About 360 MAGAZINE

360 MAGAZINE is an award-winning international publishing on popular culture and design. We introduce avant trademarks to efficacious architects. We are a LGBTQIA2S+ friendly publication--officially recognized by the NGLCC. Our core demographic ranges from 19 to 39-year-old college-educated trendsetters within their respective international communities. The pages in this art book satisfy their strong interests including music, art, travel, auto, health, fashion, tech, philanthropy, design, food and entrepreneurship. It's an introspective digital/print/tablet portrait series, which encapsulates artists/brands/entities who embody the true essence of our publication- empowerment, equality, sensuality and most important of all, humanity within a global society.

Action heroes all together assembling to unite

EARTH’S MIGHTIEST HEROES ASSEMBLE

The Marvel Universe has always strived to reflect the “world outside your window” with diverse and inclusive storytelling. Throughout the year, the breadth of those stories are highlighted in a special way in a variety of Marvel’s Voices one-shots, and later this December, MARVEL’S VOICES: AVENGERS #1 will arrive for the first time!

In addition to backup stories in some of Marvel’s most popular titles, the ongoing Marvel’s Voices Infinity Comics on Marvel Unlimited, and the Marvel’s Voices podcast, the program has evolved this past year by inviting creators from across the industry to bring their unique perspectives and artistry to specific corners of the Marvel Universe. Following the success of Marvel’s Voices: Wakanda ForeverMarvel’s Voices: Spider-Verse, and Marvel’s Voices: X-Men, alongside Marvel’s Voices: Pride, Earth’s Mightiest Heroes will get their Marvel’s Voices spotlight!

For 60 years, the Avengers have proven time and time again that despite our differences, we’re stronger together than apart! Now, join a team of Marvel’s finest creators, from veterans to new recruits full of potential, for four tremendous tales that tackle diverse ideologies, identities, and backgrounds through the lens of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes!

Here’s what’s in store:

·       (Ghosts) and artist Tadam Gyadu (Spider-Man: India) come together for a poignant Iron Man tale that sees Tony use his own personal journey to help a struggling supervillain.

·       (Silk) and artist Sid Kotian (Storm), team up to explore the American values that Captain America has always stood for as he has a thrilling showdown with his archenemy, Red Skull!

·       (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers) both make their joint Marvel Comics debut with the return of Robbie Reyes, Ghost Rider! Following his role in the Avengers Assemble crossover, Robbie must rev up the Hell Charger to battle a band of demons that are preying on his community.

·       (Star Wars: Sana Starros) and artist Karen Darboe (Bloodline: Daughter of Blade) bring readers to the stars where Monica Rambeau, AKA Photon, has to use her one-of-a-kind expertise and training to fend off a new cosmic threat.

Check out this year’s headlining heroes across all three covers and don’t miss the latest anthology in the Marvel’s Voices series when MARVEL’S VOICES: AVENGERS #1 hits stands in December. For more information, visit Marvel.com

Barcelona City Break

Savoring the Allure of Catalonia’s Capital

Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, Spain, is a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and modernity. Nestled on the northeastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula, Barcelona is a city break destination that promises a delightful mix of architectural wonders, Mediterranean cuisine, and a vibrant arts scene. In this guide, we’ll take you on a virtual journey through a Barcelona city break, providing you with an itinerary for spending five unforgettable days in this enchanting city.

Day 1: Arrival and Gaudí’s Masterpieces

Morning: Arrival in Barcelona

Your 5 days in Barcelona begins as you land at Barcelona-El Prat Airport. After checking in at your hotel, take a moment to freshen up and get ready to explore the city.

Afternoon: Explore La Sagrada Família

Start your Barcelona adventure with a visit to La Sagrada Família, the iconic basilica designed by the legendary architect Antoni Gaudí. Marvel at the intricate façades and awe-inspiring interior of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Consider booking tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

Evening: Magic at Park Güell

Head to Park Güell, another Gaudí masterpiece. As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely stroll through the park’s whimsical gardens, adorned with colourful mosaics and fascinating architectural elements. The park offers panoramic views of the city, making it a magical place to end your first day in Barcelona.

