Gerrish Lopez

In January, we published our annual ranking of the world’s best cities. To create the list, we quizzed city-dwellers on everything from happiness and nightlife to walkability – and while all these factors are important in making a city great, let’s face it: a city is nothing without its food. From street eats to fine dining, family-run taverns to cutting-edge kitchens, eating and drinking is the backbone of local culture in our cities and the reason many of us choose to travel.  So, in order to figure out the great culinary metropolises of today, we surveyed thousands of people around the world about food in their city. We asked locals to rate their city’s food scene across 18 different criteria, including quality, affordability and attributes from ‘family-friendly’ to ‘experimental’.  Each city was ranked according to quality and affordability ratings, alongside a score from a panel of Time Out food experts – editors, food critics and Time Out Market chefs – who were asked to share their insights into the most exciting cities for food right now. To create the final ranking, we included only the highest-scoring city for each country to ensure the list reflects culinary cities globally. We then asked our global network of food writers to tell us exactly what makes their city such an exciting place to eat right now. The result? A very tasty list indeed. In each of these 20 cities, you’ll find the best of the old-school and the new. There are long-standing street food stalls and

New Orleans is a city that loves to celebrate, and whether it’s food, music, culture or nightlife, this city goes all in. There are so many things to do in New Orleans any time of year. You might think the city takes a break post-Mardi Gras, but think again. From St. Patrick’s Day (and more parades) to St. Joseph’s Day (which brings elaborate altars representing a bounty of food), New Orleans is still celebrating and warming up for peak festival season. These seasonal traditions are a bonus on top of the many other amazing things to do throughout the year. The city’s legendary dining scene is always a focus for culinary explorers, as are the award-winning cocktail bars and legendary neighborhood dives. New Orleans’ music calendar is packed, so you can dance the night away to whatever you’re into, from jazz, blues and brass to funk, soul or hip-hop. History buffs will find plenty of stories throughout the city, from museums and historic homes to cemeteries and neighborhoods. The unique art and architecture of New Orleans is a feast for the eyes, and outdoor activities abound. Here are some of the best things to do in New Orleans to soak up the culture and flavors of this vibrant city. This guide was updated by New Orleans-based writer Gerrish Lopez. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.  RECOMMENDED: Where to stay in New OrleansRECOMMENDED: The best hotels

New Orleans is world-renowned for its food scene, with must-dine restaurants located all throughout the city. The French Quarter is no exception, with a concentration of eateries ranging from iconic to trendy. From classic Creole dishes and fresh Gulf seafood to overstuffed po’boys and international flavors, this one-square-mile neighborhood delivers. With so many options, it can be hard to choose, but here are some of the best restaurants in the French Quarter for a legendary dining experience. The historic French Quarter is home to elegant, old-school restaurants with white-tablecloth service, but there’s still room for buzzy newcomers. You can sample the city’s rich culinary heritage at the country’s oldest continually-operating restaurant or check out newer spots that have received well-deserved accolades. Many of these spots also boast excellent cocktail programs, worth a visit for drinks alone. When you’re done touring the can’t-miss attractions in the Quarter, you can settle in for an amazing meal at any of these restaurants. Don’t worry about the calories, you can dance them off at a jazz club when you’re done. RECOMMENDED:🍴 The best restaurants in New Orleans🎷 The best spots to see jazz in New Orleans🍻 The best bars in New Orleans📍 The best things to do in New Orleans🏘️ The best neighborhoods in New Orleans This guide was updated by New Orleans-based writer Gerrish Lopez. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities in

People who don’t live in cities will tell you they’re busy, lonely and expensive places. But there’s a reason so many people choose to live in them: with world-class art and culture, unbeatable food and nightlife, buzzing neighbourhoods and a dizzying amount of stuff to do and see, there’s simply no better place to be.  Every year, we take the pulse of city living by quizzing thousands of locals across the planet about life in their hometowns. This year, more than 18,500 city-dwellers shared their insights on everything from food, nightlife and culture to affordability, happiness and the overall city vibe. When urban living can sometimes feel isolating and costly, this year we wanted to get a sense of what, exactly, makes a city feel like home. Sure, the nightlife is great, but is the city safe and walkable? Is good quality food and art available at a reasonable price? Is it easy to make friends, find love, and access nature?  Livability was a key factor in our ranking this year. But a great city to live in is, naturally, a great city to visit. So, along with the thousands of responses from locals around the world, we asked Time Out’s global network of city experts to vote on the places they think are particularly exciting right now. After crunching all that data, here we are: Time Out’s definitive ranking of the world’s best cities in 2025. Read on to see how your hometown fared… RECOMMENDED:🛍️ The coolest neighbourhoods in the world right now🌎 The best things to do in the

