AFAR Search

The Smithsonian’s Newest Docent Is a Robot That Speaks Swahili

She’s part of an army of android ambassador who will field visitors’ frequently asked questions, tell stories, play games, and, of course, pose for selfies.

April 30, 2018 03:04 PM

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Matthew Phenix

Restaurants + Cafés

Eating in the South’s Next Great Food Destination

While the world swoons over New Orleans and Charleston, the port cities of Virginia’s Tidewater region have created a one-of-a-kind cooking that’s ready for its close-up.

July 10, 2017 07:23 PM

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John T. Edge

Books

Frances Mayes Will Never Tire of the Tuscan Sun

The doyenne of central Italy speaks—and what she has to say might surprise you.

July 16, 2020 11:04 AM

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Katherine LaGrave

A serene setting combining the Arizona Biltmore’s distinctive architecture with a desert backdrop

Hotels

How This Hotel’s Stunning Architecture and Rich Legacy Make for a Dream Getaway

Almost a century since it was born, this iconic hotel continues to wow guests with its Frank Lloyd Wright heritage, 22,000-square-foot spa, and world-class amenities.

Sponsored by Arizona Biltmore

Hiking + Cycling

Now Is Your Chance to Bike Across the Country

Search and State’s (new) annual cross-country ride is about to kick off, and you’re welcome to join.

May 31, 2017 07:24 PM

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Maggie Fuller

History + Culture

Inside Tokyo’s Buddhist Temple Devoted to “Lucky” Cats

Located in the Setagaya district, Tokyo’s Gotokuji Temple honors “maneki-neko”—a feline figurine that symbolizes good fortune, according to Japanese legend.

July 10, 2019 04:47 PM

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Sarah Buder

Switzerland-Charming-Towns-SteinAmRhein-Nataliia-Gr-Shutterstock.jpg

Where to Travel Next

4 Charming Small Towns in Switzerland Every Traveler Should Visit

Immerse yourself in medieval history or retreat to a mountaintop.

September 15, 2022 11:38 AM

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Melanie Haiken

In Russia, you don’t put your shot glass down until you’ve emptied it.

Travel Tips + Etiquette

Bar Exam: How to Drink Like a Local in 20 Countries

What may seem like normal bar behavior in the United States might not be acceptable elsewhere. Here’s a rundown of drinking etiquette in countries around the world.

March 9, 2018 08:25 PM

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Chris Ciolli

Water Sports

Swim for Supper on Your Next Florida Trip, Where Scallops Are on the Menu

Firm and sweet Florida bay scallops aren’t sold in stores or served at restaurants. If you want to taste them, you’ll have to earn it.

July 14, 2020 02:02 PM

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Julie H. Case

Books

6 Lessons Pico Iyer Has Learned From Living in Japan

In his new book, the famed travel writer reflects on the details of daily life in his adopted home country and shares some of his insights with AFAR.

November 14, 2019 03:22 PM

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Anna Mazurek

Restaurants + Cafés

In Milan, Pastry Chefs Are Reclaiming Italy’s Traditional Christmas Cake

Move over, supermarket panettone—Milanese pastry chefs are reinventing the country’s famous yuletide fruitcake in delicious ways.

September 12, 2019 11:49 AM

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Serena Renner

Outdoor Adventure

This Small City Is One of Canada’s Best-Kept Secrets

With outdoor adventure and wine tours galore, Kelowna is also one of the country’s most accessible cities.

July 7, 2022 04:01 PM

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Lisa Kadane

The sail-shaped Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, left, is surrounded by the blue waters of the Arabian Gulf. Jumeirah Al Naseem, right, is located right on the beach nearby.

Hotels

These Luxury Dubai Hotels Double as a Wildlife Sanctuary

Dubai’s sail-shaped Burj Al Arab and its sleek sister property, Jumeirah Al Naseem, are home to the Middle East’s first turtle rehabilitation project.

January 28, 2024 08:00 AM

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Nicola Chilton

Drone panorama of pier in beach in Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

International Beaches

9 Beautiful Beaches in Turks and Caicos—and Where to Stay Once You’re There

Turks and Caicos is known for having some of the world’s best beaches—here’s where you can find the best of the best.

July 30, 2023 02:37 PM

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Becca Blond

Air Travel News

Istanbul’s Massive New Airport Will Eventually Be Bigger Than Manhattan

Now that Atatürk International Airport is officially closed, Istanbul Airport is fully operational.

April 12, 2019 02:01 PM

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Lyndsey Matthews

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