San Diego Beer Week Celebrates the Beloved Libation http://ift.tt/2envD1I

Beer lovers already longing for next year’s Oktoberfest—rejoice! Nov. 4 marks the start of San Diego Beer Week. For seven days the southern Californian city will be awash in events celebrating the beloved beverage. San Diego’s many breweries are offering a number of special deals, tastings, and even classes for brew lovers looking to upgrade their knowledge of IPAs. But the crowned jewel may just be The Beer Garden. The Lodge at Torrey Pines will be hosting the closing event which will feature a food and beer-pairing tasting showcasing 28 breweries and 14 chefs. Did we mention that admission gets you unlimited tastings of beer and food?

For a complete list of the week’s events visit SDBW.org.

Plan your trip with the San Diego Travel Guide.

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2fNdgIN
via IFTTT

This Museum Immerses You in the World of London's Most Notorious Criminals http://ift.tt/2fNevr8

While a walking tour can invite you to follow in the footsteps of Jack the Ripper, there’s only one way to come face to face with one of the 19th-century killer’s victims. A Virtual Reality experience that allows visitors to view a holographic representation of Catherine Eddowes’ final hours is just one of the unique exhibits at the City of London Police Museum.

The museum, set to open to the public on Nov. 7, showcases a number of artifacts that run the gamut from before the City of London Police’s official 1839 founding up to the present day. The other exhibits include a test where visitors can find out if they have the ultra-rare abilities of a “super recognizer,” bombs made by suffragettes, and a number of confiscated weapons that range from the traditional to the improvised (rock in a sock, anyone?).

For more on this story visit The Telegraph.

Plan your trip with the London Travel Guide.

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2fNevaC
via IFTTT

How to Spend 3 Days in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico http://ift.tt/2enrhrx

San Miguel de Allende is a stunning Spanish Colonial gem in the arid mountains of central Mexico, just three hours north of the capital. Its colorful history is a vivid mixture of Spanish and Mexican culture, as evidenced in the city’s architecture, food, and lively plazas. Although San Miguel has been wowing visitors for decades with its pretty cobbled streets and confectionary-colored cathedral, a crop of new restaurants, bars, and boutiques means that even if you’ve visited before, there’s plenty more to experience in this buzzing south-of-the-border destination.

Day 1

After checking into the chic, art-filled Hotel Nena (rooms from $135), walk nine minutes through bright, cobbled streets to the Jardín Allende, the city’s central main square. The tree-lined gardens offer shade from the perennial sunshine, and wrought-iron benches provide the perfect spot to sip a café con leche while watching street vendors hawk hand-stitched dolls and balloons. The jardín is also the best place to admire the magnificent Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel, the city’s iconic pink cathedral. After snapping a few Instagrammable shots, walk two minutes to Café San Agustín (21 San Francisco, Zona Centro), purported to have the best hot chocolate and churros in all of San Miguel.

After breakfast, get lost amid the hillside streets lined with bougainvillea-draped houses, then pop into the Mercado de Artesanias (Lucas Balderas S/N, Plaza Lanaton), a buzzing artisan market where you can bargain for everything from textiles and jewelry to shoes and souvenirs. After your sartorial needs have been met, walk 10 minutes to Ten Ten Pie (average main: $6, 21 Cuna de Allende, Zona Centro) a restaurant with outdoor patio seating that occupies a bustling corner square. Margaritas and tacos are always a good choice, and with any luck, you’ll see a wedding party pass by, replete with flower-laden donkeys.

After people-watching over a slow lunch, walk two minutes to Mixta, a boho-chic boutique filled with housewares, accessories, and clothing that may quickly consume your entire shopping budget. Wander past scores of tempting shops as you continue south toward peaceful Parque Juárez. Turn right on Calle Nemesio Diez and you’ll end up back at Hotel Nena, where the open-air rooftop Sky Bar—complete with plunge pool—is the perfect stop for a late-afternoon cocktail as you watch the sun set over distant mountains.

Freshen up for dinner before heading across the street to Café Rama (average main: $10), a funky, Art Nouveau restaurant that features quirky art, and an ever-changing menu of both Mexican favorites and classic comfort food (think chicken pot pie or Swiss fondue).

Next door lies the city’s swankiest address, where the Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar at the Rosewood San Miguel de Allende (rooms from $330) offers a wide array of mescal and tequila, plus a cart selling fine cigars.

Day 2

Get up early and walk five minutes to the Saturday Organic Market, set in an open area within the famed art and language school Instituto Allende. Stalls overflowing with produce, local cheese, handmade soaps, and fresh salsas vie for the attention of passersby. Grab a hearty breakfast of tortillas, beans, and rice from one of the many food vendors, then find a seat at the picnic tables.

Hail a $3 taxi for the two-mile ride to El Charco del Ingenio, an ecological preserve and botanical garden in the hills east of town. The magical landscape—with waterfalls, towering cacti, and deep gorges—gives visitors a sense of the Guanajuato region’s unique flora and fauna.

After a leisurely walk among the native plants lining the garden’s looped trail, taxi back to Geek & Coffee, a quirky café in a serene outdoor setting. With beverages rivaling those of any big-city coffeehouse, plus toothsome sandwiches and quiches (some with a spicy Mexican twist), it’s the perfect place for a light lunch. It’s also conveniently located next to the Fábrica la Aurora, a converted water mill-turned-art space that now houses some of the city’s best artists, galleries, and boutiques.

