James Wong has been with Time Out since 2017, writing for print editions of the magazine in Singapore and Hong Kong. He became the Texas Correspondent in 2021 and remains one of Time Out’s freelance reporters. James also authors Lonely Planet guidebooks and has visited 70 countries.

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Articles (88)

The 13 best hotels in San Antonio

The 13 best hotels in San Antonio

San Antonio isn’t just the best day (or weekend) trip to take from Austin anymore; it's a destination in its own right, filled with incredible cuisine, fun time bars, gorgeous hotels, fascinating historical structures, and much more. Time your visit for the annual fiesta celebration or the rodeo, and you’ll need a whole itinerary that requires some forward planning, especially when it comes to accommodation.  Here’s a tip: the bulk of tourist activity happens along the River Walk, and this is where you’ll want to be based. Luckily, there are lots of hotels primely positioned along or at least near it, along with resorts further afield where the point is to get away from the bustle. From right-on-the-water happening hangouts to charming boutiques by the Alamo to family-friendly spa resorts a short drive away, here are our favorite stays and the best hotels in San Antonio. RECOMMENDED: Best Airbnbs in San Antonio This guide was written by Texas-based writer James Wong. 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. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 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 t
The best hotels in Dallas, Texas—chosen by a local expert

The best hotels in Dallas, Texas—chosen by a local expert

In a city like Dallas, it’s easy to get your fix for the finer things in life. Known for its high-end shopping and globally-inspired restaurants, the city hosts an equally impressive assortment of bougie hotels. But, Dallas is also proud to welcome anyone and everyone (25.7 million visitors yearly, thank you very much). Though us Dallasites love our five-star retreats, the city is home to a growing collection of world-class hotels, offering unbeatable locations, phenomenal spas, brag-worthy restaurants and, of course, Lone Star State warmth.  We’ve rounded up 25 of the best hotels in Big D to make your search for the perfect night’s sleep a little easier. Whether you’re looking for a hotel in the middle of the action with easy access to the city’s renowned nightlife and bars, or you’d prefer the peace and quiet of an onsite spa, you’ll find what you’re looking for below.  RECOMMENDED: The best Airbnbs in DallasThe best things to do in Dallas This guide was written by Texas-based writer James Wong. 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. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 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
The best live music venues in Austin

The best live music venues in Austin

Though in many meaningful ways, Austin has grown up from its hippie heyday when Willie Nelson first took the stage at Austin City Limits (ACL), you still don’t have to roam very far to find incredible live music in the Live Music Capital of the World. Music is around every corner—walk through a secret bookcase at a hostel or head into the local bodega, and you might just find your next favorite band performing on a real or makeshift stage. Though many visitors come in for the biggies like ACL, SXSW or reunion gigs at COTA, it’s equally (if not more) fun to seek out the charming little venues that host excellent musical notes night in, night out, throughout the year. They are where local legends are made, international artists tour and where good ol’ Southern nights are spent. Whatever your tastes; pop, rock, country, classical or EDM, here are the best spots to catch quality live music in Austin, Texas. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Austin 
Where to stay in Austin right now, according to a local expert

Where to stay in Austin right now, according to a local expert

Though Austin has grown up appreciably from its 1970s counter-cultural roots when Willie Nelson and friends first made their mark here, you can still find pockets of “weird” Austin throughout the city’s old school honky tonks, beer gardens and restaurants. Likewise, welcome additions to the city over recent years mean it’s also a great place for a leisurely Sunday brunch, a walk through the dog park, a shopping trip on South Congress and a place to relax at the day spa. We’ve pulled together a guide to Austin’s different neighborhoods with some notes on where to eat, drink, visit and stay when you’re in each part of town. RECOMMENDED:  🍳 The best brunch in Austin 🏨 The best boutique hotels in Austin 🍹 The best bars in Austin This guide was written by Texas-based writer James Wong. 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. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.  
The most romantic restaurants in Austin for a perfect date night

