Cost: $2850 per person

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Hi guys, this is a special group tour to Tajikistan and the Pamir Highway that I’ve organized and will lead! I’m very excited about this trip because this is new to me as well! It’s a trip I’ve been wanting to do for a while. I can’t wait! I hope you can join me!

The journey begins in the Tajikistan capital of Dushanbe before setting off along the legendary Pamir Highway, one of the world’s great mountain roads. Passing through remote valleys, high-altitude plateaus and traditional Pamiri villages, we travel deep into the dramatic landscapes of the “Roof of the World,” crossing rugged passes and glacial scenery before descending into the vibrant Silk Road city of Osh.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Saturday, 5 September

Dushanbe
Arrive in Dushanbe.
Transfer to hotel.
Overnight in Dushanbe at hotel.

Day 2: Sunday, 6 September

Dushanbe – Kalaikhumb
The trip begins early in the morning were we will be heading straight to one of the most spectacular mountain roads in the world: the Pamir Highway. Our four-wheel drive vehicles will scale the first pass at more than 3000 metres and descend to the valley of the mighty Panj River.
Overnight in Kalaikhum at local Guesthouse.
Altitude: 1600m
Driving distance: 370 km
Driving time: 9 hours

Day 3: Monday, 7 September

Kalaikhumb – Khorog
Following an early start, we begin our journey along the Pamir Highway, to to the capital of the Pamirs, Khorogh. Following the route of the Panj River, also known as the Oxus in ancient times, with Afghanistan just across on the other side of the water. On the drive you will see daily life in the mud-brick Afghan villages. At times the Pamir Highway squeezes through dazzling gorges and crosses rickety suspension bridges. Once in Khorogh there will be a little time to explore the town.
Overnight in Khorogh at local Guesthouse.
Altitude: 2200m
Driving distance: 250km

Day 4: Tuesday, 8 September

Khorogh – Ishkashim – Langar
A days drive along the Panj river, with Afghanistan a constant companion on the other side. We stop for lunch in Ishkishim and continue towards Langar with several stops on the way. We will visit Kah’kaha Fortress, the local museum in Yamg. Later in the day we will drive up to Yamchun Qala and take the opportunity to swim in the Bibi’ Fatima hot spring and see the Buddhist Ziggurat complex.
Overnight in Langar at a local homestay.
Altitude: 3000 m
Driving distance: 240 km
Driving time: 5 hours

Day 5: Wednesday, 9 September

Langar – Bulunkul
Today we leave the views of Afghanistan and turn northward, crossing the 4300m high Khargush Pass (not passable in winter) and then drive to Bulunkul.
Overnight in Bulunkul at a local homestay.
Altitude: 3750m
Driving distance: 120km
Driving time: 3-4 hours

Day 6: Thursday, 10 September

Bulunkul – Murghab
We continue along the Pamir Highway towards Murghab. En-route we stop at the old Soviet Shor-bulak observatory, sitting at an impressing 4300 meters. Once in Murghab, walk the streets of the town and immerse yourself with the locals.
Overnight in Murghab at a local homestay.
Altitude: 3650 m
Driving distance: 100 km
Driving time: 4 hour

Day 7: Friday, 11 September

Murghab – Karakul
We continue our drive along the Pamir Highway via the highest point of the Pamir Highway, the Ak-Baital Pass (4656m). We then reach Karakul, the biggest lake in Tajikistan. Spend the afternoon walking around the lake and taking in the scenery.
Overnight in Karakul at a local homestay.
Altitude: 3900 m
Driving distance: 130 km
Driving time: 4 hour

Day 8: Saturday, 12 September

Karakul – Sarimogol
After an early start we leave Tajikstan and enter Kyrgyzstan and drive to the small township of Sarimogol. From here we drive and hike to the viewpoint of Lenin Peak (7134m).
Overnight in Sarimogol in Yurts.
Altitude: 2500m
Trekking time: 3 hours
Driving distance: 180 km
Driving time: 4 hour

Day 9: Sunday, 13 September

Sarimogol – Osh
We make our final journey along the Pamir Highway to Osh, Kyrgyzstan. In the afternoon we will visit ”Takhty Sulaiman”, a cave and museum in the Solomon’s Mountain.
Overnight in Osh at hotel.
Altitude: 960m
Driving distance: km
Driving time: 5 hours

Day 10: Monday, 14 September

Osh – End
Transfer to Osh Airport.
End of trip.

Inclusions & Exclusions

The trip includes:

All accommodation
Breakfast
All meals along the Pamir Highway
All transport including English speaking driver-guide
Driver’s fee
Entrance fees
Drinking water

The trip does not include:

Visas
Insurance
International flights
Meals in Dushanbe
Additional transport costs for any detours
Tips
Additional cost for any requested detours: US$0.85 per km, paid in cash.

Cost: $2,850.00 Per Person

BOOK NOW

General Information

Flights:
We do not directly arrange international flights to and from Tajikistan. We can suggest routes and
operators.

Visas:
You may require a visa to enter Tajikistan. If so, a single-entry e-visa is the quickest method.
You will require a Tajikistan visa for this trip as well as a GBAO permit for the Badakhshan region,
where we will be travelling in.

Food:
We provide breakfast each day. When driving along the Pamir Highway, lunch and dinner is included.

Accommodation:
We do not and cannot offer a uniform accommodation standard on our itineraries. Even if we wanted
to, the reality is that standards in Dushanbe cannot be compared to a home stay in an isolated valley
in the Pamirs. We consider comfort, location, design, character, historical interest and whether the
money we spend will go into the pockets of the local community when we make our choices of where
to stay.
The accommodation will be based on 2 people sharing a room when that is available. Single rooms
can only be guaranteed in Dushanbe and Osh – contact us for details.
Along the Pamir Highway we will primarily be staying in local homestays that have limited rooms and
sharing may be required.

Transport:
When we choose our vehicles and drivers we take into consideration the road conditions, the length
of journey and the competence of the man behind the wheel. We will only be travelling by four-wheel
drive vehicles because the majority of the road is essentially a dirt track (despite that “Pamir Highway”
suggests smooth tarmac). Your comfort, enjoyment and safety of the journey is the top priority.
Please note, the tour does not include the transport costs for any detours. Should this be required,
you would be obligated to pay the driver in cash.
Additional cost for any requested detours: US$0.85 per km.

Guides:
On this trip you will be accompanied by an experienced local English-speaking driver-guide.

Insurance:
A valid travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate in any Untamed Borders trips.

Security:
Tajikistan including the Autonomous Region of Badakhshan is currently a stable area. However, we
monitor the situation closely and we listen very carefully to advice from the foreign office and from
our friends in the areas we visit. Our client’s safety is our primary concern. We must state that the
tour leader has the final word with regards to changes in the itinerary for safety reasons. Whilst the route we have chosen passes through areas which we consider to be stable things can change and we
may have to alter the route or cancel sections of the trip at short notice.

If you have any questions about this trip or about Tajikistan in general, please contact  info@untamedborders.com

The post Pamir Highway Group Trip: September 5-14, 2026 appeared first on Lee Abbamonte.

Who is the greatest men’s tennis player of all time? It’s been a hot topic on tour for years now and for good reason. This is and has been the golden era of men’s tennis. The three best players who ever lived have been playing for much of the last two decades. Those players are Novak Djokovic and the recently retired Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. But who is the greatest men’s tennis player of all time?

I’m well aware that it’s hard to compare eras. The equipment is different; the money is lucrative; top players travel with physios; nutrition is different, etc. I also know that Rod Laver won a Grand Slam or 2, Pete Sampras won 14 majors, players didn’t really start playing at the Australian Open until the 80’s, etc.

All those arguments have some merit, but to me, it’s a no-brainer: the three greatest tennis players that ever lived are Federer, Nadal and Djokovic-and I don’t even think it’s debatable. So, who is the greatest men’s tennis player of all time?

First let’s look at the numbers:

When you examine these hard numbers you have to put some context to them. Roger Federer, who is now retired, won his first ATP title in 2001; whereas Nadal won his first in 2004; and Djokovic 2006. Federer had his most dominant period from 2004-2007 where he won an absurd 11 grand slam titles. Roger’s greatest strength was his incredible consistency going deep into tournaments.

While the now retired Nadal battled injuries throughout his career, he was always incredibly consistent on clay. He won the French Open an incomprehensible 14 times dating back to 2005. But his most dominant period was 2008-2010 where he won 6 majors and completed the career grand slam.

Novak Djokovic had his first extended period of dominance from 2011-2016 where he won 11 majors and was in 7 other finals. He not only completed the career grand slam to match Federer and Nadal but he also held all four grand slam titles at the same time. Something nobody had done since Rod Laver won the grand slam in 1969. I was in Paris to witness his 2016 Roland Garros win over Andy Murray!

In the end, major titles will be somewhat close no matter what the final numbers are. So what really sets these three greats apart are the head to head matchups, big titles, weeks at #1 and year end #1. Those numbers may surprise you.

Djokovic vs Federer

Djokovic leads 27-23 overall, 14-6 in all Finals, 5-3 in Masters Finals and 4-1 in Grand Slam Finals. Federer’s only slam final win came in the 2007 US Open Final which was Djokovic’s first Grand Slam Final. Djokovic leads 11-6 in all Grand Slam matches. Plus Djokovic beat Federer three times in the Wimbledon final without losing one. This is significant because Federer is widely considered the greatest grass court player ever. Yet, he only beat Djokovic once at Wimbledon-a 2012 semifinal.

This rivalry has really evolved over time. Federer won the vast majority early on when Djokovic was young and not yet established as a serious threat. But Djokovic dominated in the last decade. He took the head to head lead and more importantly-won the biggest matches, the grand slam finals.

While most of their matches over the years were very competitive, none were better than the 2019 Wimbledon final. In my opinion, it’s the greatest match I’ve ever seen. In the end, Djokovic prevailed as he has so often in the biggest matches versus Federer.

Advantage Djokovic

Djokovic vs Nadal

Djokovic leads 31-29 overall, 15-13 in all Finals, they’re tied 3-3 in Masters Finals and Nadal leads 5-4 in Grand Slam Finals. Novak has beaten Nadal in all 4 Grand Slams including Roland Garros twice where Nadal has won 14 titles and only lost 4 matches since 2005. Nadal leads Djokovic 8-2 overall at the French but only 3 men have ever beaten him in Paris. Djokovic also beat Nadal at the Olympics in Paris. Federer never beat Nadal at the French Open in 6 opportunities-4 finals along with two semifinals.

These are perhaps the most entertaining matches in the history of tennis. I’ve been fortunate to witness several in person. The most interesting thing in this rivalry is that Nadal leads on clay 20-8. 8 losses to Djokovic is more on clay than Federer, Murray, Wawrinka and basically everyone else combined.

These two guys play a similar style of baseline counter-punching. This has produced some of the greatest matches in tennis history. Their 2012, nearly 6-hour Australian Open final to me is one of the top 2-3 greatest matches ever played-surely the most physical match I’ve ever seen. Every match is a battle. We’ve been lucky to witness such greatness on court together. I hope we get one more matchup before it’s over.