After perusing paintings and sculptures, walk 17 minutes back toward the central square for a sundowner. Just off Jardín Allende is Restaurante Cielo (9 Correo planta alta, Zona Centro). Grab an icy cerveza as you take advantage of the perfect photo op—the cathedral silhouetted against a fiery sunset.

For dinner, nosh on the best enchiladas in town at Hecho en Mexico (average main: $12, 8 Ancha de San Antonio, Zona Centro), a buzzy restaurant with a festive interior courtyard, then finish off the night at La Galería (1 Carretera Celaya, Villa de los Frailes), a classic 1930s-style bar on the edge of town that offers top-class cocktails and live music.

Day 3

It’s a 15-minute walk to quaint Café Buen Día (3-A Del Pueblito, Zona Centro), an inexpensive breakfast option with great coffee and Mexican classics such as chilaquiles or huevos rancheros.

The mountainous desert landscape surrounding San Miguel de Allende is best seen on horseback, so set out with Leisurely Country Horseback Riding on a guided tour through rivers and canyons. As you ford streams and revel in the cactus-filled scenery of the “real” Mexico, listen to the Stetson-topped cowboys whistle a serenade.

After a filling, home-cooked lunch back at the ranch, unwind with an afternoon at one of the area’s best hot springs, La Gruta. Just 15 minutes by cab from Zona Centro, a massage followed by a few hours relaxing in the thermal pools will ease muscles sore from a day in the saddle.

For fun and friendly happy hour drinks and live music, head to 007-themed Bond’s Gin Bar and Whiskey House (30 Hidalgo, 3rd Floor Terraza, Zona Centro), or the cool and aptly named Tres Hojas (Three Sheets) Cocktail Bar (37 Correo, Zona Centro). Alternatively, grab a bench around the jardín and listen as mariachi bands add music to the star-filled night.

A few small-yet-filling plates at Tapas SMA (36 Umaran, Zona Centro) make for a low-key dinner, and if you’ve still some fun left in the tank, cross the street and sing your heart out at Mama Mia’s famous karaoke night.

Where to Stay

Top-of-the line hotel Rosewood has a chic spa and a glamorous outdoor pool, while the hip boutique Hotel Nena across the street offers a more urban vibe. Contemporary Hotel Matilda (rooms from $287) is known for its restaurant, Moxi, presided over by famed Mexican chef Enrique Olvera, while Casa 1810 Hotel Boutique (rooms from $250) has elegant Spanish Colonial architecture. Whimsical Casa Carly (rooms from $65) is set amid gardens and ponds across from the Fábrica la Aurora, and Casa Carmen Bed and Breakfast (rooms from $120) is a charming 350-year-old colonial home.

Getting There

United and American Airlines both fly from George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston to Del Bajío International Airport in Leon, an hour and a half drive from San Miguel de Allende. Alternatively, flights from many major U.S. hubs land in Mexico City, which is an easy and inexpensive 3-hour VIP bus ride away from San Miguel.

When to Go

San Miguel is known locally as the “City of Eternal Spring,” which means the weather is almost always perfect for a visit. Just be sure to pack a sweater for the slightly cooler evenings in fall and winter.

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2envoUo
via IFTTT

3 Ways to Escape Election Madness with a Silent Retreat http://ift.tt/2fi528t

With all of the election stress, wouldn’t it be great to get away from it all…and find some peace and quiet?

The 3,000 acre Rancho La Puerta in Tecate, Mexico has plenty of space to breathe and relax and should allow you to clear your mind in no time. There are 32 acres of gardens, hiking trails, an extensive spa and fitness facility, as well as individual casitas for guests. While you’re there, sign up for the weekly Silent Dinner. Every Thursday evening, dinner is served in silence. Yes, you heard correctly. No conversations are allowed, only the sounds of inspirational music in the background.

Sedona’s Red Rock country is known to embody a sort of mystical quality that immediately puts one at ease and inspires complete relaxation. It’s here that you’ll find the L’Auberge hotel, which is home to the L’Apothecary Spa. The spa offers a variety of treatments designed to help you completely disconnect from the real world including the Quiet Mind treatment, which encourages guests to “turn their minds off” during the completely silent massage. Simple breathing techniques are used to calm your mind, while massage therapists focus on acupressure points in your face. Geranium, Bird of Paradise, and Passion Flower essences are also incorporated to inspire you to “let go of distraction” and dissolve muscle tension.   

Just two hours north of New York City, the exquisite country retreat known as the Mayflower Grace will immediately help you forget the stresses of everyday life. A member of the Relais & Châteaux association of hotels, this 58 acre property includes beautifully landscaped gardens and woodland, a heated outdoor pool, and a putting green. It’s also home to the Mayflower Grace Spa, which features a treatment known as Sound Healing therapy. This almost silent experience utilizes the ancient sound of singing bowls, breathing techniques, and meditation to encourage guests to let go of the craziness of life, and reconnect with oneself.  