Day 2: Historic District and Beaches

Morning: Stroll Through the Gothic Quarter

Begin your day with a visit to Barcelona’s historic heart, the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic). Wander through its labyrinthine streets, where you’ll discover charming plazas, mediaeval buildings, and historic churches. Don’t miss the Barcelona Cathedral and the Plaça Sant Jaume.

Afternoon: Relax on the Beach

After a morning of exploring, head to Barceloneta Beach for some sun, sea, and relaxation. The beach offers a range of water sports activities, beachside restaurants, and a lively atmosphere.

Evening: Sunset at Montjuïc Castle

As the day comes to a close, make your way to Montjuïc Castle, perched atop a hill overlooking the city. Enjoy a scenic cable car ride to the castle and witness a breathtaking sunset over Barcelona. It’s a perfect way to end your second day.

Day 3: Art and Culture

Morning: Picasso Museum

Start your day with a visit to the Picasso Museum, which houses one of the most extensive collections of artworks by the 20th-century Spanish artist Pablo Picasso. Explore the various phases of his artistic journey, from his early works to his later masterpieces.

Afternoon: Tapas and Art at El Raval

After immersing yourself in art, head to the El Raval neighbourhood for lunch. This vibrant area is home to contemporary art centres, quirky boutiques, and a diverse culinary scene. Savour traditional Spanish tapas at one of the local eateries.

Evening: Flamenco Show

In the evening, experience the passion and energy of flamenco at one of Barcelona’s authentic flamenco venues. The passionate performances of dance, music, and song will leave you captivated and moved.

Day 4: Day Trip to Montserrat

Morning: Journey to Montserrat

Take a break from the city bustle with a day trip to Montserrat, a stunning mountain range located about an hour’s drive from Barcelona. The highlight is the Montserrat Monastery, perched on a rugged hillside. Explore the basilica, the Black Madonna, and take in the panoramic views.

Afternoon: Hiking or Art

Depending on your preference, you can either spend the afternoon hiking in the Montserrat Natural Park, known for its unique rock formations, or return to Barcelona for more art exploration at the Joan Miró Foundation or the National Art Museum of Catalonia.

Evening: Return to Barcelona

Head back to Barcelona in the evening and enjoy a leisurely dinner in the city centre.

Day 5: Shopping and Farewell

Morning: Shopping in Passeig de Gràcia

Spend your final morning in Barcelona indulging in some retail therapy on Passeig de Gràcia, one of the city’s most elegant shopping avenues. Here, you’ll find a mix of high-end boutiques and international fashion brands.

Afternoon: Farewell at La Boqueria Market

Before you bid farewell to Barcelona, immerse yourself in the sensory delights of La Boqueria Market, located just off La Rambla. Explore the bustling market with its colorful stalls of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. It’s an excellent place to pick up some last-minute souvenirs or enjoy a final meal in Barcelona.

Evening: Departure

As your five days in Barcelona come to an end, gather your cherished memories and souvenirs, and head to the airport for your journey home. Barcelona’s charm will stay with you long after you’ve left its vibrant streets.

Conclusion: Savouring the Allure of Barcelona

A Barcelona city break offers a unique blend of history, culture, art, and relaxation. With this five-day itinerary, you can savour the very best of Catalonia’s capital, from the architectural wonders of Gaudí to the historic charm of the Gothic Quarter and the natural beauty of Montserrat. Barcelona’s allure is undeniable, making it a destination that beckons travellers from around the world to explore its vibrant streets and soak in its unique atmosphere. So, plan your Barcelona city break, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this captivating city.

Aura Blockchain Consortium, founded by LVMH, Prada, OTB Group, Cartier, part of Richemont and Mercedes-Benz, announces Romain Carrere as their new CEO via 360 MAGAZINE.

Aura Blockchain Consortium

Appoints Successful Tech Entrepreneur as CEO to Deliver New Phase of Growth 

Aura Blockchain Consortium, founded in 2021 by LVMH, Prada Group, Cartier, part of Richemont, OTB Group, and then later joined in 2022 by Mercedes-Benz Group, along with associate members including H.Moser & Cie. and Maison Margiela are proud to announce the appointment of Romain Carrere as the new CEO and General Secretary.

