Gerrish Lopez is an avid traveler and freelance writer from New Orleans. For Time Out, she has written about everywhere from Vancouver to New York to Philadelphia and D.C. She also has bylines in USA Today and Thrillist

Gerrish Lopez

Gerrish Lopez

Time Out Contributor

Articles (105)

The most famous restaurants in New Orleans

The most famous restaurants in New Orleans

In a city known for its food, some restaurants are more famous than others. Visitors to New Orleans come prepared with a list of iconic dishes to try—think beignets, po-boys, Bananas Foster, gumbo and red beans and rice—and naturally, some of the most unforgettable versions of these classics hail from some of the city's most legendary restaurants. There are, of course, many cutting-edge, contemporary and under-the-radar spots to try, but the most famous restaurants in New Orleans all deserve a spot on your culinary bucket list. From upscale, white-tablecloth dining rooms to cozy, tucked-away neighborhood spots, New Orleans is filled with exceptional places to eat and drink, each offering a taste of the city’s signature warmth and hospitality. You could spend years savoring the vibrant food culture here—one that is woven with Cajun, Creole, African, Italian, French, and Caribbean influences—but if you’re looking to dive into the city's culinary hall of fame, these famous New Orleans restaurants are absolute musts for locals and visitors alike. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in New Orleans
The best things to do in Atlanta this weekend

The best things to do in Atlanta this weekend

If you’re looking for things to do this weekend in Atlanta, we’ve got you covered. Maybe you’re taking it easy—chilling in the park, catching a movie, picking up some seasonal treats from the farmers’ market and having a night in—but if you’re looking to get out on the town, there’s plenty on tap. From blockbuster concerts and prestigious museum exhibits to after-hours events at local attractions and neighborhood festivals, you can fill your weekend calendar to the brim. And if you’re thinking ahead to the holidays, seasonal events and holiday markets are just around the corner, so get ready to shop.
The best things to do in New Orleans this weekend

The best things to do in New Orleans this weekend

Got plans for this weekend in New Orleans? We can count on great weather this time of year, so be sure to check out all the festivals around town. For a visual feast, there’s plenty of art on view in museums and scattered around the city. The holidays are almost here, so you can start prepping at one of the arts markets featuring local vendors. And of course, you can guarantee that every weekend you can catch some live, local music (and big-name bands too) or a cool citywide festival. Here are all the great things you can do on the weekends this month in New Orleans.  RECOMMENDED:  The best things to do in New Orleans
Where to stay in New Orleans

Where to stay in New Orleans

Looking for the perfect spot to call home while exploring New Orleans? The options are endless. Before you zero in on the French Quarter—it is iconic and you absolutely have to stroll its charming streets—but New Orleans is much more than that one neighborhood, and the best way to experience the city is to pick one of the fascinating neighborhoods that vibes with your style. From the bohemian Bywater to the elegant Garden District, each area of the city offers a different slice of that signature New Orleans soul. Find an artsy, unique edge with live music and divey bars and restaurants in the Bywater or Marigny. For chic boutiques and historic mansions plus family-run restaurants and iconic attractions, Uptown and the Garden District might just be your speed. 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  
The best cheap hotels in New Orleans

The best cheap hotels in New Orleans

When you're heading to New Orleans, it's easy to think that finding affordable, quality accommodation near the heart of the action might be a challenge. But this vibrant city, known for its live music, world-class cuisine and historic charm, offers an impressive range of budget-friendly hotels that don’t skimp on comfort or atmosphere. From artsy boutique hotels in the French Quarter to chic, minimalist stays in the Garden District, these affordable accommodations often blend Southern hospitality with unique decor and local history. Whether you’re looking to be steps away from Bourbon Street's nightlife, close to the peaceful charm of Magazine Street or even in the trendy Marigny area, there’s a hotel to fit your budget and keep you connected to the best sights, food and music. These cheap hotels in New Orleans offer a distinct taste of the city without breaking the bank. Perfect for budget-conscious travelers who still want comfort and style, these hotels make exploring New Orleans easy, affordable and enjoyable. RECOMMENDED: 📍 Best New Orleans attractions🍽️ Best restaurants in New Orleans🍹 Best bars in New Orleans Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more informat
The best restaurants in New Orleans

