Posts - Citycatt

Discover the Charm of Second Destinations in Central America

While popular tourist destinations in Central America like Cancun and Costa Rica are always packed with tourists, there are still many hidden gems in the region waiting to be explored.

These “second destinations” offer a chance to experience the local culture and natural beauty of the region without the crowds.

Here are just a few second destinations in Central America that we think are worth exploring:

Bocas del Toro,Panama

This archipelago boasts some of the best beaches in Panama, as well as incredible snorkeling and diving opportunities.

Copán Ruinas, Honduras

This ancient Mayan city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to some of the best-preserved ruins in Central America.

San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

This laid-back beach town is a favorite among surfers and backpackers, offering stunning sunsets and a relaxed vibe.

San Juan Del Sur is featured in our Travel Guidebook! Check it out here 😺

Suchitoto, El Salvador:

This picturesque colonial town offers a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage, with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and a stunning lake.

Boquete, Panama

This mountain town is a paradise for nature lovers,with hiking trails, waterfalls, and coffee plantations.

Even more amazing second destinations!

At Citycatt, we’re passionate about promoting sustainable and authentic travel experiences, and that’s why we’ve written “The Ultimate Bucket List”, the first-ever travel guidebook written entirely by ChatGPT, with a focus on uncovering second destinations and hidden gems around the world.

Our guidebook is the perfect resource for anyone looking to explore Central America’s second destinations in a sustainable and authentic way.

With our expertise and experiences guiding it, you’ll discover off-the-beaten-path destinations that most tourists miss. Plus, you’ll get to be a part of our fun and revolutionary project using ChatGPT in travel planning.

Interested to know more about how ChatGPT can help with travel planning? Check out this article.

So why not grab a copy of “The Ultimate Bucket List” today and start planning your next adventure to Central America’s second destinations?

You’ll be supporting our mission to promote sustainable and authentic travel, while also discovering the hidden gems that make Central America so special.

– Your friends at Citycatt 😽

ChatGPT: Enhancing Travel Planning, Not Replacing It

There’s no denying that ChatGPT, the AI-powered language model, is revolutionizing the travel industry. Everybody is talking about how it can replace travel bloggers, agents, and influencers.

However, at Citycatt, we believe that while ChatGPT can certainly enhance the travel planning experience, human expertise and authentic knowledge remain irreplaceable.

We wrote the first travel guidebook using ChatGPT! Check out how we did this.

Ways in which ChatGPT can boost your Travel Planning

Here are just a few ways that ChatGPT can make your travel planning easier and more enjoyable:

Personalized Recommendations: ChatGPT can analyze your travel history and preferences to provide tailored recommendations for destinations, hotels, and activities.
Itinerary Planning: Let ChatGPT take the reins and plan your entire itinerary based on your interests, budget, and schedule. However, it’s important to note that ChatGPT does have its limitations, and human expertise can help further customize your itinerary for an even more authentic experience.
Real-Time Translation: Don’t let language barriers get in the way of your travel experience. ChatGPT can provide real-time translation services to help you communicate with locals.

The Ultimate Bucket List by ChatGPT

While ChatGPT can enhance your travel experience, we believe that nothing beats human expertise for creating truly authentic and meaningful trips. That’s why we’re proud to release “The Ultimate Bucket List”, the first-ever travel guidebook written entirely by ChatGPT, with our own expertise and experiences guiding it.

Our guidebook highlights the benefits of using AI technology to discover second destinations and hidden gems around the world, while also emphasizing the importance of human interaction and expertise in creating authentic travel experiences.

At Citycatt, we’re all about combining the power of AI with the personal touch of human expertise to create unforgettable travel experiences. That’s why we tried ChatGPT ourselves and used it to write a beautiful and inspiring coffee table book, “The Ultimate Bucket List”. It’s the perfect resource for anyone looking to explore the world in a sustainable and authentic way.

