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This week on Travel Tales by Afar, Jaymee Sire, podcast host of Food Network Obsessed, trades tasting menus for throttle grips at the legendary Sturgis Motorcyle Rally.

Like many other Philly institutions, the Philadelphia Zoo is America’s first. It opened in 1874 and encompasses over 40 acres of gardens and exhibits, featuring more than 1,300 animals, including many rare and endangered species. Visitors may need a full day to explore the many exhibits and attractions, and should consider reserving a guided tour to get the most out of their visit. One of the most popular and unique activities is the Zoo Balloon, a tethered hot air balloon that soars 400 feet over the zoo grounds, with spectacular views of the nearby Schuylkill River, Fairmount Park and the Philly skyline. The balloon flies from May through October, weather permitting; check the home page of the zoo’s website on the morning of your visit to see the balloon’s status. The kids can get up close and personal with a variety of creatures at KidZooU, the new children’s zoo and wildlife education center which offers both indoor and outdoor learning experiences. American history and architecture buffs should look for the Frank Furness designed Victorian gates and gatehouses, as well as a very historic home located on the zoo grounds, known as The Solitude. Built in 1784 by John Penn, grandson of William Penn, the Solitude house is a lovely neoclassical manor house and is the only original Penn home remaining in the US. The zoo is open daily from 9:30 to 4.

It may be only 22 miles west of San Juan, but Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve feels a world away. The resort has a spectacular location on a three-mile stretch of beach on Puerto Rico’s north shore, where Clara Livingston once ran a sugar plantation—and Amelia Earhart visited before departing for her fateful world tour. In 1958, Livingston sold the property to Laurance S. Rockefeller, who turned it into the first of his legendary Rock Resorts. Known for his green streak, he designed the hotel to respect the local beauty, mandating that buildings could not be taller than the surrounding palm trees.

The Ritz-Carlton—which reopened in October 2018 after a meticulous restoration following Hurricane Maria—pays homage to that original vision. Here, every room is beachfront, with floor-to-ceiling sliding doors that disappear into ocean views, plus deep soaking tubs, outdoor showers shaded by gardens, and either spacious balconies or private plunge pools. As part of the property’s renovation, rooms were refreshed with a color palette that amplifies the natural beauty just beyond the doors. Additionally, the grounds showcase 3,000 new plant species, the spa is offering new locally inspired treatments and cuisine, Encanto Beach Club Bar & Grill features a refreshed dinner menu, and the Positivo Sandbar debuted an omakase and ceviche bar directly on the sand. There’s even an entirely reimagined signature restaurant, Coa, which serves farm-to-table fare cooked on the grill. Still standing strong on the verdant, 1,400-acre grounds are the five 18-hole championship golf courses. The biggest challenge is pulling yourself away from the luxury of the resort to tee up a shot.

From rivers and trails to gardens and parks, come enjoy seasonal fun and local flavors across the Richmond Region.

See Jamaica’s natural beauty, from waterfalls to bioluminescent lagoons, enjoy spa treatments, and savor local cuisine with this five-day itinerary.

I awoke at 6:30 this morning to find this view greeting me from our 12th floor balcony. This is looking eastward across Memorial Drive and Buffalo Bayou Park toward the Houston downtown skyline just about an hour before sunrise. Waking up at this hour every morning to see what uniquely beautiful view the dawn has to offer has become my ritual. So far, no two have been quite the same. A larger version of the photo can be seen by following the link below to my online gallery.

Experience autumn in Richmond with scenic walks, seasonal festivals, local dining, and colorful gardens across the city.

Travel through the Netherlands, Germany, France, and Switzerland for local flavors, incredible history, and more along this legendary river

Free your inner trailblazer on a thrilling six-day tour of Saguenay Fjord, Charlevoix, and the Québec City area, all along this magnificent river’s north coast.

A luxury cruise through four countries, featuring historic sites, charming towns, and scenic river views.

From steam trains and stargazing to mineral springs and river hikes, this itinerary captures the state’s landscapes and culture.

This week on Travel Tales by Afar, author Bonnie Tsui, swims like a local through the currents of Swiss life and culture.

Embark on a seven-night journey along the majestic Danube River exploring historic cities, stunning landscapes, and cultural treasures in Budapest, Vienna, Slovakia, and beyond.

On this episode of Where to Go, Aislyn Green and Zoe Baillargeon uncover new ways to experience the Columbia River Gorge—from restored historic trails and Mitchell Point tunnels to biodynamic wineries, seasonal glamping, and revitalized hot springs—with practical tips for respectful travel.

Cruise from Amsterdam to Strasbourg, passing castles, vineyards, and charming riverside towns along the way.