With over 15 years experience as a tech entrepreneur, Romain Carrere has dedicated his effort to advising web3 start-ups, assisting them in launching innovative products and scaling their operations and providing valued advisory services to corporations interested in venturing into blockchain, NFT and metaverse projects. Romain Carrere holds a Master’s degree from ESCP Business School and graduated cum laude with a Bachelor’s degree from Bentley University. His active involvement in various delegations, including representing French entrepreneurs at the G20 delegation in Tokyo, showcases his commitment to advancing the global tech ecosystem.

The Aura Blockchain Consortium is a non-profit initiative transcending traditional frontiers by setting the standard for brands and their digital transformation. Offering state-of-the-art blockchain solutions, the consortium empowers its 25+ member brands to seamlessly navigate the entire product life cycle from origin to direct-to-consumer. Through their diverse range of solutions, including SaaS, NFT, and Multi-Token Minter, luxury brands can now elevate and enrich the customer experience to unprecedented levels.

Speaking on his appointment to the role, Romain Carrere said “I am thrilled and indeed honoured to join the Aura Blockchain Consortium at such a critical turning point, as we scale the platform and our solutions globally. This visionary and unique consortium holds a special place in the industry, gathered around the development of a truly collaborative concept. As I embark on this new journey, I will continue to innovate and push boundaries in collaboration with the entire team and Board. Through the use of blockchain technology and applications, I look forward to driving adoption of this technology and raising the overall customer experience to a level never achieved before in the luxury industry.” 

Lorenzo Bertelli, Chairman of Aura Blockchain Consortium & Group Marketing Director and Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at Prada Group commented “We are delighted, along with our member brands, to have Romain join our Consortium. With his extensive background as a tech entrepreneur, advising both web3 start-ups and luxury brands on their digital strategies, he brings invaluable experience that will help steer the Consortium into a new strategic phase and fulfil our vision on a global scale.” 

Carrere succeeds Daniela Ott after two very successful years at Aura Blockchain Consortium. “We are grateful to Daniela who has set a solid foundation that enables us all to face this next exciting chapter and pass the baton to Romain” adds Bertelli.

Balance and Hearing Ability

The American Academy of Audiology is supporting Balance Awareness Week, September 17 to 23. The observance has been designated by the Vestibular Disorders Association to increase awareness about balance problems. Fast and accurate diagnosis, along with effective treatment and coping strategies, can greatly improve the quality of life for people with balance issues. 

Balance disorders, including vertigo and dizziness, are also associated with a number of conditions, including hearing loss, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, fainting or light-headedness, nausea and imbalance. Vestibular symptoms and dizziness are significant problems in older Americans. It is estimated that 30% of people older than 60 years and almost 50% of those over the age of 85 years have dizziness and balance challenges.

Falls are the leading cause of injury and death in older adults. While there are many reasons why older adults are at risk of falling, hearing loss is associated with a higher risk. “Your vestibular, or balance system, and your auditory system are both housed in your inner ear. There is a known association between hearing loss and falls,” said Virginia Ramachandran, AuD, PhD, president of the American Academy of Audiology. According to a study by Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, individuals with untreated mild hearing loss were nearly three times more likely to have a history of falling.

Audiologists are healthcare professionals who evaluate, treat and manage hearing loss and balance disorders in patients of all ages. Anyone with symptoms impacting their balance should see an audiologist. “Audiologists perform a battery of tests as part of the evaluation of the vestibular system,” Ramachandran explained. Depending on the findings of the exams, an audiologist may provide management options and, in some cases, may refer the patient to an otolaryngologist, neurologist or physical therapist.

“Balance Awareness Week promotes awareness and education so that consumers know where to turn when they have dizziness or balance issues,” said Ramachandran.

For more information on vestibular disorders related to balance, click here. For more information on hearing loss or to find an audiologist, go to www.howsyourhearing.org.

Picture located outside at the entrance to the Guggenheim Bilbao Museum.

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao 

Summer 2023 has been the best ever in terms of audience figures since the Museum opened, exceeding all expectations. The number of visitors in June, July, and August totaled 489,946, 40.469 more than in summer 2022—when the exhibition Motion. Autos, Art, Architecture, then on view, attracted numerous people to the Museum—and 44,799 more than in 2018, the next best summer in the history of the Museum. These 2023 record figures confirm the excellent condition of the Museum and its increasing appeal.