So why not grab a copy today and join us on our mission to make travel more enjoyable, authentic , and sustainable? 😺

– Your Friends at Citycatt 😽

ChatGPT’s Meets Travel Planning: Introducing “The Ultimate Bucket List: Uncovering Second Destinations”

Tired of visiting the same popular tourist destinations year after year? Citycatt used ChatGPT to create something truly unique – “The Ultimate Bucket List: Uncovering Second Destinations and Hidden Gems around the world”, a revolutionary travel guidebook written entirely with AI technology.

This exciting project is not just an experiment in AI, but a mission to bring awareness to second destinations around the world and promote sustainable, authentic travel.

This experiment is also a testament to our business model – proving that AI can be very helpful in travel planning, but nothing beats human interaction when it comes to exploring new places!

How We Created Our Book with ChatGPT

There are currently lots of discussions around AI replacing humans in travel. So when ChatGPT came on board, we decided to create a travel guidebook as a fun project to measure the potential of ChatGPT in travel planning, fully believing that the experiment would prove what we know to be true: AI will never replace the authenticity of humans in travel planning.

So, we tapped into the knowledge and imagination of our community and then we used natural language processing (NLP) technology to process all the data generated by our influencers into meaningful conversations with ChatGPT. From there, ChatGPT was able to generate unique content, recommending destinations, and suggesting things to do and see, and our book was born.

Making Travel More Meaningful

It’s more important than ever before to be mindful of our actions when traveling, which is why we created this project in the first place—to help make travel more meaningful by encouraging exploration of second destinations around the world. This groundbreaking trend marks an exciting new era in travel planning and is setting a standard for sustainable tourism in years to come!

Join Our Mission

Get your copy of The Ultimate Bucket List today! Whether you’re an experienced traveler or just getting started on your journey around the globe, join us on our mission to discover second destinations—all while making your travels more meaningful and sustainable.

While at it, how about choosing your next destination from the book and start your plan right away at our Free Trip Planner? Let’s do this!

– Your friends at Citycatt 😽

The Top 20 Places Gen Z & Millennials Want to Travel

Did you know Generation Z (born 1997-2012) and millennials (born 1981-1996) are the largest and most diverse generations in history? That’s why it’s hard to fit into a box all their unique values and lifestyles.

But one thing these two generations have in common is the destinations they dream of visiting one day. If you’re looking to borrow some inspiration from the trends, here are some of the most popular destinations for Gen Z and millennials in the most recent years:

Read more: How does each generation travel?

Bali, Indonesia
Tokyo, Japan
Paris, France
Sydney, Australia
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Cancun, Mexico
Barcelona, Spain
Iceland
Santorini, Greece
New York City, USA
Bangkok, Thailand
Dubai, UAE
Los Angeles, USA
London, UK
Phuket, Thailand
Venice, Italy
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Hawaii, USA
Seychelles

From the vibrant cityscapes of Tokyo and New York City to the idyllic beaches of Bali and Hawaii, this diverse list reflects the diversity in these generations.

Catt Tip 😸: When planning your next trip, consider the experiences that appeal to your values and interests, and look for destinations that align with your travel goals. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in local culture, take in breathtaking landscapes, or simply enjoy a fun-filled adventure, there’s a perfect destination out there for everyone.

We dare you to start planning your trip now. It all starts with a dream, so let’s dream together!

– Your friends at Citycatt 😽

Alternative destinations to visit in France, besides Paris!

The City of love does not hold a monopoly on romance. In fact, love is the air all around France, and going to second cities will always open the doors for more authentic experiences at a lower cost.

Here are some of our favorite alternative destinations in France that are worth exploring:

Read more: Charming suburban cities a drive away from Paris

Marseille

Marseille is the second largest city in France and is often overlooked by tourists. This city has a unique blend of history, culture, and diversity, making it an interesting place to visit. Marseille is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in France, as well as a vibrant arts scene and excellent cuisine. The city also has a rich history, with numerous museums and monuments to visit, including the MuCEM, a museum dedicated to Mediterranean civilizations.