The most romantic restaurants in Austin for a perfect date night

Though for the right couple, date night can be anything from a night of Netflix to a round of drinks at the neighborhood bar, splurging a little on a special restaurant can lead to some wonderful memories. Whether you’re celebrating something special like a birthday or anniversary (or even looking to pop a special question), we’ve got you covered from appetizers to dessert at some of the sweetest spots in ATX. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Austin
The 17 best things to do in Austin with kids

The 17 best things to do in Austin with kids

Perhaps it’s not surprising that in this casual, young capital city, family-friendly activities abound in Austin. From plentiful outdoor spaces that are perfect for letting little ones run free, swim and climb, to family-friendly restaurants and museums, raising kids in Austin is an enriching experience for the entire family. The city is peppered with parks full of amenities, hiking trails with scenic wonders, and swimming holes for a day of splash. And when the weather gets too unbearable (i.e. summer and cedar fever in spring), well, the indoor offerings aren’t too shabby either.  Choose to cool off at the Museum of Ice Cream, where the samples keep on coming, or connect with your inner bookworm at ATX’s best bookstores and libraries, which carry periodicals for all ages. Whether you’re a local looking to keep your children entertained over the holidays or you’re visiting from afar with the whole squad, these awesome family-friendly things to do in Austin won’t disappoint.  RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Austin🌮 The best restaurants in Austin 
The best restaurants in Houston right now

The best restaurants in Houston right now

Houston is a Foodie City, something residents have known for years. But the arrival of the Michelin Guide in Texas—and the Michelin ceremony honoring the first recipients right here in Houston—has made it official. The prestigious Guide recognizes chefs who elevate the dining experience, and with the ever-expanding and creative food scene in Space City, the possibilities were endless. That’s because Houston’s diverse population is reflected in its cuisine—you’ll find everything here, with offerings running the gamut from food truck “street meat” to multi-course delicacies served alongside flaming cocktails.  Thankfully, you can judge for yourself. Whether you are searching for a steak so tender you can cut it with a butter knife or the ultimate chips and guacamole, here are our choices for the best restaurants in Houston. RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Houston🏘️ The best Houston Airbnbs🏛 The best Houston attractions🇺🇸 The best hotels in Houston This article was written by Texas-based Rebecca Deurlein. 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 restaurants in Dallas

The best restaurants in Dallas

Dallas may be known for its amazing shopping and stellar sports teams, but it’s been silently making waves as a dining destination for years—and the world is starting to pay attention. In 2019, Dallas became Bon Appetit’s Restaurant City of the Year, and this year, Michelin has been silently sending out their reviewers to Dallas restaurants to determine which will be a fit in their guide.   Although Tex-Mex and barbecue have long been Dallas staples, there are a number of dining destinations throughout the city that fly in fresh seafood daily, offer creative takes on fusion cuisine, and elevate simple meals like tacos and southern favorites like shrimp and grits in ways you’d never expect.  No matter what you’re in the mood for, Dallas has you covered. Keep reading to discover where to make your next reservation.   RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Dallas🍹 The best bars in Dallas🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Dallas🏨 The best hotels in Dallas
The best restaurants in Austin right now

The best restaurants in Austin right now

Modern-day Austin has grown up well past its slacker background part in Dazed and Confused and now continues to mature into a more significant starring role on the world stage, and a major part of that growth is happening in the food scene. Gone are the days of being an under-the-radar creative safe haven. Now, the whole world flocks to Austin to prove their ideas can win over locals and tourists alike. From breakout culinary stars continuing to sweep awards to forward-thinking concepts pushing the boundaries of what experiential dining can be, these are some of the many spots around town that elevate the city to be a world-class destination worth checking out. If you thought Austin barbecue was inventive and the city's brunch scene unique, wait until you see what's in store at the best restaurants in Austin below.  RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Austin
The 13 best hotels in Austin for the perfect stay in the Texas capital

