educational travel and voluntourism often serve as a conduit for experiential learning. An educational vacation or community service travel can enrich knowledge of places and customs in ways that can’t be taught via textbooks, especially for younger kids who tend to soak up hands-on lessons like a sponge. Through cultural exploration and immersion, students become enriched as global citizens, while developing a stronger knowledge of language and geography as well as an increased confidence and problem solving skills.

Rustic Pathways oversees immersive and authentic student travel programs.

Rustic Pathways , a program for global teen adventure travel and community service programs, conducts leading immersive and authentic student travel programs for middle school, high school, gap year and college-aged students. The service-based programs span locations from Australia to Japan to Alaska and more. Programs are available in 25 countries, and students accrued a total of 38,060 service hours in 2023, on track to increase for 2024, while 68% of Student Travel programs focus mainly on sustainability. Rustic Pathways has announced their 2024 student programs .

Travelers who are seeking an immersive educational experience for all age groups are well advised to check out these resorts.

Guests can learn about the science of mangrove planting.

Marriott Fiji Momi Bay , Fiji

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The Kids Discovery Program was thoughtfully crafted to not only entertain but also educate young minds, fostering a sense of curiosity, environmental responsibility and cultural appreciation. Children can become Momi Eco Warriors by building nests, planting trees and learning about: Fijian flora and fauna through hikes; Momi Marine Biologists by fish feeding, coral planting, rocky shore discovery, water testing, marine watch and beach-combing; or families can learn together with coral planting, fish house building and mangrove planting.

Students venture beyond their textbooks and villages.

Turtle Island, Fiji

Three times a year Turtle Island, a private island resort in the Yasawa region of Fiji, opens to families. Children are invited to become stewards of the island and learn how to farm, fish, weave baskets and visit local villages. The property recently announced ‘Turtle Island Field Trips,’ an educational program giving local school students from neighboring islands and villages the rare opportunity to venture beyond their textbooks and villages to learn firsthand about hospitality.

Even the smallest guests are immersed in local culture.

Montage Hotels & Resorts

Through its immersive children’s program, Paintbox, children participate in activities that educate them about the destination they are in and the culture of people who live in the destination. For example:

• Montage Kapalua Bay , Hawaii. This intimate resort situated along Namalu Bay in West Maui, just ten miles from Lahaina, invites Montage’s youngest guests to learn Hawaiian language, hula and listen to talk stories from Montage Kapalua Bay’s cultural ambassadors. Activities such as explorations from mauka to makai (land to sea), turtle tracking along the Kapalua Coastal Trail or lessons on Maui’s aquatic playground at Namalu and Kapalua Bay foster a connection with the island.
• Montage Palmetto Bluff , SC. At the luxury Lowcountry resort, resident naturalist, Cassie Beato, leads young and adult guests on waterway ecotours and walking tours of Bird Island, the resort’s treehouses, River Road and more.

One of the activities is The Humming Bird Safari.

The Tryall Club, Montego Bay, Jamaica

Since The Tryall Club is located on 2,200 acres of pristine coastline with lush forests throughout, there is a big focus on learning about nature. For example, one of the activities is The Humming Bird Safari which includes bird watching, where kids learn about native birds and the opportunity for feeding. There's also opportunity for cultural immersion such as playing traditional Jamaican games such as Cricket and Rounders, Jamaican Folklore Time where the children learn about Jamaican stories and culture, reggae dance time and more.

A young guest participates in a pottery class.

Kaya Palazzo Golf Resort Belek , Turkey

Known for its stunning 18-hole golf course on site, the 5-star Kaya Palazzo Golf Resort, Belek has something for everyone in the family. The property’s supervised “Mini Club” offers educational programming for little ones to enjoy, from arts and crafts, literature workshops, physical activities and interactive shows. Fostering a rich connection with Turkish culture, children can participate in hands-on pottery workshops and learn about the country’s history of ceramic production, dating back thousands of years.