How to get there:

8 hours by car from Paris, or you can take a high-speed train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Marseille St. Charles, which takes around 3 hours.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a charming city in southwestern France, known for its wine and history. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its 18th-century architecture is well-preserved. Bordeaux is also a food lover’s paradise, with many gourmet restaurants, local markets, and vineyards to visit. If you’re a wine connoisseur, be sure to visit the vineyards in the nearby region of Saint-Emilion, where you can sample some of the best wines in the world.

How to get there

Bordeaux is approximately 4 hours by car from Paris, or you can take a high-speed train from Paris Montparnasse to Bordeaux St. Jean, which takes around 2 hours.

Nice

Nice is a beautiful coastal city located on the French Riviera. This city has a long history as a popular holiday destination, and it’s easy to see why. Nice has a mild climate, stunning beaches, and a vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore the old town, which is filled with narrow streets and colorful buildings, or visit the Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain, which has an impressive collection of modern art.

How to get there

Nice is approximately 7 hours by car from Paris, or you can take a flight from Paris Charles de Gaulle to Nice Côte d’Azur, which takes around 1 hour.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a beautiful city located in northeastern France, near the border with Germany. The city is a mix of French and German cultures, and it has a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages. Strasbourg is known for its picturesque old town, with its narrow streets, half-timbered houses, and the impressive Gothic cathedral of Notre-Dame. Visitors can also explore the European institutions, including the European Parliament and the Council of Europe.

How to get there

Strasbourg is approximately 2 hours by car from Paris, or you can take a high-speed train from Paris Est to Strasbourg, which takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Read more: Charming suburban cities a drive away from Paris

Lille

Lille is a charming city located in northern France, near the Belgian border. The city has a rich history and culture, with numerous museums, art galleries, and historical monuments to visit. Lille is also known for its cuisine, and visitors can sample traditional dishes such as carbonnade, a hearty beef stew, or try the famous Maroilles cheese.

How to get there

Lille is approximately 2 hours by car from Paris, or you can take a high-speed train from Paris Nord to Lille Europe, which takes around 1 hour.

Start planning your French dream trip now at our Trip Planner!

We’ll always advocate for going beyond on your trips, beyond the usual attractions, the usual food, and the usual comfort zone. Consider setting apart more days in your trips to go beyond the usual destinations, and you’ll see a portal of amazing discoveries open right before your eyes!

– Your friends at Citycatt 😽

Suburban charming cities a drive away from Paris!

When visiting any famous destination, keep in mind that sometimes the hunt for a hidden gem will get much easier if you drive just a few miles away from the main city where you flew in.

For your next trip to the city of love, we got you! Here are a few suburban cities surrounding Paris that you can easily reach by car or public transportation for a day trip or a weekend getaway, oh-la-la!

Versailles

Versailles is a historic city located just a short train ride from Paris. It is best known for the magnificent Palace of Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous palaces in the world. Visitors can also explore the beautiful gardens and parks surrounding the palace.

Read more: Alternative destinations to visit in France, beyond Paris!

Fontainebleau

Fontainebleau is a charming town located just an hour’s drive from Paris. It is famous for the Château de Fontainebleau, a magnificent Renaissance palace that was once the residence of French monarchs, including Napoleon I, who commissioned renovations to the palace and hosted many important events there, including his coronation as emperor. Visitors can also explore the beautiful forest of Fontainebleau, which is ideal for hiking and picnicking.

Reims

Reims is a city located in northeastern France, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by train from Paris. It is best known for its rich history and is home to the stunning Gothic cathedral of Reims, where a total of 25 French monarchs were once crowned, including Francis I, who was a patron of the arts and of the Renaissance. He brought many artists and architects to France, and his court became a center of artistic and cultural activity. He is also remembered for his military campaigns and for his role in the spread of humanism and the Enlightenment in France. Parts of his story have been told in several films, including “Duel of the Titans” (1961) and “Francois 1er” (1955).

Reims is also famous for its Champagne, and it is home to several of the world’s largest champagne houses, including Moet & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Pommery. These houses offer tours of their cellars and tasting rooms, allowing visitors to learn about the history of champagne and sample some of the world’s finest sparkling wines.