Take your retreat even further with these 9 spas where you can try "forest bathing"

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2f79174
via IFTTT

15 Best Places to Drink Hot Chocolate in America http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

As the winter months approach and staying warm becomes a priority, there's no tastier way to beat the cold than with a rich, creamy cup of hot chocolate. Chocolatiers across the country are putting their own spin on the delicious beverage, from adding salted-caramel marshmallows to spiking their hot chocolate with spices (or spirits!). Whether you’re taking a break from the slopes at The Little Nell in Aspen, or cozying up with cocoa at New York’s Serendipity 3, these 15 shops and restaurants provide the perfect antidote to the cold weather. Here's where we'll be indulging in a cup of hot chocolate this winter.

By Emily Wasserman

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2fhaEzF
via IFTTT

14 Places to Travel Before You Have Kids http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Picnicking beneath the Eiffel Tower isn’t the same with a busy toddler in tow, and the high-altitude, stony streets of Cusco aren’t quite as charming when you’re struggling to push a stroller around them. Although it can be wonderful to expose children to new cultures and places, some destinations are best experienced before kids enter the picture. From cities with limited kid-friendly options to destinations deemed dangerous for impressionable young minds, here are the best places to travel at least once before you have kids.—Kristy Alpert

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2fih6Zx
via IFTTT

How to Explore Bermuda Without a Car http://ift.tt/2fi8jEF

One thing that many travelers visiting Bermuda may not realize is that, unless you're a resident, it’s illegal to rent a car. Yes, you read that right. Only Bermudians are allowed to get behind the wheel (the government cites safety and congestion as two reasons). Luckily, there are numerous ways to see this scenic island nation without getting behind the wheel.

By motor scooter

Perhaps the most popular way for residents and tourists alike to get around the 22-mile, hook-shaped island is on a motor scooter. There are a number of rental companies around Bermuda that lease mopeds by the day or week, but one of the places with the largest selection of makes and models to choose from is Oleander Cycles, which has five locations island-wide. Another rental company is Elbow Beach Cycles. Both outfitters offer one- and two-seater scooters, as well as bicycles. But before you strap on a helmet, remember this: Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory, meaning you have to drive on the left-hand side of the road, not the right.

By boat

The aquamarine waters surrounding the island should be reason enough to draw you in, and one excellent way to experience them beyond the vantage point of Bermuda’s picturesque beaches is by boat. There are numerous charter companies offering everything from fishing excursions to sunset dinner cruises to racing tournaments. One that offers all three is Sanctuary Marine, a 53-foot yacht equipped with air conditioning, satellite radio, restrooms, and more. If a need for speed is more your thing, try K.S. Watersports, which rents Jet Skis and does parasailing adventures.

On horseback

For a truly scenic experience, there’s no better means of transport than mounting a horse at Spicelands Riding Center and trotting along one of the island’s famous pink sand beaches. Rides are available for both beginner and experienced riders, and range in length from an hour to 90 minutes. Depending on the route, expect to meander along the Bermuda Railway Trail, a former railroad that was converted into a trail (it served as the main mode of transportation for residents beginning in 1931, when the local government banned motor vehicles), as well as a visit to Horseshoe Bay, one of the most famous beaches on the island.

By plane

While you can expect to get a spectacular view of Bermuda from your seat on the commercial airliner you arrive on, the moment is unfortunately brief. Luckily, a number of aviation companies offer scenic tours of the island. One, Blue Sky Flights, offers two-hour tours from a Cessna 172 aircraft. During the excursion, expect to fly over points of interest like reefs, the island’s capital of Hamilton, the historic town of St. George’s, and even the sites of a few shipwrecks.   

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Bermuda Guide

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2f7bDC3
via IFTTT

9 Under-the-Radar Things to Do in Curaçao http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

There’s a lot more to enjoy on this island beyond the beaches and famous blue liqueur. The capital of Willemstad is the nexus of museums, history, and beautifully restored monuments,  but this quirky little island has all kinds of hidden gems and cool adventures secreted throughout its eclectic neighborhoods and surreal desert-like interior.—Susan Campbell  

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2e4aQoG
via IFTTT

9 New Boutique Hotels in Paris http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Recently, an unprecedented number of exceptional—and exceptionally stylish—small boutique hotels have revitalized the hotel scene in Paris. Whether you're looking for a deluxe five-star experience in the heart of the city, a hipster hideaway, or an out-of-the way budget gem, there's something new, and wonderful, for everyone.—Jennifer Ladonne

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2eBYksJ
via IFTTT

How to Visit Aruba with Kids http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

They don’t call it “One Happy Island” for nothing, and that’s especially true for families. Aruba has miles of shallow, soft sand beaches perfect for all kinds of water activities geared toward all ages. But beyond the beach, there are also lots of great family-friendly things to do.—Susan Campbell

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2e48shO
via IFTTT

Denmark Unveils Plans for a New Hans Christian Andersen Museum http://ift.tt/2e4aQFc

A new museum dedicated to the works of Hans Christian Andersen, author of “The Little Mermaid” and “Thumbelina,” is set to open in the Danish city of Odense. While there is already a museum in the author’s childhood home, the new museum will be more focused on his fairy tales. Local cultural official Jane Jegind described the museum as a “unique possibility to create Andersen’s fairy tale universe in a way that will appeal to both children and adults.”

The museum will be designed by Kengo Kuma & Associates, a Japanese architecture firm that won the project with its dreamy and magical designs. The concept art for the museum depicts minimalist, curving structures that integrate seamlessly with lush gardens that transport visitors to the enchanted worlds of Andersen’s beloved characters.