The 13 best hotels in Austin for the perfect stay in the Texas capital

A record number of visitors arrive in Bat City year after year, and the best Austin hotels give them every reason to stick around. Whether here for one of the city’s big events (like SXSW, ACL, and F1) or simply to soak up the laid-back vibes (you’re spoilt for choice with things to do), visitors will find a dizzying number of accommodations that suit every style - after all, studies reveal that despite inflation, travel experiences are on the top of our agenda.  Certainly, the buzzing city has more boutique hotels than ever before. You’ll find a convivial hostel in a historic firehouse just steps from Dirty Sixth (the perfect place to meet new friends for a night on the town) and a batch of Hill Country destination spa resorts that’ll whisk you off the main drag into nature. Naturally, you’ll find plenty of swanky city bookings, too, that command enviable addresses near Austin’s best restaurants and bars. Struggling to pick a hotel from the masses of incredible ones out there? Here's our list of the best hotels in Austin, judged using our expert opinions. We know our stuff. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in AustinThe best boutique hotels in AustinThe best Airbnbs in Austin Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every hotel featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines
The best luxury hotels in Austin

The best luxury hotels in Austin

As one of the most exciting cities in the US, Austin’s hotels provide the very best in luxury. Bat City plays host to the likes of NASCAR and SXSW, a booming tech industry, and attractions galore, so the appetite for five-star experiences is pretty darn insatiable. If luxury is what you’re after, consider it served right here…with sides! Luxury can mean many things, too. For some, it is the coolest boutique hangout with fine-dining restaurants and an elevated bar; for others, it is a tranquil spa resort tucked away by the hills. It’s fair to say at least that the overall expectation is beautiful interiors, impeccable service, and a chance to indulge. For anyone looking to splurge a couple of nights (or more), take a look at our list of the finest Austin hotels, all of which are an ideal base for exploring the best things to do in Austin. Updated for February 2024: Because we like to always have one ear to the ground when it comes to the best stays, we're always improving our lists. An this time, we've taken the liberty of adding two new favorites, one a gorgeous mansion and heritage site, while the other is  steeped in modern luxury with a secluded poolside that will have you in utter bliss.  RECOMMENDED: 🇺🇸 Check out the best hotels in Austin🧖‍♀️Relax at the best spa hotels in Austin 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
The 20 best things to do in Dallas

The 20 best things to do in Dallas

There’s a lot of cowboy culture in Dallas, but that’s not all the city has going for it. The best things to do in Dallas range from brilliant museum exhibits to wacky attractions, with an ever-expanding culinary scene to match.  Come for the cowboys, for the TV series, and to learn about one of the most significant assassinations in US history, and stay for the unforgettable street food, world-class sports, and fabulous green spaces. Here are the best things to do in Dallas right now.  RECOMMENDED:🥩 The best restaurants in Dallas🍹 The best bars in Dallas🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Dallas🏨 The best hotels in Dallas This guide was updated by Alex Temblador, a writer based in Texas. 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.

Listings and reviews (7)

Xochi

Xochi

Executive chef Hugo Ortega is a Houston culinary powerhouse, and his swanky downtown Oaxacan restaurant on the first floor of the Marriott Marquis Houston represents his greatest hit. The menu focuses on the culinary traditions of Oaxaca, Mexico, and includes a variety of house-made masa and corn dishes, moles, grasshoppers, and other ingredients not often seen on fine dining menus in Houston or the rest of the country. The mole tasting and churros with chocolate are must-orders, though it would be a shame to miss out on the suckling pig, sopa de piedra, and Tamal de Huitlacoche.
Crawfish & Noodles

Crawfish & Noodles

Nothing says Houston like spicy Viet Cajun-style crawfish, and this Asiatown staple introduced the dish to hungry residents before Andrew Zimmern’s Bizarre Foods and David Chang’s Ugly Delicious brought the larger world’s attention to chef Trong Nguyen, who earned a James Beard semifinalist nod. During crawfish season, it’s criminal not to order the namesake dish, a stir-fried buttery garlic delicacy with just the right amount of spice. Other worthy dishes include stir-fried blue crab, chicken wings, and bo luc lac, stir-fried beef with rice. No need to dress up for this casual West Houston spot; just take a group for maximum ordering capacity. Oh, and ask for a bib.
5kinokawa

