AFAR Search

Europe’s First Urban Quiet Park Is Finally Here

Just a few miles from Trafalgar Square, Hampstead Heath offers visitors 790 peaceful acres to escape the noise of the city and tune in to the sounds of a pristine green space.

July 19, 2021 04:39 PM

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Mae Hamilton

Fish swim in a blue and purple ocean as a scuba diver's bubbles rise.

Spring 2023

Costa Rica Is Making Big Moves to Protect Its Waters. Is It Working?

In 2021, Costa Rica made headlines when it committed to increasing protection for the waters surrounding Cocos Island National Park. In reality, things are far more complicated.

April 17, 2023 04:00 PM

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Mona Gable

10 Must-Visit Historical Places Around the World

History + Culture

12 Must-Visit Historical Sites Around the World

If you’ll travel far and wide to be awed by a UNESCO World Heritage site, make sure you have these major attractions on your list.

March 7, 2024 08:22 AM

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Casey Hatfield-Chiotti

Trains

Japan Railways Launches New Luxury Train in Kyushu

The 36+3 sightseeing train joins the Seven Stars sleeper train in Kyushu, adding five new routes to Japan’s southernmost main island.

November 5, 2020 06:09 PM

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Lyndsey Matthews

Quizzes

Quiz: Where Should You Eat in Charleston?

Ready to dig into the Holy City’s famous food culture? Take this quiz to find out which of the city’s culinary gems are right for you.

Sponsored by Explore Charleston

A person harvesting wild golden chanterelle mushrooms in the forest

Outdoor Adventure

After a Record Winter of Rain, California Is Experiencing a “Super Shroom”

California’s super bloom season gets a remix: Here’s where to forage, plus some fun(gi) tips for experiencing the bounty of edible mushrooms.

March 23, 2023 11:57 AM

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Mae Hamilton

The U.S. government had a beta test of an online passport renewal system, but it's been paused indefinitely.

Visas + Passports

Yes, You Can Renew Your U.S. Passport Online—if You Meet These Requirements

Renewing your U.S. passport online takes less than 15 minutes. Here’s how to do it.

November 4, 2025 08:00 AM

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Sophie Friedman

Hotels We Love

The World’s 19 Most Romantic Hotels

These 19 hotels around the world immerse you in their destinations while carving out space for unhurried time together.

January 30, 2026 12:39 PM

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Jennifer Flowers

A man wearing a green polo shirt, a cream sweater tired around his neck and a cream baseball cap leaning in towards a hotel employee (seen from beyond) wearing a red blazer

As U.S.–Canada relations remain strained, a charming Québec tourist region has launched a campaign of reassurance and acceptance.

July 16, 2025 03:26 PM

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Charmaine Noronha

Cities We Love

10 Reasons to Go to London This Fall

There are plenty of exciting hotel openings, exhibits, and more to discover in the U.K.’s capital from now until the end of the year.

October 12, 2018 08:20 PM

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Lyndsey Matthews

A wooden building surrounded by trees covered in snow and Christmas lights, with a mountain in the background.

Winter Sports

These 7 U.S. Ski Towns Have Schnitzel, Spätzle, and Plenty of European Charm

You’ll be treated to Swiss chalets, fondue, and dramatic, big powder runs at these historic resorts.

January 16, 2026 03:00 PM

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Anna Fiorentino

The views from the Sable Hotel on Chicago's Navy Pier are hard to beat.

Hotels

The Best New Hotels in Chicago

Whether you’re after downtown luxe or an intro to a new neighborhood, we’ve got you covered.

August 4, 2022 12:08 PM

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Elaine Glusac

National Parks

U.S. National Parks Are Getting a Facelift

The Great American Outdoors Act will fund maintenance at national parks and other areas over the next five years.

December 10, 2021 11:44 AM

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Rebecca Reynolds

Family Travel

Holiday Magic Returns to California Theme Parks After a Year Without

Travelers and families who missed out in 2020 are relishing the festivities.

December 2, 2021 07:17 PM

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Michelle Baran

Winter 2023

The Best Places to Travel in 2023

Start planning your 2023 travels to these 12 places—the most creative, delicious, and soul-reviving destinations of the year.

December 1, 2022 09:04 AM

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Tim Chester

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