In June, 106,418 visitors enjoyed the Museum exhibitions (305 more than in 2022); 165,418 in July (17,488 more than in 2022); and 218,087 in August (22,676 more than in 2022).

As to the visitor geographic origin this summer, 68% came from abroad (3% more than in 2022), with France amounting to 17%, followed by Italy, Germany, and The Netherlands (7% each), and the UK (6%).

Wednesday August 16 was the busiest day of these three months, with 8,949 visitors.

The total accumulated number of Museum visitors in 2023 now stands at 898,513, 15% over 2022 and 7% more than in 2018.

One of the main reasons of this success has undoubtedly been the Museum’s appealing special exhibitions, such as Oskar Kokoschka. A Rebel from Vienna, sponsored by the BBVA Foundation (through September 3); Lynette Yiadom-Boakye. No Twilight Too Mighty (through September 10); or Yayoi Kusama: 1945 to Now, sponsored by Iberdrola (through October 8).

Picture of Obama election and all the excitement that went in to it.

Obama Musical Returns

Eli Bauman, Monica Saunders-Weinberg, MB Artists, and Michael Donovan proudly present the return of 44, THE unOFFICIAL, unSANCTIONED OBAMA MUSICAL (As Told Through the Hazy Recollection of Joe Biden), for a limited engagement at The Bourbon Room Hollywood. After a second sold-out run earlier this year, the musical satire returns featuring music, lyrics, and book by Eli Bauman (NBC’s Maya & Marty, with additional songs co-written by Eli Bauman and his father, Jon Bowzer Bauman (Sha Na Na). Bauman directs a cast of 11 starring T.J. Wilkins (NBC’s The Voice) as Barack Obama and Shanice (Award-winning R&B artist I Love Your Smile and OWN’s Flex & Shanice) as Michelle Obama. Performances run every Wednesday through Saturday from October 11, 2023 through November 18, 2023, with doors opening at 6:00 p.m. for dinner and the show starting at 7:00 p.m. The official opening night for the musical is on Friday, October 13, 2023. Tickets start at $45.00 and are now on sale at www.44ObamaMusical.com and www.BourbonRoomHollywood.com.

44 is a melting pot of music that touches on the highs and lows of the Obama era – Sarah Palin scream-singing Drill Me Baby like Ozzy Osbourne, President Obama crooning How Black Is Too Black? over a smooth Motown groove, and of course, Filibusters, a hardcore hip-hop jam where Mitch McConnell and Ted Cruz rap Green Eggs and Ham in its entirety. Barack Obama’s election changed history. And as we can clearly see, it also ended racism forever! But 44 is the story of Obama you won’t read about in history books…because history books are now banned in most states. But also because 44 is the story of Obama as Joe Biden kinda sorta remembers it.

I am thrilled that 44 is returning for an unconstitutional third term at the Bourbon Room, located in the modern-day Gomorrah of Hollywood, California, said Eli Bauman, creator and director of 44. I am delighted to be re-electing this incredibly talented cast, starting with T.J. Wilkins as Barack Obama, and Shanice – a woman who requires only one name – as First Lady Michelle. So, bring your friends, bring your mom, bring your aunties, for an epic night of music, comedy, and chaos that will have you singing, laughing, and groovin’ in your seats.

The cast for 44, led by Wilkins and Shanice, includes Kevin Bailey (Broadway’s The Lion King & Original Company; Broadway’s Annie Get Your Gun) as John Boehner, Larry Cedar (HBO’s Deadwood; Reprise’s She Loves Me & Ovation Award-winner) as Mitch McConnell, Chad Doreck (Off-Broadway’s Altar Boyz; ICT’s Robber Bridegroom) as Joe Biden, Kelley Dorney (Ahmanson Theatre’s The Secret Garden; 3D Theatrical’s A Gentleman’s Guide to Murder) as Hillary Clinton, Summer Nicole Greer (Spamilton and Ragtime) as Voice of the People, Jane Papageorge (The Old Globe’s Kiss Me Kate; NoHo Arts Center’s Scary Musical) as Sarah Palin, Dino Short; (Netflix’s The Upshaw Fox’s Wanda at Large) as Herman Cain, Jeff Sumner (The Hollywood Bowl’s Annie; ICT’s The Legend of Georgia McBride) as Lindsay Graham, and Michael Uribes (Skylight Theatre’s Bronco Billy The Musical; A Noise Within’s Man of La Mancha) as Ted Cruz. Understudies for 44 include Marqell Edward Clayton as Barack Obama and Herman Cain, Scott Kruse as Mitch McConnell and Lindsey Graham.