5kinokawa

Chef Billy Kin, best known for Blackbird Izakaya and Hidden Omakase, has opened this brilliant concept in the historic Heights neighborhood. Guests enjoy an intimate (there are just 14 seats) omakase using ingredients flown in weekly from Toysou Market, Japan. Billy and co turn up the theatrics over the immersive journey, ranging from the finest O-toro to the marvelously marbled wagyu (you know it is a special cow when served with its birth certificate!). Dishes are fresh and seasonal, so you won't have the exact same experience each time. Oh, and the restaurant is BYOB for added festivity.
Tian Tian Lu Chuaner

Tian Tian Lu Chuaner

No website, no reservations, no marketing. This is a hole-in-the-wall Chinese snack shack that only the locals know about, and it’s slowly garnering word-of-mouth acclaim. Expect deliciously sauced and spiced skewers, puffy fried dough sticks, buns, dumplings, and other street food favorites at bargain prices (skewers start at just $1.99). Tian Tian makes their own soy milk, perfect for dipping their dough sticks in. If you’re in the mood for adventure, go for the crispy intestine sticks or the stinky tofu. You’ll totally forget this is Texas.
Nancy’s Hustle

Nancy’s Hustle

This retro-cool bistro in the burgeoning EaDo neighborhood delivers on-point shared plates, innovative cocktails, and a nice natural wine list. The relaxed atmosphere feels modern and smart with great service and a reel-to-reel tape player producing background music at just the right level. This cozy spot is just as good for a weeknight dinner as a late Saturday night drink at the bar. In addition to neighborhood residents and the city’s foodie set, it’s a place where industry professionals eat and drink when they’re not on the clock. Must orders include the pan-fried rabbit “wings,” lamb tartare, and the Nancy Cakes with house-made whipped butter and roe.
Theodore Rex

Theodore Rex

Housed between industrial buildings and artists’ lofts, the tiny 31-seat restaurant offers a unique dining experience focused on well-executed plates made with local, seasonal ingredients alongside one of the city’s most interesting wine lists. The menu changes often based on seasonality and availability of local farm offerings, so the food is always fresh and innovative. Because of the limited space, it’s best for those dining in pairs, as the restaurant’s single large table seats 5-6 people, and reservations go quickly. No reservation? Call the restaurant for estimated wait times, as they keep tables open for walk-ins.
La Condesa

La Condesa

What’s the vibe? It’s all about the streetside patio. Pedestrian-friendly Second Street’s the place to people watch, and Condesa’s got sauces to keep you going all afternoon long. What are the prices like at La Condesa? Slightly above mid-range but comparable to restaurants in the area. Guac and esquites are $16, and you’re looking at around $40-$50 for a meaty main. A generous happy hour operates every weekday, though, with half-off drinks and $3 taco specials. What should I order at La Condesa? Brunch is hot here. Try the queso flameado, flaming hot cheese served with black beans, rajas, dos lunas clasico, diced avocado and tortillas. If you have a sweet tooth then center the meal around the puffy churro waffles instead, sided with grapefruit-hibiscus jam and oaxacan crema. The bar stocks one of Austin’s largest collections of pure blue agave tequila and mezcal—order flights to sample the greats. What's worth visiting nearby? Grab a bag of tacos to go from Veracruz All Natural at The Line Hotel if you’re still hungry. Sit with them on the banks by Congress Avenue Bridge to catch swarms of bats that emerge each sunset in the summer, or outside of bat season, work off the queso with a stroll along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail.