There’s nothing like waking up to the rich aroma of chicory coffee and the promise of a great meal. In New Orleans, breakfast is as revered as any other meal—it’s a celebration of bold flavors and culinary tradition. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple pastry and café au lait or a feast of praline bacon, pecan waffles and eggs Benedict, there’s no shortage of ways to start your day right. The best breakfast spots in New Orleans deliver. Cozy neighborhood cafés, bustling diners and legendary restaurants serve up everything from classic Southern comfort food to inventive, locally inspired creations. You’ll find influences from Creole, French and Italian cuisines woven into every menu, whether it’s in a plate of shrimp and grits, a fluffy omelet packed with Gulf seafood or a warm beignet fresh from the fryer. So, rise and shine—these top breakfast spots are worth getting out of bed for (but if you need more time, there's always brunch). RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in New Orleans

If you're visiting New Orleans, you're sure to find a hotel that suits your vibe, but choosing a neighborhood is also a big decision. The French Quarter is, of course, iconic, but there are several other charming neighborhoods that will give you a look into what makes the city tick. Whether you're into nightlife or a quiet escape, here's where to stay in New Orleans. Each area of the city offers a different slice of that signature New Orleans soul, from the bohemian Bywater to the elegant Garden District. Find an artsy, unique edge with live music and divey bars and restaurants in the Marigny, or stay among historic mansions, family-run restaurants and iconic attractions in Uptown and the Garden District. And for a serious local vibe, Mid-City offers a down-to-earth mix that’ll have you feeling like an insider in no time. Wherever you choose to stay, remember that New Orleans is best experienced at a leisurely pace. Let the music, food and culture sweep you up. Pick your perfect neighborhood, soak it all in and get ready for a New Orleans adventure you won’t soon forget. 🏨 The best hotels in New Orleans💰 The best cheap hotels in New Orleans

Live music is a way of life in New Orleans—it is the birthplace of jazz, after all. The live music calendar at clubs around the city is packed every night of the week with local musicians of all genres. Festivals, large and small, celebrate local and regional music, from zydeco and blues to funk and brass. But there’s something special about hearing jazz—both old-school and contemporary—in the city where it all began. There are many places to hear jazz in New Orleans; here are the spots where you can fully immerse yourself. Whether you prefer smooth contemporary jazz or the toe-tapping energy of a traditional jazz band, there’s always a spot to catch a set. Legendary local artists like Kermit Ruffins, Jeremy Davenport, Doreen Ketchens and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band keep the scene alive, performing in intimate lounges and historic venues across town, while up-and-comers are given the spotlight to shine. After dining at a top restaurant, dancing the night away to the sweet sounds of jazz is the best way to burn off those calories. RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in New Orleans🍻 The best bars in New Orleans🍴 The best restaurants in New Orleans🏘️ The best neighborhoods in New Orleans🏨 The best hotels in New Orleans This guide was updated by New Orleans-based writer Gerrish Lopez. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

Atlanta attracts a mix of leisure and business travelers throughout the year, so you know it’s always bustling with activity. From historic landmarks and lush green parks to world-class museums and a vibrant nightlife scene, the best things to do in Atlanta will please everyone (kids, too). Atlanta has done well to preserve its history and culture, from its arts and industry to music and theater, not to mention the history of the Civil Rights movement. Once you’ve explored all that Atlanta has to offer, dive into the city’s culinary offerings, where you’ll find a slew of renowned bars and restaurants ranging from local favorites to ones with a coveted Michelin star. No matter what you choose to do, Atlanta guarantees a fun time.  At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. RECOMMENDED:🍽️ The best restaurants in Atlanta🍷 The best bars in Atlanta 🐟 The best things to do with kids in Atlanta🏛️ The best attractions in Atlanta 🌳 The best treehouse Airbnbs in Atlanta🏠 The best Airbnb cabins in Atlanta