The live rock band that keeps 44’s non-stop rhythmic R&B sounds and hard-hitting beats going is Los Angeles-based House of Vibe helmed by music director, music co-producer, and keyboardist, Anthony Brew Brewster. The band, who has worked with the likes of Justin Timberlake, Fishbone, Chali-2na, Citizen Cope, De La Soul, and The Untouchables to name a few, features Phillip Fish Fisher (drums); Corey Cofield (bass); Kris Hawkins and Conrad Bauer (guitar) and Greg Raymond (keyboard). 44‘s hip-hop infused choreography was created by James Alsop. An EP of the impressive songs from 44 is in the works.

44 – The unOFFICIAL, unSANCTIONED OBAMA MUSICAL will play at The Bourbon Room Hollywood (6356 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90028), which is both a state-of-the-art performance venue and a full-service bar and supper club with dinner service during live shows. The musical will play 20 performances: Wednesday, October 11 through Saturday, October 14; Thursday, November 3; Friday, November 4; Wednesday, November 8; Thursday, November 9; Friday, November 10; Wedneday, November 15 through Saturday, November 18 – the official press opening is on Friday, October 13. All performances start at 7:00 p.m. Ticket prices range from $45.00 to $100.00 for a table front row. Note: A $25 minimum spend per person for food and/or drink is required in addition to the ticket purchase. Seating is assigned, and the doors open at 6:00 p.m. for seating and dinner. 

Tickets are on sale now at www.44ObamaMusical.com and www.BourbonRoomHollywood.com.

Image relating to who the G.O.D.S. are. and their impressive powers.

 A NEW AGE IN G.O.D.S.

Marvel’s pantheon of cosmic entities have faithful servants that walk among us as members of two opposing factions: the powerful mystics of THE-POWERS-THAT-BE and the brilliant scientific minds of THE-NATURAL-ORDER-OF-THINGS. For eons, they’ve clashed and schemed with all of reality hanging in the balance until they formed a fragile pact. Now, a mysterious rogue agent by the name of Cubisk Core has shattered that uneasy peace, and this secret war will come out of the shadows for the first time in Jonathan Hickman and Valerio Schiti’s G.O.D.S.!

The highly-anticipated series will introduce fans to an exciting new cast of characters, some of which readers have already met this summer in special bonus pages in select titles.  These characters exist outside the fight between heroes and villains and devote their time to upholding the very building blocks of creation. This week, some of the major players of G.O.D.S. have been spotlighted in special teasers and concept art. Today, it’s time to meet the character who wants to bring it all down—CUBISK CORE! To usher in a new age, Cubisk will have to unleash a Babylon Event, a rare occurrence with the potential to annihilate every last aspect of reality! Check them out now in new concept art and teaser images and learn more about their bold plan by visiting Marvel.com.

This image is about the power and the legacy behind being who the Moon Knight is.

DEATH OF MOON KNIGHT

Starting in October, prepare for the final days, the last minutes, and the terminal seconds of MOON KNIGHT!

Following a brutal battle with the Black Spectre, the saga of Marc Spector will come to an untimely end in the pages of Jed MacKay, Alessandro Cappuccio, and Federico Sabbatini’s hit run in MOON KNIGHT #28-30. However, Khonshu’s vengeance can never die, and Moon Knight’s legacy will live on in an unexpected way. It’s a startling story arc that will serve as the culmination of Moon Knight’s current era and the beginning of his next chapter.

To mark this milestone moment in Moon Knight history, superstar artist Inhyuk Lee has delivered three jaw dropping covers that will adorn all three issues of the storyline. Dubbed the Last Days of Moon Knight Variant Covers, Lee’s pieces foretell this tragic turning point in the Moon Knight mythology!