News (14)

Revealed: The 10 worst states to live in right now

Revealed: The 10 worst states to live in right now

Let's be real: The last few years have left Americans feeling particularly stressed out. Covid cases are rising, human rights are compromised, and salaries just aren’t keeping up with inflation.  And the struggle is extra real for a handful of states deemed the worst places to live in the US according to a study conducted by CNBC which takes into account factors such as environmental quality, crime rates, health care and inclusiveness of state laws in areas like protections against discrimination and voting rights. Top of the list of worst states to live in is Arizona. Yes, Scottsdale is gorgeous, but when considering the rest of The Grand Canyon State, things are a bit of an... um... tumbleweed. Arizona has the worst air quality in America (according to the American Lung Association), and Phoenix experiences a dangerous 39 high ozone days per year. This is heightened by the fact that the state has the lowest budget for public health, meaning a dire health care system short on hospital beds and staff. Runner up on the list is Texas. The state that proudly boasts that "everything is bigger" is correct in some dire instances—Texas ranks high for discrimination and big on lack of voting rights. Texas' health care system, a high rate of uninsured people and limited childcare also makes it a terrible place to live. Oklahoma rounds off the top three. It’s among the unhealthiest states in the nation, with little regard for exercise, fruit or vegetables (according to the United Healt
Spirit Airlines is installing high-speed Wi-Fi on its planes

Spirit Airlines is installing high-speed Wi-Fi on its planes

Journeys on Spirit Airlines are about to get an upgrade: the budget carrier is rolling out high-speed Wi-Fi service next month, and it’ll be so fast you’ll be able to stream movies, Zoom your boss or follow a Blogilates workout on YouTube. But don’t get your pretzels in a twist just yet. In line with Spirit’s upsell ethos, the quality of your "Stranger Things" binge will depend greatly on how much you’re willing to fork out. The official word is that browsing starts as little as $2.99 and streaming at $5.99. However, the costs can more than double depending on the flight you take.  We hopped online and checked out a popular route to see for ourselves. From LAX to EWR (Newark), the price tag for streaming is $14.99 each device, each way. If you’re the kind of person who travels with both phone and laptop, you’ll rack up $60 in round-trip Wi-Fi privileges. Holy guacamole!  Spirit says this will be the fastest Wi-Fi service of any US-based airline once they’re configured with this state-of-the-art system, in partnership with Thales and FlytLIVE.  Executive VP Matt Klein added, "This is a real groundbreaking moment in the industry as Spirit adds in-flight amenities and product options that have previously not been available on ultra-low fare carriers. We're continuing to deliver the best value in the sky by providing options that are important to our Guests, like our high-speed Wi-Fi service, while keeping our focus on affordable fares to provide our Guests with More Go." Wi-Fi c
Peek inside Virgin Atlantic's sexy new seating for couples

Peek inside Virgin Atlantic's sexy new seating for couples

Heading out on a romantic European adventure this summer? Then you might want to consider an upgrade: Virgin Atlantic just unveiled their new Airbus A330-900 neo aircraft, and the Upper Class cabin has two extra special seats on board. The new Retreat Suites will be the most luxurious seats Sir Branson has ever offered; situated at the front of the cabin, the suites come equipped with an almost seven-feet long seat, which converts into a lie-flat bed, a 27-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity and wireless charging, a privacy door that fully closes, and electronic dividers, mood lighting, a do not disturb light, and all the fixings that come with Upper Class, including gourmet meals, bar, pajamas, amenity kits, and access to Clubhouse lounges. Photograph: Courtesy Virgin Atlantic And for lovebirds in company of friends and family, there's an opportunity to share the experience too. The suites can be reconfigured to allow for four people to sit together, whether that be for dining, games or chit-chat with complimentary bubbles. Anticipating popular demand, Virgin will be offering the special seats at an additional surcharge to existing Upper Class passengers just 14 days before departure, so frequent flyers won't be able to pre-book all those coveted spots up in advance. Virgin will roll the A330neo from fall to 2026. Each will have 30 brand new Upper-Class suites, as well Premium and Economy. The first flight will depart this October 2022 from Boston. Photograph: Co
Canada is giving out free annual passes to its national parks this month