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Total solar eclipse April 8, 2024 facts: Path, time and the best places to view

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality.

Scroll down to see the list of U.S. cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be visible, the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com .

"Eclipse Across America," will air live Monday, April 8, beginning at 2 p.m. ET on ABC, ABC News Live, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Disney+ and Hulu as well as network social media platforms.

On April 8, 2024, a historic total solar eclipse will cast a shadow over parts of the United States, prompting a mass travel event to the path of totality -- from Texas to Maine and several states and cities in between.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth and, for a short time, completely blocks the face of the sun, according to NASA .

The track of the moon's shadow across Earth's surface is called the path of totality, and to witness the April 8 total solar eclipse, viewers must be within the 115-mile-wide path. To discover when to see the solar eclipse in totality or the partial eclipse in locations across the U.S. outside of the path, check out NASA's Eclipse Explorer tool .

Eclipse travel

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality, bringing the celestial phenomenon to their doorsteps, Michael Zeiler, expert solar eclipse cartographer at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told ABC News.

MORE: Eclipse glasses: What to know to keep your eyes safe

But for individuals outside of the path, investing time and money are needed to experience the event in totality.

Eclipse chasers, or umbraphiles, are individuals who will do almost anything, and travel almost anywhere, to see totality, according to the American Astronomical Society .

"There's a very active community of solar eclipse chasers and we will go to any reasonable lengths to see solar eclipses anywhere in the world," Zeiler said. "All of us are united in pursuing the unimaginable beauty of a total solar eclipse."

MORE: The surprising reason why a Texas county issued a disaster declaration ahead of April total solar eclipse

Bringing together both eclipse experts and novice sky watchers, the total solar eclipse on April 8 is projected to be the U.S.'s largest mass travel event in 2024, according to Zeiler, who likened it to "50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation."

"When you look at the number of people expected to come to the path of totality for the solar eclipse, we estimate those numbers are roughly the equivalent of 50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation, from Texas to Maine," he said.

Eclipse map, path of totality

In the U.S., the path of totality begins in Texas and will travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse, according to NASA.

Best times, places to view eclipse

Below is a list of some American cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be most visible -- pending weather forecasts -- the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com.

• Eagle Pass, Texas, 1:27 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
• Uvalde, Texas, 1:29 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 16 seconds
• Kerrville, Texas, 1:32 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
• Austin, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 1 minute, 53 seconds
• Killeen, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 17 seconds
• Fort Worth, Texas, 1:40 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 34 seconds
• Dallas, Texas, 1:40 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 47 seconds
• Little Rock, Arkansas, 1:51 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 33 seconds
• Jonesboro, Arkansas, 1:55 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 24 seconds
• Poplar Bluff, Arkansas, 1:56 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
• Cape Girardeau, Missouri, 1:58 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 6 seconds
• Carbondale, Illinois, 1:59 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
• Mount Vernon, Illinois, 2:00 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
• Evansville, Indiana, 2:02 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 2 seconds
• Terre Haute, Indiana, 3:04 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 57 seconds
• Indianapolis, Indiana, 3:06 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 46 seconds
• Dayton, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 46 seconds
• Wapakoneta, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 55 seconds
• Toledo, Ohio, 3:12 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 54 seconds
• Cleveland, Ohio, 3:13 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 50 seconds

Pennsylvania

• Erie, Pennsylvania, 3:16 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 43 seconds
• Buffalo, New York, 3:18 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 45 seconds
• Rochester, New York, 3:20 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
• Syracuse, New York, 3:23 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 26 seconds
• Burlington, Vermont, 3:26 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 14 seconds
• Island Falls, Maine, 3:31 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 20 seconds
• Presque Island, Maine, 3:32 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 47 seconds

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24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events

9 killed and 963 injured in Taiwan after 7.4-magnitude quake

TAIPEI, Taiwan— A 7.4- magnitude earthquake, followed by several strong aftershocks, struck off the east coast of Taiwan on Wednesday morning, killing at least nine people and injuring 963 others, according to Taiwan’s fire department. The earthquake, which damaged buildings and caused landslides, was the largest to hit Taiwan in 25 years and was also felt in parts of China. Overnight, at least 143 people remained trapped under rubble, authorities said, including more than 70 quarry workers.