For more on this story visit VOA News.

Plan your trip with the Denmark Travel Guide.

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2eC2iBG
via IFTTT

How to Stay in an Italian Bed & Breakfast Without Spending a Penny http://ift.tt/2eynb0w

Do you have some extra wine and quality local produce? Can you build a website, give some pointers on vegan cooking, or even just help collect olives? Then you may be able to check in to an Italian bed and breakfast—without paying a cent!

November 14th through the 20th is La Settimana del Baratto a.k.a. Barter Week. The week encourages Italian innkeepers and travelers to exchange goods and services for free stays in thousands of participating bed and breakfasts. Travelers that are interested in participating can visit SettimanadelBarratto.it and list their offers or peruse the wishlists of participating bed and breakfasts.

For more on this story visit The Guardian.

Plan your trip with the Italy Travel Guide.

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2f8I323
via IFTTT

5 Luxurious Getaways in Southeast Asia http://ift.tt/2eymEvk

Southeast Asia has long been considered a backpacker’s dream, offering vast landscapes and affordable boutique accommodation in the perfect budget destination. However, the lesser-known, luxurious side of the region is rapidly earning a reputation, thanks to its sought-after retreats and luscious private getaways. We’ve explored some of the most luxurious holiday experiences on offer, from luxury cruises to award-winning wellness spas.

Vietnam

Although Vietnam has only recently seen its tourist industry blossom, it has rapidly become one of the most popular holiday destinations in Southeast Asia. For luxury travelers, the country’s relatively recent bloom means there aren’t quite as many high-end hotels here as elsewhere in this part of the world. However, the Six Senses Hideaway at Ninh Van Bay leaves little to be desired. Located in the coastal city of Nha Trang, this stunning hideaway boasts earth-toned rock pool villas set inside a serenely beautiful private cove. Possessing the same exclusive atmosphere as a private island, the resort is surrounded by white sands and striking mountains that create a feeling of being at one with nature.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Vietnam Guide

Thailand

Thailand is renowned for beautiful resorts and luxury spa holidays, but among the most impressive is the Layana Resort & Spa in Ko Lanta. Winner of the Best Luxury Destination Spa Thailand award in 2015, this pristine resort has been designed to cater to your every need. Particularly favored by honeymooners, the Layana Resort is an adults-only destination overlooking a stunning secluded beach. Inside, guests can explore the vast range of spa treatments on offer, from basic facials to the Layana Signature massage, which is a favorite among connoisseurs. Unlike many of Thailand’s more luxurious getaways, Ko Lanta remains relatively unknown, so you can bask in the peace and quiet.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Thailand Guide

Indonesia

It isn’t just hotels and resorts that provide a five-star service; some of the most luxurious holidays in the world take place at sea. There is a wide range of Southeast Asian cruises available, each following a different itinerary to deliver an original view of this incredibly beautiful region. Luxury cruise line Azamara Cruise Club offers an exciting 16-night cruise option that explores the culturally diverse stretch between Singapore and Bali. Beginning with the bright lights of the region’s richest country, the cruise stops for day trips at a range of beautiful destinations including Semarang, the home of the largest Buddha monument in the world. Finally, spend a few nights on shore in Bali, a vibrant country rich with temples, volcanic peaks, and stunning flora.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Indonesia Guide

Cambodia

If the term “eco-tourism” brings to mind cold tents with leaking roofs, you might be surprised by the indulgent approach taken at 4 River Floating Eco Lodge in Tatai, Cambodia. Floating on the surface of the picturesque Tatai River, the retreat boasts panoramic views of untouched forest that encourages guests to leave the stress and strain of modern life behind. The luxurious villas have been constructed from eco-friendly materials and were designed to remain in harmony with nature, while providing the decadence you would expect from a five-star hotel. Private balconies with picture-perfect views across to the Cambodian jungle are the icing on the cake at this oasis of peace and tranquility.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Cambodia Guide

Philippines

It’s impossible to explore Southeast Asia’s most luxurious destinations without featuring a luxury yoga retreat—and where better to do so than the Philippines’ top wellness hideaway? Located in the beautiful region of Batangas, The Farm is renowned for its natural approach to health and operates from a philosophy based on emotional healing and detoxifying. Within this intricately designed retreat, guests can enjoy indulgent spa treatments, yoga and meditation, aqua aerobics, and stress reduction guidance, all of which have been designed to help boost mental and physical wellbeing. During your stay, you’ll also have access to the retreat’s award-winning vegan restaurant, which sources much of its produce from The Farm’s own organic garden.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Philippines Guide

Paul Edge, director of Cruise Club UK, is a passionate travel enthusiast. When he isn’t busy heading up operations at Cruise Club, he often finds himself out at sea, exploring a new part of the world.  