The best restaurants in New Orleans

New Orleans cuisine (and culture) is a simmering mix of French, Spanish, Italian, African and Caribbean influences. You see these influences in the city’s architecture and traditions, but nothing showcases this mix better than its knockout food scene. Whether it’s century-old institutions, cutting-edge newcomers, or beloved neighborhood gems, the best restaurants in New Orleans promise a delicious adventure in every bite. This is where you come to indulge in the city’s iconic dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, po’boys and beignets, all at the very places that put them on the map. But there’s no shortage of other global options, from Haitian and West African to Trinidadian, Vietnamese, Honduran and more. No matter where you end up, be it a fancy fine-dining spot or a no-frills café, you’re in for an unforgettable feast. 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
The best bars in Las Vegas

The best bars in Las Vegas

Las Vegas has plenty of places to grab a drink. It’s a city built on vice, after all. But what visitors are finding out is that Vegas is a much more sophisticated drinking city than one would think. Mixologists are digging deep into the ingredient bible and crafting amazing cocktails—some enhanced with theatrics such as smoke and fire. These techniques are not only great for Instagram but purposely add a depth of flavor to enhance the cocktail. Ready for an elevated drinking experience? Below, you'll find the best bars in Las Vegas right now, from dive bars and speakeasies to rooftop lounges and resort bars. Raise your glass to these spots! RECOMMENDED:🍴 The best restaurants in Las Vegas🍤 The best buffets in Vegas🥑 The best brunches in Las Vegas📍 The best things to do in Vegas🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Vegas This guide was updated by Las Vegas-based writer Ryan Slattery. 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. 
The 21 best things to do in Vancouver

The 21 best things to do in Vancouver

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
Festive Christmas tree farms near NYC

Festive Christmas tree farms near NYC

It’s that time of year again—when the to-do list starts filling up with holiday tasks, and right at the top? Finding the perfect Christmas tree, of course. As soon as Thanksgiving is behind us, the holiday hustle is in full swing. And what better way to kick it off than by heading to a Christmas tree farm near NYC? Whether you want a picture-perfect pre-cut tree or prefer to channel your inner lumberjack and chop your own, these farms have you covered. From majestic spruces to full-bodied firs, there's a tree out there just waiting to bring some magic to your holiday decor. But why stop at just picking the tree? Many of these farms are mini holiday wonderlands with extras like train rides, piping hot cocoa and even the chance to snap a photo with the big guy himself. So, once you’ve found the tree, you can check that off your list and start planning trips to see the holiday lights, browse festive holiday markets or hit the city’s ice skating rinks. Remember: most farms open after Thanksgiving, but check those hours so you're not left wandering in search of your holiday centerpiece.
The best restaurants in Atlanta

The best restaurants in Atlanta

The scene is always hot in Atlanta, and it’s not just the sweltering summers. With a thriving bar scene and nightlife that doesn’t quit, this city knows how to keep things exciting. And when it comes to food, Atlanta is a true standout in the South. In Atlanta, you can dig into soul food favorites, indulge in Southern comfort dishes or unwind in a cozy neighborhood café. If you’re in the mood for something more upscale, the city offers plenty of chic spots where the food is as innovative as the ambiance. From top-tier steakhouses and seafood joints perfect for celebrating or sealing a deal, to beloved barbecue spots and renowned pizzerias, Atlanta’s dining scene has something for everyone. You’ll also find a wealth of farm-to-table eateries and a host of James Beard Award-winning chefs putting their unique spin on Southern cuisine. While Atlanta’s restaurants pay homage to the region, they’re also embracing flavors from around the globe. Dive in to discover the best restaurants in Atlanta and get a true taste of what this dynamic city has to offer. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Atlanta 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.
The best outlets near New York

The best outlets near New York

New York is a shopper’s dream because it has a treasure trove of trendy boutiques, iconic department stores, must-shop vintage haunts and quirky thrift shops. People come from all over the world to browse the aisles and showrooms of NYC’s very best. But for locals, shopping can be a pain, not to mention expensive. As an alternative, look to the best outlets near New York. From New Jersey to Connecticut, these outlets have everything you need—clothes, shoes, accessories, home goods and more. You’ll find great deals, all kinds of shops in one mega location, decent food options and even entertainment like comedy shows or ice skating. Since you’re heading outside the city (or state, depending), why not plan an entire weekend getaway around your shopping excursion? Shopping, entertainment and more await at these NYC-area outlets. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in New York
Top shelters for pet and dog adoption in NYC