Advantage Djokovic 

Nadal vs Federer

Nadal leads 24-16 overall, 14-10 in all Finals, 7-5 in Masters Finals and 6-3 in Grand Slam Finals. Rafa beat Federer in Finals in Australia, Roland Garros and Wimbledon. Federer beat him in Australia and Wimbledon twice. Roger was 0-6 at the French; only 2-7 in all clay Finals; and 2-14 overall on clay.

This is a tough one for any Federer fan to swallow. Nadal owned Federer over the years. Yes Roger won several of the later matches to narrow the gap a bit. However, his inability to beat Rafa on clay; never beating him in Paris; never even taking him to 5 sets at Roland Garros-definitely hurts his case.

These two have played some great matches over the years; including 5 sets in the 2007 and 2008 Wimbledon final. The 2008 match is often considered the greatest match ever. Their 2009 and 2017 Australian Open finals were also great. Plus, they’ve had some great Masters matches. The 2006 Rome final was amazing, although in the end, as usual, Nadal won on clay.

Advantage Nadal

So, who is the greatest of all-time? Based on numbers, statistics and the eye test: I can make an argument for and against each of them for being the greatest of all time. But here are the bottom line arguments.

Roger Federer has 20 grand slam titles and was unbelievably consistent for 20 years. But his inability to beat Rafael Nadal consistently or at all on clay-hurts his case massively. How can you be the best of all-time if you cannot once beat your biggest rival at Roland Garros in 6 tries or even take him to 5 sets? None of those matches were overly competitive. Especially when Nadal beat Federer at Wimbledon and took him to 5 sets in another final. He’s also 1-4 versus Djokovic in major finals and 0-3 at his beloved Wimbledon. These numbers are all real and hurt Federer’s case for being the greatest of all time.

Rafael Nadal is unquestionably the greatest clay court player of all time. In fact, his dominance on clay may be the most dominant thing in any sport-ever. Of his 92 titles, 64 are on clay. Of his 22 majors, 14 are French Opens. His amazing clay court prowess almost overshadows the rest of his game-which is also great. But he is not the best all-court player of the 3 men. Plus, he has a losing record to Djokovic. Nadal also never won a World Tour Finals title; although he does have Olympic gold-Federer does not.

Novak Djokovic took his lumps from Federer and Nadal early on in his career. He learned, waited patiently and then took over. His peak was better than any player-ever. More importantly, he wins finals against his biggest rivals. He is 30-20 in all finals against Federer and Nadal; has a winning record against them both; has beaten Federer at Wimbledon three times in the final and has beaten Rafa 3 times, including the Olympics, at Roland Garros. Plus, Djokovic is the only player to win the career grand slam three times and has an Olympic gold medal.

Additionally, he is the only person ever to win all 9 Masters 1000 events-and he’s done it twice. He is the all time leader at weeks at #1 by more than 2 years. Plus, he’s the youngest of the group and he’s not done yet. He could add more titles to continue his assault on history.

Novak Djokovic was also robbed at Wimbledon in 2020 where he was the 2 time defending champion because of Covid. Plus, the humiliating Australian Open 2022 vaccine fiasco where he was unable to defend his 3 consecutive titles. He was also the victim of a stupid (on his part) default at the US Open in 2020 and not allowed to compete in the 2022 US Open because of his vaccination status-not to mention numerous Masters events in North America. He would have won at least 1-2 of those majors given his level at the time.

All that said, I can confidently say that Novak Djokovic is the greatest men’s tennis player of all time. The numbers don’t lie. He’s comfortably on top in just about every major statistical category that matters-and he’s not done yet. Plus, I saw just about every match they’ve all played and nobody was dominant as Djokovic when he was at his peak.

As a Federer loyalist that hurts to say, but sometimes the truth hurts. However for me, Novak Djokovic will end with the most weeks at #1, the most majors, Masters 1000’s, and has the head to head advantage against both guys-and just about everyone else! That’s the bottom line as to why Novak Djokovic is the greatest men’s tennis player of all time.

What do you think?

The post Who is the Greatest Men’s Tennis Player of All Time? appeared first on Lee Abbamonte.

Cost: $2150 per person

Make a deposit now to secure your spot!

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This 8-day journey through Sri Lanka is a rich blend of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and wildlife encounters.

The adventure begins with arrival in Colombo, before heading for a short tour of the nearby coastal town – Negombo. We then head inland, through the country’s lush interior, to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. This is followed by an exhilarating climb to the summit of Sigiriya Rock Fortress for sunset, before continuing to Dambulla for the night.

Day three is dedicated to experiencing rural Sri Lanka with a visit to Habarana. Here, travellers explore villages and paddy fields by traditional cart and enjoy a home-cooked village lunch. We continue through the rainforest to the city of Kandy, with a stop at the 2,000 year-old Dambulla Cave Temple on the way, before exploring Kandy’s Temple of Tooth and enjoy an evening of traditional dance, music and food.

We then migrate south through the hills to Nuwara Eliya, stopping at a tea plantation en route. From there, an epic train ride to Ella provides stunning views of Sri Lanka’s rainforest lined mountains – named one of the most scenic in the world. In Ella, we visit the Nine Arch Bridge and Ravana Waterfalls, before heading south to Yala National Park – the country’s leading wildlife sanctuary. In this region we enjoy a thrilling jeep safari, in search of elephants, sloth bears, and possibly leopards (if we’re lucky).

The final stages of the trip are spent on the country’s beautiful southern coast, famous for its beaches and surf culture. We spend time in Dickwella, before continuing west to Mirissa, soaking up its clear waters, beaches, scenic view-points and fresh seafood. The area is also famous for its turtles and we have chance to visit a local turtle hatchery, which plays an important role in conservation efforts in the region.

The final day includes a stop in the town of Galle, to explore its UNESCO-listed Dutch Fort, before returning to Colombo for departure, concluding a memorable journey through Sri Lanka’s cultural treasures and natural wonders.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Monday, 30 March

Colombo – Negombo
Arrive in Colombo.
Transfer to Negombo and hotel.
No guiding on this day.
Overnight in Negombo at hotel.

Day 2
Tuesday, 31 March

Negombo – Sigiriya Rock – Dambulla
We begin today with a short city tour of Negombo, before continuing
our journey inland.
First, we will have the opportunity to visit the Pinnawala elephant
orphanage.
We will then climb the Unesco World Heritage site Sigiriya Rock
Fortress, reaching the summit to enjoy the panoramic views at sunset.
Continue our drive to Dambulla.
Overnight in Dambulla at hotel.

Day 3
Wednesday, 1 April

Dambulla & around
Full day to explore the rural heart of Sri Lanka.
We head to the town of Habarana, from where we will take cart rides
through local villages, lakes and paddy fields. We will stop for an
authentic local lunch in one of the villages.
In the afternoon we return to Dambulla.
Overnight in Dambulla at hotel.

Day 4
Thursday, 2 April

Dambulla – Kandy
We continue our journey south to the Central Highlands and Kandy.
En-route we will stop at the Dambulla Cave Temple, a sacred complex
of caves filled with ancient statues and murals dating back over 2,000
years.
Once in Kandy we will visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of
the most revered Buddhist sites in the world. In the evening we will
attend a traditional Kandyan cultural show filled with dance, fire and
drumming.
Overnight in Kandy at hotel.

Day 5
Friday, 3 April

Kandy – Ella
Today we drive through the hills to Nuwara Eliya, stopping at a local tea
plantation and factory on the way.
Once in Nuwara Eliya we head to the train station and board our train
to Ella. Considered one of the most scenic train rides in the world,
enjoy a three hour journey through tunnels, across stone bridges, and
past lush landscapes, tea estates, and forested hills.
Overnight in Ella at hotel.

Day 6
Saturday, 4 April

Ella – Yala National Park – Mirissa
We begin today in Ella, visiting the the Nine Arch Bridge and the Ravana
Waterfall.
Afterwards we drive to the Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s premier
wildlife sanctuary, and take a jeep safari searching for elephans, sloth
bears, crocodiles – and if you are lucky, leopards!
We continue the drive along the southern coast towards Mirissa.
Overnight in Dickwella at hotel.

Day 7
Sunday, 5 April

Dickwella & Mirissa
Full day to enjoy the leisures of the sourthernmost point of Sri Lanka,
exploring view points, wander the beaches, and taste the fresh
seafood.
We will also visit a turtle hatchery and learn about local conservation
work.
Overnight in Dickwella at hotel.

Day 8
Monday, 6 April

Mirissa – Galle – Colombo – End
We begin our journey back to Colombo for the end of the tour.
On the way we will stop in Galle, a historic coastal city with a rich
colonial past, where we will vist the Unesco Heritage Site Galle Dutch
Fort.
Transfer to Colombo airport for your departure flight.
End of trip.

Inclusions & Exclusions

The trip includes:
Accommodation
Breakfast
Transport
English speaking guide
Visa support
Entrance fees

The trip does not include:
Lunch & Dinner (unless specified)
International Flights
Insurance
Visa cost
Drinks
Tips

Cost:
• Tour Package: $2,150.00 Per Person
• Single Supplement: $560.00 Per Single Supplement
To reserve a place on this trip we need a deposit of US$400 per person

BOOK NOW

For more information, please email info@untamedborders.com

The post Sri Lanka Group Trip; March 30-April 6 2026 appeared first on Lee Abbamonte.

Criteria

My criteria is simple…Is the golf course good? Fun? Picturesque? Is it near cool stuff to enhance the experience? Is it worth my time, money and effort to travel to go there? I don’t care about green complexes, bunkering, type of grass used or other golf architect nerd talk. Simply put: where should I go play golf to get the best experience possible?

That said, some golf resorts and destinations have multiple courses that merit inclusion in any top golf course list-so why separate? As you go through the 50 best public golf experiences in America list, you’ll notice a slant toward resorts or destinations with multiple courses. Multiple top courses certainly contributes to the experience of a Bandon or Pinehurst, etc. It becomes more desirable as you’ll get more for your money and effort. Then there’s the destination, which counts for a lot.

For instance, Lake Tahoe doesn’t have a single public golf course worthy of top 50 inclusion. However, with a glamor course like Edgewood, several other fun courses with the backdrop of Lake Tahoe-you’ve clearly got a destination that’s one of the 50 best public golf experiences in America.

In terms of destinations, I combined some golf hot spots like Phoenix or Palm Springs. Whereas for another destination like Las Vegas that doesn’t have a lot of great public courses: I included the best experiences separately.

Some stand-alone courses are listed as well from all over the country. These are the courses that I think are worthy of a trip even with nothing else noteworthy around them. These are unique golf experiences in and of themselves.

Please enjoy the 50 best public golf experiences in America!

1. Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, Oregon

Bandon Dunes is a golf dream. It has 5 courses that are worthy of a top 10 ranking; Bandon Dunes, Pacific Dunes, Old MacDonald, Bandon Trails and Sheep Ranch plus a fabulous Par 3 course called The Preserve. I could argue Pacific Dunes or Sheep Ranch as the singular best public course in America. Bandon is a slam dunk at #1. It’s as close as you’ll get to Ireland or Scotland in America and is a must for any golfer.