“Almost all the pieces are now on the board—on one side, Moon Knight and his allies in the Midnight Mission, and on the other, the Black Spectre, his creatures, and his plan for New York,” MacKay explained. “We’ve been building towards this confrontation since #19, and starting with MOON KNIGHT #28, Moon Knight and the Black Spectre go to war. It’s not just a question of victory, but survival itself. The Midnight Mission is already cloaked in the black of mourning…”

Be there when death comes knocking for Marc Spector in MOON KNIGHT #28 this October. For more information, visit Marvel.com.

photos of the American Dance Movement group, headed for National Dance Day.

National Dance Day Routine

American Dance Movement (ADM) today unveiled the official National Dance Day 2023 routine choreographed by “World of Dance” finalist and YouTube sensation, Poppin John. The routine invites dancers and enthusiasts alike to embrace dance as a valuable form of exercise and artistic expression leading up to the nationwide celebration on Saturday, Sept. 16.

Poppin John is an iconic choreographer and movement artist that has shared his crowd-pleasing robotic illusions, silky smooth waves and explosive popping moves for more than 25 years. He has performed, battled and taught dance classes across the globe, amassing more than 1 million subscribers and more than 250 million combined views on YouTube. Capturing the attention of companies across a wide variety of industries, he has worked with brands including Hyundai, Lipton, Metro PCS, Head & Shoulders, Lego, Acura, Pepsi and more. Poppin John was featured in the music video for Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off” and danced alongside her during the performance of “Blank Space” at the American Music Awards in 2014. He has also made appearances on “Ellen,” “America’s Got Talent” and “So You Think You Can Dance,” among other hit shows.

Each year since 2010, American Dance Movement has celebrated National Dance Day with an official routine from acclaimed choreographers that aims to make dance more accessible and inclusive. The tutorial is meant to act as a guide for the official routine, and American Dance Movement encourages dancers of all abilities, ages and skill levels to make it their own by putting their unique spin on it.

This year’s instructional video includes a step-by-step tutorial of the routine, demonstrated by Poppin John and other talented dancers including Chelsie Hill, founder of the Rollettes; Tony Bellissimo from the “Step Up” movie franchise and “So You Think You Can Dance;” along with Jai Robinson, Emily Figueroa, Ayanna Dowell and Cody Copley. This year’s routine is available on ADM’s YouTube channel athttps://youtu.be/15EJgP3c96A and website at www.americandancemovement.org/national-dance-day.

Anyone may participate in National Dance Day by sharing a video of themselves doing the choreographed routine on social media, as well as tagging and mentioning ADM on InstagramFacebook and TikTokat @AmericanDanceMovement, and using the hashtags #NationalDanceDay2023 and #DanceWithADM. Participants may also join interactive co-hosted events around the country on Saturday, Sept. 16 at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.; and Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa, California.

ADM has encouraged communities to get moving through dance for more than a decade by funding dance education in underserved communities, as well as educating the public on the many benefits of dance, such as improved cardiovascular health, self-confidence, self-expression, social skills and more.

To learn more about American Dance Movement and National Dance Day, visit the website at AmericanDanceMovement.org.

About American Dance Movement:

Founded by producers Nigel Lythgoe (“So You Think You Can Dance”), and Adam Shankman (“Hairspray”, “Step Up,” “What Men Want”), American Dance Movement (ADM), formerly Dizzy Feet Foundation, is a funding organization that builds healthy communities by expanding access to dance and movement, educating about its benefits, and inspiring generations of dance enthusiasts through its annual event, National Dance Day (NDD). American Dance Movement – on a mission to move us all. To learn more about American Dance Movement and National Dance Day, visit the website atAmericanDanceMovement.org, on Twitter at @DanceWithADM and on InstagramFacebookTikTok and YouTube at @AmericanDanceMovement.

Five Unique Vacation Destinations

With summer finally coming to an end and colder weather on the horizon, many families are now considering the best places to travel to for a fun winter vacation. However, this can feel impossible after taking years of vacations given that it can seem as if nowhere is new. That’s why learning the top vacation “out-of-the-box” destinations can help. In particular, there are five main destinations around the world that all families should consider traveling to after learning how to properly budget for their trip. In fact, the most magical moments can be at Disney’s Grand Californian.