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2eZGKPN
via IFTTT

11 Delicious Food Halls to Visit in New York City http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

For those fed up with restaurant decision making, your new dining era is here. Food halls have taken the variety of yesteryear’s shopping mall food courts and spun them into delectable culinary bazaars. They’re cropping up in cities from coast to coast, but in New York it seems like nouveau food halls are in (or coming to) practically every neighborhood—including a massive one proposed by Anthony Bourdain for Manhattan’s Pier 57, rumored to open in 2019. Here’s a look at a baker’s dozen of the best halls hungry to feed you right now.—Kelsy Chauvin

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2f8Apoa
via IFTTT

9 Reasons To Visit Nevis http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

St. Kitts’ little-known sister island, Nevis, has been attracting a lot more attention with the massive popularity of Hamilton the Musical, since it happens to be that founding father’s birthplace. But being off the radar for the masses has been a good thing for this lush little isle, as it has managed to remain unspoiled. —Susan Campbell

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2eZIsAT
via IFTTT

Rad Arachnids at the National History Museum's Spider Pavilion http://ift.tt/2fbRyd5

If you live in Los Angeles and somehow missed the bevy of haunted houses and scary attractions, you're in luck: the Spider Pavilion at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is open from October 30 to December 11. This isn't your normal spider exhibit, full of glass cases and barriers between you and the spiders; the exhibit is housed in an open-air pavilion where you can see non-venomous Golden Silk Spiders and Garden Spiders do what they do best, up-close and personal.

Museum guides tell visitors about the importance of spiders to our everyday lives, as well as their description of the arachnids' web-building prowess. Visitors are warned to watch where they step in order to avoid stray spider silk across the face, but luckily the spiders mostly keep to themselves and are shy around humans.

For the more squeamish guest, the entry area to the pavilion holds several spiders in closed habitats, where you can see spiders such as the Pinktoe Tarantula and the Mexican Fireleg Tarantula in glass cases while you learn about their habits and favorite foods (spoiler: it's not people.)

Plan your trip: Visit Fodor's Los Angeles Travel Guide

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2fbNr0n
via IFTTT

The Exhibit Where You Can Explore Cuba Without a Passport http://ift.tt/2fbQ16H

The American Museum of Natural History will be presenting ¡Cuba!, a new exhibit exploring the nature and culture of the island nation. Given the country’s incredible biodiversity and vibrant culture it’s clear that the exhibit, the largest of its kind in the United States, will serve as an exciting examination of everything Cuba has to offer.

Visitors to the museum will be able to get an immersive experience as they find themselves in the midst of the country’s sights (including a 3-D recreation of the Garden of the Queens coral reef) and even scents (sections will feature the transportive aromas of tobacco leaves and coffee).

¡Cuba! opens Nov. 21st and will run until Aug. 13th.

For more on this story visit The New York Times.

Plan your visit to the American Museum of Natural History with the New York City Travel Guide. Or plan your trip to the real deal with the Cuba Travel Guide.

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2ehi2fo
via IFTTT

5 Ways to Contribute to Wildlife Conservation with a Trip to Namibia http://ift.tt/2fbNXf0

While on vacation in Namibia, it’s easy to contribute to wildlife conservation while staying at comfortable lodges and going on guided safaris. Namibia is the first African country to incorporate protection of the environment and wildlife into its constitution. It has done this by creating conservancies and involving local communities, tourism businesses, safari operators, lodges, and farmers in working toward a shared goal of natural resource conservation. Currently 43.6% of Namibia’s 300,000 square miles is under conservation management.

With tourism being one of the major contributors to their economy, Namibians have found a way to support and aid their conservation efforts with sustainable tourism. If you’ve always dreamed of a guilt-free African safari, it’s time to head to Namibia.

Stay at a luxury lodge

Many of the lodges in Namibia have close ties the various communities and conservation areas around them. While you spend your hard-earned dollars lounging on the deck sipping on a sundowner, a portion of your fees are being invested directly into the wildlife conservation of the area. Luxury lodges often sponsor game guards to help control poaching in the region. In the beautiful and remote Northern Kunene region, half of the community conservation projects are linked to wonderful luxury lodges and tented camps. Places such as Desert Rhino Camp, Serre Cafema, Nkasa Lupala Tented Lodge, or Grootberg Lodge are excellent choices.

Use a conservation-minded tour operator

When booking your holiday, choose a tour operator like Wilderness Safaris that can plan your itinerary and book all your accommodation. As one of the premier conservation-minded tour operators in Southern Africa, all of their establishments are deeply invested in the surrounding communities and wildlife management programs. Funds from their lodges are donated to area farms to repair damages from wildlife or to reimburse farmers for stock lost to predators like cheetahs. In addition, all their camps are built and managed in an eco-friendly way. While you’re still enjoying hot showers and five-star meals, they have taken care to minimally impact the surrounding ecosystem.

Go on a guided safari

If it’s your first time in Namibia, book a tour with your own guide and driver so you can spend all day admiring the landscape that Namibia is famous for. A planned itinerary will take you through the relevant nature conservancies, tribal villages that are actively involved in protecting the wildlife, and community camps and markets. Ultimate Safaris is Namibian owned and they specialize in tours and guided self-drive itineraries that are conservation focused.

Avoid wildlife sanctuaries

This may seem counterintuitive, because surely wildlife sanctuaries are there to preserve wildlife. Sadly, not all of these establishments have as honorable intentions as they should. Many are linked to illegal hunting operations or merely don’t actually rehabilitate the wildlife they have on display. Ideally, you are contributing far more in the long run to wildlife conservation by avoiding places that offer tours of animals in cages and small enclosures. Make sure to visit reputable places such as AfriCat at the Okonjima Reserve, where they are involved in cheetah rehabilitation. You won’t see animals in cages, but you will get to walk in the reserve and silently watch the rehabilitated cheetahs in their natural environment. With each visit, you’re directly contributing to rehabilitation of future cats as well as helping pay for education toward and management of the serious human–wildlife conflict with the farmers and cheetahs in the greater Namibia area.