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort

2. Monterey Peninsula, California

The Monterey Peninsula is golf royalty. It’s perhaps the most beautiful part of America and is home to legendary Pebble Beach. The Pebble experience alone is worth the trip but there are so many other great courses on and around the Monterey Peninsula. Spanish Bay, Spyglass Hill and Poppy Hills just to name a few. And don’t you dare forget about nearby Pasatiempo in Santa Cruz! Go experience it for a few days and don’t miss the 17-mile drive!

Pebble Beach, Monterey Peninsula

3. Pinehurst Golf Resort, North Carolina

The word Pinehurst suggests golf. A regal place, with lawn bowling and croquet. Some of that is true but Pinehurst crushes it in the golf department. Along with the world renowned Pinehurst #2, Pinehurst Resort has 10 18-hole courses plus the fantastic short course, The Cradle. Just down the road are Mid Pines and Pine Needles, which are both top 100 level courses. Pinehurst is fantastic!

Pinehurst Golf Resort

4. Kohler, Wisconsin

Kohler may not be the most exciting destination on its own, but it’s ranked this high because the golf is simply spectacular. Everyone knows Whistling Straits, which is as good and tough as you want it to be. There’s also the excellent Irish Course. Plus, there are 2 Blackwolf Run courses, River and Meadow Valleys. Not to mention, Wisconsin is in the running for best public golf state. So you’re not far from other great courses like Lawsonia Links, Erin Hills or the great food in Milwaukee-or even Chicago!

Whistling Straits

5. Shadow Creek, Las Vegas

Shadow Creek is just a really nice golf course, but the experience is unparalleled in public golf. It’s “public” but it’s not cheap or easy to get on. You must be a player at an MGM Resorts hotel, get invited for an event, or be lucky enough to swoop up a midweek tee time for over $1000. But it’s a course and experience you’ll never forget. You’ll be taken to and from the course by limousine, you’ll hardly see anyone else playing, and never wait. It’s the closest thing a regular person can get to Augusta National.

Shadow Creek

6. Kiawah Island Resort, South Carolina

You go to Kiawah Island to play the Pete Dye designed Ocean Course. It’s the hardest course I’ve ever played and as good as advertised. But Kiawah also has several other courses at the fabulous resort. Plus. It’s a short drive over to Charleston and some of the best food in America. Kiawah isn’t a cheap experience but worth the splurge for any golf junkie. Also, there’s no shade, wear sunscreen-trust me!

The Ocean Course, Kiawah Island

7. Silvies Valley Ranch, Oregon

Silvies Valley Ranch may well be the most unique golf experience in America. Aside from the reversible Craddock and Hankins courses, there’s also a fun little Par 3 course called Chief Egan and the totally unique McVeigh’s Gauntlet where you can use a goat caddy. Yes, that’s right-a goat caddy. Trust me, it’s a tough walk and the goats know the way! Silvies isn’t just about golf either. They have a ton of things to do like cattle roundups, shooting, fishing, eco tours, and a fantastic whiskey bar. Silvies is a must!

Silvies Valley Ranch

8. Greater Palm Springs, California

Greater Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley could be the best golf destination in America. PGA West alone has some 6 courses, and all are fabulous. The most famous is the Pete Dye Stadium course. But the Dye Mountain and Dunes, Nicklaus Tournament Course and others make it a great golf experience. Indian Wells Golf Resort is fantastic. Other great spots include Desert Willow with 2 fantastic courses. Plus, Classic Club, Desert Falls and nearby Rams Hill. It doesn’t have the nightlife of Scottsdale or Vegas but it’s tough to beat for public (or private) golf!

PGA West Pete Dye Mountain Course

9. Sand Valley, Wisconsin

When you drive out to Sand Valley in the middle of nowhere Wisconsin, you’re constantly thinking, “is this the right way’? But alas, you reach the now 5-course gem of Sand Valley, Sedge Valley, The Lido, Mammoth Dunes and The Sandbox. You’re quickly taken away into golf heaven. It’s a great golf experience. They know what they’re doing at Sand Valley.

Sand Valley

10. Streamsong Resort, Florida

When you’re playing Streamsong, you can’t believe you’re in Florida. Links style golf with elevation changes in the middle of Florida breaks every boring Florida golf stigma. Streamsong boasts 3 top 40 courses that are fun, playable, and unique with some truly enormous greens. Plus, they have a good hotel, a little Par 3 course and a fun putting green to enjoy adult beverages-and perhaps a wager!

Streamsong Resort is the most Un-Florida golf in the state

11. Maui, Hawaii

Maui is my favorite Hawaiian Island. I don’t say that lightly because I love them all. Great golf just adds to the experience. The most famous course is the Plantation Course at Kapalua. It’s a fun track and Kapalua and Kaanapali have several fun courses. But my favorites are in Wailea. Wailea Gold and Emerald-I love playing them. I love the views, conditions, and that every putt goes away from Haleakala. I just love Maui.

Wailea Golf Club

12. Manele Golf Course, Lanai, Hawaii

Manele Golf Course is a standout to me. I look at all the top golf course lists and it’s always underrated in the 20’s. You get Pacific Ocean views on every hole. The course is fun, challenging, and stunning. Bill Gates got married on the 12^th hole! Plus, Lanai is amazing, and the Four Seasons Resort Lanai is superb. It’s a golf experience, a Hawaiian experience, and an indulgence in luxury that you won’t forget.

Manele Golf Course has water views everywhere

13. Greater Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix and the Valley of the Sun is a goldmine of great public golf. Drive about 30 minutes into the desert from Phoenix and you’ll come to an Indian Casino Resort featuring the 2 fabulous courses of We-Ko-Pa. Drive the other direction up to Quintero and play what may be the best singular public golf course in the Phoenix area. Not to mention, nearby Wickenburg Ranch. And of course, you’ve got the 2 TPC Scottsdale courses, Grayhawk, Ak-Chin Southern Dunes, Troon North, Gold Canyon and so many others in Scottsdale, Mesa, and the rest of the Valley. Phoenix is public golf royalty.

We-Ko-Pa Golf Club

14. Tobacco Road, North Carolina

Yes I probably could have grouped Tobacco Road in with Pinehurst but I think it’s so special that it deserves its own mention. Tobacco Road is probably the most unique course I have played and surely amongst the most fun. It’s in an unassuming little piece of North Carolina and not to be missed.

Tobacco Road rocks

15. Lake Tahoe, Nevada/California

Lake Tahoe may be the most beautiful singular spot in America. It’s an absolute must see destination and experience. It also has a wide selection of very good golf courses spread out around Lake Tahoe, Reno, the Carson Valley and Truckee, California. Edgewood Tahoe is the biggest draw for good reason. It’s a fun course on the lake where they host the Celebrity tournament each summer. Other courses I love in the Tahoe area are Old Greenwood, Coyote Moon, Incline and Genoa Lakes. Lake Tahoe is just fantastic.

Edgewood Tahoe on the famous Par 3 17th hole

16. Gamble Sands, Washington State

The trek out to Gamble Sands is a long one from just about anywhere. It’s another incredibly unique and fun course that will leave you wanting more. A lot of what Gamble Sands has to offer is not necessarily in plain sight. You need to play it a few times to see the genius of Gamble Sands. It’s not a hard course. Many shoot their best rounds there. However, in terms of experience, few courses are better. And now they’ve added Scarecrow and Quicksands to make the trek even better when you arrive to golf heaven.

Gamble Sands sunsets are epic

17. Bethpage State Park, New York

Everyone knows Bethpage Black. It’s really hard and has hosted multiple major championships. But Bethpage also has 4 other courses on site that are pretty good. But Bethpage is a real New York golf experience. Take your clubs on the train from the City, play quick, or get yelled at or hit into. As a New Yorker, that’s my kind of golf. Bethpage Black is legendary and is a true test for any serious golfer.

The 18th at Bethpage Black on Long Island

18. Arcadia Bluffs, Michigan

There are now 2 courses at Arcadia Bluffs. I would have included it with just the original because it’s that good. It’s always ranked in the top 20 and I feel like it still gets shafted. This gem on the shores of Lake Michigan Ocean is a must experience. The views are incredible, the course is stellar, and the clubhouse is top notch. Well worth the journey to get there.

Arcadia Bluffs

19. Giants Ridge, Minnesota

If you look hard enough in Northern Minnesota, you’ll come across a dot called Biwabik that has two awesome golf course that make up Giants Ridge. The Quarry is one of my favorite courses and The Legend is good too. The experience lies in getting there and I highly recommend playing in the Fall because the colors up there are unforgettable. There are a few memorable courses in Minnesota like the Classic at Maddens or Wilderness at Fortune Bay, but Giants Ridge is the top public golf experience in Minnesota.

Giants Ridge

20. TPC Sawgrass, Florida

The palatial clubhouse at TPC Sawgrass may be the nicest clubhouse in America. The home of The Players in Ponte Vedra is honestly just awesome. TPC Sawgrass is hard, fun, and frustrating. When you tee off at the iconic Par 3 17th island green, you feel like Tiger Woods-until you hit it in the water! The other course called Dye’s Valley is easier and some even like it more. For me, I like them both as a true golf experience in a lesser known part of Florida with a lot going on.

The Clubhouse at TPC Sawgrass

21. Paako Ridge, New Mexico

Before I played Paako Ridge, it was a complete mystery to me. It’s between Albuquerque and Santa Fe and has very little cell service at high altitude. But as soon as you arrive, you know why you came. Paako Ridge is a stunner. It’s a fun course. It’s challenging but gettable. The altitude makes everything fly farther so you feel like Tiger off the tee. Mountains and elevation changes just make golf better. Paako gets it right.

Paako Ridge Golf Club

22. Greater Seattle, Washington State

The infamous 2015 US Open was held at Chambers Bay. Infamous because it gave the pros fits and even vertigo. Since then, the course has become more friendly and is just phenomenal. The Puget Sound views and beautiful links layout make it a dream. The Lone Fir 15^th is a gem and one of my favorite Par 3’s. There are a few other courses nearby to add to a trip up to Seattle. Check out Salish Cliffs, 36 holes at Gold Mountain, and the Home Course. It’s a beautiful area for a road trip.

The Lone Fir at Chambers Bay

23. Branson, Missouri

I’m not gonna lie, Branson, Missouri is a weird place, but Branson is a golf destination that’s all part of a unique golf experience. Big Cedar Lodge is the spot to stay. Ozarks National and Payne’s Valley are the most famous courses around Branson but certainly not alone. Buffalo Ridge Springs and a few others are also good. The stunning Par 3 Top of the Rock is also one of the best Par 3 courses in the country.

Top of the Rock in Branson

24. French Lick Resort, Indiana

The Pete Dye Course at French Lick is a must play golf experience. It’s one of my favorites and one of most challenging courses in America in high wind. The Donald Ross Course is a favorite of the vintage course lovers. But the real experience comes from the French Lick Resort itself. What a place! Baden Springs and French Lick Resort are throwbacks to another time. They are fantastic places, and the backdrop of Larry Bird’s hometown is never far away. Also, be sure to play the nearby Pfau Course at Indiana University!