New Orleans is a city where cultures collide in the most delicious way possible. Its food scene is a bold, flavorful blend of French, Spanish, Italian, African and Caribbean influences. This combo is reflected not just in its iconic dishes, but in every corner of the city. From old-school favorites to trendsetting newcomers and cherished neighborhood spots, the best restaurants in New Orleans offer an unforgettable culinary journey. This is the place to savor classics like gumbo, jambalaya, po’boys and beignets at the very institutions that made them famous. But the city’s dining scene doesn’t stop there—expect a vibrant mix of global flavors, from Haitian and West African to Vietnamese and Honduran. Whether you're indulging in a white-tablecloth experience or grabbing a bite at a hole-in-the-wall joint, one thing is certain: every meal here is a celebration. RECOMMENDED:🍸 The best bars in New Orleans🍩 The best beignets in New Orleans🍳 The best brunch in New Orleans📍 The best things to do in New Orleans🏨 The best hotels in New Orleans

Surrounded by the sea and towering mountains—and with some of the mildest weather in Canada to boot—Vancouver is justifiably high on the list of must-visit destinations. Canada’s western metropolis ticks all the boxes, from inspiring nature to fascinating history, with a conveyor belt of bars, restaurants (many recently getting the Michelin nod), beaches and indoor and outdoor attractions. Long story short? Vancouver is brilliant. Follow our guide to the best things to do in Vancouver and see why this Canadian city truly lives up to the hype. RECOMMENDED: 🍔 The best restaurants in Vancouver🎡 The best attractions in Vancouver🏨 The best hotels in Vancouver🏠The best Airbnbs in Vancouver

Let’s face it—by the time your kid is a teen, they’re not interested in summer camps that feature finger painting and juice breaks. Active, adventurous camps for teens are a better fit, as are college prep programs that can help them prepare for the next big step in their educational journey. These camps for teens in NYC range from fashion camps and sailing camps to intensive, college-level programs in journalism and art. If you’re looking for somewhere to send your teen this summer, here are some great options that are both fun and fulfilling and can help them get on the right track for college.

Super Bowl LIX is coming to town this February, and along with it comes a starry slew of parties, concerts, experiences, activations and fun-filled watch parties at bars around town. The Big Game—with Kendrick Lamar headlining the halftime show—kicks off at 6:30pm (local time) on February 9, but the fun starts well in advance. Even better? New Orleans will be in full carnival mode, decked out in purple, green and gold with all the standard celebrations leading up to Mardi Gras and plenty of king cake to go around. If you’re not lucky enough to snag tickets to the game, don’t sweat it. New Orleans knows how to throw a party. From epic tailgates to citywide celebrations, there will be no shortage of ways to revel in the festivities. Here are the best events happening Super Bowl weekend in New Orleans, with plenty more to come. Between events, be sure to check out all the top restaurants, bars and things to do in New Orleans while you’re here.

Back for its 14th dazzling year, Garden Lights, Holiday Nights glows even brighter with the world’s largest synchronized light and sound curtain, "Nature’s Wonders." This year, the event brings even more magical vibes with new music, new choreography and more lights. Plus, sculptures from Alice’s Wonderland Returns will be lit dramatically, including the towering White Rabbit and the grinning Cheshire Cat.

The Fernbank Museum comes alive after hours for the holiday season as WildWoods: Aglow makes its annual return. Glowing displays are installed throughout the natural flora and fauna, creating a magical, zen-like wonderland. Hear original musical compositions as you walk through glowing garden towers, projections of nocturnal wildlife, larger-than-life incandescent mushrooms and more.

This might be the most thrilling interpretation yet of the holiday classic. This is The Night Before Christmas as only Cirque du Soleil could imagine. The troupe’s first-ever holiday production, it’s a whirlwind holiday magic and festive fun that is sure to become standard holiday fare.

Urban Trivia puts a fresh spin on the classic trivia game, focusing on the latest and greatest in black culture. The game has been such a smash hit that the creators are taking it on the road with a live show. It’s a wild ride that celebrates black culture and will test the audience’s knowledge with tons of laughs on the side.

