AFAR Search

Glacial Lakes, Ancient Forests, and Snow-Capped Volcanoes: The Ultimate Patagonia Road Trip

This road trip tops lists for a reason: The fairy-tale scenery comes with adrenaline-spiking nature adventures, authentic South American culture, and world-class hospitality.

December 5, 2019 03:50 PM

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Nora Walsh

Most visitors come to Costa Rica for nature. Twenty-five percent of the country is protected, and most natural areas are easily accessible, though some require going off the beaten path. More than 10 conservation areas are within reach of the country’s capital, San José, and each offers a different nature experience. From the last remaining tropical wet forests in the Mesoamerican Pacific, located in Corcovado National Park, to the stalagmite- and stalactite-filled caves of Tempisque Conservation Area, travelers can see a variety of habitats in one trip. As for accommodations, there are plenty of options for roughing it, but Costa Rica also features upscale resorts where you can retreat and recharge after a day outside.

Where to Travel Next

These Are the 5 Best Countries for Retiring Abroad

These places don’t require a high budget for a very high quality of life.

June 16, 2025 02:32 PM

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Chloe Arrojado

The riads at the Royal Mansour in Marrakech are a showcase of Moroccan craftsmanship.

Hotels

How to Book a Riad if You’re Heading to Morocco

An insider’s guide to the riads of Morocco—and whether they’re right for you.

August 23, 2023 12:19 PM

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Nicola Chilton

Islands

A Guide to Creating Your Dominican Republic Bucket List

Here’s everything you should do on your next trip to the Dominican Republic.

Sponsored by Dominican Republic

A rocky island bordered by sandy beaches and turquoise water

History + Culture

18 Beautiful Greek Islands for Every Kind of Traveler

If choosing among the Cyclades, Ionian, and Dodecanese is like Greek to you, we can help. Read on to find the island paradise that suits your vacation personality.

June 10, 2024 08:54 AM

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Amanda Castleman

A 1970s-era image of a train in Italy traveling through the countryside with a village in the background

Trains

You’ll Soon Be Able to Explore Italy on These Vintage Tourist Trains

In 2024, Italy’s state-owned rail network Ferrovie dello Stato is bringing back trains from the 1960s, ’70s, and ’80s to offer visitors a bit of rail nostalgia with gorgeous views.

August 22, 2023 07:00 AM

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Erica Firpo

Tips + News

Costa Rica Opens to All U.S. Travelers—No COVID Test or Quarantine Required

Starting November 1, any American can travel to Costa Rica. All that’s needed? A medical form and health insurance.

October 26, 2020 09:45 PM

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Michelle Baran

National Parks

Pristine Powder and Fields of Flowers: A Seasonal Guide to Banff and Jasper

Selecting the time of year that suits the kind of traveler you are will make your trip to the Canadian Rockies nothing short of epic.

June 11, 2019 04:02 PM

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Carolina Novotny

Cities We Love

How to See Los Angeles for Free

Some of the best ways to see Los Angeles don’t cost a thing. We’re divulging our secrets for getting to know L.A. without spending a dime.

March 22, 2019 03:41 PM

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Sarah Purkrabek

History + Culture

The South Carolina Sea Islands Preserve Gullah Geechee Ingenuity

In South Carolina, stunning sea islands tell a unique story about southern culture.

February 22, 2022 01:21 PM

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Kayla Stewart

AFAR Travelers’ Awards

The Best Hotels in the World: 2020 AFAR Travelers’ Awards

When the hotel is a destination unto itself.

December 2, 2020 02:37 PM

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Staff

Epic Trips

5 Epic Adventures with Stress-Free Planning

From tracking mountain gorillas in Uganda to sailing along Italy’s legendary Amalfi Coast, USTOA member tours bring the world’s most extraordinary destinations within easy reach.

Sponsored by United States Tour Operators Association

Hotels

The Best New Hotels in the World: The 2020 Stay List

These new hotels also build genuine connections between their guests and their local communities.

April 8, 2020 11:45 AM

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Jennifer Flowers

Cities We Love

Why You Should Visit Denver This Summer

Bright sun, low humidity, and miles of outdoor trails await.

July 8, 2021 07:52 PM

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Irene Rawlings

The railing and side of a cruise ship sailing Antarctica.

Summer 2023

Which Cruise is for You?

23 itineraries for every type of adventure and every type of traveler, on every continent.

September 13, 2023 08:00 AM

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Kelsey Lindsey

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