The Pete Dye Course at French Lick

25. Prairie Club, Nebraska

Half the fun of the Prairie Club is simply getting there. It’s in the middle of the Western Nebraska Sandhills, not close to anything. I drove some 6 hours from Denver to get there and was greeted with just pure golf! The Dunes Course is the top draw, but the Pines Course is also excellent. The fun little Horse Course is also not to be missed day or night! But the golf experience of staying in the isolation of Western Nebraska, perusing old golf books, playing on a vintage pool table, with a cocktail in hand, is tough to beat!

The Dunes Course at the Prairie Club

26. St. George, Utah

Sand Hollow is simply one of my favorite golf courses in America. It’s in a place called Hurricane, near St. George and offers some of the most scenic holes in America. The Par 4 12^th is my favorite Par 4 in America. It’s simply breathtaking. The course is fun and very gettable if you keep the ball in the fairway. Sand Hollow also boasts a little 9-hole links course where I recommend using hickories. Black Desert is the other course you can’t miss in St. George-and you have plenty of other options too!

The stunning 12th at Sand Hollow

27. Marquette Greywalls, Upper Peninsula, Michigan

Greywalls is one of the most complicated courses to get to because it’s far from everything. I drove some 7 hours to get there and was blown away. Marquette Golf Club boasts 2 courses, but Greywalls is why you come. It’s on every top 100 list but should be ranked higher. It’s unique, rugged layout challenges you and mesmerizes you. You’re constantly asking, where’s the hole? Where do I hit it? It’s such a fun course, I’m smiling as I type this. It’s worth the trek.

Marquette Greywalls

28. Cascata, Nevada

About 40-minutes from the Vegas Strip lies the beautiful, Cascata. It feels exclusive and tucked away down in Boulder City not far from the Hoover Dam. It’s the most unique layout in the Las Vegas area and although very expensive-very worth it. If you go all the way out to Cascata; also consider playing the always fun muni, Boulder Creek, across the street. It’s a fun 36 to experience old and new Boulder City.

Cascata Golf Club

29. Big Island, Hawaii

The Big Island is fantastic for everything. Stunning vistas, wide open spaces, volcanos, a green sand beach, coffee, and golf. Rent a car, wake up early and play some of Hawaii’s best. My favorites are the 2 Mauna Lani courses, the famous Mauna Kea, the elegant lava course of Hualalai at the Four Seasons Resort and Hapuna. There are also several courses at Waikoloa Village that will keep you entertained for days. The Big Island is a must experience for golf and everything else.

Mauna Lani on the Big Island

30. San Francisco, California

I’ve only played golf once in the city of San Francisco, but I did it right. I played 54 holes in a day. I started early at Presidio and was shocked at how good it was for a venerable old course. It was challenging, fair, had great views of the city, and was fun. It felt how municipal city golf is supposed to feel like. Next, I played a quick 18 at Lincoln Park. The course is whatever, but the 17^th makes it all worth it. The views of the Golden Gate Bridge are second to none. Finally, TPC Harding Park doesn’t get the love it deserves. It’s a world-class course. It’s tough, fun, beautiful and affordable. I’ve only scratched the surface on SF golf but loving it.

Golden Gate Bridge views from the 17th at Lincoln Park

31. Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort, Nevada

Paiute is another world from the Vegas Strip. It’s in the middle of nowhere (literally), with 3 fun courses. The barren mountain views follow you around and look different but equally awesome from any angle. Vegas has a lot of golf courses and experiences, but for my money, the Paiute value is tops for golf.

Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort

32. Mesquite, Nevada

Everyone knows Las Vegas but few people know about Mesquite, Nevada about an hour away. It’s home to some creative, fun, funky and stunning golf courses. Wolf Creek is often said to be a favorite of many. It’s a course out of a different world. But there are several others including Conestoga and Falcon Ridge. The strange experience of figuring out the identity of Mesquite is worth an overnight trip from Vegas.

Wolf Creek Golf Club

33. PGA Frisco, Texas

PGA Frisco is a new addition to the International golf landscape and they sure are making a quick impact. It’s a partnership between the PGA of America, Omni Hotels & Resorts and the City of Frisco; which is becoming a major tourist destination in Texas. Fields Ranch East will host an upcoming PGA Championship and Ryder Cup. It’s a tough course. A buddy of mine called it a big ballpark and that’s what it is. Fields Ranch West is much easier and more fun. They have an enormous putting course as well as night golf. It’s a self contained golf resort with everything you need including a top notch hotel resort.

In some trouble on Fields Ranch East

34. Sea Island, Georgia

Sea Island Resort is a beautiful, lesser known place to golf. Georgia is obviously golf royalty and Sea island isn’t that well known to most around the country even though they hold a PGA event each year. Seaside is an excellent course; as are the other two. It’s also a great hang, beautiful place to be and has amazing scenery. The drive out to Sea Island itself is something to be seen!

Pano on the Seaside Course at Sea Island Golf Resort

35. Bend, Oregon

I could’ve listed Bend, Oregon much higher on this list. There are a ton of great courses in the Bend area, anchored by Pronghorn, Tetherow and the Sun River Resort including the famous Crosswater Course. Bend is Oregon at its best. It has all the feels of the Pacific Northwest without the mess of Portland. Bend is great for an Oregon Road Trip with Mount Hood and other natural attractions not too far away.

Tetherow Resort

36. Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, Alabama

The RTJ Golf Trail is a lot of fun. If you’re committed to play a bunch of courses designed by Robert Trent Jones all over the State of Alabama, this is for you! It contains 26 courses with the top ones being Ross Bridge, Grand National, Magnolia Grove and Capitol Hill. The best part of the RTJ Trail experience is you get to see things in Alabama you otherwise likely wouldn’t. For instance, Civil Rights education in Montgomery; Selma; or check out Toomer’s Corner at Auburn University. Along the way, don’t forget to play FarmLinks at Pursell Farms; it’s not on the RTJ Trail but shouldn’t be missed.

Ross Bridge on the RTJ Trail in Alabama

37. Fallen Oak, Mississippi

Mississippi surprisingly has some excellent golf course with 3 top 100 courses. None better than Fallen Oak in Saucier not far from the casinos of Biloxi. Fallen Oak was supposed to be the exclusive sister to Shadow Creek. It’s still exclusive but you can drive yourself and play this gem off the Mississippi Gulf Coast. If you’ve never been, be sure to drive up the coast toward Louisiana to see some gorgeous beach scenery which will surely add to the Southern Mississippi golf experience.

Sunset along the Mississippi Gulf Coast near Biloxi

38. Red Sky, Colorado

When you think of Vail, you don’t think of golf first but that’s what makes Red Sky such a cool experience. You’re high up in the mountains of the Vail Valley playing two excellent courses; one designed by Greg Norman and the other by Tom Fazio. Both are excellent and non-members can play every other day. I highly recommend Red Sky and the experience of Vail, Eagle and Beaver Creek in summer.

Red Sky Golf Club

39. Torrey Pines, California

You’d think the famous Torrey Pines would be higher on a list like this. Torrey is unquestionably gorgeous with the 2 courses overlooking the Pacific in La Jolla. The South Course hosts major championships and has some amazing holes. The North Course is nearly as good. But there’s something that holds me back on Torrey. It has a crappy clubhouse and is not as well-maintained as you’d expect from a course of this stature when not hosting a tournament. It’s still a must-play…just be aware.

Torrey Pines South

40. Nemacolin, Pennsylvania

A true gem of a place in Western Pennsylvania; Nemacolin is amongst the greatest golf resorts that most people have never heard of. I absolutely loved the experience and the 2 on-site golf courses. Mystic Rock is especially awesome. But the Nemacolin experience isn’t limited to just golf. Stay a few nights, take in the sunsets, great restaurants, and exotic animals. Don’t forget to check out nearby Falling Waters or a ballgame at PNC Park in Pittsburgh about an hour away.

Nemacolin

41. Reynolds Lake Oconee, Georgia

Not too far from Augusta National is the beautiful Reynolds Lake Oconee Golf Resort. Complete with 6 championship courses and a Ritz-Carlton, you’ll be in golf heaven as I was for 3 days. But the Reynolds experience isn’t just golf. The property is massive and offers everything from skeet shooting to archery. Not to mention a great bar and one of the best breakfasts around!

Reynolds Lake Oconee

42. Kauai, Hawaii

I feel guilty having the Hawaiian Island of Kauai this low on my list, but the Garden Isle has some great golf and is a great experience. Princeville Makai is probably the top public course on the island and the views will back that up. But I think my favorite holes on Kauai are the last 4 holes at Poipu Bay on the other side of the island. The Ocean Course at Hokuala and the fantastic Wailua munis add to the prestige of Kauai. But obviously Kauai offers a lot more than golf for the experience. Do yourself a favor and get the helicopter tour of the Napali Coast and Waimea Canyon!

Princeville Makai on Kauai

43. Karsten Creek, Oklahoma

Stillwater isn’t necessarily a place you think of for great golf but Oklahoma State has produced top pros for years. Karsten Creek is a tough test of golf but absolutely fantastic. The experience of Stillwater wouldn’t be complete without a football game and a stop for dinner and drinks at Eskimo Joe’s. Karsten Creek isn’t quite nearby Southern Hills, but it’s pretty darn good!

Karsten Creek Golf Club is the home of Oklahoma State golf

44. The Greenbrier, West Virginia

The Greenbrier is one of the most iconic, historic, and prestigious resorts in America. It’s an experience in and of itself but add on 3 golf courses including the fabulous Old White TPC Course and you’re in for an (expensive) treat. The best part about the Old White TPC Course is the 18^th hole is a Par 3, which makes for a fun, dramatic ending much like Pasatiempo. If you don’t want to pay to stay at The Greenbrier, there are plenty of cheaper lodging options nearby but stop by, have a drink-it’s one of America’s grand hotels.

The 18th at Old White TPC at The Greenbrier

45. Sea Pines Resort, South Carolina

Everyone knows Harbour Town for good reason. But Sea Pines offers several top courses and a luxury golf experience that few resorts can match. Hilton Head is often overlooked as a retirement community but it’s only 45-minutes to the fabulous city of Savannah, Georgia. It’s a great place to start a South Carolina golf road trip up to Pawley’s Island, Charleston, and Myrtle Beach. If you can, stay at the Sea Pines Resort itself-it just adds to the overall golf experience but definitely check out the fabulous clubhouse.

Harbour Town Clubhouse at Sea Pines Resort

46. The Broadmoor, Colorado

The Broadmoor, like The Greenbrier, is an iconic, old money American golf resort in Colorado Springs. It boasts 2 fabulous courses with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. But the experience of The Broadmoor is about the luxury resort itself and it’s history. It’s massive with something for everyone; and very kid friendly although the prices aren’t. It’s just one of those places you have to experience.

The Broadmoor

47. Half Moon Bay, California

Half Moon Bay is a quick 45-minute drive from San Francisco but a world away. It has 2 excellent courses overlooking the Pacific with a Scottish/Irish feel. The accommodations are top notch at the Ritz-Carlton Resort. It’s one of those places that’s been featured in a ton of movies. Between the Ocean Course and the Old Course-you can’t go wrong. If you had to pick just one-I’d go Ocean Course overall but the 18th on the Old Course is worth the price of admission on its own.