Experience the magic of the holiday season and shop for all your friends and family at the Euro-style Christkindl Market in the Buckhead Village District. There will be traditional German festivities with a dose of Atlanta spirit. This is old-world charm that’s just right for the season, with culinary delights and handcrafted treasures galore.

Touring the world for the first time since 2019, the Prince of Pop is making a welcome stop in Atlanta. Get ready to rock your body to all the hits, as one of the most celebrated voices in pop heads out in support of his latest album. From Cry Me a River to his newest single, “Selfish,” you know Justin Timberlake will bring the energy to this show.

Fans of Wicked won’t want to miss this chance to celebrate the release of the new movie. It’s a drag brunch retelling of the story of Oz, with musical numbers from The Wizard of Oz, The Wiz and Wicked. The show features Boy Howdy, EllaSaurus Rex, Guyza Manelli, Hera Kane, Molly ALXNDR and Yutoya Avaze Leon.

A royal ghost drops some late-night gossip, and suddenly Denmark's royal family is doomed. Caught in the chaos, Hamlet spirals into an existential crisis—pondering life, love, death and revenge like only a moody prince can. Come see why this tragic masterpiece still reigns supreme as the greatest play of all time.

The Grammy-nominated guitar virtuoso known for his electrifying solo career and roles in Vulfpeck and Fearless Flyers, drops by The Eastern on his latest tour. He’s been playing sold-out shows around the world, making a name for himself through content creation and fostering collabs with the likes of Apple and CBS.gerr

A round of golf in Truist Park? Yes, this once-in-a-lifetime golfing experience is happening in the legendary home of the Braves. Hit tee shots from the upper deck to custom greens on the field below. A clubhouse festival—featuring music, food, beer and golf challenges—bookends your round of golf.

If you love the 1964 stop-motion animated special, you’ll love this puppet production. Follow Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Hermey the Elf as they set off on a merry adventure, tailed by the Abominable Snow Monster. It’s a holiday tradition that will warm the hearts of misfits of all ages.

Back for its 14th dazzling year, Garden Lights, Holiday Nights glows even brighter with the world’s largest synchronized light and sound curtain, "Nature’s Wonders." This year, the event brings even more magical vibes with new music, new choreography and more lights. Plus, sculptures from Alice’s Wonderland Returns will be lit dramatically, including the towering White Rabbit and the grinning Cheshire Cat. 

A U.S. government shutdown is starting as soon as this week, but upcoming travel is likely safe. While a shutdown might sound dramatic, history shows that it takes time before travel is seriously affected. Flights and cruises are unlikely to be affected in the short term. Even though funding for agencies like the TSA, FAA and Customs and Border Protection would be frozen, the essential personnel—security agents, air traffic controllers and customs officers—will still be on duty. That means flights will take off, passports will be stamped and your spring break trip won’t be grounded. If the shutdown drags on, however, those unpaid workers might stop showing up. In 2019, after two weeks without pay, TSA agents and air traffic controllers began skipping work, leading to massive security lines and flight delays. If this shutdown stretches long enough, expect potential disruptions at airports. The State Department says consular services, including passport and visa processing, will continue—so long as there are enough fees to fund them. That means you can still apply for travel documents, but expect possible slowdowns. National parks could also close. In previous shutdowns, some parks closed entirely, while others stayed open but lacked maintenance staff. That led to overflowing trash cans, unsupervised trails, and closed visitor centers. The worse news is that while your vacation might go as planned, the travel economy could take a $1 billion-per-week hit, according to the U.S. T

The Trump administration is finalizing a new travel ban that would be broader than the ones issued during Trump’s first term. The ban, enacted under an executive order titled "Protecting the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other," aims to prevent individuals deemed as national security risks from entering the U.S. As reported by The New York Times, this directive tasks Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Attorney General Pam Bondi, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard with identifying countries for restriction within 60 days. The latest reports suggest a draft recommendation includes a “red list” of nations whose citizens would be completely barred from U.S. entry. The countries named so far include Sudan, Venezuela, Somalia, Syria, Yemen, Iran, Libya, Cuba and North Korea, with Pakistan and Afghanistan expected to be added. While the administration justifies this policy as necessary for national security, it raises concerns about its impact on refugees and individuals who have already been vetted for U.S. entry. The proposal could affect tens of thousands of Afghans who assisted the U.S. during the 20-year war and now face Taliban retribution. It remains unclear whether those with existing visas, green cards or special immigrant visas would be exempt. The order also introduces "orange" and "yellow" categories for countries facing less severe restrictions. Nations coded as orange would have limited access, while

