Did you know that you can actually book a day trip to the Bahamas from Florida? Well, you can. I used the ferry company Balearia. I had a good experience, no complaints.
You pop on a ferry at Fort Lauderdale, go through customs and then a few hours later you're in the Caribbean. I ended up going by myself to Bimini for 7 hours total, which may seem ridiculously hectic to some but extremely appealing to me. For a return journey, I paid just below $185 (including a discount from a random code I scouted online which magically worked). The trip took 2 hours each way and the views were as gorgeous as expected. Thinking about it $92.50 for a 2 hour ride on the ocean is worth it.
The thing I enjoyed most about this was being able to experience something completely different. Granted Bimini probably differs from the main island, but I was so amazed by the fact that golf carts were just everywhere. Another thing I found peculiar was the lack of souvenirs. I found the odd shot glass, but nothing compared to the filled market stalls you'd imagine.
This was an extremely long day however. I set off in the middle of the night to catch my coach from Miami to Fort Lauderdale, leaving enough time to get to the port and go through security in time for a 9am departure. The entry onto the ferry was very quick, but unfortunately going through border control on the way back took hours. My coach also left early so I had to wait out my time at Fort Lauderdale airport and catch one at 4am the next morning. With just a summer dress, Prada crossbody bag and my phone, I was just in need of a warm nap at that point. That being said, I look back on that adventure as one of my favourites.
One thing worth remembering is that if you're not a US citizen, you will need a visa to renter the states. My J1 expired as soon as I set off to the Bahamas, so I made sure to apply and pay for an ESTA a few days before. It's actually way less hassle than it seems at first, I promise.
Overall, would I recommend this expensive but once in a lifetime day trip? Yes. I am a big day trip advocate as I usually find myself getting a bit bored of places after a few days.
Would 7 hours in the Caribbean be enough for you?
K x
I completely understand why Noah Kahan wants to go to Maine. After spending just a weekend exploring it, I also want to go back. It still absolutely baffles me how much states can differ from one another. I well and truly fell in love with Maine, and I can't see how someone could not. When you're talking to someone about America back home, usually people only really care about Florida and California. Despite them having their own perks, out of the three I would go back to Maine in a heartbeat if I could. My friends and I rented a car and went on an absolutely jam packed weekend away in Maine. Acadia National Park is insane. Here is what I would recommend.
Sunrise on Cadillac Mountain
Absolutely breathtaking. The colours were unlike anything I've ever seen. It was such a beautiful moment sitting there with my friends watching the sun come up. The only thing I would say is however many layers you think are enough, bring two more. It is ridiculously cold (take it from a girl who was layered up with a blanket and velour yet still shivering). Just pack those extra fluffy socks and second blanket, worse comes to worse and you leave it in the car. Do I think the super early morning and messed up sleeping pattern is worth it? I do.
Thunder Hole
This was my favourite spot of the trip. If you love the sensation of being by water (but not necessarily in it), this is the one for you. It's kind of tricky to describe. When my friends were explaining where we were going I couldn't grasp it. Imagine a set of rocky cliffs and intense waves. But unlike any other rocks and waves.
Bee Hive Hike
Oh I was SO proud of myself for completing this. In all honesty, the first 15 minutes were the absolute worst but when we got to the actual climbing, it was fun. The view was incredible. Seeing sand beach from the top gave a sense of reward as we knew that's where we were going after. I do have to warn you that there are some parts where you have to walk cross a metal railing which could be a bit tricky for those scared of heights. That being said, the vast majority of the experience was fun and I would do it again.
Not much of a beach girl myself, but what a delight. I do have to say though that the water was absolutely freezing. I liked the fact that even though there were plenty of people around, the beach itself didn't seem crowded at all. Without a doubt a great treat after the bee hive hike.
Bar Harbor
The cute TikToks of Bar Harbor don't do it any justice. It is so wonderful. Our pitstop in Bar Harbor started at a little cafe were I had a fresh blueberry pie and felt so American. The tourist souvenir shops delivered. I stumbled upon one little one where t-shirts were $5 and they had the funkiest prints. I feel like I could have spent a few hours more just wandering around.
Maybe next time I go I see a moose? A girl can hope.
K x
Undoubtedly the most beautiful place I have ever been to. I genuinely could not comprehend that such a level of saturation exists in real colours without a filter. Having recently spent 6 days in O'ahu, here are my tips to make the most of your trip.
Go past Waikiki
Hike Hike Hike
Explore different beaches
Visit a Super Market
Take a bus to and from the airport
Needless to say that Hawaii was an absolute dream. I know that every situation is different, but I personally felt very safe the entire time and the trip lived up to all expectations.
K x