Best known for country farms, farm-to-table restaurants, arts and crafts, rural charm and a wealth of history, Vermont has plenty to offer visitors all year round. Tucked between the Adirondack Park’s 6 million acres, New Hampshire and the Atlantic Coast, the welcoming Green Mountain State teems with opportunities to explore in all seasons. Whether you …

33 of the best places to visit in Europe
There is simply no way you could tour Europe and not be awestruck by its natural beauty, fascinating history, rich culture, fabulous food, world-changing art and dazzling diversity. From sun-smooched islands to secret corners, there’s always somewhere new to discover. Europe’s wealth of attractions is its biggest single draw. Who hasn’t dreamed of seeing Florence’s …

How to enjoy a perfect 24 hours in Anchorage
First-time visitors to Alaska’s biggest city are often surprised to see a large metropolis suddenly popping into view through the airplane window. From humble beginnings as a work camp constructed in 1915 for crews building the Alaska Railroad, Anchorage has grown into “Alaska’s largest village” – known for its diverse population and being a vital …

The best national parks to celebrate Thanksgiving in 2024
From dramatic cliffs to pristine forests, our national parks celebrate and preserve the beautiful landscapes that constitute the United States, and fortunately, many venues in and around the parks put together special Thanksgiving celebrations. Whether you’re already on the road or looking for somewhere special to chow down on turkey, here are a few national …

14 of the best things to do in Aveiro, Portugal’s lagoon-side city
Elegant, energetic and just a jump from dune-ribboned beaches and bird-sheltering salt pans, Aveiro is perhaps Portugal’s least “Portuguese” city break – and not in a bad way. Abundant art nouveau delivers an alternative backdrop. Gondola-esque vessels supersede vintage trams. And ovos moles, the local nun-devised eggy sweet treat, push pastéis de nata (custard tarts) out of the …

10 fabulous beaches all over Vietnam
When you think of swaying palms, white-sand beaches and turquoise waters in Southeast Asia, Vietnam might not be the first country that comes to mind. Let’s change that. Among its myriad other natural wonders, the country’s 3400km (2113 miles) of coast hides more than its fair share of resplendent beaches – not to mention the handful of …

What is Polar Night and when does it start?
The sun set on Monday, November 18, in towns and cities within 23.5º of the North Pole for the last time until 2025. This phenomenon, known as Polar Night, plunges the top of the globe into a nearly perpetual night until January 22, 2025. While it’s romantic to envision cozy light-filled homes buried in snow …

The best of Boise, Idaho
Natural playgrounds and all-season outdoor recreation define the ‘City of Trees.’ Boise’s 160 miles of trails, picturesque river, community ski hill, unique urban parks and pedestrian greenbelt practically demand adventure. Though Boise might feel a little more lived-in than touristy, its laid-back, friendly demeanor is refreshing; want to stop at the brewery in your bike …

A first-time guide to Dominica
Dominica is one of the few Caribbean islands where the beach is the least captivating attraction. The real reason to visit this tropical paradise? Natural outdoor experiences, which abound here. Blanketed in emerald vegetation and liberally sprinkled with hot springs, waterfalls, gorges, volcanoes and black sand, Dominica lets you get up close to nature at …

How to spend a perfect Sunday in Paris
Paris might be one of Europe’s most dynamic cities, but the pace of life is noticeably quieter on Sundays, particularly in more residential neighborhoods such as parts of the 9th, 11th and 12th arrondissements. You might find that smaller independent shops are closed, a restaurant you wanted to try isn’t open and the local supermarket shuts early. …