The Trump administration has repurposed a government-issued mobile application, CBP One, into a platform that allows undocumented migrants in the U.S. to submit an "intent to depart." Now rebranded as CBP Home, the app aims to provide a voluntary departure option to migrants, allowing them to leave the country without facing harsher immigration consequences. According to the Department of Homeland Security, the app is designed to give individuals the opportunity to exit the country on their own terms, rather than risk detention and deportation. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that migrants who utilize the app "may still have the opportunity to return legally in the future and live the American dream." However, she also warned that those who do not voluntarily leave "will be found, deported and never return." The app requires users to confirm whether they have sufficient financial resources to leave the U.S. and possess a valid passport. However, further details on the logistical aspects of the self-deportation process have not been provided. CBP Home is part of a broader shift in U.S. immigration policy under the Trump administration, which has included an increase in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids, the suspension of parole programs, and the establishment of a national registry for undocumented migrants. The administration has also launched a $200 million campaign to encourage undocumented individuals to either stay out of the country or leave

Washington, D.C. is about to throw one of the biggest Pride celebrations yet. This summer, Jennifer Lopez and Troye Sivan are headlining the WorldPride Music Festival at RFK Festival Grounds on June 6 and 7 alongside a mind-blowing lineup of talent for the ultimate global dance party. The festival is the crown jewel of WorldPride 2025, a three-week, citywide celebration that lands in D.C. after stops in Sydney, Rome, Madrid, New York and others. This year’s event is even more special, marking the 50th anniversary of Pride in the nation’s capital while honoring the city’s legacy as a hub for activism and LGBTQ+ rights. Produced by Dreamland's Jake Resnicow—named one of OUT100's Most Influential LGBTQ People of the Year—in partnership with Capital Pride and Club Glow, the East Coast's longest-running electronic music promoter, the event is set to be a showcase for LGBTQ+ culture and music. And it wouldn’t be a proper Pride party without an all-star lineup. Expect performances from Grimes, Tinashe, Kim Petras, Zedd, Raye, Rita Ora, Marina, Sofi Tukker, Galantis, and Purple Disco Machine, plus appearances from icons like Paris Hilton and RuPaul. Beyond the music, festival-goers can immerse themselves in cutting-edge art installations and interactive experiences that showcase LGBTQ+ culture in all its vibrant glory. Proceeds from the event will benefit Capital Pride Alliance and other local LGBTQ+ organizations. “WorldPride Music Festival is a moment the world will remember,” says

A new study has revealed where you can find the best-tasting tap water in the world, and when it comes to the U.S., a few key locations stand out. After analyzing nearly 2,000 Reddit comments from communities such as r/HydroHomies, the medical travel insurance experts at AllClear pinpointed the destinations where travelers rave about refreshingly crisp tap water. So, where can you ditch the bottled water and opt for the tap? According to Reddit users, New York City takes the crown. The city’s water—sourced from the Catskills—is not only celebrated by locals but also frequently praised by visitors. Many claim it’s the secret ingredient behind NYC’s legendary bagels and pizza. Beyond the Big Apple, the Pacific Northwest is a hotspot for delicious drinking water. Washington and Oregon receive glowing reviews, with Seattle’s tap water particularly beloved. One Redditor put it simply: “I never had 'good' tap water until I moved to Washington state.” In Oregon, Portlanders are so devoted to their tap water that some say it’s one of the reasons they’ll never move. San Francisco also stands out, thanks to its Hetch Hetchy reservoir, delivering pristine water from Yosemite. Other honorable mentions include Colorado’s crisp Rocky Mountain water, Michigan’s Lake Michigan supply and Anchorage’s fresh Alaskan tap. Baton Rouge, Louisiana emerges as an unexpected but celebrated contender. For eco-conscious travelers looking to skip the plastic, these cities offer the ultimate hydration expe

