This year, the Gulf of Mexico Alliance is celebrating ways to play and explore life on the coast as we “Get into the Gulf” on social media.

Don’t have the skills to get into the Gulf just yet? We have you covered. We’ll share tips on ways to safely enjoy a day on the water, go fishing, be a better bird watcher and make your backyard more wildlife-friendly.

We’ll also share easy actions you can take to make a difference for a healthier Gulf. When you’re not outdoors or on the water, #GetintotheGulf with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. 

Warmer weather means that more people and birds are headed to the beach. Many of the birds that nest on coastal beaches, including terns and plovers, are in trouble because of habitat loss and disturbance by people.
To help protect these vulnerable birds in coastal Louisiana, the Gulf of Mexico Alliance has funded a project through the Gulf Star Program that supports work by the National Audubon Society. Activities include education, outreach and bird monitoring.
Want to do your part? Stay out of bird nesting areas, keep pets on a leash, and pick up trash you see on the beach.

Spring is here, which means vacation for many homeowners. Whether escaping for a long weekend or jetting off to somewhere tropical, consider these tips to keep your (empty) home safe while away:

• Pause delivery of mail and newspapers.

• Invest in motion sensors and automated lights.

• Utilize smart home security (from security alarms to doorbell cameras).

• Install a Wi-Fi smoke detector.

• Shut off water at the main source.

• Set your thermostat to 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

When in doubt, safeguard your home – and achieve peace of mind year-round – with the right home insurance policy from the experts at RIGHTSURE.

Read more here.

It’s been called the most authentic surfer town in southern California. Oceanside combines a laidback vibe with upscale hotels, vibrant dining and a walkable downtown.

We drove from Los Angeles (90 minutes, 45 from San Diego) to spend a weekend kayaking, biking, dining on seafood and enjoying a beach environment worlds different from East Coast beaches.

Our Dreamscape Suite at the Mission Pacific Beach Resort lived up to its name with a huge seating area, spacious bathroom and large balcony overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

The weather is so perfect, its slogan in 1953 was “Where the mercury never goes crazy.”

– Jan Schroder, The Travel 100

A travel trend for 2024 is visiting “destination dupes,” alternative destinations for popular places. These five places with a European feel are easily accessible and more affordable than traveling across the pond.

New Orleans for France
The Big Easy maintains its French heritage with its cuisine and Creole culture.

Colorado for Switzerland
Visitors come for snow-capped mountains and skiing.

Boston for Great Britain
The city boasts urban parks and London-influenced design.

St. Augustine for Spain
Spanish influenced cuisine and architecture from Spain’s 200-year rule.

Orange County in Virginia for Italy
Dozens of excellent wineries nestled in the Blue Ridge foothills.

– The Travel 100 staff