Ridiculous view from the 17th tee box on the Ocean Course

48. Wine Valley, Washington

I wanted to rank Wine Valley higher but unfortunately, it’s just one course, albeit a great one. But the experience isn’t limited to golf. Walla Walla is an under the radar great wine destination with a fun downtown and a cool old hotel. It’s also surrounded by great nature and in striking distance of a lot of great places via road trip like Palouse Falls-trust me! Wine Valley is an unexpected great golf experience in a place you wouldn’t expect it.

Wine Valley was an unexpected surprise

49. Sweetens Cove, Tennessee

Sweetens Cove markets itself as the anti-golf golf course and in many ways it is. It’s a very unique golf experience. It’s an excellent 9-hole course with 2 flags per green-so you play it in a loop like 18-holes. However, you can play as many holes as you want; your greens fee covers the entire day. You’re encouraged to drink, play fast and have fun. Bring your friends, a cooler, stay for the day and have a designated driver to get you home safe. Sweetens Cove gets it right and has their own Johnnie Walker!

Sweetens Cove is as fun a course as there is

50. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach is without question a massive golf destination. It’s definitely not my favorite place in America but its a great bang for your buck golf experience with a ton of options to choose from in terms of golf, beaches and nightlife. My favorite is the Dunes Golf and Beach Club.

A moment of calm from the alligators on the Dunes Course

The post The 50 Best Public Golf Experiences in America appeared first on Lee Abbamonte.

Standing high above Canyonlands National Park staring at one of natures greatest creations

1. I have been to the national park
2. It’s based on my experience and thoughts from my visit
3. Nothing else

Now here are all the US National Parks ranked backwards from 63 to 1. Tell me what you think of my list and what your top 5-10 would be. Enjoy!

63 Hot Springs (Arkansas)

I found Hot Springs National Park really boring, uninteresting and I don’t understand why it’s a National Park in the first place. Something had to be last for the US National Parks ranked.

Hot Springs National Park

62 Indiana Dunes

Indiana Dunes National Park is a recent addition to the US National Parks ranked list. It’s essentially a marginal beach on a lake with power plants and factories nearby. Plus, if you drive from Chicago, you’ll pay a fortune in tolls and wait in traffic just to enter the park in summer. I was not impressed.

Sunrise over Indiana Dunes National Park

61 Pinnacles (California)

There isn’t really much to see in Pinnacles National Park. The drive into the park is better than the park itself. Plus I found it annoying that the 2 sides of the park didn’t connect. I have heard from others that I underrated it so next time I go I may change it for my next US National Parks ranked list.

Rocks in Pinnacles National Park

60 Cuyahoga Valley (Ohio)

Visiting Cuyahoga Valley National Park was strange. I honestly didn’t know I was in it. I thought I was in a rural neighborhood or town. There’s a decent waterfall but that’s about it for a visitor. The US National Parks ranked list is top heavy and the bottom few are significantly below in quality.

Waterfall at Cuyahoga Valley National Park

59 Congaree (South Carolina)

Congaree National Park is essentially a big swamp that you can walk in a loop. There’s a ton of mosquitos and it all kind of looks the same. I wasn’t impressed but plants and bugs aren’t really my thing. It’s low on the US National Parks ranked list but not last because at least it’s unique in the park system.

Reflections in the swamps of Congaree National Park

58 Gateway Arch (Missouri)

Gateway Arch National Park became a national park recently. I’m not exactly sure why other than politics. The Gateway Arch is cool to see the first time but that’s really about it in my opinion. It’s on the US National Parks ranked list where it is and not lower only because of the Arch. Fun fact, the best view of the Arch is from across the river in Illinois!

St Louis and the Gateway Arch National Park

57 Mammoth Cave (Kentucky)

I like caves, don’t love them. I wasn’t too impressed by Mammoth. There are 3 other National Parks with caves on the US National Parks ranked list I liked more. I likely wouldn’t return to Mammoth unless I just happened to be in that part of the country.

Inside Mammoth Cave National Park

56 Biscayne (Florida)

This is a weird park to me as it’s pretty much all water. It’s pretty of course and I get the biodiversity angle but I’d rather just travel around the keys. I’m more of a visual person than getting into scientific things. I struggled where to put this on the US National Parks ranked list but I think this about right.

Out of the water in Biscayne National Park

55 Voyageurs (Minnesota)

Much like Biscayne, it’s mostly water. It’s really pleasant to be there but not that exciting. I hear if you do a houseboat, it’s better. However, I wouldn’t travel all the way to International Falls to go on a houseboat in a lake to drink some beers. But to each their own!

Entrance to Voyageurs National Park in Northern Minnesota

54 Wind Cave (South Dakota)

Again, I like caves but wasn’t overly impressed by Wind Cave National Park. If you’d never seen a cave before you’d probably be impressed. I hate to sound jaded but it wasn’t nearly as good as others I’ve seen. The park also features buffalo and other animals but the day I was there it was raining so I didn’t see much activity. Perhaps, I’d rank it higher on the US National Parks ranked list after a different visit.

The Assembly Room inside Wind Cave National Park

53 Guadalupe Mountains (Texas)

This park was pretty of course but I found it relatively indistinguishable from some others. I didn’t see much that made it stand out to me. Although, it’s certainly a nice place to pass through on a road trip. I love mountains and desert scenery. I hope to return someday and give it another chance.

Desert scenery in Guadalupe Mountains National Park

52 American Samoa

This park is a pain to get to for obvious reasons like it’s in American Samoa! To be fair, I’ve been twice but only on the main island as the park is spread out over a few islands. This makes it even harder to get to see most of it and honestly, it is nice enough but nothing too impressive. If it were in Hawaii, it would just be another view or maybe a state park. I think its spot on the US National Parks ranked is accurate.

Viewpoint in the National Park of American Samoa

51 Shenandoah (Virginia)

Technically, Shenandoah was the first national park I went to when I was a young child but I don’t really remember it so I don’t count that visit. So when I went back, I thought it was a nice drive of course because it is but nothing overly impressive about it. I found it to be a poor mans Smoky Mountains but again an enjoyable and peaceful place to drive and I finally got to visit Monticello!

Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello very close to Shenandoah National Park

50 Sequoia (California)

I think I’d have Sequoia higher if I hadn’t seen Redwood and Kings Canyon first on the same road trip. By the time I saw Sequoia I was kind of over the big trees. Seeing these giants the first few times is great but then it’s like seeing yet another elephant on safari. I know people love Sequoia and that’s fine. It is very nice, I just prefer the other two. This is the US National Parks ranked list, so there must be an order.

Trees in Sequoia National Park

49 Petrified Forest (Arizona)

I was at the Petrified Forest back in 2008 on a road trip from Business School. We all collectively thought it was cool but we expected more. I hope to return soon to see if that was just us being young and immature or that’s still an accurate statement.

A different kind of forest in Petrified Forest National Park

48 New River Gorge (West Virginia)

The newest addition to the National Parks list, as of December 2020, and it’s nice to visit but it’s essentially a day trip place and the most famous site is the bridge. I am fine with it being a National Park as it’s beautiful but this is as high as I can rank it.

The Famous Bridge in New River Gorge National Park

47 Saguaro (Arizona)

Saguaro National Park is a cool place to drive around but after a while you’re like, I get it there’s a lot of Saguaro Cacti here. I love Arizona and may move there sooner rather than later and I’d make sure I had cacti in my yard but Saguaro would not be a top place I’d return to. Most highways kind of look like it!

Cacti in Saguaro National Park

46 Virgin Islands (St. John)

I have been twice to this park on St. John and while I’m pretty clear about my distaste for the US Virgin Islands (based on multiple bad experiences), there’s no denying the beauty of the beaches in the national park. If you get a sunny day, there are few places with prettier beaches in the Caribbean.

Trunk Bay in Virgin Islands National Park

45 Isle Royale (Michigan)

Right about here is where it gets tough to rank the parks because they’re all good. I really liked Isle Royale and of course it was my last of the then 60 National Parks to complete the list (which has since expanded to 63) so it has a special place in my heart. It is really pretty but if we’re ranking there has to be something that sets it apart and there really wasn’t anything special. It was just really nice and pleasant.

My 60th US National Park was Isle Royale

44 Everglades (Florida)

The Everglades are fantastic. Hopping on a fan boat and scooting through the swamps on top of alligators and cruising around is a great experience. I love gators and you can see them everywhere down in the Glades. It’s a fun place to be and if it were prettier I’d have it ranked higher.

Everglades National park is unique

43 Mesa Verde (Colorado)

I really liked Mesa Verde and would totally return. It has great scenery, reminiscent of the Four Corners region. It’s laid out well and easy to visit. It’s not as dramatic as some other hence it’s lower ranking but it’s a nice place.

Scenic goodness in Mesa Verde National Park

42 White Sands (New Mexico)

I’m a little torn on where to rank White Sands as it’s fantastic but it kind of is what it is. So here it lies at 42 but don’t let the lower ranking fool you, White Sands is fantastic but so are the other ones ranked higher.

Stunning scenery abounds in White Sands National Park

41 Kenai Fjords (Alaska)

I was here back in 2008 and I remember thinking it was really pretty but nothing overwhelming about it. It’s not Norway and would be my least favorite of the 8 great Alaskan parks but of course, it’s still really pretty and worth a visit.

Floating around Kenai Fjords National Park

40 Great Smoky Mountains (TN/NC)

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the single most visited park in America and by a large margin. Mostly because of location and straddling two states, Tennessee and North Carolina. It’s pretty for sure but I was really turned off by the cheesy towns surrounding it like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. It also can’t hold a candle to the great parks in the west. Hence, its lower ranking but still nice and worth a visit.

Typical view in Smoky Mountains National Park

39 Hawaii Volcanoes

This park I expected more from. Of course it’s nice and interesting but it’s a lot of science type stuff instead of real volcano stuff. For my money, a helicopter tour over the volcano itself is much cooler and worth the money. I also happened to get lucky and catch it on a lava flow day. But separating the actual National park to flying over it are different things.

Lava flowing in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

38 Redwood (California)

I loved driving through Redwood. Honestly, it’s one of the cooler drives anywhere in America. The park itself is intertwined with the state park and there are beautiful beaches that few know about along the way as you come down from Oregon. Redwood is classic and well worth a visit.

Love driving and walking through Redwood National Park

37 Kings Canyon (California)

Kings Canyon has massive trees which are cool of course but the reason I have it ranked ahead of Redwood is it also has a gorgeous canyon with a killer drive down into it. Scenery is great and worth a half day of your time. Plus, if you’re choosing between this and Sequoia, devote more time to Kings Canyon as they are attached but I found Kings to be much more interesting.

Looking down into Kings Canyon National Park

36 Joshua Tree (California)

Joshua Tree is classic and a great park to visit. It is a nice place to be and there are some cool desert landscapes. It’s a nice break on a road trip from Arizona to California or a good day trip from Palm Springs. It’s not the best desert park but worth a visit.