New Orleans is no doubt one of the world’s greatest food cities. Food is culture here, and while it seems cliche, it does bring people together. Locals patronize their favorite restaurants—ones that have been around for generations—and often pass the time talking about culinary memories and future feasts. Visitors plan their itineraries around their stomach space, checking off bucket-list restaurants for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Festivals throughout the year celebrate everything from gumbo and beignets to crawfish and creole tomatoes. The food, like the city, reflects a melding of cultures, from African and Caribbean to French, Spanish, Italian and Vietnamese. Creole and Cajun flavors dominate, and everything mixes in delicious harmony. From historic white tablecloth restaurants to classic hole-in-the-wall institutions, you’ll experience the flavors and rhythms of the city at every meal. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in New Orleans One would have to spend a couple of weeks in New Orleans to really cover all the must-try dishes. Plus, some local favorites like raw oysters and crawfish are seasonal, limiting the window for enjoying the best of the best. And trying an iconic dish in the city is about the where as much as the what—gumbo at a fine dining restaurant is a completely different experience than gumbo at a neighborhood joint or at a festival, which just goes to show you how much culture is associated with each dish. The city has enjoyed an influx of new flavors

In case you haven't heard, Girl Scout Cookie season got a serious upgrade with the new Thin Mints Frosty at Wendy's, and now you can get one for free. This limited-time treat blends a classic Chocolate or Vanilla Frosty with a rich, minty cookie crumble sauce inspired by the iconic Girl Scout Thin Mints. It’s creamy, chocolatey and refreshingly cool. It's a dream come true for Thin Mint lovers, and fans have been raving about it. This new Frosty drop was perfectly timed for National Girl Scout Cookie season, and now you can snag one for free. In honor of National Girl Scout Day on March 12, Wendy’s is giving away free small Thin Mints Frosty treats with any purchase—exclusively through the Wendy’s app. But that's not all Wendy's is dishing out for free: don't miss their St. Patrick's giveaway either—on March 17 you can get a free hot and crispy fries with any purchase in the Wendy's app, and word on the street is fries and a Thin Mints Frosty make for a pretty sweet combo. Thin Mint fans, don’t sleep on this one—like Girl Scout Cookie season, this Frosty flavor won’t last forever, so mark your calendars and snag your free Frosty on March 12.

Think money buys happiness? Not quite. Research shows that while financial stability matters, earning beyond $75,000 a year doesn’t boost happiness much. The U.S. is one of the richest countries in the world, yet it ranks only 23rd on the World Happiness Report. So what’s the secret to happiness? A recent WalletHub study crunched the numbers across 180+ cities, ranking them based on factors like well-being, job security and community ties. Turns out the Golden State is a pretty happy place to be. Not only did five California cities rank in the top ten, the top three are all California: Fremont, San Jose and Irvine, in that order. If happiness had a zip code, it might be in Fremont, CA. Nearly 80% of households rake in over $75,000 a year. But it’s not just about paychecks. Fremont boasts the nation’s highest life satisfaction rate, one of the lowest depression rates and the longest-lasting marriages (divorce rate: just 8.9%). People here take care of themselves mentally and physically, and they care for each other too—Fremont ranks sixth among the most caring cities in America. Second place goes to San Jose, where residents enjoy the longest life expectancy in the U.S. They also score high on well-being indexes that measure everything from neighborhood pride to personal safety. With a divorce rate among the lowest in the country and over 72% of households earning $75,000+, financial and emotional stability go hand in hand here. Irvine takes third place, thanks to its obsessio

There's something special about getting an unexpected upgrade, whether on a flight or at a hotel. After a long day of travel, what's better than finding out you've got a bigger room or a pile of perks to enjoy during your stay? Ahead of St. Patrick’s Day, Casino.org analyzed data from over 40,000 properties across 15 major hotel brands in the U.S. and Canada to determine "luckiest" hotel chains, i.e. the brands that are most likely to dole out free upgrades, perks and VIP treatment. Using data scraping techniques, they scanned reviews from TripAdvisor, Booking.com and Trivago for phrases like "free upgrade," "complimentary suite" and "unexpected upgrade" to crown the winners. Wyndham Hotels takes the top spot, with a staggering 1 in 22 guests receiving a surprise room boost. With brands like Travelodge, La Quinta and Caesars Palace Las Vegas under its belt, it’s no wonder Wyndham leads the pack—especially with Vegas in the mix. Coming in second is Highgate Hotels (think Marriott, DoubleTree and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino), where 1 in 24 guests report landing a free upgrade. If you’re a fan of stylish stays and rockstar treatment, this might be your best bet. But if you’re checking into a Choice Hotels International property (like Radisson), don’t hold your breath—your odds of an upgrade drop to just 1 in 250 guests. So, if you’re feeling lucky, aim for Wyndham or Highgate on your next booking. You never know—you might just land that dream suite without spending an extra dime. H

