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The outdoor pool area of Onsen Papawaqa. Green mountains loom in the background.

Hotels

Taiwanese Hot Spring Hotels for Every Kind of Traveler

Taiwan has hundreds of natural hot springs with mineral-rich waters; here’s where to go for a restorative soak.

February 3, 2025 12:41 PM

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Clarissa Wei

Books

28 Independent Bookstores in the U.S. You Should Visit

From a shipping container in Portland, Maine, to the world’s largest indie bookstore in Portland, Oregon, these are Afar staffers’ favorite bookshops.

November 19, 2025 03:21 AM

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Aislyn Greene

Woman with hot pink hair running through a street with street art

Outdoor Adventure

Running Tours Offer a Fun Way to Visit a New Place—Here’s Where to Try Them

The best way to travel is by breaking a sweat.

May 10, 2024 08:39 AM

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Erica Firpo

RIO DE JANEIRO, RJ /BRAZIL - March 8, 2014: World's famous carnival in Rio de Janeiro, samba school parading in Sambadromo, the carnival stadium, with 90000 spectators.

Festivals + Events

The Best Places to Celebrate Mardi Gras, From Alabama to Rio de Janeiro

There’s no party like a New Orleans party, but a bunch of other cities throw unmissable bashes too.

January 23, 2025 12:24 PM

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Jenny Adams

Where to Travel Next

10 Ways to Play—and Relax—in This Dreamy Caribbean Destination

Packed with stunning beaches, adventurous excursions, and delicious dining, the Cayman Islands is an ideal choice for a rejuvenating trip.

Sponsored by The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism

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

Festivals + Events

3 “Ideas” Festivals That Will Melt Your Brain This Summer

In a good way.

May 24, 2022 08:17 PM

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Chloe Arrojado

Clouds covering Cocos Island National Park in Costa Rica.

Outdoor Adventure

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

Cape Town, South Africa, City, Buildings, Table Mountain

Where to Go in Fall

10 Best Places to Travel in November

November is for late harvest festivals and early holiday markets.

September 29, 2025 01:46 PM

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Mark Ellwood

Passengers sitting in the waiting area at an airport gate with their luggage

Air Travel News

Getting Your Money Back from Airlines Is About to Get Much Easier

The U.S. Department of Transportation has issued historic new consumer protection rules for air travelers. Here’s what you need to know.

April 24, 2024 06:50 PM

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Michelle Baran

Travel for Good

Should We Put Away Our Phones When We Travel?

Phones are meant to help us connect, but they can also get in the way. One writer on traveling and allowing her phone to pick up the slack—as long as it’s to a point.

May 18, 2022 12:09 PM

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Kelly Dawson

A white guest room with doors opening to balcony and view of the Eiffel Tower

Hotels We Love

The Paris Hotels Where an Eiffel Tower View Is Actually Worth It

Not all Eiffel Tower views are created equal. These hotels prove why only some are worth the splurge.

September 18, 2025 09:58 AM

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Mary Winston Nicklin

The Royal Isabela is one of many stylish resorts where you can celebrate the season in Puerto Rico.

Holiday Travel

This Caribbean Island is Perfect for a Winter Holiday Escape

Stay warm and celebrate during the cold-weather months with a trip to vibrant Puerto Rico.

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