Rouen

Rouen is a historic city located approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by train from Paris. It is best known for its stunning Gothic architecture, including the impressive Rouen Cathedral. Rouen is also famous for its historical connections to Joan of Arc, and visitors can explore the places where she lived and died.

Chartres

Chartres is a beautiful medieval city located approximately 1 hour by train from Paris. It is best known for its magnificent cathedral, the Cathedral of Chartres, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the world. Visitors can also explore the charming old town, with its narrow streets, half-timbered houses, and historic buildings.

Read more: Alternative destinations to visit in France, beyond Paris!

We bet you’ll dream of France tonight. Why not start turning the wheels to make it a reality? Start planning your trip to one – or all – of these amazing destinations now at our Trip Planner!

– Your friends at Citycatt 😽

Add these Second Cities to your Travel List – and learn what second cities are

It’s common sense that what’s truly local is probably far from the usual touristic spots. And maybe – like us – you’re looking for that amazing authentic gem. Or perhaps you’re just looking to avoid the crowds because – let’s face it -they just make it that much harder to take a good picture.

In any case, if you’re trying to escape the daily grind and also looking to avoid the street of crowded tourist hotspots, you should consider traveling to a Second City.

What are Second Cities?

Second cities are lesser-known destinations that offer unique experiences and often fewer crowds. They offer a chance to see a different side of a country or region and are perfect for travelers who are looking for a more authentic, less commercialized experience.

From hidden gems in well-trodden countries to up-and-coming destinations that are just starting to get noticed, there’s something for everyone.

One of the best things about second destinations is that they’re often much more affordable than the more popular tourist hotspots. This means that you can stretch your travel budget further, allowing you to see and experience more.

In addition, because these destinations are less well-known, you’re less likely to be surrounded by hordes of tourists, giving you the chance to immerse yourself in local culture and truly experience the destination.

A starter list of Second Cities for your Travel Bucket List

‘Second city’ vibes in Nuremberg city, Germany

So, what are some of the best second cities to visit? Can’t really fit our whole list here, but we promise many blog posts about them. For now, here are a few to consider:

Slovenia: This small country is often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbors, but it offers some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in Europe, including the Julian Alps, the Karst region, and the Soča Valley.
Mexico: While many people flock to Mexico for its beaches, there are so many other amazing destinations in the country that are often overlooked. For example, Mexico City is one of the largest and most vibrant cities in the world, offering a wealth of cultural experiences, while the colonial city of Guanajuato is a hidden gem that is just starting to get noticed.
Sri Lanka: This small island nation in South Asia is often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbor, India, but it offers a rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches, and a diverse landscape that includes tea plantations, ancient ruins, and rolling hills.
Portugal: While most people flock to Spain or Italy when traveling to Europe, Portugal is a hidden gem that offers a rich cultural heritage, a stunning coastline, and some of the best seafood in the world.

While you get to experience a much more authentic trip when traveling to a second destination, you also contribute to a hyperlocal economy and deeply emerge in the culture. According to World Urban Forum, there are more than 10,000 cities in the world as of 2022. Pretty much any one of them could be your next second destination, we like those odds!

Never too early to start planning, let’s start it now? It only takes a simple signup at our Trip Planner to add the first dreamy second city to your upcoming trips!

– Your friends at Citycatt 😽

How does each generation travel?

The world spins, the years go by, and travel continues to be an important part of our lives, whether it’s for leisure, work, or education.

As our world continues to evolve and change, so does the way we travel. So, Let’s take a look at the differences in travel styles across generations and what makes each one unique!

Baby Boomers (Born 1946-1964)

Baby Boomers are known for their love of travel and their desire to explore the world. They prioritize comfort and luxury when traveling and are often more likely to splurge on expensive hotels and tours. This generation is also more likely to travel internationally, seeking out exotic destinations and cultural experiences.

Generation X (Born 1965-1980)

Generation X is characterized by their independence and resourcefulness. They tend to be more budget-conscious when traveling and are often looking for ways to save money while still having a good time. This generation is also more likely to travel solo or with friends, seeking out adventure and relaxation in equal measure.

