TRAVEL NEWS

All that glitters is indeed gold.

Who doesn’t like shiny things? People have been swayed by glittering beads, shimmering gold, and twinkling gems throughout history, giving up land, possessions, even their freedom to take hold of a dazzling trophy. Fairy tales have been written, and legends told about mythical gold cities, kings, and legendary sights, pandering to our interest in everything glossy and polished. When traveling the world, it’s often natural beauty that takes our breath away, but a close second is a sight that glitters golden in the sunshine and makes us gasp with admiration. More often than not, whatever glitters is not real gold, but there are some stunning sights around the globe that truly are what they seem: real gold. To discover these true gems, read on.

Experience America's best beaches sans saltwater.

When most people think of booking travels for a “beach trip,” they traditionally think of destinations located along the coast. What many people don’t realize is there are a plethora of hidden beaches across the U.S. that aren’t necessarily oceanic–but still just as beautiful. Here are 15 of the best beaches across the U.S.–with no ocean in sight.

The most thrilling roads in the world—which ones offer scenic views and which ones to avoid.

Roads and highways are essential for getting from point A to point B. Sometimes getting to your destination may create a hair-raising experience simply by traversing the road itself. In some places, hairpin turns on narrow stretches of pavement are the only way to reach your destination. Preparing for the journey, it’s important to know if you can navigate sharp bends or steep inclines or if there are alternative ways to get to where you’re headed. But occasionally, there are times where you may choose the road less traveled for the long and windy scenic way offering another perspective and usually incredible views.

Discover the historic places that made up the Underground Railroad.

As Juneteenth celebrates the day in 1865 when news of Abraham Lincoln’s 1863 Emancipation Proclamation finally reached rural Texas more than two years after it was ordered, now’s a time to reflect and recall the heroic stories of people who risked their lives and livelihoods in the secret network to help Black Americans escape enslavement. (Due to COVID, check to make sure places are open before you visit.) Recommended Viewing/Reading“Underground Railroad,” a 10-episode series based on the best-selling book by Colson Whitehead, directed by Barry Jenkins, debuted on Amazon Prime in May.   

A gift for every type of travel dad.

Fathers can be tricky to shop for. Some are obsessed with their bikes, but they’re also particular about them. For some, new clothes are their last priority—they’ve got a button-up from five years ago, why would they possibly need another? Though it may be tough to find the right thing for your dad, if they also love to travel, then we can help you select the perfect something. Whether you’re looking for an experience or wanting something for him to unwrap, we’ve got you covered. These are the best Father’s Day gifts for the father figure in your life.

On these bizarre, sinister, and sometimes somber abandoned islands, you'll find mystery, history, buried treasure, and tragedy.

What could be scarier than finding yourself on an uninhabited island where there’s no way out and you’re surrounded by the water? That’s right: stranded on an abandoned island with a creepy history. And there are many places like this around the world. Bearing ancient curses, serving as mass burial grounds, witnessing death, hiding treasures–these islands are curious places that won’t leave a traveler indifferent. These islands break to pieces the stereotype of idyllic island leisure and instead guarantee nightmares after visiting. Some of them are places of remembrance and dialogue, others simply infested with deadly poisonous snakes–but all are extremely fascinating. The abandoned flair adds to the mystery and deafening silence serves as the best accompaniment for exploration. So, get ready for chills down your spine and enter the sinister world of the abandoned islands of the world.