Hey pizza lovers: you’ve seen roundups of the best pizzerias in the world, but Time Out has just revealed a list of singularly standout pizzas—pies that deserve all the accolades as shining examples of everything a pizza should be, regardless of style. This isn’t a list of where to go for pizza, it’s a list of THE pizzas you have to try. Time Out’s editors compiled this list of the best pizzas in the world, and three in the U.S. made the list. Of course one high-ranking pizza can be found in NYC, arguably one of the best cities for pizza. A simple slice of cheese pizza can be life-changing, and the experts have determined that Scarr’s Pizza is the place to have that experience. This Lower East side spot comes in at number two in the world with its big slices made with an exceptional dough that’s perfect for folding and eating on the go. At No. 11 on the list is Milly’s Pizza in the Pan in Chicago. The deep-dish style pizza is deemed to represent "the pinnacle of Chicago’s most iconic dish." The Untitled No. 1 features zesty pepperoni, jalapeños and fresh mozzarella. Each pie has a crispy caramelized crust, as the dough is baked with a ring of mozzarella around it. Combining old-school techniques and trendy new flavors, Miami’s Eleventh Street Pizza is ranked 14th. The Hot Honey Sicilian features organic Bianco DiNapoli tomatoes, mozzarella, pepperoni, roasted red onion, and that oh-so-popular sweet and spicy topping, here made with Calabrian chili paste and honey. Update your

If you feel more at ease when lounging on the shore, you’re not imagining it. Science backs up the idea that being by water makes us happier, reduces anxiety and promotes a sense of calm. But can some bodies of water be more happiness-inducing than others? London-based travel agency CV Villas thinks so, and has conducted a study to prove it. Of all the beaches in the U.S., Cannon Beach in Oregon was deemed the happiest. RECOMMENDED: The best beaches in the U.S. Using AWS Facial Recognition software, the company analyzed thousands of Instagram photos tagged at over 100 beaches worldwide to determine which locations produce the most smiles. While Spain’s Sitges Beach claimed the top spot globally, Cannon Beach ranked number one in the U.S., scoring an impressive 89.11 out of 100 on the happiness scale. Visitors to Cannon Beach probably already know the joyful effects of this oceanfront beauty. Home to the iconic Haystack Rock, this stretch of the Pacific Northwest coastline is a natural masterpiece. Think misty shores, dramatic rock formations and tide pools teeming with marine life. A colony of tufted puffins even nests there annually. Beyond the beach, visitors can explore hiking trails, browse art galleries, and enjoy local seafood and microbreweries in the town’s charming coastal village. While CV Villas didn't reveal exactly how the tech determined happiness levels, it measured “positive facial expressions” to assign each location a happiness score. And with breathtaking s

In a bid for survival, Walgreens Boots Alliance has agreed to go private. The struggling pharmacy giant has struck a deal with private equity firm Sycamore Partners, which will shell out nearly $10 billion for the company. The announcement comes at a time when retailers around the country are struggling, and U.S. retail closures are expected to exceed openings again this year. This acquisition gives Walgreens the flexibility to make changes without having to appease shareholders. The company has been battling razor-thin prescription reimbursements, soaring costs, theft and budget-conscious shoppers heading elsewhere for deals. Walgreens has undertaken a massive restructuring, including closing 1,200 of its 8,500 U.S. stores. That’s on top of the 1,000 locations it has already closed since 2018. Then there’s Walgreens’ ambitious health care expansion—now under review. The company had gone all-in on VillageMD clinics, but last August, it hinted at selling all or part of the business, just two years after pouring billions into it. Competitors like CVS, Walmart and Kroger are still in the game, proving that the pharmacy business isn’t completely dead—just evolving. Walgreens’ deal with Sycamore is a high-stakes play that the company hopes will lead to a serious comeback.