Canada is giving out free annual passes to its national parks this month

Our neighbors across the border want us to come check out their National Parks, and they're willing to give us free entry to them all to do so.  Destination Canada in partnership with Parks Canada are offering up 4,000 annual Parks Canada Discovery passes, worth $113 each. These cover admission to over 80 natural destinations in Canada and are good for 12 months. Popular Canadian parks include the east coast's Gros Morne National Park, famous for soaring fjords and moody mountains, and Hudson Bay's Wapusk National Park, home to polar bears and timber wolves. Of course, no trip to Canadian National Parks is complete without a visit to their bucket list wonder, Banff National Park, also included on the pass.   Photograph: Courtesy EITWBANFF To claim your shiny card, Americans must enter the sweepstakes online before July 31st. You must be a legal resident of one of the 50 US states or the District of Columbia and be over 21 years old. Winners will be announced the following week. In addition to passes, all entrants will be added to a grand prize draw, and one lucky American (with understanding employers) will win the 'dream nature sabbatical' worth $20,000. This includes all transportation, accommodation, excursions, gear and stipend for food and incidentals. Oh, and of course a discovery pass, too. The SVP of Marketing at Destination Canada, Gloria Loree said, "We're next-door neighbors—and we want to welcome back our American friends with access to places we know will lift
The Buck Supermoon will be visible in the skies tonight

The Buck Supermoon will be visible in the skies tonight

Tonight, Wednesday July 13th, is a big night for earthlings: It's the arrival of a supermoon, a celestial spectacle that will be bigger and brighter than any other this year. This is due to the fact that the Moon will be closer to us than at any other point in 2022.   Supermoons are always a treat for space enthusiasts, astrologers and photographers, but that's not to say we can't all enjoy the wonders of moonlight. Sky watchers should be able to observe a full moon up-close (ish) after dawn... and while things may be big then, they'll be at their biggest at 5am EDT, 4am CDT, and 2am PDT, in case you're mesmerized enough to stay up the entire night (and if not, then you might want to sport an eye mask before nodding off). At that specific time, in fact, the Moon should precisely be 221,994 miles (357,264 kilometres) away, according to the whiz kids at Space.com. Sounds far, but it'll feel quite the opposite; so close you'll think you can touch it. Photograph: Shutterstock The term supermoon, adopted by NASA, originally came from astrologer Richard Nolle back in 1979. His definition states that the phenomenon is a full moon that takes place within 90 percent of its closest approach to Earth. This is when it looks the most 'full', with shaded sides too narrow for the naked eye to see. Fall asleep before the big moment? You'll probably wake up and see it all over social media tomorrow, but at least you heard it here first.
McDonald's is giving away FREE fries all today

McDonald's is giving away FREE fries all today

We're all feeling the pinch of inflation right now, so the word 'free' is enough to drive even the most composed Americans hysterical. Add to the equation deep-fried treats that are yellow in color and come with a high risk of health complications, and well, certain states (ahem, Texas) are going to need military assistance. Which is why we're letting you know at your own risk: McDonald's is giving away FREE fries all today.  But don't expect to walk up to the nearest drive-through window and demand a gratis treat. To prevent a stampede, there is one teeny, tiny barrier to enjoying free fries today: you have to order via the McDonald's app. Photograph: Shutterstock In order to claim $1.89 in potato sticks, you'll need to download the fast food chain's official app, sign up with all your personal data (and thus, join their loyalty program), claim a large portion of French fries (no purchase necessary), head down to your closest participating McDonald's, wait in line, and hope they haven't run out.   Of course, Ronald McDonald won't be restricting such a generous offering to one day in the year: virtually the same offer (but with medium fries and a requirement to spend at least $1) is available every Friday till December 31st. Wowzers. National French Fry Day is celebrated on July 13 every year. For those who don't fancy becoming members of the chain's digital loyalty program, why not commemorate the day by making your own fries. You'll save a lot more than two bucks.
Revealed: The top bucket-list destinations for Americans in 2022, according to Skyscanner