Top shelters for pet and dog adoption in NYC

Bringing a furry, four-legged companion into your home is an incredibly rewarding experience, and local animal shelters are the perfect place to find your new pet. If you're considering dog adoption in NYC—or another lovable pet—there are plenty of shelters and rescue organizations dedicated to helping animals find their forever homes. These organizations not only provide adoption opportunities but also ensure that the right pet is matched with the right owner. NYC animal shelters guide you through the entire process, making sure your new companion’s age and temperament align with your lifestyle and preferences. Since many shelters are often full, they also rely heavily on volunteers who foster animals temporarily, providing a much-needed space while animals wait for their permanent homes. Donations of food, bedding and other supplies are always appreciated too, as these contributions help shelters continue their vital work. If you’re ready to welcome a cute, cuddly friend into your life, start by browsing online or attending a local adoption event. With plenty of animals eagerly awaiting their forever families, these adoption centers in NYC are some of the best places to find your new best friend.

Listings and reviews (129)

Garden Lights Holiday Nights

Garden Lights Holiday Nights

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.
WildWoods: Aglow

WildWoods: Aglow

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.
Upper Deck Golf

Upper Deck Golf

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.
The Wicked Wiz of Oz Drag Brunch

The Wicked Wiz of Oz Drag Brunch

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.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

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.
Garden Lights Holiday Nights

Garden Lights Holiday Nights

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. 
Urban Trivia Live

Urban Trivia Live

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.
Corey Wong

Corey Wong

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
Hamlet

Hamlet

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.
Buckhead Village Atlanta Christkindl Market

Buckhead Village Atlanta Christkindl Market

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.
Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake

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.
‘Twas the Night Before…

‘Twas the Night Before…

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.

News (691)

The best cruise lines ranked for every type of traveler, according to experts

The best cruise lines ranked for every type of traveler, according to experts

Choosing a cruise line for your next vacation can be overwhelming due to the sheer number of options. Fortunately U.S. News & World Report has done some of the legwork to help you find the right fit. Their 2025 Best Cruise Lines rankings spotlight the top operators for everything from action-packed family trips to dreamy romantic escapes. Now in its 11th year, the rankings cover 18 standout cruise lines across six categories tailored to different travelers: couples, families, luxury seekers, budget-conscious cruisers, luxury-seekers and cruisers set on the Mediterranean or Caribbean. RECOMMENDED: The best cruises from the U.S. "With so many cruise lines to choose from, it may be hard to know where to start when it comes to finding the perfect cruise vacation," Nicola Wood, senior travel editor at U.S. News, said in a news release. "The 2025 Best Cruise Lines rankings not only recognize the top cruise lines, but also provide a way for travelers to compare features, amenities and offerings to find the right cruise for an exciting experience at sea." The rankings are based on U.S. News editors’ insights, traveler reviews (courtesy of Cruiseline.com) and the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program inspection scores. The 2025 rankings include a few shakeups, including Celebrity Cruises' rise to number one in the Best Cruise Lines for the Money category. Disney Cruise Line continues to dominate in the Best Cruise Lines for Families, and also takes over the top spot for Best Cruise Lines in
Could the TSA relax liquid carry-on rules?

Could the TSA relax liquid carry-on rules?

Travelers in the U.S. could one day enjoy one less restriction when going through airport security. Restrictions on the size of liquids allowed in carry-on luggage could be revised, paving the way for full-size items like shampoos and lotions to make it past the checkpoint hassle-free. Since the post-9/11 overhaul of aviation security, travelers have faced strict liquid regulations. The current "3-1-1 rule" limits liquids, gels and aerosols in carry-ons to 3.4-ounce containers, and all must fit in a single quart-sized bag. While these measures aim to enhance safety, they’ve certainly caused plenty of pre-trip packing headaches. What liquid carry-on rules could TSA change? Rampant speculation hints that TSA may one day ease these restrictions thanks to advancements in airport security technology. The adoption of computed tomography (CT) scanners—machines capable of creating detailed 3D images—could allow TSA agents to better identify potential threats while permitting passengers to carry full-sized liquids. Though the potential changes wouldn’t eliminate security screening altogether, they promise a smoother process for passengers juggling essential items and toiletries. While no specific timeline has been announced for these changes, and a lifting of restrictions may not be in the works for years to come, the implementation of CT scanner technology is gaining momentum in airports worldwide. Travelers should keep an eye on updates from the TSA and pack their bags accordingly.
A first look at the McDonald’s Doodles holiday cups coming this holiday season