Millennials (Born 1981-1996)

Millennials are the most tech-savvy generation and are known for their love of unique and memorable experiences. They are often willing to spend more money on travel to have these experiences and are known for using social media to document their travels. This generation is also more likely to travel internationally and seek out off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Generation Z (Born 1997-2012)

Generation Z is characterized by their environmental consciousness and their desire for authenticity. They are more likely to seek out eco-friendly travel options and to prioritize sustainable tourism. This generation is also more likely to use technology for travel planning and booking and to rely on social media for recommendations and reviews.

Dear Millennials and Gen-Zs, you might want to give Citycatt a chance: your next sustainable and authentic trip planned in collaboration with a local Influencer. Need I say more? 😺

There’s no wrong way to travel, and each generation developed its unique travel style based on its circumstances and priorities. One thing is for sure, whether it’s comfort and luxury, adventure and budget-consciousness, or sustainability and technology, there is something for everyone in this world of travel.

No matter your travel style, the most important thing is to have fun, make memories and experience the world in your own way!

– Your Friends at Citycatt 😽

Hokkaido and the Volcano Bay I didn’t know existed

Living in Orlando, I pass Universal’s fake volcano several times a week and don’t give it much thought. It’s the main attraction of the Volcano Bay Water Park, and it was a significant addition to the unique views you see driving down the highways of this giant theme park of a city. However, it wasn’t until last week, when visiting the island of Hokkaido, in Japan, that I realized the wonders of real-life volcanos. And I also got to set foot in an actual volcano bay!

Hokkaido is the northernmost island of Japan, and is known for its diverse landscapes and natural wonders, including its impressive volcanoes and UNESCO Global Geoparks. These geological wonders offer a unique and educational experience for visitors to the island, showcasing the power and beauty of Mother Nature. My amazing hosts drove us through a snow storm to personally make sure we could see one of these amazing volcanoes up close.

**These islands at Lake Toya were formed by Mount Usu’s volcanic activity** – *On the left is Lorena Balestrieri, Catt Chief Officer; On the right is Lizia Santos, CEO & Co-Founder*

We visited the Volcano’s Museum and learned all about Mount Usu, a stratovolcano located in Hokkaido. “The volcano never lies”. That’s a quote we kept hearing from locals, that assured us that they learned to listen closely to the signs of upcoming eruptions. In any case, this particular volcano erupts every 30-35 years. I asked when the 35 years timeframe is due.

“Oh, in 2023 we complete 35 years of the last eruption”, one of them calmly replied. You mean this 2023?! – I thought to myself. Couldn’t have chosen a better time to visit. 😳

The Volcano Meisters followed up by explaining all the blessings their volcanoes have brought upon their people. There are several of them in this area, and that’s why we call it ‘ The Volcano Bay’. The Meisters’ job is to educate the population about volcanoes, their unique features, and the blessings and dangers surrounding them.

In my mind, I could only think, “oh, so this is what a real Volcano Bay looks like”. Anything but the landscape surrounding I-4 in Orlando.

Usu’s UNESCO Geopark

Surrounding Mount Usu and Lake Toya, you find several charming small cities, that became popular tourist destinations for the Japanese, due to their natural beauty and unique geological features. In 2015, the area was designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark.

The whole Usu Volcano Group is comprised of several active and dormant volcanoes, and to name some of the blessings the locals referred to, they get to indulge in mouth-watering fruit grown with volcanic ashes as fertilizer, relax in hot springs, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape that keeps changing with volcanic activity.

There is even an active crater, which last erupted in 2000! Visitors can observe the steam vents and fumaroles, and learn about the geological processes that shape the landscape. In addition, the geopark is home to several hot springs, including the famous Toya hot spring, which is famous for its clear and beautiful waters.

There is a very distinct particularity about Japanese hot springs I won’t mention here. You’ll have to ask a Catt about that and trust me, you’ll want to know about it. 🤫

But humans are not the only recipients of the blessings of volcanic activity in Hokkaido. This area is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species. Visitors can enjoy nature walks, bird watching, and wildlife observation, and learn about the unique ecosystem that exists within it.

