Destination Bliss Volume 5 | Page 34

Eastern USA Western USA JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK NEW YORK CITY For the nature lover, few places will be as thrilling as the alien landscape of this massive desert. Less “nightclub” vibe, much more of a “campfire” party — the perfect setting for making some stories to tell years from now. “The City that Never Sleeps” has a reputation that precedes itself. It’s safe to say whatever the bride- or groom-to-be enjoys, it can be found here. If nothing else, read the rest of the options and save New York City as your potential back-up. PORTLAND Portland is a bastion for all things “hipster,” from microbrews to quality coffee to modern art to quaint parks. It’d make for a remarkably “chill” weekend trip, though you could certainly find some nightlife if you wanted to. LAS VEGAS The original Sin City. Gambling here has taken a back seat in recent years to a greater array of possibilities—shows that rival Broadway, concerts with crowds comparable to festivals, bars that are more pool party than buildings, and luxe resorts that are a spectacle in and of themselves. You can bet on having a good time here. PHILADELPHIA Thoroughly cemented in history with the likes of the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, the Philadelphia of today also happens to sport a massive amount of culture— art museums, concert halls, boutique shopping and chic eateries flourish from street to street. A city bustling with life makes for a great pick-your-own-adventure. NASHVILLE It’s a stretch to say this city is in the East, but that’s a stretch we’re willing to take. Nashville is hallowed ground for country music, so should the person of the hour have a penchant for dive bars and live music, this is the place to head. Southern USA South of the Border CANCUN NEW ORLEANS The quintessential beach party town. Cancun has everything you could hope for regarding a bachelor or bachelorette party — luxe resorts, stunning beaches and a margarita that is never more than a minute away. As appealing as Bourbon Street (and its seemingly endless venues) is on its own, the city’s second lines take the cake for why you should party here. It is shockingly straightforward and affordable to apply for a parade permit from the city and book a marching band. COZUMEL An island just south of Cancun, the offerings of Cozumel are piled atop the previously mentioned possibilities; all of the above with the addition of world-class scuba diving and some slightly sleepier beaches. LOS CABOS Located on the opposite side of the country from the previous two, Los Cabos trades the tropical waters of the Gulf for sweeping shorelines of the Pacific Ocean — providing a paradise of golfing and sport fishing. MIAMI Days spent sunbathing on iconic beaches, and nights spent boogieing in the cool neon of fabled nightclubs — Miami seems like it was tailor-made for bachelor and bachelorette parties. ORLANDO We’ve all got an inner child, and every child loves amusement parks. Whether it’s mouse ears at the Magic Kingdom or magic wands and Hogwarts at Universal Studios, Orlando is a fun time for any age.