Joshua Tree National Park scenes

35 Great Basin (Nevada)

I didn’t love Great Basin when I was there but in hindsight I appreciate it more and more. It’s a solid 5 hours from Las Vegas but worth a drive up. It has a good cave system that you can tour and some great vistas. It’s pretty representative of the area and nice change from the usual Nevada.

Views in Great Basin National Park in Nevada

34 Great Sand Dunes (Colorado)

There’s no easy way to get here. It’s a solid 4 hours from Denver and if you do a day trip as I did, it’s a slog. It’s cool to see of course and walking on it is a lot of fun too. Get there early or late for the best light and least people and remember to bring a sand board!

Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado

33 Lassen Volcanic (California)

I wasn’t expecting much from Lassen because I didn’t know anything about it. It’s by far the most unknown of California’s 9 national parks and tucked away in the northeast of the state about 50 miles from Redding. I got there at like 7am and basically had the park to myself for the entire morning. It was great and the park itself was very picturesque with great hikes.

Awesome frozen water colors below Mount Lassen in Lassen Volcanic National Park

32 Haleakala (Hawaii)

If you play golf on Maui, you know that all putts break away from Haleakala! It’s so big and imposing on Maui that you can see it from everywhere on the island. Getting up there at sunrise is a right of passage for anyone visiting Maui for the first time. Maui is my favorite island in Hawaii. Haleakala National Park is gorgeous, worth the trip and is a quintessential Maui experience. Just bring a coat for sunrise!

The rim view atop Haleakala National Park

31 Lake Clark (Alaska)

Lake Clark National Park is the first place I saw bears up close, like really up close. They were 15 feet away and it was a real thrill. Lake Clark is not easy to get to. You need to fly in on a float charter with wheels and have a guide. Once you arrive; it is phenomenal. I saw so many bears I wasn’t even sure what to take photos of and what not to. Lake Clark is the place to see bears in the wild in Alaska.

15 feet away from a bear in Lake Clark National Park

30 Black Canyon of the Gunnison (Colorado)

Aside from having a really cool name, Black Canyon of the Gunnison is a great park. It’s not that big, easily manageable and has great views from many different angles. Western Colorado is littered with beauty but this park is probably my favorite in that region because it’s simple yet stunning with good hikes and views.

The view inside Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

29 Channel Islands (California)

I wanted to rank this higher but I realized I’ve only been to one of the Channel Islands and there are several. You’d need days to see them all and I hope to do that sometime. But what I did see was amazing hikes, killer views and a little slice of California that most locals don’t even see because it takes some effort to get there. I really liked the Channel Islands and that didn’t even include the hundreds of dolphins I saw on the ferry out and back!

One of the gorgeous beaches in Channel Islands National Park

28 Glacier Bay (Alaska)

Glacier Bay National Park is the place to see the ice calving in America. It’s what you see on the ads, videos and on social media. It happens in Glacier Bay, Alaska. It’s the centerpiece of most Alaskan cruises and for good reason. It’s the best place to see glacial activity in the world outside of Perito Moreno in Argentina in my opinion. Glacier Bay can be done independently but it takes some planning ahead for logistics, so I recommend a cruise. What a great place.

Amazing glaciers in Glacier Bay National Park

27 Badlands (South Dakota)

I was in the Badlands back in 2011 and remember loving it. I thought the landscapes were tremendous and like nothing I’d seen before. It’s a park that’s well set up for driving and hiking like many of the continental US parks. It’s a great park to visit and only an hour so from Rapid City, South Dakota and nearby to Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial that are must sees as well.

Badlands National Park is awesome

26 North Cascades (Washington)

For me personally, I’ll remember this park for having to sleep in my car because I couldn’t find a place to stay where I arrived up there at midnight a few years ago. When I did get in at 5am the next morning I had the park all to myself and loved every second of it. The Cascades are gorgeous and there are some really stunning views. I didn’t know much about this park but really liked it.

Stunning scenery in North Cascades National Park

25 Theodore Roosevelt (North Dakota)

I knew nothing about Theodore Roosevelt National Park except that it was in middle of nowhere western North Dakota. That’s no mans land but what I discovered was a great park with a lot to see and do. It was a mix of a lot of other places with trippy looking badlands and millions of prairie dogs, buffalo and other animals. There’s a 30 plus mile loop road that’s a must to see this park plus great views a short walk!

Amazing pink sky in Theodore Roosevelt National Park

24 Acadia (Maine)

Acadia National Park is special to me because I was able to bring my dog Hector. It’s very dog friendly and beautiful. I love the whole Bar Harbor area and Acadia is easily the best east coast park. Acadia makes a great weekend trip. It’s a place you can go back to again and again. My best advice is to drive it, take a boat tour to see from the water and then take a scenic flight to see it from the sky.

Hector enjoying the view atop Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park

23 Carlsbad Caverns (New Mexico)

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is the jewel of the American cave parks. In my opinion, aside from the Postojna Caves in Slovenia, the ATM Cave in Belize and the Underground River Cave in the Philippines, Carlsbad Caverns are the best in the world. It’s well worth a visit to this great National Park.

Inside Carlsbad Caverns National Park

22 Big Bend (Texas)

Big Bend National Park is one of the least visited parks. I think the least visited in the continental US. It’s a pain in the butt to get to. It’s about 4-5 hours from El Paso and Midland, the two closest airports. Aside from the famous Prada Marfa art installation about 2 hours away, there isn’t much to see along the way. It takes effort and desire to get to Big Bend but if you make it you’ll be happy you did. It straddles the Mexican border and is really hot. There’s great views and hikes. The park is massive. I drove at least 100 miles in the park itself. Make sure to hike to see the Balanced Rocks, very cool stuff.

Balanced Rock in Big Bend National Park in West Texas

21 Rocky Mountain (Colorado)

As the name implies, it’s the Rocky Mountains and they are awesome. I had a bit of everything the day I went with a blizzard at 12,000 feet to the Continental Divide. But all in all I loved it and even though the weather was rough I could see how awesome the park itself was. I look forward to returning soon in better weather-hopefully!

The Rocky Mountains of Colorado

20 Mount Rainier (Washington)

On a clear day you can see Mount Rainier from Seattle and it looks magnificent. Visit the park with its namesake and you’ll be standing under one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. I loved this park and would encourage everyone to check it out.

Gorgeous Mount Rainier National Park

19 Capitol Reef (Utah)

Capitol Reef is the worst of the big 5 parks in Utah but it would be the best in just about any other state! Trust me that is a compliment-I loved Capitol Reef. It’s a bit of a pain to get to, about 2 hours drive from Moab but easily manageable when you arrive. It’ll be hot so bring water and sunscreen for the hikes. Also, be sure to stop into the general store for some homemade pie and ice cream-it has all the feels!

Offroading in amazing scenery in Capitol Reef National Park

18 Dry Tortugas (Florida)

I absolutely loved Dry Tortugas National Park. I think you must fly because seeing it from the air really adds to the experience. The ferry I am sure is fine but it doesn’t really add anything and takes a long time. Once on island, you’ll feel like you’re in another world. To me, that’s what you want in a national park. The walk on the seawall is a can’t miss experience. A fun, obscure park you won’t regret visiting.

Flying into Dry Tortugas National Park

17 Olympic (Washington)

Olympic really surprised me because I wasn’t expecting much from my visit. It doesn’t really have one particular thing to see or do but it is all beautiful and has so much diversity of landscapes that you feel like you’re visiting more than one national park. From the beach to the rainforest, Olympic has a lot to offer.

The beauty of Olympic National Park

16 Death Valley (California)

Death Valley is the hottest and lowest point in America and a beautiful park to boot. It’s exactly 2 hours from Las Vegas just across the border in California and one of my favorite parks to visit. I love the desert and Death Valley is exactly that-desert! Great landscapes, cool hikes and extreme heat. Bring water!

Solid view over Death Valley National Park

15 Kobuk Valley (Alaska)

I feel very fortunate to have actually visited Kobuk Valley. It’s by far the least visited park in America. I was told less than 100 people go a year. The numbers published include people who simply go to the visitor center to get the stamp. Getting to the park is complicated and involves chartering a float plane. That said, seeing the sand dunes above the Arctic Circle and landing in absolute silence in the Kobuk River was magical. It’s an amazing experience that you can combine with a Gates of the Arctic visit if planned well.

12 miles of sand dunes high above the Arctic Circle in Kobuk Valley National Park

14 Katmai (Alaska)

You know those epic photos and videos of bears catching the salmon jumping out of the water on a small waterfall. That happens here at Katmai National Park. This is why you come to Katmai and you won’t be disappointed. You fly in from King Salmon, Alaska and stay at Brooks Camp and you watch the bears in their shining moments of glory as they easily catch salmon at record pace! It’s one of the coolest things you’ll see at any national park and you’ll be standing about 2o feet away on a great viewing platform.

Bears at Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park looking for salmon

13 Bryce Canyon (Utah)

Bryce Canyon National Park is probably tops on many peoples lists. It’s one of four parks in Utah I have in the top 10. The bright orange hoodoos are a sight to behold. Hiking down around the canyon is memorable and I can’t say enough about this amazing park. It’s small and manageable and easily visitable as a day trip from Las Vegas but it’s perfect to do for a few days along with Zion nearby.

Gorgeous hoodoos in Bryce Canyon National Park

12 Grand Teton (Wyoming)

Grand Teton is glorious and is worthy of a top ten ranking. The mountains and the Snake River make for amazing photos, hiking and climbing in the shadow of Jackson Hole, Wyoming; on of my favorite places in America. It’s often overshadowed by Yellowstone but Grand Teton is preferable in many ways-especially because it’s much less crowded. I could sit and stare at Jenny Lake all day. I love the Tetons!

Reflections in Grand Teton National Park

11 Glacier (Montana)

Glacier is a gem and could top this list. I’ve been twice in different types of weather and it’s simply breathtaking. It’s pristine nature at it’s finest and all I want to do is go back to this great park of Montana along with neighboring Whitefish and Kalispell.

Perfect nature scenery in Glacier National Park in Montana

10 Denali (Alaska)

Denali is amazing. Denali could’ve easily been #1 on this list. In fact, any of the top 20 really could’ve been. It depends on your taste and experience but Denali really has it all. Mount Denali (formerly McKinley), the tallest mountain in North America, is truly breathtaking. The 92 mile road into the park is gorgeous and the animals and views along the way will have you wanting more. I loved every second of my trip to Denali.

Mount Denali is North America’s tallest mountain inside Denali National Park

9 Yellowstone (Wyoming)

Yellowstone was the first park to be designated as a National Park in America. Like many others on the top of this list, it could be #1. I think what holds me back is the over-tourism aspect of Yellowstone but as I always say, tourists only go to good places! Yellowstone is a national treasure.

Gorgeous Yellowstone National Park

8 Gates of the Arctic (Alaska)

One of the great sights in America is flying on a float plane around the Brooks Range that makes up Gates of the Arctic. Honestly, mountains and nature doesn’t get much more beautiful than this little visited gem above the Arctic Circle. It’s nature the way God intended it to be and should be on everyones extended list!

