Late summer is not only when hurricane activity typically increases, it’s also when many vacationer’s take advantage of their last chance to get away. So, where can beachgoers head with less worry of a tropical storm?
While, according to The National Hurricane Center, every island in the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic seaboard are vulnerable to hurricane activity, there are some islands that are less likely to be impacted. Check out some of these tropical retreats located outside or just on the boarder of the “hurricane zone.†These destinations offer all the sand and surf with a smaller chance of impact by inclement weather for travelers still looking to get away as summer days come to an end.
“Beach getaways are still a great option for late summer travel, as long as you plan appropriately,†says Jeanenne Diefendorf, Orbitz Travel Insider. “Take some of the worry out of your vacation and try beaches -- like Aruba, Barbados and Curacao -- that have less chance of being impacted by severe weather.â€
Aruba
Located in the heart of the Caribbean, Aruba prides itself on having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The culture on the island is a unique blend of Native American, African and European influences and offers all the activities and luxuries travelers' look for in an island vacation. From sailing to scuba to deep sea fishing, there's something to suit nearly everyone's mood on this tranquil, tropical island.
Barbados
This easternmost Caribbean island sits on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, but outside the hurricane belt, and offers nearly 3,000 hours of sunshine a year. One great way to experience this scenic environment is through the many island, air, sea and underwater island tours. A must-see while visiting Barbados is the Animal Flower Cave. The cave's floor is estimated to be 400,000 years old. Visitors can take a swim through parts of the cave or relax at its restaurant and bar.
Curacao
This Caribbean island located off the coast of Venezuela is famous for its exquisite and picturesque beaches. The island offers extensive diving among eye-popping coral reefs and plentiful sea life. The architecture throughout the island's historic port is worth checking out, as well as art from one of the many local artists. This destination exudes a European charm and friendly atmosphere, and makes a great choice for a late-summer beach retreat.
Puerto Vallarta
If Caribbean adventures don't suit your taste, check out one of Mexico's most beautiful western beach destinations -- Puerto Vallarta. This seaside town has a deep Mexican culture and beautiful landscape that will captivate your senses. In addition to its laid-back beach attitude, Puerto Vallarta also offers wonderful local art and some of the best in traditional Mexican dining as well as other eclectic food options. The city is full of galleries and five-star cuisine from chefs around the world. For a great day trip, venture to the small mining village of San Sebastian. A short trip from Puerto Vallarta, it offers a glimpse into typical rural life Mexico, breathtaking mountain views and a relaxing atmosphere.
Kauai
If you really want to steer clear of hurricanes, head to Hawaii. Kauai is the oldest of all the main Hawaiian Islands, and geographically it has some of the most stunning vegetation and canyons. Greenery and flowers overwhelm the island with beauty. Hiking and sightseeing are a must-do in addition to spending some time on the beautiful beaches. The Waimea Canyon is deep and vast, and shows amazing colors that even rival the Grand Canyon. Golf is also popular on the island and is available at many of the resorts. For a cultural and historical adventure visit some of the artwork and architectural remains of the Hawaiian People over the centuries.
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Lanesborough Town Meeting to Vote Budget, Bylaws & Vehicle Purchases
By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff
LANESBOROUGH, Mass. — Tuesday's annual town meeting includes a $14 million operating budget, new short-term rentals, accessory dwelling units and sign bylaws, and free cash article appropriations.
Voters will gather at Lanesborough Elementary School on June 9 at 6 p.m. to decide on 20 warrant articles.
The fiscal 2027 budget is up a little over 10 percent. Some of the main increases are the Mount Greylock Regional School District and McCann Technical School: the McCann assessment is up more than 30 percent based on factors including enrollment and the school renovation project, and Mount Greylock's is up 11 percent.
Article 11 is for the town to vote to approve from free cash the sum of $16,298.48 for the McCann Technical School roof and window replacement project so as not to impact the budget. Article 3 is appropriate $7,586,284 for Mount Greylock Regional School assessment.
Another notable increase was in life and health insurance, showing an increase of about 26 percent.
Ambulance Director Jen Weber is planning 24-hour coverage, which means more staff and a hike in her budget. One of the articles asks the town to appropriate $234,100 to operate the Ambulance Enterprise Fund for salaries and expenses.
Many town departments are looking for new vehicles. The Fire Department is looking to replace its outdated 1996 fire engine. There are two articles related to the truck at a total of $813,366. Article 12 would transfer $225,000 from free cash into the Fire Truck Stabilization Fund; Article 13 would transfer $605,000 from the fund and authorize the borrowing of $208,366.08.
The total includes a $100,000 contingency cost to cover any additional costs if a 2026 model-year chassis cannot be secured before new emissions standards go into effect in 2027.
The board at its last meeting moved the $225,000 transfer to come before the borrowing article, changing the stabilization number. If the $225,000 is not voted on, then they will amend the next article's number on the floor, subtracting the $225,000. This shows the borrowing number significantly lower.
Article 17 asks for the transfer of $80,000 from free cash to replace a police cruiser.
Police Chief Rob Derksen's aim is to replace one vehicle every other year, meaning the oldest vehicle gets replaced about every 10 years.
He stressed that if delayed this year, the town may have to double up in a future year to get back on schedule, and that paying later usually costs more. The article will ask for $80,000 from free cash, the vehicles used to be funded by the BHRD.
Lastly, the Highway Department is looking to replace a 2014 International dump truck that will be a total of $330,000 and will take two to three years to receive.
Money will be used from last year's approval of $250,000 from free cash for the replacement of a 2012 highway front-end loader that was underspent $49,261. Town meeting is being asked to approve a transfer of $53,274.85 from free cash and the use of $227,464 from funds from the Sale of Town Real Estate to fund the balance.
Other free cash proposals include $1,200 to purchase software to support tracking and ongoing maintenance schedules of town-owned vehicles; $42,000 for the replacement of the Highway Department's storage shed roof, $200,000 to reduce the tax levy.
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