How Much Money Should You Set Aside for a Vacation? 

Learning how to budget for a vacation in the modern day starts with looking at how expensive vacations have become in recent years. Generally, vacation spending accounts for around 2% for all U.S. households, which equates to around $4,000 for a two week trip for a single person alone. This means that a family of four should set aside around $6,000-$8,000 once the stable costs are factored in. 

Key Budgeting Tips for a Vacation

Considering the large price associated with taking a vacation in the modern day, it’s only natural to want to find ways to budget for your trip so that you don’t need to dip into your savings. Specifically, there are three primary tips which can assist a person with this goal: 

Use credit card reward points

For those who use credit cards, consider looking into whether the card you use is a rewards credit card or not. This means that when you make purchases on the card, you will gain cash back or credit card points in return. This cash or these points can often be redeemed directly with hotels or airlines instead of using funds that come from your own pockets. By using this strategy, a person can save hundreds, if not thousands of dollars on traveling to some popular locations around the world. 

Consider staying in alternative accommodations

Rather than staying in a traditional hotel, consider staying in alternative accommodations instead that are cheaper. These accommodations are typically vacation rentals or hostels, with the latter being short-term accommodations that encompass an entire space. This allows residents to feel like more a part of the community they are in. Alternatively, you can consider staying at a hostel as well and renting out an entire room as opposed to splitting your family apart inside the room. 

Travel during the tourist off-season

Finally, making the simple decision to travel during the off-season for tourism can save a person thousands of dollars in their budget. As an example, choosing to travel to a location that is traditionally a winter location in the summer, or even fall, will result in lower prices. This is due to the fact that there will be less demand in an area, thus lowering the prices in the area. 

5 Unique Vacation Destinations to Keep in Mind

After building out a vacation budget, the next thing a person will need to do is determine where they actually want to travel to. The following five locations are some of the most popular destinations to consider that are “out-of-the-box” in nature: 

  1. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

One of the lesser known areas around the world is Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, which is unfortunate considering everything it has to offer those who travel to the area. From amazing weather due to proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains to astounding food, Pigeon Forge has everything a person could wish for on a vacation. Additionally, there are plenty of native offerings such as the best dinner shows in Hatfield and McCoy: a guide, which outline some of the best dinner and event locations in the area. 

  1. Napa Valley, California

For those who love to enjoy a fine glass of wine, Napa Valley is an absolute must-visit location to consider. Located in Northern California, this region of wine growing country is renowned around the world for the amazing bottles that stem from the region. There are many accommodation options in this location, including hotels on wineries themselves. Beyond wine tasting, visitors to Napa can also enjoy activities such as tours, horseback riding, and more.

  1. New York City, New York

Naturally, New York City is an absolute must-visit location in the country. It should go without saying that New York City is one of the most traveled to cities around the world and for good reason. Famous sites such as Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge are excellent tourist destinations. 

  1. Disneyworld, Florida

Those who are die-hard Disney fans should consider taking a trip out to Orlando, Florida to visit Disneyworld, the cousin to Disneyland. The latter is actually larger than the former, interestingly enough, and its proximity to famous cities in Florida means a trip to this amusement park can be combined with a general Florida trip. 

  1. Zion National Park, Utah

Lovers of the outdoors should absolutely consider taking a trip to Zion National Park in Utah. Famous hikes such as Angel’s Landing have put this location on the map for national park travelers, but people of all experience-levels in terms of the outdoors can enjoy this amazing landscape. There are many hotels surrounding the national park which allow for easy access to the park itself. 

Plan an unforgettable vacation today

Planning a vacation that is fun for the whole family will undoubtedly be difficult but taking the time to figure out the best destinations will help. Focus on thinking outside of the box when planning your trips, rather than going to the same places all tourists travel to. Additionally, don’t neglect taking the time to budget properly for your vacation. The average price of taking a trip has risen drastically in recent years, meaning adequate budgeting is required to ensure that you don’t accidentally fall into debt while on your trip. By taking all of the above advice into account, any family can get a fun and exciting vacation on the calendar.