The stunning aerial view of Gates of the Arctic National Park

7 Zion (Utah)

Zion could easily be tops on the list. I love everything about Zion National Park. It has amazing hikes like Angels Landing and the Narrows and views go on forever. It’s easy to get around and it’s a very accessible park. You can spend days in Zion and never get bored. Zion is a gift from Mother Nature herself.

Looking out over Zion National Park

6 Grand Canyon (Arizona)

My first national park back in 2002 and I’ve been back 7-8 other times. The Grand Canyon is as good as anything in nature anywhere in the world. It sounds almost cliche to say how beautiful it is but it is just that. Whether you view from the north or south rim, hike down into the canyon or take a helicopter into or over it, you can’t go wrong. The Grand Canyon is a jewel of nature. It takes my breath away.

South rim in Grand Canyon National Park

5 Crater Lake (Oregon)

I really struggled ranking the top 10 and the top 5 was even harder because they’re all so good. But seeing Crater Lake on a perfect sunny day was one of the highlights of my travel life. I may even rank it ahead of the Grand Canyon for a wonder of nature. It’s just sheer perfection in Southern Oregon. The only reason I don’t have it higher is because it’s the lake and the rest of the park is just trees more or less but man is Crater Lake stunning. Must see and right at the top for me. Perhaps the best singular site in America.

The impeccable Crater Lake high atop Crater Lake National Park

4 Wrangell-St. Elias (Alaska)

This is the largest national park in America. It’s almost twice the size of Denali and it’s bigger than the country of Switzerland. I hiked the root glacier in Kennecott surrounded by the Wrangell Mountains with the St. Elias’s in the distance. It was perfect. The drive in was perfect, the towns, the rivers, the scenery-they were all perfect. I can’t say enough about how great a park this was.

Gorgeous nature in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

3 Arches (Utah)

One of the best known parks for good reason. Plus it’s literally right in Moab, Utah-one of my favorite places in all of America. Arches is the quintessential national park. You’re floored by just about everything you see and the sunset hike to the Delicate Arch is priceless. Plus, there’s so many other amazing places to see, hikes to do and just iconic vistas. What else can I say, Arches rocks!

Delicate Arch at sunset in Moab, Utah inside Arches National Park

2 Canyonlands (Utah)

To me, Canyonlands is like a modern day Grand Canyon. It’s sleeker, it’s more succinct and has varied viewpoints and hikes. Canyonlands is often overshadowed by nearby Arches which is a little more photogenic but Canyonlands for me is just plain awesome. I urge everyone to visit both sides including the Needles area about 90 minutes south of Moab for a totally different perspective. Nature at its finest!

View from Mesa Arch in Canyonlands National Park

1 Yosemite (California)

Yosemite is the epitome of a national park. It has it all. It is perfect. It’s a little crowded but that’s because it’s so brilliant. Yosemite is big, it has iconic hikes like Half Dome. It has amazing waterfalls, trees and vistas. Tunnel View at sunset is the single most beautiful view in America when half dome turns orange at the top. I urge people to see both sides of the park. I entered from the Nevada side and exited in California driving the whole park. It doesn’t get much better than the great Yosemite National Park. It’s the top park!

Half Dome from Tunnel View at sunset in Yosemite National Park

The post Every US National Park Ranked appeared first on Lee Abbamonte.

Trump’s first 6 weeks or so has been a chaotic tsunami of “stuff”. It’s hard to even keep up or categorize it. That said, he has done no favors for someone like me who travels a lot. It is less safe for Americans traveling abroad than it was a few weeks ago. So what to expect traveling in the time of Trump, you ask…expect backlash from people you meet in other countries and then prepare for the unexpected.

I started traveling in 1998 during the Bill Clinton impeachment proceedings. Bill Clinton embarrassed the office but everyone loved him so traveling when he was President was a breeze. I was rarely asked about him. To be fair, that was also before the Internet became big so people had much less information back then.

George W. Bush was a whole other story. I did the majority of my international travel during his Presidency. After starting the Iraq war without viable cause he became enemy #1 in the eyes of the International community. Everyone I met while traveling during that era, when they found out I was an American, would say something about him. Things like “I hate your President” or “How could America elect that man”. Obviously, that puts you off. I don’t like to engage in political discussions with strangers. People react unpredictably to politics. It’s actually scary at times.

Barack Obama was the champion of the global community. The savior, the Anti-Bush in the eyes of the world. He had his ups and downs in the US, but abroad he was and still is insanely popular. Traveling with him as President was a pleasure. It made you feel proud to be American. Now that brings me back to Trump.

Expect people you meet to ask you about him within seconds of meeting you. Zero percent of those interactions will be positive-I promise you. So immediately you’re put on the defensive. This is exactly how it will be for the next 4 years. You cannot win-so avoid it.

I simply say something like “I didn’t vote for him” or “I hate politics” and leave it at that. Reasonable people will generally leave you alone about it. No matter where you travel that will be what you’re asked about when you’re an American abroad. Think about it, what do your friends and family talk about these days? Inevitably, at some point, it’s Trump. He’s the single most polarizing character that America has ever seen.

So as a traveler traveling in the time of Trump, expect to be asked about him by everyone you meet when they learn you’re American. My advice, based on my experience traveling in the Bush and Trump years is to make a joke of it and avoid. You’ve already been pre-judged. You can’t change their opinion-so don’t try.

But if you do talk about it; make sensible arguments; sound intelligent; and don’t yell or lose your temper. I always tell myself that I represent America when I travel. So while I can’t change their opinions about Trump-I can change their opinion about me. That’s what to expect when traveling in the time of Trump. Sounds like fun right…being villainized without cause. Welcome to the new world disorder!

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The atmosphere at Arrowhead is college-like. It’s said to be the loudest stadium in the NFL, and I can attest it is very loud! I got some killer seats right off the 15-yard line about 20 rows from the field. In the end, the Cincinnati Bengals made an improbable comeback to shock the Chiefs and advance to the Super Bowl and what a game it was!

In my 3 days in Kansas City, I literally ate BBQ three times. I ate at the legendary Arthur Bryant’s; a place where many Presidents have dined. I ate at Gates BBQ for the first time and a fancy newcomer, Jack Stack that I absolutely loved! But you cannot go wrong with BBQ in Kansas City. In my opinion, it’s the best BBQ in America and I’ve eaten a lot of it all over the country!

I also finally got to visit the incredible Negro Leagues Museum. It’s the finest collection of Negro Leagues history in the world. As a baseball fanatic, I was blown away by how interesting and well done it was. I learned so much that I didn’t previously know and would recommend anyone to check it out if you’re in Kansas City.

In nearby Independence, Missouri I also finally got to visit the Harry Truman Presidential Museum. It was another amazingly informative museum that documented his unlikely rise to President of the United States toward the end of World War II. I once again, learned a ton about his critical decisions that helped to end the War and about his life in general. I love that kind of stuff.

I stayed at the Kansas City Marriott Downtown. It’s a centrally located hotel close to just about everything. It was also one of the central hotels for the AFC Championship game with a ton of both Bengals and Chiefs fans staying there. I felt lucky to get a room.

The wide-open common area was a great place to hang out with other fans, have some drinks, food and watch the other games on TV. Many new and renovated Marriott’s are great for the open common space, it just makes it feel more at home and communal. I always love staying in hotels for events that everyone stays at; it just makes it more exciting. Plus the room was very comfortable and a good size.

This was also my first time adding an Allianz Travel Insurance policy when I booked a Marriott property right on the Marriott app! It was super easy. Did you know you can add on an Allianz insurance policy when booking your Marriott stay? Coverage is for all guests staying in the room and covers non-refundable expenses such as airfare, travel delays, and medical emergencies. Check out some more information here.

Kansas City has become an NFL hotbed in recent years because of the success and popularity of the Chiefs and their young, talented nucleus. But there’s more to KC than just sports. Rest assured; you’re not going to lose any weight in Kansas City but it sure is a great place to pig out!

Disclaimer: I am a paid ambassador for Allianz.

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In the season of New Year’s resolutions and goal setting, now is a good time to start planning your travel for the year ahead. From sporting events abroad to tons of travel opportunities within the U.S., there’s lots I’m looking forward to in 2020.

I’ll be hitting the ground running so I can pack in as much traveling as possible. For those who are still planning out 2020 trips – don’t worry, you’ve got time. Here are my top 10 destinations.

Top international destinations:

• Europe (England, Germany, Scotland, Azerbaijan and more) & Japan

2020 is a big year for sports. Japan is hosting the Olympics in Tokyo, and for the first time, the Union of European Football Associations’ (UEFA) Euro 2020 will play out across the continent in 12 different host cities. This is a dream come true for sports fans. I will be catching games in a few of the host cities and will be proudly supporting Team USA in Tokyo, so keep an eye on the jumbotron for me!

• New Zealand

If you’re an adrenaline junkie like me, bungy jumping is a must here – one of my favorite New Zealand memories is jumping from Nevis Bungy near Queenstown. If that isn’t what you look for when vacationing, I’d recommend boogie boarding down the sand dunes or hiking up a volcano.

• Mexico

If you love good food and sports, then Mexico City is the place to be. There’s nothing quite like going to a soccer game at Estadio Azteca, the atmosphere is unmatched. Plus, the city is home to the best street taco vendors I’ve ever encountered. You can enjoy the city year-round, too – check out its active music scene, thriving theaters and dance culture while eating your way through its various food events.

• Brazil

The Iguazu Falls – one of my favorite natural wonders of the world – are located on the border of Brazil and Argentina and consist of over 275 waterfalls. I remember the last time I went on a tour of the Falls – I could hear them well before I saw them. While I love everything about New York, including Niagara Falls, there’s something special about Iguazu that you have to see to believe.

• Australia

If you’ve read my blogs, you know I love Australia. It’s one of my favorite places. From its tropical beaches and “bushwalking” (AKA hiking) to the world-renowned Sydney Opera House, there are always new adventures in Australia. I highly recommend visiting Sydney but must admit Melbourne is a personal favorite. One of Australia’s largest cities, it has so much to offer: cafes, street art and a vibrant street culture. I prefer to explore the alleys, laneways and arcades – that’s where you really find the heart of Melbourne.

Top U.S. destinations:

• Scottsdale, AZ

I love Scottsdale, so much so that I’m thinking about retiring there. There are great hiking trails at Camelback Mountain, Papago Park and Hole in the Rock, plus the city has phenomenal golfing. And for those of you who know me, I don’t joke about golfing. During a recent visit, I stayed at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa, and got to hike, golf The Short Course at Mountain Shadows and watch some of the most gorgeous sunsets.

• Santa Barbara, CA

Santa Barbara is a great place to recharge. I enjoy the food, the wine and just chatting with the locals. I’m often there to catch a game, but Santa Barbara also has great zoos, beaches, museums and restaurants. You can also check out some of the city’s hidden gems like Knapp’s Castle ruins – an intriguing place with a few secrets of its own.