Visit a national park

This one might seem a little more obvious than the others, but it’s not just about the entrance fee. Once you visit Africa, the continent stays with you forever. It happens with your first sighting of a leopard dozing in a tree above a river, or of elephants dipping their trunks into a pool of water and spraying it over their dusty backs. After you visit, your love for Namibia might inspire you to further contribute toward the conservation of wildlife. It could be something as simple as sharing the message, donating to a cause, or even just planning your next trip.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Namibia Guide

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2ehjajb
via IFTTT

The World's Most Famous Cemeteries http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Although some say it might be creepy to visit a graveyard while you’re on vacation, we beg to differ. Graveyards can be a history lesson, a walk through a lovely garden, or a place to see the best view of the skyline. At these nine cemeteries, you’ll find memorials dedicated to war heroes, politicians, artists, writers, and musicians where you can pay your respects and learn something new.—Teddy Minford

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2ehhR3H
via IFTTT

Live Like the King When You Stay at the Guest House at Graceland http://ift.tt/2dVNVH7

Just a few feet away from where Elvis Presley himself lived is the newly opened The Guest House at Graceland, a full-service luxury hotel that reflects the one-of-a-kind style of the legendary singer. The Guest House boasts 450 rooms, two restaurants, a 464-seat theater for movies and live performances, as well as a number of other amenities.

Guests looking for something beyond The Guest House’s standard issue Southern hospitality can opt for a VIP experience. The membership, dubbed The Founders, includes special access to Graceland, exclusive invitations to special events, and priority room and dining reservations.

For more on this story visit USA Today.

Plan your trip with the Memphis Travel Guide.

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2dVMxnI
via IFTTT

Prince�s Paisley Park Opens to the Public http://ift.tt/2dVM7hf

Representatives of Prince’s estate have announced that Paisley Park, the late musician’s famed recording studio, is now officially opened to the public as a museum. The opening of the Minneapolis adjacent complex was delayed when the City Council of Chanhassen, Minn. raised concerns about zoning changes. The museum was able to make tours available to a select few but now has announced that is now permanently open to the public with regular tours resuming today.

Tickets for touring the storied studio start at $38.50 with $100 V.I.P. passes available for Prince super-fans interested in seeing the legendary artist’s private working environment, personal archives, wardrobes, musical instruments, and motorcycles.

Plan your trip with the Minneapolis-St. Paul Travel Guide.

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2dVO6SW
via IFTTT

How to Spend 3 Days in the Florida Panhandle http://ift.tt/2fpuwDK

Once dubbed the Redneck Riviera, this 28-mile stretch of Florida shoreline along the Gulf of Mexico is now clustered with hip beach towns sporting high design, fine dining, and—best of all—no crowds. Whether you lust after architecture (the region’s New Urbanism design, marked by walkable neighborhoods, inspires architects nationwide) or can’t get enough of fresh-catch seafood, say hello to this lesser-known corner of Florida. Pro tip: rent a two-wheeled beach cruiser to feel even more like a local as you zip past emerald-green waters (there’s a reason it’s called the Emerald Coast) and sugar-white sand. And bring comfortable shoes: this is a walkers’ paradise.

Day 1

While two airports service the area, the smallest, newest, and most convenient is Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (airport code ECP) in Panama City. United, Delta, and Southwest all fly into this LEED-certified airport that opened in 2010 as the country’s first airport to earn the eco-friendly certification.

Arrive mid-day and check into your accommodations. The first thing you should do is lock in a bicycle rental (not difficult to do as there are more bike-rental places than gas stations along 30-A) as your main form of transportation this weekend. Sip a Hemingway cocktail and take in the sunset at the area’s only rooftop lounge—Havana Beach Bar & Grill at The Pearl Hotel in Rosemary Beach, open since the spring—overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Fire pits and hammocks help you ease into your vacation in this New Urbanism town that celebrated its 20th anniversary last year. The houses have all been built under tightly regulated design guidelines, creating a cohesive look of deep eaves, metal roofs, and high ceilings, all in nature-inspired hues or stark whites reminiscent of the West Indies. Multiple boardwalks lead to the beach.

From casual to fancy, Downtown Rosemary Beach is filled with many dining options  along Main Street. Save some of those for later and book a table at Havana Beach Bar & Grill—either the indoor dining room on the ground level or right where you already are, on the roof. Dishes span Spain, France, and Portugal—entrees include paella featuring Gulf shrimp and grouper with chorizo—culling from local farms whenever possible. Cap off your first meal with a Mojito trifle.

Day 2

After a hearty breakfast at the super-cute Cowgirl Kitchen Market & Café in Seagrove Beach, where dishes highlight a Southern twist ( the “Heartache” features pimento cheese and praline bacon on a biscuit), try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding with YOLO Board + Bike in Santa Rosa Beach. You can rent by the hour or for a half day.

