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Clouds covering Cocos Island National Park in Costa Rica.

Whales, Sea Turtles, and Active Volcanoes—Here Are 9 Must-Visit Costa Rican Parks

Though smaller than the state of West Virginia, Costa Rica has devoted more than 25 percent of its land to protected parks and nature reserves.

April 17, 2023 07:18 PM

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Mona Gable

A guest room at the Shangri-La Paris with blue carpeting and gilt details throughout.

Hotels

France’s Palace Hotels Are Considered the Height of French Culture—and Can Be Better Than 5-Star Stays

Palace hotels are the highest distinction a hotel can achieve in France. Here’s what they are—and what makes them so special.

January 15, 2025 01:19 PM

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Mary Winston Nicklin

Outdoor Adventure

8 Festive National Parks for the Holidays, From Carols in a Cave to a First-Class Polar Express Train

From the Smokies to Hot Springs, celebrate the season with snowman scavenger hunts, sailing or skiing with Santa, and snowball competitions.

November 24, 2025 03:10 PM

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Matt Kirouac

Snow on the Catalina Mountains in Catalina State Park, Tucson Arizona

Outdoor Adventure

9 State Parks to Visit in Winter, Where You Can Snowshoe in a Ghost Town or Hike Above the Trees

Find peaceful escape in these underrated state parks, some of which are bigger than many national parks.

November 12, 2025 02:36 PM

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Matt Kirouac

Road Trips

A Food- and Wine-Centric Road Trip Along California’s Highway 128

Featuring a diverse range of landscapes, foods, and attractions, a road trip along this lesser-traveled route highlights the best of Northern California’s food and nature.

May 26, 2021 01:18 PM

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Jessie Beck

Art + Culture

The Ultimate “Big Little Lies” Guide to Monterey, California

From Blue Blues to the Blissful Drip Café, here’s where to find Madeline, Celeste, and the rest of the cast’s favorite coastal spots in Season 2 of the hit HBO drama.

June 10, 2019 06:17 PM

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Lyndsey Matthews

An aerial view of a Quark Expeditions vessel in Patagonia with rocky snow-dusted mountains surrounding a long channel

Expedition Cruises

Everyone Wants to Go to Antarctica. Here’s Why You Should Sail to This Fjord-Filled Subpolar Region Instead

Striking jagged peaks, impressive icebergs, and hiking through national parks for days—don’t sleep on this up-and-coming expedition cruise destination.

September 12, 2025 07:37 PM

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Stefanie Waldek

Family of woman, man and young child taking a selfie in front of the Arc de triomphe in Paris, France

Cities We Love

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Paris With Kids: Things to Do, Where to Stay, What to Eat

A former Paris local brings her daughter to the city for the first time and scopes out the most kid-friendly spots and activities.

September 3, 2025 02:17 PM

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Elissa Garay

Hiking + Cycling

10 Incredible Waterfall Hikes Around the U.S.

Jump in for a cool swim, take in the misty views, or just soak up the surroundings.

July 7, 2021 10:20 PM

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Adrienne Jordan

A Western-tinged Main Street with colorful shops and a mountain in the background

Weekend Getaways

8 Great Weekend Escapes in Colorado

Skiing in Breckenridge, hiking rock formations in Grand Junction, biking to breweries in Fort Collins—these are a few of our favorite things.

September 11, 2024 11:32 AM

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Bailey Berg

Outdoor Adventure

Why Visiting Sun Valley, Idaho is The Shangri-La of Vacations

In the heart of Sawtooth National Forest, Sun Valley’s outdoor adventures and boutique hotels balance relaxation and rejuvenation for the blissful getaway you need right now.

Sponsored by Visit Sun Valley and written by Hans Aschim

Two people wearing robes on a deck outside of a sauna surrounded by trees and snow in Minnesota.

Health + Wellness

This State Is a Must-Visit for Winter Wellness

Cozy up with sauna sessions, snow trails, and scenic dining along Minnesota’s lakes.

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