A first look at the McDonald’s Doodles holiday cups coming this holiday season

McDonald’s is stirring up holiday cheer with a splash of creativity, partnering with entertainment company Doodles to launch the festive “GM Spread Joy” campaign. Starting November 18, limited-edition McCafé holiday cups will hit participating locations, featuring custom pastel artwork inspired by the whimsical Doodles universe. The cups will apparently feature Doodles characters—best friends Hap and Mello. Hap is a mad scientist crossed with a golden retriever. Mello helps with the technical details when Hap gets stuck. But the fun doesn’t stop with telling their tale through design. When you purchase a McCafé beverage in one of these collectible cups, you’ll unlock exclusive digital experiences via the McDonald’s app. Think virtual holiday surprises: from digital wearables and character accessories for your Doodles avatar to access to animated content on Doodles’ Stoodio platform. View this post on Instagram A post shared by McDonald’s (@mcdonalds) This collaboration showcases McDonald’s continued push to level up its coffee game, taking a page from holiday cup trends pioneered by Starbucks. However, McDonald’s is making its mark by blending coffee culture with digital collectibles, a nod to Doodles’ origins as a celebrated NFT project turned entertainment powerhouse. Beyond the cups, the campaign brings extra perks to the table (or your app), like exclusive merch and surprise collectibles. There’s even a holiday tune to enjoy: Good Morning, performed by Mar
This U.S. city was just named the richest in the world in 2024

This U.S. city was just named the richest in the world in 2024

The latest World’s Wealthiest Cities Report by Henley and Partners has revealed the richest cities in the world, and two U.S. cities take the lead. Not only that, 11 U.S. cities make the top 50. The report lays out the cities with the most millionaires, and it’s no surprise that the top two cities are very expensive places to live. NYC comes in at number one with 349,500 millionaires, 744 centi-millionaires (with investable wealth of over $100 million) and 60 billionaires. The report notes that the total wealth held by NYC’s residents now exceeds $3 trillion, which is higher than the total wealth held in most major G20 countries. At number two is the Bay Area, with 305,700 millionaires, 675 centi-millionaires and 68 billionaires. This represents a millionaire growth of 82%. Other U.S. cities in the top 20 include Los Angeles at number six, Chicago at number 12 and Houston at number 17. Dallas, Seattle, Boston, Miami, Austin and Washington, D.C. make the top 50. Find the full report here. Ten richest cities in the world New York The Bay Area Tokyo Singapore London Los Angeles Paris Sydney Hong Kong Beijing
The Coca-Cola Christmas Caravan is back for 2024: dates, locations and everything you need to know

The Coca-Cola Christmas Caravan is back for 2024: dates, locations and everything you need to know

If you’re not yet in the holiday spirit, the Coca-Cola Caravan is on its way to spread joy. The annual return of the Caravan’s festive journey around the country will feature ice cold Coca-Cola, amazing new Coke-themed experiences and of course plenty of holiday spirit. Find out when the Caravan will be stopping in your city, and head out to see what’s on tap. This year, you can create your own personalized Coca‑Cola Zero Sugar can, snap a pic with Santa and check out new interactive AI experiences. Throughout the holiday season, you can converse with Coca-Cola’s version of Santa Claus—created by illustrator Haddon Sundblom in 1931—and create personalized snow globe animations by scanning a QR code on a Christmas bottle or can of Coke. The Coca-Cola Caravan aims to deliver “kindness-led” experiences and activities around the country as it rolls into grocery stores, universities, tailgates and more. Find your city here. Coca-Cola Caravan locations and dates for 2024 California November 20-24Indiana November 20-24New Jersey November 21-24, 26-27New York November 20Pennsylvania November 20-24, 29-December 1South Carolina November 20-24Texas November 20-24, 26-27, 29-December 1Kentucky November 26-27, 29-December 1Tennessee November 26-27, 29-December 1Arizona November 27, 29-December 1Ohio November 27, 29-December 1Minnesota November 28-December 1Florida December 1
These are the coziest U.S. cities for a Christmas getaway