For lunch, head to Seaside, a New Urbanism community along the Gulf of Mexico made famous in the 1998 Jim Carrey film The Truman Show. The airstream trailers permanently parked on the Central Square are food trucks serving lunch bites like grilled-cheese sandwiches from The Meltdown to grass-fed hot dogs from Wild Bill’s Beach Dogs. Linger in Seaside a little bit longer: this was the town that, incorporated in 1981, spawned the rest of the region’s development over the past two decades. A farmers market on Saturday mornings is held behind food truck Raw & Juicy. Browse the stacks at Sundog Books and be sure to check out the record-shop upstairs, Central Square Records, also a fun place to pick up rock-themed gifts.

Burn off your lunch with a self-guided walking tour of Seaside’s brightly hued cottages that look like a movie set (which, of course, they once were). Next, head to nearby Deer Lake State Park for a hike on the boardwalk along coastal dunes and wind down with a glass of wine at the area’s newest wine bar, Neat in Alys Beach, another New Urbanism community where all of the buildings are white and inspired by Antigua, Guatemala, and Bermuda. In addition to sipping wine in the Tasting Room, you can pick up a bottle for later from its Bottle Shop.

Taste local oysters sourced from Apalachicola (named for the small town) at Hurricane Oyster Bar & Grill in Grayton Beach. Happy Hour is from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily, folding in deals on oysters on the half shell. If you like shellfish, this is your place, with fresh-out-of-the-water oysters prepared several different ways: raw, grilled, steamed, and baked (nine options total, including Rockefeller). Depending on the time, catching the sunset from Grayton Beach State Park is a must.

Enjoy one of the few nightlife spots at The Red Bar, a locals’ institution in Grayton Beach with boho flair. Pay homage to another local business by ordering a cold brew from Grayton Beer Company. Live jazz performs most nights.

Day 3

Get up early so you can snag some donuts from Charlie’s Donuts, a truck parked in Alys Beach. Donuts in decadent flavors like red velvet are only served until they run out.

Hit the local shops selling everything from beachy tunics to handmade soaps along Main Street in Rosemary Beach. Alys Beach’s Alys Shoppe is another great spot for picking up preppy beachwear (cue polos and fedoras for the guys and tasseled scarves for women). After spending time in these pedestrian-friendly beach towns, you might even feel inspired to pick up some home décor, like a throw pillow from Rosemary Beach Trading Company.

For lunch, dine outdoors at La Crema Tapas & Chocolate on Main Street in Rosemary Beach. Start with Serrano-wrapped figs and saffron scallops; end with chocolate-dipped bacon and chocolate molten cake.

Relieve yourself of any sunburn or sore muscles with a spa treatment at WaterColor Inn & Resort. Treatments inspired by nearby waters include Seascape Serenity, 80 minutes of pampering including a green-sea-algae body wrap. For your last dinner, get a window seat at Fish Out of Water, a fine-dining restaurant overlooking the beach at WaterColor Inn & Resort. From the ceviche to the key-lime pannacotta, Southern cooking techniques shine through with the help of local ingredients and the chefs’ whims.

WHERE TO STAY

The bulk of options are vacation and cottage rentals, but if you don’t want to cook your own meals, check into The Pearl in downtown Rosemary Beach, a block from the Gulf of Mexico and just south of 30-A. Behind its black-and-white striped awnings are a Havana-inspired eatery, rooftop pool, and spa. With just 55 rooms, it’s been open since 2013. The brightly hued WaterColor Inn & Resort in Santa Rosa Beach right on 30-A boasts a private beach, a pool overlooking the water, four dining options, and a spa.

Rosemary Beach Cottage Rental Company and Cottage Rental Agency in Seaside are a one-stop shop for finding a place to crash. You’ll have a full kitchen and an outdoor living space (either a porch or a courtyard), and be in close proximity to amenities, in keeping with the New Urbanism philosophy.

WHEN TO GO

Outside of holiday weekends, autumn is a great time to visit the region because many of the residents are second- or third-home owners now occupied with school activities in their primary city of residence. Temperatures tend to hover between the high 70s and mid-80s.

GETTING THERE

If you’re using Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport, you’ll likely get routed through a hub city if you don’t already live in one. On United, flights go through Houston, while Delta’s connections are through Atlanta. Southwest utilizes Nashville and Houston. Four commercial airlines service Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (airport code VPS): American, United, Delta, and Allegiant. Cities that fly directly to VPS include New Orleans, Ft. Lauderdale, Atlanta, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, Charlotte, and Washington D.C.

 

Plan Your Trip with Fodor’s Florida Guide

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2fpscfY
via IFTTT

12 Under-the-Radar Museums in Amsterdam http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Amsterdam has no shortage of important cultural institutions, from the Rijksmuseum with its Vermeers and Rembrandts to the Van Gogh Museum, filled with works by the celebrated Dutch artist. But the consequence of all that greatness is endless lines and crowded galleries. So when the queue to the Rembrandt House is too long, or you can’t score a ticket to the Anne Frank House, don’t despair—the city is home to 50-plus museums, many of which are little-known gems that showcase everything from contemporary Dutch photography to the purses of the rich and famous. We’ve rounded up a dozen of our favorites to check out the next time you’re in town. Note: A great time to visit is during Amsterdam’s Museumnacht, or Museum Night, which takes place the first Saturday in November, when more than 40 institutions across the city will stay open from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m.—Jennifer Ceaser

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2dVOKzH
via IFTTT

'What Are You Doing Here?' On the Ground at a Greek Refugee Camp http://ift.tt/2fpp03N

My family left Afghanistan when I was two years old. I spent my childhood in Germany as an auslaendar (foreigner) before moving to California at age 10 and having to relive the process all over again. Such extraordinary experiences have left me with a unique understanding of the challenges of being in a strange place, having to learn a new language, and adjusting to a foreign culture.

