Destinations

When I moved from the UK to Tokyo, my original plan was to stay for one year. It’s already been seven, for one simple reason: it’s hard not to fall in love with the place. The largest metropolis in the world, the city boasts 23 wards, each with its own specific charm, and it’ll take

Still known by its old name of Saigon for ease, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is Vietnam’s southern metropolis – at times hectic, sometimes overwhelming but always worth exploring. The country’s most internationally-influenced and outward-looking city, it’s a key stop for travelers to Vietnam. But both domestic and foreign travelers sometimes struggle to orient themselves and

As far as capital cities go, San Juan, Puerto Rico is a rare gem that has it all – beautiful beaches, a historic center with architecture dating back to the 16th century, a vibrant arts scene, an increasingly diverse population, and 18 neighborhoods with unique flavors, sounds and sights to discover.  Born and raised in

From its mountainous ridge and rich volcanic soil to the nearby ocean reef, Saint Kitts and Nevis in the northern Leewards of the Caribbean is teeming with natural land and water-based attractions and wildlife. Being a mere 68 square miles (176 square km) in size means everything is conveniently close and easily accessible, whether you

The laidback mountainous landscapes of Chiang Mai are famous for offering a stark contrast to the busy cities and lavish beaches that are the usual Thailand calling cards. Known for breathtaking views, traditional handicrafts and a creative scene of artisans, baristas and chefs, there’s lots to see and do in this ancient Lanna Kingdom capital. 

It’s impossible not to relax in Beaujolais. Calm roads criss-cross through green vineyards, golden-stone villages and forest trails. Throw in a wine-tasting or two and you’ll be breathing more deeply and untensing your shoulders before you know it.  Beaujolais is the perfect destination for independent travelers looking for a quintessentially French experience without hassle. You

Spain has been home for the past 16 years, ever since I moved to its capital Madrid in my early-30s. From day one, it was easy to be charmed by this warm and inviting country. It ticks a lot of boxes in terms of what you’re looking for in a European destination – great cuisine

With eight million people, Bogotá is Colombia’s largest city. Its most vibrant one, too. While such size makes the place sound intimidating, most of Bogotá’s main attractions are in fact located in a handful of key neighborhoods. These areas hug the green mountains that form this high-altitude city’s eastern spine. Stay in the historic area

Mix French charm with West Indian joie de vivre, and you get Martinique, a delightful island in the Lesser Antilles.  Here, rugged volcanic landscapes give way to lush rainforests, soaring peaks and postcard-perfect beaches, with the towering Mont Pelée volcano as a powerful symbol of nature’s might.  From sipping a ti’ punch to diving into

The southern rim of the Caribbean offers the perfect conditions for taking the plunge. In and around the Dutch-speaking islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao (the ABC Islands), the water temperatures are warm year-round, averaging 85°F (29°C). And since the islands sit south of the hurricane belt, you’ll find less extreme weather than in alternative islands

There’s plenty to keep you busy in the town of Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Yet most visitors use the valley as a home base to explore the staggeringly wild and beautiful wider area, too. Two of America’s most famous national parks are within 60 miles (97km) of Jackson Hole, and the history of the American West

In our 5 Shops series, we’ll point you in the direction of our favorite independent shops across some of the world’s best cities. From food markets to bookshops, vintage and homegrown design, we’ve found a diverse and exciting mix of local retailers where you can pick up one-of-a-kind pieces. In Catalonia’s lively capital, a rich

Palm Springs is hot. It’s having its moment in the sun. It’s basking in its own glow. And that’s not even mentioning this desert city’s endless sunshine.  As the Anchor of the Coachella Valley, about a two-hour drive east of Los Angeles, Palm Springs has been both a hideaway and a playground for generations of

Blanketed in mountains and rainforest and lashed by the Roaring 40s winds, Tasmania is a wild place with wild ways. Australia’s island state could not have been better designed for lovers of adventure. The country’s most famous hiking trails are here, along with its most dramatic peaks. Rivers pour through forests thick with moss and

Spain’s third-largest city, sun-soaked Valencia is second to none when it comes to exciting experiences. Over more than 2000 years, its character-filled streets have been shaped by builders who thought big, from the Romans who first landed here in 138 BCE to the contemporary architects who have used the city as a canvas for their

Disneyland is a perennial favorite, and with Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opening soon, its just another reason to check out the magic. We’re as excited as the kids are, but planning a trip to America’s favorite theme park can be stressful. How do you navigate your family through the wonder and magic that is Disneyland while

Thailand is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations and for good reason – there’s an incredible amount to see and do, costs are moderate and the food is out of this world! This Southeast Asian nation has been a must-visit stop for as long as backpackers have been grabbing their backpacks, and with

You may already be plotting next year’s summer holiday. Perhaps you’re looking at places like Greece, Italy and Croatia, but would prefer fewer crowds or more affordable prices. If so, it’s worth skipping over to their beautiful neighbors, Montenegro and Albania. These two Balkan powerhouses – where Adriatic coastlines meet lively small towns and rugged mountains

From nature and history, to culture and cuisine, Denmark has got you covered. Go beyond the ever-so-hip capital Copenhagen, and there’s a wealth of extraordinary sights – enigmatic Viking ruins, rambling medieval castles and show-stopping museums – while charming countryside, sweeping coastline and timeless villages are ready to explore. My connection with this captivating country began more

Here is the truth: Disney World™ in Orlando, Florida is expensive. But, it’s not more (or less) expensive than other bucket list trip. And make no mistake, this is a bucket list experience. It’s a right of passage. At four, my daughter refused to watch movies, but she yet was obsessed with Elsa. So, my