These are the coziest U.S. cities for a Christmas getaway

The perfect Christmas getaway may look different to some, but most people look for destinations that are downright cozy. From twinkling lights and a snowy landscape to Christmas carols and fragrant holiday treats, a classic Christmas scene can really get you into the holiday spirit. If you’re looking to plan a trip for the holidays, a new study by BetMGM Casino reveals the coziest cities in the U.S. for the ultimate Christmas escape. To identify the coziest cities, BetMGM Casino started with 19 cities known for their Christmas appeal. They evaluated six key factors that just scream “cozy Christmas”: snowfall to enhance the magical wintry feel, availability of cozy accommodations like cabins in December, festive events like Christmas markets and holiday shows, number of holiday venues such as ice skating rinks and coffee shops, average December temperatures and access to nature for winter strolls. North Pole, Alaska, took the top spot with an overall cozy Christmas score of 93.34. The town features the highest average snowfall in December with 15 inches, the most quaint cabins available over Christmas, the lowest average temperature at -7.5°F and, well, it’s called North Pole. It does, however, have the fewest malls, so you’ll have to do your shopping in advance. At number two is Park City, Utah, with an overall cozy Christmas score of 71.15. Here, you’ll find plenty of cozy cabins to rent, a high average snowfall, low average temps, and plenty of holiday activities and opport
Adult summer camps and social clubs are trending for 2025

Adult summer camps and social clubs are trending for 2025

Yelp has just released its 2025 Trend Forecast, and it’s brimming with unexpected, nostalgic and joy-sparking trends. Based on a deep dive into over 33 million users’ searches this year, Yelp’s experts predict 2025 is shaping up to be all about experiences that forge connections and bring people together. To zone in on trends and solidify predictions, Yelp's data scientists, community managers and trend experts scoured millions of searches for words, phrases and businesses across categories that were trending between 2023 and 2024. While the full report covers a wide range of food & drink trends as well as home and lifestyle trends, wellness trends are likely to be tops in the coming year. Based on their research, Yelp predicts that immersive, nostalgic experiences will dominate travel trends and activities that build community will be popular activities outside the home. Yelpers are increasingly into IRL meet-ups, using the platform to find and join local group activities. Social clubs are trending as interest in everything from chess clubs (up 47%) to run clubs (up 82%) surges. Friendly competition is also making a comeback, with people flocking to game nights, trivia nights (up 58%) and modern lawn clubs (up 682%) to connect over bocce, beersbee and cocktails. The DIY craze is still going strong, with searches for hands-on hobbies like sewing (up 76%), jewelry making (up 69%), songwriting (up 540%) and even blacksmithing (up 516%) on the rise. On the culinary front, pasta-
These countries are visa-free for U.S. passport holders

These countries are visa-free for U.S. passport holders

Traveling abroad is an adventure that can open up your world and give you a new perspective on pretty much everything. You can explore new cultures, learn new traditions, try new foods and see how people live in other countries. With a U.S. passport, you can travel to a slew of countries with ease. The Arton Capital Passport Index currently ranks the U.S. passport as the 8th most powerful passport globally, with a mobility score of 172. A U.S. passport allows you to travel to 116 countries without the hassle of obtaining a visa. There are restrictions, however, on the length of time you can stay in each country. Time limits range from 90 days to 180 days, with a few countries allowing stays of up to 360 days. The limit means you’ll have to head back home to the states before returning to that country. You can find a wealth of information about U.S. passports and visa requirements here, or read on for the full list of countries that allow U.S. passport holders to travel visa-free. Which countries are visa-free for the USA? Albania 360 daysAndorra 90 daysAngola 30 daysAntigua and Barbuda 180 daysArgentina 90 daysArmenia 180 daysAustria 90 daysBahamas 240 daysBarbados 180 daysBelgium 90 daysBelize 180 daysBosnia and Herzegovina 90 daysBotswana 90 daysBrazil 90 daysBrunei 90 daysBulgaria 90 daysCanada 180 daysChile 90 daysCosta Rica 180 daysCroatia 90 daysCyprus 90 daysCzech Republic 90 daysDenmark 90 daysDominica 180 daysEcuador 90 daysEl Salvador 180 daysEstonia 90 daysEswatini
Escape the chaos and crowds at these "untrending" holiday destinations

Escape the chaos and crowds at these "untrending" holiday destinations

Planning a getaway for the upcoming holiday season? While holiday hotspots like New York City in the U.S. and Bruges over in Europe are bursting at the seams with holiday cheer, those destinations are teeming with tourists, which can make for a stressful holiday vacation. Why not set your sights on "un-trending" destinations that offer a relaxing alternative to these crowded spots? For those hoping to dodge the holiday crowds, Airbnb has unveiled some refreshing alternatives. These are destinations that often experience an off-season in December, meaning you can enjoy a slower pace while still taking in the festive atmosphere. Airbnb identified these destinations by checking search trends and comparing this year’s December bookings with last year’s to find the places that are likely to be less crowded. From “destination dupes” to hotspots during their quieter months, these picks bring all the holiday spirit without the hustle. In fact, a recent survey found that nearly half of Gen Z and Millennials skipped destinations they thought were overrun with tourists in 2024, showing a strong preference for less crowded experiences. Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Lexington, KY slows down in winter but still offers plenty for visitors, from rolling green hills to a lively arts and culture scene. Festive highlights include shows at the historic Lexington Opera House, including The Nutcracker ballet—a perfect way to get into the holiday mood. For a taste of L.A. luxury with f
This state was named the best for senior well-being