Revealed: The top bucket-list destinations for Americans in 2022, according to Skyscanner

Years of being pent up stateside (as exciting as the national parks and Hawaii are) have got Americans gagging for international adventures. Maybe it’s all that Emily in Paris, maybe it’s those royal goals in The Crown. However, according to a recent survey, neither France nor England are on the American wishlist in 2022. Now, this could be for a couple of reasons: either travelers have already checked them off their bucket list (judging by our social media feeds, this could indeed be true), or none of the respondents had a Netflix subscription. OK, it's neither. Skyscanner, the company behind the survey, determined America’s most sought-after destinations by an increase in bookings since 2019 and the country who grabbed the number one spot is Qatar. The Middle East nation saw a 522 percent jump in bookings over the last three years, fueled no doubt by the pending 2022 World Cup (and sadly not a TV series starring a pretty actress with a fabulous wardrobe). This monster event will be the first time a World Cup has been held in the entire Middle East region. Photograph: Shutterstock The majority of the list, though, is made up of Caribbean islands. Anguilla, St Barths, Turks and Caicos, the US Virgin Islands, and Antigua and Barbuda all rank high for bucket-list travel this year, not doubt satisfying a truly American need for sun, sand and all-you-can-eat buffet resorts.  Rounding off the list are destinations we've seen trending before: the Maldives, the UAE, Portugal a
Here are the National Parks that have reinstated mask mandates

Here are the National Parks that have reinstated mask mandates

Just when we thought life was back to normal again, a subvariant comes and coughs right back on our faces. Back in 2020, National Parks were a surefire way to escape the city, and since then they’ve remained a reliable space for vacationers keen to explore America’s gracious natural wonders as well as beat airline mask drama. But not anymore. Due to the recent spike in Covid cases, a slew of National Parks have reinstated mask mandates and other restrictions. Four of the top ten most-visited will now require you to mask up indoors, regardless of vaccination status. They are the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Grand Teton and Yosemite.  Photograph: Shutterstock While the rules vary by park, masks are required on all forms of public transportation within all of them. For example you’ll need to strap on at Alaska’s Denali wilderness and history tours, which last for up to six hours round trip. Denali also requires masks in their lodges, gift shops and restaurants (well, at least you don’t need to worry about getting too hot.) Other parks where some form of masking is required include Arches, Death Valley, Olympic, Sequoia and Petrified Forest. Photograph: Shutterstock The NPS website states that “In areas CDC identifies as high COVID-19 community level, masks are required for everyone in all NPS buildings regardless of vaccination status. In most low and medium COVID-19 community level areas, masks are optional, but visitors should follow signs and instructions from park staff an
Here are the winners of this year’s wild bird photography competition

Here are the winners of this year’s wild bird photography competition

Time to go cuckoo for capturing wildlife (on camera): the National Audubon Society has revealed this year's winners of their annual bird photography contest, and the images are wings above anything ever seen before.  The grand winner of the $5,000 prize was Jack Zhi of Costa Mesa, California, responsible for an incredible shot of a pair of White-tailed Kite, one clutching a vole in its yellow talons. “I studied White-tailed Kite behavior for three years before I got this close-up. It was a challenge to get the action, distance, lighting, and angles of the individuals all right at the same time.” says Zhi, “The father, who teaches his fledglings to hunt, held a vole in his talons. The fledgling flew in and, in a blink, grabbed the rodent as the father let go.” Jack Zhi - Audubon Photography Awards, 2022 Grand Prize Winner Peter Shen of San Jose, California took home the Amateur Award for his photo of a Western Gebe feeding two chicks. “I was hiking on a narrow, rocky trail when I saw a Western Grebe with two chicks on her back. A male arrived with a fish and passed it to the mom. I quickly laid flat on the gravel, bird droppings all around, but I didn’t care.” Dedication.   Peter Shen - Audubon Photography Awards, 2022 Amateur Winner Ankur Khurana from Canada snagged a photo of a pair of Common Raven grooming each other on the snow, while Liron Gertsman, also from Canada, was crowned the professional winner for his image of a rare White-tailed Ptarmigan. “I’ve spent countl
The US government says airlines have to stop charging families to sit together

