Travel
The Best Places in America for Off-Grid Living
“While Southern California might be a popular travel destination, the Northern part of the state is a homesteader’s paradise. This region is ideal for off-grid living because of its temperate climate and low property taxes and land prices. There’s also easy access to plenty of fresh water. Those seeking fellowship in their sustainable lifestyle will also appreciate the number of off-grid communities that exist in the state.”
The Most Breathtaking Natural Sights in Iceland
“Inside the Fjallabak Nature Reserve in the Icelandic Highlands you will find this gorgeous natural gem. Comprising geothermal hot springs and truly otherworldly landscapes, Landmannalaugar may be slightly more remote than some of the other spots on our list, but it’s definitely worth the effort to visit. The name translates to “the people’s pools”, and Icelandic citizens surely take advantage of this natural resource. The rainbow of colors in the mountainsides are created by the volcanic rock rhyolite, which gives them their distinctive range of hues.”
The Best US National Parks
“Utah is home to five incredible National Parks, but we have to call Zion the crown jewel of what this state has to offer. The beauty here is otherworldly, and you might just think you’ve stepped onto another planet when you arrive. And even though it receives millions of visitors every year, many consider this park to be one of America’s best kept secrets. The red rocks juxtaposed with the clear water of the Virgin River make for one of the most stunning views in the country.”
Ethical African Safaris
“Central Namibia, in Southwest Africa, is home to the Okonjima Nature Reserve and the conservationist AfriCat Foundation. This lodge won the title of 'Namibia's Leading Safari' in the World Travel Awards, and is definitely one of the best places to see leopards and cheetahs if you want to ensure that your environmental footprint remains small and the animals’ health and survival is your primary concern. The reserve covers a whopping 22,000 hectares and is home to a wide variety of amazing predators, many of whom suffer from issues that prevent them from surviving in the wild. The staff at Okonjima focus both on education and conservation, so you’ll be able to rest easy in their gorgeous lodge knowing that you’re taking part in something positive while you appreciate African wildlife.”
The Best Day Trips from LA
“This desert oasis may only be a mere couple of hours from LA, but you’re guaranteed to feel like you’re on a different sort of vacation. Known for its mid-century modern architecture and mountain vistas, Palm Springs was once a refuge for Hollywood’s elite; and it has maintained its reputation as one of the most desirable destinations in California. The entire city has a kitschy retro feel that doesn’t take itself too seriously, so you’re guaranteed to have fun, whether you want to golf, shop, or just lounge by your hotel pool. And don’t miss stopping at the Cabazon dinosaurs on your way into town.”
How to Spend 24 Hours in New York
“Just around the corner from Grand Central is the main branch of the New York Public Library. Any architecture lover or bibliophile will undoubtedly appreciate a trip to this great New York landmark. Make sure to check out the upstairs Rose Reading room, inarguably one of the most gorgeous library spaces in the US. And for children (or kids at heart) you can’t miss seeing the real-life Christopher Robin’s stuffed animals that served as inspiration for the characters in A.A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh novels.
Ten Amazing Hikes in Europe
“The rugged beauty of Iceland is no longer a secret, with it becoming a popular tourist destination in recent years. But this route, also known as the Hot Springs Trail, is long enough that it keeps most travellers at bay. Hikers usually complete the trail in two to four days, and during that time they’re guaranteed to see some truly breathtaking sights in Iceland’s backcountry. And if you want to extend your adventure even more, it’s easy to pair this with the Fimmvörðuháls route which would add another couple of days to the trip.”
Reasons to Visit Croatia
“This seaside city is the second largest in Croatia and the most heavily visited on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. Split is positioned between the Adriatic Sea and the country’s famed coastal mountains, and makes for a perfectly picturesque place to visit. The Roman palace that looms over the city has been around since the 4th century and is a must see for any history buffs. It’s a city that’s lively no matter the time of day or night, and the food and wine culture is not to be missed.”
How to Spend 24 Hours in Paris
“Take a stroll to the Jardins du Luxembourg, which are about a half-hour’s walk away. If you haven’t had a full breakfast yet, this is the perfect place to sit back with a chocolatine or croissant from one of the nearby bakeshops and just watch Parisians taking their morning constitutionals or racing their sailboats in the basin. You can also marvel at the 17th-century Luxembourg Palace, which presides over the park.”
Savvy Frequent Flyer Tips
“We’ll get into checked luggage versus carry-on later, but for now, let’s assume that you’re going on a trip long enough that you have to check a bag. You’re probably thinking that this solves the whole three-ounces toiletry problem because you can just throw anything you want into your suitcase. But if you fly often, it’s a great idea to set yourself up with mini-versions of your favorite products that live permanently in a toiletry bag in your carry-on. This means that you save time packing before each trip, but also ensures that if your bag gets lost, you won’t be left without toothpaste or, say, dry shampoo.”
The Best Glamping Spots in the US
“Located in Kennebunkport, Maine is the Sandy Pines Campground. The name may sound fairly simple and familiar, but this is a place unlike any you’ve seen, or experienced before. The Glamp Tent Village that they’ve created here is totally unique, offering a variety of different safari-style tents, each with a different decor style created by a different designer. You can opt for something rustic, mid-century modern, or a historic safari-inspired look. This also means you can visit again and again and never have the same glamping vacation twice!”