Travel

Travel

Traveling with anxiety has shaped my choices, leading me to seek environments that promote relaxation, whether through nature, creative expression, or quiet reflection.

The U.S. State Department published a security alert earlier this month for the capital of Tirana, warning 'groups associated with Iran may seek to target entities associated with the U.S. or Iranian opposition elements in Albania.'

"I truly believe travel in your 50s shifts in a meaningful way. It's often a decade of clarity-people are more intentional about how they spend their time, more focused on depth over volume, and increasingly interested in experiences that feel purposeful."

Before setting sail, we all agreed that everyone deserved the vacation they wanted, and that's what made a cruise so great. There was so much to do on and off the ship, and each of us found something we enjoyed.

Wales has a beautiful roughness to it. Its beauty is not immediate and hard-won; visitors will have to trek, drive and withstand the rain in order to find it. But it's worth every step of the journey.

Semi-private flights, also known as fly-sharing or charter-by-the-seat services, are realistically the cheapest way to fly private, as they allow you to pay for one seat rather than the entire aircraft.

Fredericksburg serves as a gateway to the Lone Star State's wine region, boasting a vibrant live music scene, eclectic shopping, and diverse dining options.

North Dakota isn't exactly at the top of most people's 'must-visit' list. However, Theodore Roosevelt National Park completely flipped my narrative on North Dakota with its incredible wildlife and dramatic views.

From lively music to good food and street art, Atlanta has it all. I'd start my day by heading downtown and grabbing breakfast at Grits and Eggs. I'd then go to Centennial Olympic Park, where the FIFA Fan Festival is held, to try some of Atlanta's iconic foods like shrimp and grits or lemon pepper wings, catch some live music, and experience the fans celebrating together before the game.

In 2027, Christmas Day and Boxing Day fall on a weekend, providing two substitute bank holidays on December 27 and 28, leading to an extended holiday opportunity.

Ireland is an island where ridiculously beautiful sights pop up in the most unlikely of places, from gravity-defying sea stacks found at the end of a dirt road, to hiking trails that make you feel like you're walking on the moon.

Ryanair has been conducting a tireless crackdown on passengers who try to take bags larger than the stated maximum dimensions on to its aircraft for free. According to CEO Michael O'Leary, the number of passengers with oversized bags has gone way down since the implementation of these strict measures.

"This is a surefire way to spread germs in such a small space. Closing the lid also mutes the loud flush and leaves the lavatory looking tidier for the next passenger."

IHG One Rewards offers exclusive access to member rates and deals that aren't available to the general public, along with points towards free future nights and complimentary Wi-Fi.

In 2025, travel didn't just return to pre-pandemic levels, it surpassed them, highlighting the growing strain on the world's most visited destinations.

"We want people to experience Big Sur the way it should be experienced, with these beautiful mountains and beaches," says Danielle Brown, front desk supervisor at Treebones. "... I want them to feel comfortable, but also disconnected."

"Stretches of the float feel quite secluded and peaceful, while others pass parks and restaurants. I like the connection-it's always good to be reminded of the wild in the urban."

Visiting only one island limits the experience in the Maldives, as the archipelago consists of nearly 1,200 islands, many of which are uninhabited. Island-hopping is essential to fully appreciate the beauty and diversity of the region.

Upon first glance of the architectural marvel that is the magnificent indoor-outdoor lobby, my mouth gaped open; on every return visit since, it's done the same.