The US government says airlines have to stop charging families to sit together

The US Department of Transportation has issued a stern warning to airlines: stop charging families to sit together. That means that the likes of JetBlue, United, and Spirit will need to adopt policies that minimize the chances of families with young children being separated, or face new regulations. Children who are under the age of 13 should be seated next to an accompanying adult with no additional charge says the DOT, who offers solutions to the airlines such as free seat reservations at the time of booking for qualifying passengers; allowing families to board early if they use an open seating policy; or blocking rows for family use. The request does not apply to adult-only parties (sorry honeymooners!). The notice comes as US airlines ramp up their profit-making initiatives; most now charge extra for seats closer to the front of the aircraft (but otherwise, come with no added benefit) as well as for carry-on bags. Although the DOT has received a relatively low number of consumer complaints regarding family seating, there has been a noticeable increase in seat separation over the years: in many instances, complaints have arisen where children as young as 11 months old (yes, you heard right) were allocated seats away from their accompanying adult. Between now and November, airlines will have the opportunity to make a shift in their seating practices before the government agency decides if new regulations need to be put in place. Till then, customers flying with children sho
Here's how you can hike and win prizes in Minnesota this summer

Here's how you can hike and win prizes in Minnesota this summer

It’s never really taken much to get a Minnesotan out in nature during the summertime (10,000 gorgeous lakes and non-threatening weather are just part of the incentive), but a new hiking program means even stragglers have absolutely no excuse lace up their boots this summer.  The Minnesota tourism board is back with a program encouraging both locals and visitors alike to get out and hike the state's gorgeous parks and recreation centers. Participants need only to download the free Hike MN Passport and check in at one of 60 featured locations each month in order to be added to a multiple prize draw. And what are the fabulous prizes, we hear you ask? Well, aside from good health, great views, and oodles of fun, rewards available come in the shape of gift cards. We’re talking $100 gift cards from the Mall of America, $50 gift cards from SCHEELS, and $35 gift cards from Minnesota State Parks & Trails (best enjoyed in the summer for obvious reasons) so you can add a little retail therapy to your North Star State agenda. Of course, it’s not all about the plastic, it’s about the exploration. The passport of 60 trails offers guidance as to the best places to slip on your boots in the state. These include the historic Lake Shetek State Park, home to the largest lake in southwestern Minnesota; the rolling hills of Maplewood State Park, best for viewing the fall colors, and the Superior Hiking Trail, superior in name and superior in scenery. After zipping by magnificent waterfalls, trekk
These US airlines have the most frequent delays

These US airlines have the most frequent delays

It’s been all over the news lately; passengers stranded at airports with screaming kids, families missing weddings because of ‘severe weather’ and long lines at security full of smucks who haven’t yet discovered the wonders of TSA pre-check. It’s enough to turn anyone off the idea of faraway destinations. However, one way to avoid the drama could be to look at the stats. According to The Family Vacation Guide, who analyzed data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, your chances of delay are heavily impacted by both your choice of airline and your arriving airport; in other words, you should avoid flying Allegiant Airlines to Newark or LaGuardia. Between 2019 and 2021, they discovered that 27.31 percent of the low-cost carrier’s flights were late or canceled. Meanwhile, all three of NYC’s major airports made the top ten when it came to late arrivals (in Newark, one-fourth of all flights arrived later than their scheduled time). To be fair, NYC-servicing airports are some of the biggest and busiest in the world, so the chances of you arriving late there as opposed to say, Des Moines, may not exactly correlate. We wouldn’t waste our time driving from Washington DC to hit up Broadway just yet. Photograph: Shutterstock Since the survey’s top three most delayed or canceled airlines were all budget carriers (comprising of Allegiant, JetBlue and Frontier) avoiding mishap can come at a price—breaking out of budget. Flying on United or American drops your probability of setba