• Portland, OR

Portland has a bit of everything – restaurants, bars, parks and more. You can try bone marrow ice cream, visit the smallest park in the world and stop by The Wishing Tree. The city has an edgy vibe, but its residents are so welcoming.

• Tampa, FL

I know Tampa is usually thought of as a spring break destination, but it has so much more to offer. I enjoy going to the city’s zoos and aquariums and spending time with the animals. But for my low-key trips, I like to kick back at Clearwater Beach. It’s known for its soft white beaches and calm waters – it’ll be a vacation to remember.

• Boston, MA

Most of the time when I’m in Boston it’s for the sports, but I also enjoy exploring the city. It’s one of the oldest cities in the U.S. and has so much history around every corner. Boston is filled with museums and universities, making it both beautiful and educational. This is the place to explore if you’re looking to experience the quintessential American city.

According to a recent Bank of America survey, more than half of Americans redeeming credit card rewards earned during the winter holidays for travel will do so in 2020. As you finalize your 2020 travel, it’s also helpful to map out a financial rewards strategy so you can earn lots of points and cash back to take future trips. You can really maximize your rewards – and earn that next trip even faster – when you layer several programs together.

For example, when booking trips, I always include my frequent flier number (layer #1) and hotel loyalty program details (layer #2) to earn points in both places. Plus, I put the purchases on my Bank of America® Premium Rewards Visa® credit card (layer #3) and as a Bank of America® Preferred Rewards Platinum Honors tier member (layer #4), I get a credit card rewards bonus that boosts my earnings to unlimited 3.5 points per dollar on travel and dining, and unlimited 2.62 points on everything else.

With a financial rewards strategy in place and a number of exciting places to see, I’ve got a feeling this is going to be a great year. Cheers to 2020!

To learn more about how banking can help you achieve travel goals visit bankofamerica.com/Premium or bankofamerica.com/PreferredRewards.

Disclaimer: I am a paid spokesperson for Bank of America.

The post My Top 10 Places to Visit in 2020 appeared first on Lee Abbamonte.

How to Get to Mogadishu

I flew to Mogadishu from Addis Ababa on Ethiopian Airlines. There’s a daily flight at 8:50am and it returns at 12:25pm from Mogadishu daily. There are also regularly scheduled flights from Nairobi, Entebbe, Doha, Djibouti and Istanbul. Other cities and airlines you’ve never heard of run non-regular flights from various cities in the region at times. Flights can be expensive and unreliable for various reasons.

Mogadishu Airport & Visa Formalities

Arriving in Mogadishu Airport can be a bit unnerving because you’ve just landed in Mogadishu, Somalia-that’s not your everyday kind of destination. You’ll see a ton of UN and NGO planes, military and humanitarian helicopters-basically a big clusterfuck.

As you enter the air-conditioned terminal (it’s very hot and humid in Mogadishu), you’ll need to fill out an arrival form. Then you wait in line for visa authentication and they’ll stamp it into your passport-this goes quickly. However, you must have a work visa arranged ahead of time to travel to Somalia. This can be a bit of a challenge if you don’t have any “work” connections. As of time of writing, there are no Somalia tourist visas at all-there are no tourists.

The airport is heavily fortified and can take a while to get in and out of with numerous checkpoints. Departing from Mogadishu Airport can take time and be an intense hassle. There are several security checks. At an outdoors one, you’ll be separated from your bags and forced to wait so dogs can sniff them. There will also be aggressive “fixers” trying to help you for tips. Get there early and be patient. MGQ is unlike any other airport in the world security wise. Seriously, I’ve never seen anything like it including places like Kabul.

Where to Stay in Mogadishu

If you take one piece of advice from me, it should be to stay at the Peace Hotel in Mogadishu. That’s all you need to know. Arrange your trip through the owner, Bashir. He is absolutely the man in Mogadishu and will arrange your accommodation, transportation and security team. Just trust me, it’ll be the best move you make for peace of mind and security. The security is a little expensive but you’re going to freaking Mogadishu-so just bite the bullet and pay up as getting kidnapped, shot or blown up would suck!

The Peace Hotel is the most heavily fortified hotel I’ve ever seen anywhere in the world. In fact, it’s worth one day in Mogadishu, Somalia just to experience the fortification of the Peace Hotel and the airport. It’s a tourist attraction itself in my view and a fascinating place.

Before you leave the compound to go sightseeing, Bashir will give you a security briefing from what is essentially a mission control straight out of a movie. I’ve never seen such a sophisticated security and surveillance center in my life. You are transfixed by how hi-tech it is and how secure Bashir makes you feel. They have cameras all over the city and technology that shows any potential danger. It then offers alternative routes if necessary. It’s really wild. Obviously no photos were allowed.

Inside the Peace Hotel compound is a very comfortable, pleasant and even beautiful oasis in the middle of likely the most dangerous city on Earth. They have a beautiful courtyard, excellent gym, ping pong table, good restaurant, fabulous roof deck and sitting area. You never feel anything but safe, secure and amazed that you’re in the middle of Mogadishu when you’re at the Peace Hotel.

The rooms are pretty standard tourist class rooms with decent air-conditioning and showers, excellent Wi-Fi and I do mean excellent Wi-Fi. Overall, Bashir and the Peace Hotel were the main reasons I really enjoyed my one day in Mogadishu.

What to do in Mogadishu

The best thing to do in Mogadishu, Somalia is go to the beach. Somalia has 1500 miles of coastline around the Horn of Africa and much of it is very beautiful. Think Diani Beach, Kenya beautiful with a world of potential. There are several beaches in and around Mogadishu and I visited 3 of them during my one day in Mogadishu.

The most popular and most beautiful beach is Lido Beach. It’s in the north of Mogadishu and is very popular with locals for hanging out, swimming, playing soccer, restaurants and some decent hotels with nice roof decks. The water is beautiful and the white sand, albeit trampled, was very nice.

Lido Beach is a bastion in a city filled with bombed-out buildings and constant checkpoints. I also recommend heading up to the roof of the Dolphins Hotel. Have a coffee or fruit juice and take in the views of Lido Beach and the Indian Ocean.

Perhaps the most famous (at least in my eyes before I came here) site is the lighthouse and beach below it. I had seen many photos of this place during my research and it always looked pretty cool. It was always the beautiful beach below the bombed out lighthouse and other buildings. However, in reality it wasn’t beautiful at all.

The beach was filled with garbage everywhere. In fact, when we were walking on the beach; locals were just dumping trash down the small cliffs onto the beach. There were enormous trash piles of crap everywhere. It smelled like crap and looked like it too. The surrounding bombed out buildings made it still look cool but the trash level was appalling.

Finally, Jazeera Beach is another oasis of beauty and sanity in Mogadishu. Bashir owns several acres of beachfront property south of Mogadishu and is turning it into a resort of sorts with restaurant construction set to begin in January 2020. It’s gorgeous and like having your own private, beautiful Indian Ocean beach. You’d never believe you were in Mogadishu, Somalia. I had to keep reminding myself!

Other sites include the monument of the Unknown Soldier; which is a big obelisk in town. It’s really not that exciting at all. They’re building a brand new Mosque modeled after the Blue Mosque in Istanbul. It was under construction when I was there under Turkish supervision. Turkey is heavily invested in Somalia.

There are other things to see but nothing that interesting. Plus, you’re limited in what you can do because of security risks. I’m not a big market guy but you can visit some markets. However, they can be potentially very dangerous so I wouldn’t advise it. You’ll be exposed in tight, crowded quarters-it’s not worth it.

Final Thoughts on Mogadishu

Having visited sleepy Hargeisa, Somaliland several years ago, I must say that I liked Mogadishu much better. Even though it was just over 24 hours, one day in Mogadishu was the perfect amount of time for me. I really enjoyed it. I would have felt trapped in the compound if I stayed much longer.

Let me be clear, Mogadishu is not a burgeoning honeymoon destination. You’re not going as an alternative to the Seychelles. You’re going because you like adventure, excitement and you’re curious about a city that’s seen unimaginable hardships in the last 30 years. It’s not for everyone, that’s for sure.

That said, I was taken by the rawness of the city. I admire the courage and vibrancy of the nice people that I met and saw along the beaches. I hope to return some day and see my friend Bashir; a man I really admire. Hopefully, over time, the massive Somali diaspora will return to their native land along with international investment that can spur change, growth and help Mogadishu return to its former glory.

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I believe myself to be what I would call a “true” New Yorker, which means I love New York around the holidays. From Rockefeller Center to just walking around the different neighborhoods, I love the energy.

I’ll be honest – I’m not a huge shopper. But I do love the amazing winter markets around the world, which seem to somehow relieve the usual stress of the holidays and replace it with a bit of holiday magic. I’ve been to many around Europe, from the Czech Republic to London to Germany. In my opinion, one of the very best in the world is right here at home – in the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park – which pops up every year from October 31^st to just after New Year’s between 5^th and 6^th Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. Here are my my top 3 tips for exploring New York’s best holiday market.

Delectable Food Galore

From October 31, 2019 to January 5, 2020, Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park is home to more than 170 food vendors, local artisans, and other pop up shops. It also generates $25 million in economic impact to New York City over the season, so we can all feel good about shopping here and supporting local businesses. You would have to come back dozens of times to try all of the food and peruse all of the shops, but I’ll tell you a few of my favorites… Some of the best mozzarella sticks in the world are here at Big Mozz… which you usually have to go to a food festival to eat. These are the most warming and perfect snack after a morning of skating. (If you’re looking for an “experience” gift for a loved one, these guys also have Mozzarella making classes at Chelsea Market every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 7pm – ask at the Big Mozz counter at Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park for details on purchasing.) For those with a sweet tooth, Doughnuttery is simply sinful… sugary doughnuts paired with homemade seasonal dipping sauces. Say no more. There is nothing like topping it all off with a hoppy beer that hails from New York’s Lower East Side, Top Hops Beer Shop.

Find the Free Activities

Some of you may have seen that I tried my hand at ice skating last year (evidence in the picture below.) New Yorkers may know that the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park is the only place in New York you can use the ice without an entry fee. What you may not know is that this year, if you want to skip the huge lines, you can buy an “Express Skate” pass… if you want to feel even more like a VIP, you can buy a premium package which gets you access to the Polar Lounge, skates, coat check… and most importantly, convenience.

Maximize Your Financial Rewards Earnings

According to a recent survey by Bank of America, nearly 84 percent of Americans plan to use their credit or debit card for winter holiday travel expenses this year. So why not maximize your perks and discounts with everything your card has to offer? This year for the first time ever, all Bank of America debit and credit cardholders get an extra perk of 20% off your purchases when you use your card at The Rink at Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park. That means 20% off ice skate rentals AND Express Skate passes. When I use the Bank of America Premium Rewards Visa credit card, not only am I getting the 20% off discount, but as a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member I am also earning unlimited 3.5 points for every dollar I spend on travel and dining experiences for my family and friends and unlimited 2.62 points on everything else — all of which I can use towards my 2020 trips.

With such great rewards… all there is to do now is think about where I’m going next year!

Bonus: Check out my video from the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park for one more tip, to help you maximize your financial rewards this holiday season

Disclaimer: I am a paid spokesperson for Bank of America.

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