• Key computer chip maker to resume full production after quake shut some facilities
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Here's what to know, live coverage contributors 19.

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Biden announces plans to address Baltimore port closure and help workers after deadly bridge collapse

After visiting the site of the deadly Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse on Friday, President Joe Biden said that his administration is taking swift action to try to ease the disruption at Baltimore's port and help workers and small businesses affected by the port closure.

After an aerial tour of the site, Biden said that the federal government will provide more than $8 million in grant funds to make infrastructure improvements to the port at Baltimore's Sparrows Point — an area unaffected by the bridge collapse — so it can take on more ships.

The president also announced that his administration would provide grants to workers affected by the pause in port operations and said the Small Business Administration would offer low-interest loans for small businesses impacted by the incident last week.

"I’m here to say your nation has your back," Biden said. "The damage is devastating and our hearts are still breaking," he continued, noting that six workers who were fixing potholes on the bridge lost their lives.

"I’ve come here to grieve with you," he said, flanked by Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore and other Maryland and Baltimore officials. "It’s not the same, but I know a little bit about what it’s like to lose a piece of your soul."

Biden reiterated that he wants Congress to pass funding to cover the entire cost of constructing a new bridge. He also said that, so far, two small channels have been cleared for ships helping to clear the wreckage and noted the tentative timeline for reopening the port announced Thursday by the Army Corps of Engineers.

The Army Corps of Engineers expects “to open a limited access channel for barge container service and some vessels that move automobiles and farm equipment by the end of April” and “restore the port to normal capacity by the end of May,” the White House said.

In addition to the aerial tour, Biden received an operational update on response efforts from the Coast Guard and Army Corps of Engineers and was expected to meet personally with the families of the six workers who died.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early on the morning of March 26 when a cargo ship crashed into a support pillar. The remains of two people who were killed have been recovered, four others are presumed dead and two people who fell into the water survived.

Biden addressed the disaster during remarks in the hours following the collapse, saying that the White House would send “all the federal resources they need” and that they would rebuild the port. He also said that he intended for the federal government to pay the entire cost of reconstructing the bridge.

Director of the Office of Management and Budget Shalanda Young sent a letter to congressional leaders on Friday asking them to authorize "a 100 percent Federal cost share for rebuilding the bridge."

“To the people of Baltimore, I want to say: We’re with you. We’re going to stay with you as long as takes. And like [Moore] said, you’re Maryland tough, you’re Baltimore strong, and we’re going to get through this together,” Biden said during his remarks last week. “And I promise: We’re not leaving.”

The National Economic Council has also convened the administration's Supply Chain Disruptions Task Force to coordinate federal efforts to support affected industries in the aftermath of the collapse, the White House announced last week.

“We are much better equipped to mitigate supply chain disruptions than we were just a few years ago, thanks to increased coordination across the supply chain and new efforts to strengthen both our physical and digital infrastructure,” Buttigieg said in a statement.

Also last week, the Department of Transportation announced $60 million in emergency relief funds to go toward rebuilding the bridge. The White House said it would serve as a "down payment" for initial costs.

In 2023, the Baltimore port near the bridge, a key shipping hub and source of jobs, “handled a record 52.3 million tons of foreign cargo, worth $80 billion,” Moore announced in February. The port also generated more than 15,000 direct jobs, “with nearly 140,000 jobs linked to port activities,” he said in the statement.

Megan Lebowitz is a politics reporter for NBC News.

Rebecca Shabad is a politics reporter for NBC News based in Washington.