I’ve been there, done just a little bit of that. And that’s why I’m coming back for more. Care to join me?! 😺

Yours truly,

CEO and Co-Founder

Hong Kong is gifting flights – here’s what to do in and around the city!

Did I hear free tickets to Honk Kong? Yes!! 😺✨ Hong Kong is indeed offering 500,000 free plane tickets to boost tourism starting in March, and lasting for six months. The tickets will be distributed through various methods such as a lottery system and two-for-one purchases. The Hong Kong Airport Authority spent $2 billion in 2020 to buy tickets from airlines including HK Express, Cathay Pacific Airways and Hong Kong Airlines.

The giveaway is part of the government’s effort to revive the city’s economy after its three-year isolation during the pandemic and political turmoil. The “Hello Hong Kong” campaign includes events such as the Rugby Sevens tournament and a city marathon. Ready to pack your bags? We wouldn’t leave you without giving you a few suggestions to kickstart your planning!

Tickets ✅. Now, what?

While in the city, you must make sure to emerge in the rich cultural heritage in everything you do! Some of the must-do things to do in Hong Kong include:

Victoria Harbour: Take a night-time ferry ride across the iconic Victoria Harbour for stunning views of the city skyline.
The Peak: Take a ride on the Peak Tram for panoramic views of the city from the highest point on Hong Kong Island.
Temples and Monasteries: Explore the city’s rich cultural heritage by visiting some of its famous temples and monasteries, such as the Man Mo Temple and the Po Lin Monastery.
Shopping: Hong Kong is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from high-end luxury goods to local street markets.
Food and Drinks: Indulge in the city’s famous cuisine, including dim sum, seafood, and traditional Chinese dishes.
Hiking and Nature: Take a hike in the lush countryside surrounding Hong Kong, including the famous Dragon’s Back Trail.
Art Galleries and Museums: Explore the city’s rich cultural heritage through its art galleries and museums, such as the Hong Kong Museum of Art and the M+ Museum.

Can’t wait? Start your Hong Kong Trip Plan now, and add all of these activities to it. But wait, there’s more!

Adventures beyond Hong Kong

While you might spend days in this cultural bustling metropolis, and never get enough, there are also plenty of opportunities to escape the city and explore the surrounding areas. Here are a few of our favorite short trips around Hong Kong that are perfect for travelers looking to get a taste of some of the Chinese authentic charms:

Lantau Island

Lantau Island is just a short ferry ride away from central Hong Kong and is home to some of the city’s most stunning natural attractions. Here you’ll find the giant Buddha statue at the Po Lin Monastery, which is one of the largest bronze Buddhas in the world. You can also explore the breathtaking views of the South China Sea from the top of Lantau Peak or visit the serene Tai O fishing village.

Stanley Market

Located on the southern side of Hong Kong Island, Stanley Market is a popular destination for shopping and dining. This charming market is known for its street food, clothing, and souvenirs, and is the perfect place to pick up a few mementos of your trip. Take a stroll along the seafront promenade, visit the famous Stanley Beach, and enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants.

Sai Kung

Sai Kung is a picturesque fishing village located in the New Territories of Hong Kong. This quiet and serene area is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and is perfect for nature lovers. Take a hike through the stunning countryside, visit the impressive Hong Kong Geopark, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.

Macau

Macau is just a short ferry ride from Hong Kong and is a former Portuguese colony known for its unique blend of Chinese and Portuguese cultures. Take a stroll through the historic center of Macau, admire the impressive architecture of the famous ruins of St. Paul’s, and indulge in some of the city’s famous Portuguese cuisine.

Okay, now you have all you need to start your Hong Kong Trip Plan. Wanna make it WAY better? Look for a Hong Kong Catt in our Cattalog, and have a local fill your Trip Plan with even more fun things to do. Our Catts can also help you with cross cultural challenges, finding the best places to stay, the most yummy foods, and completely personalizing your journey. No matter what your interests, there’s sure to be activities in and around Hong Kong that are perfect FOR YOU. Let’s go!

– From your friends at Citycatt 😸