This state was named the best for senior well-being

More Americans are setting their sights on the Midwest for its affordability, cooler climate and abundant outdoor activities. Seniors, in particular, are increasingly drawn to states like Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin, where they find low costs of living, affordable housing, and welcoming communities. The trend is justified, as a recent study by Universal Drugstore names Wisconsin as the best retirement destination in the U.S. for senior well-being. Wisconsin’s high ranking stems partly from its low social isolation risk for seniors, based on data from America’s Health Rankings. The report also notes that Wisconsin's seniors have relatively few barriers to healthcare access due to cost, experience low levels of mental distress, and have above-average sleep quality. Exercise is also notably high among Wisconsin retirees, with 30.3% staying active regularly compared to the national average of 23.1%. Cancer screenings are on the rise, and Wisconsin reports the lowest rate of disabilities—including cognitive, visual and auditory challenges—among older adults. Despite these advantages, Wisconsin ranked only 17th in healthcare access according to U.S. News, which looked at factors like health insurance rates, wellness and dental visits and affordability. It’s not just Wisconsin that shines in the region: three of the top five spots in the ranking went to Midwestern states, with Minnesota ranking second. Vermont, which scored consistently well across all measures, landed in third pl
These are the worst U.S. airports for holiday travel

These are the worst U.S. airports for holiday travel

While some studies may laud the airports that perform the best during the holiday season, you’re pretty much guaranteed to deal with typical holiday hassle when flying during peak periods. From weather delays to long wait times at security, traveling during the holidays is, shall we say, not fun. If you’re looking to add a little more stress into the mix while making your travel plans, another study reveals the worst airports for holiday travel. LocalsInsider.com took a deep dive into flight data from last year’s holiday season at major airports across the U.S. Using records from the Bureau of Transportation, the study pinpointed the 50 largest U.S. airports and ranked them by their record of delays and cancellations during the holidays. Of the top 10 worst airports for holiday delays, four are in the Sunshine State. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International takes the lead, with close to 30% of flights delayed or canceled last holiday season. Orlando International—one of the busiest airports during the holiday season—follows, with 25% of flights (about 4,175 total) delayed or canceled. Chicago Midway comes in at number three with a 25% delay/cancellation rate, making O'Hare—at 15—-a better option. Rounding out the top five are Southwest Florida International in Fort Myers and San Francisco International, each with around 23% of flights delayed or canceled. So if holiday travel is on the horizon, just know you're going to experience some kind of delay. To keep stress to a minimu
Get a free reusable holiday cup at Starbucks on Thursday

Get a free reusable holiday cup at Starbucks on Thursday

If you’re looking to sprinkle some holiday cheer into your coffee routine, Starbucks has just the thing: reusable, 2024 limited-edition holiday red cups are back and you can snag one for free. This Thursday, November 14, stop by any participating Starbucks, order your favorite handcrafted holiday drink, and this year’s reusable, eco-friendly holiday cup—made with 95% recycled materials—is yours at no extra charge. The red cup giveaway is up for grabs however you prefer to order: in-store, at the drive-thru, using the Starbucks app or even through Uber Eats, DoorDash or GrubHub. If you order with the Starbucks app, there’s even more to cheer about–you’ll get $0 delivery fees with that cup through November 17. Choose any size holiday drink–hot, iced or blended–and get yourself a grande 16-ounce reusable red cup, while supplies last. Not only does this festive cup add a dash of holiday joy to your day, it’s a gift that keeps giving: bring it back to any Starbucks and enjoy a $0.10 discount on your drink, along with 25 bonus Stars for Rewards members using the app. With each reusable cup, you’re doing a little bit to help Starbucks hit its goal of reducing waste by 50% by 2030. So go ahead, order up your peppermint mocha or chestnut praline latte (and swap in a non-dairy milk with abandon, because substitutes are now free), and enjoy a little extra holiday joy courtesy of your favorite red cup.