That’s why this past July, I went to volunteer in the Softex Refugee Camp in Thessaloniki, Greece, where more than 2,000 marooned refugees—mostly from Syria—are still treading the waters of uncertainty. I wanted to be there to provide moral support, act as a translator for Pashto- and Dari-speaking refugees, or simply help in any way possible. I knew things had been and were going to be difficult for these people.

Throughout Europe, the refugee crisis has incited a wide range of emotions among locals. Some have expressed compassion and a willingness to take refugees into their own homes, while others in communities plagued with economic issues are angry and frustrated by the presence of foreigners. Volunteers are often caught in the middle and occasionally subject to violent threats by far-right groups.

But that didn’t stop me. Nor did the difficulty I incurred trying to get to there. The Softex Refugee Camp is located in an industrial area of Thessaloniki so remote I had to get the map coordinates from a stranger on Twitter. I put the coordinates into my GPS and after a 15-euro cab ride over a dirt road, I was at the back entrance: an unassuming warehouse. I stepped out of the car to see children in torn clothes rushing to greet me—some even without shoes. I’ve been to Afghanistan twice and have encountered similar scenes, but it was jarring to see set against a European background.

I noticed a little girl around three years old with light brown hair and green eyes running toward me, arms extended. What a welcome! I picked her up as she crashed into my arms. She hugged me fiercely, a complete stranger, then handed me the bottle of water she was holding, as generous as she was friendly. I asked for her name.

“Shayma,” she said shyly. 

“And where are mama and baba?” I asked.

“Khaimah.”

I don’t speak Arabic, but I knew this meant tent. Where were the volunteers, or even the adults? At that moment, a smiling young man approached me and introduced himself as Ahmed. Off we went on a fruitless mission to find the volunteer coordinator, who we later learned had gone on a food run. I was beginning to sense a pattern. Who was in charge here?

The Softex Refugee Camp is supposed to be run by the Greek military. After the evacuation of Idomeni, refugees were urged to come here as a safe place where they could get food, shelter, and help with their asylum claims. Except that’s not what I saw. The only group I witnessed helping the residents while I was there was the Al-Khair Foundation, which fed the 2,000 residents every day from a large truck. Al Khair, based in the United Kingdom, offers humanitarian aid and disaster relief to more than 25 countries around the world. The organization is active throughout Greece, providing food, housing, and medical care to thousands of refugees. But what about the institution designated to help?

“Isn’t the military administering food?” I asked upon finding the volunteers. “Aren’t they supposed to provide security?”

I was met with bitter laughter.

Around me, the camp buzzed with energy. My visit coincided with Eid al-Fitr, a celebratory Islamic holiday that takes place right after Ramadan, the annual month of fasting. Growing up in a Muslim household, Eid was akin to Christmas. My mother would buy us new clothes and spend days baking treats in preparation, and on the day of the holiday, male family members gave the children money to celebrate. My parents always underlined the significance of joy on Eid: It’s a day to abandon grudges, let go of worries, and enjoy being with friends and family. On what was supposed to be one of the happiest days of the year, the refugees were separated from their homes and their loved ones, dependent on the kindness of strangers to survive in a foreign land.

Under the hot sun, I watched hundreds of people line up outside of a school bus to wait for a plate of food. Another volunteer told me that the camp residents had nothing—no school, access to medical care, or legal counsel. (Some of that has improved slightly in recent months, as more aid organizations have become involved, but during my time, the Softex residents survived on the barest of minimums.)

It was decided that I would help with the Eid festivities planned for the kids. I walked back toward the warehouse, where a few kids loitered by the entrance.

Inside, attempts had been made to liven up the drab space: balloons and hand-drawn pictures lined the wall. Two deflated bounce houses waited limply in the corner, and three tables covered with face paint bottles and cookies were set to provide the entertainment.

I choked up at the playtime instructions: each child would spend just 10 minutes in the room to celebrate. But I had to steel myself. After all, these kids were able to laugh and play and celebrate Eid despite their circumstances. What right did I have to be upset in front of them?

For the rest of the day, I switched between helping volunteers in the kids’ play area and assisting with food preparation in an outdoor area next to the warehouse. We chopped vegetables and cubed meat before sorting ingredients into buckets. From there, the food was transported to a nearby school bus for cooking. 

While we worked, the volunteer coordinator filled me in on camp life and advised me on etiquette. He advised me not to appear as a tourist: no gawking or taking photos of the refugees’ “homes." Many refugees were suffering from the traumas of war and mourning lost loved ones. Be respectful above all. The volunteers were also advised to refrain from asking the residents about their lives “back home” or how they came to be here. It didn’t prove a difficult task—the adults mostly kept to themselves and the volunteers mainly interacted with the children. It was the children who wanted to interact.

I was introduced to “the camp translator,” a Syrian boy about 10 years old who spoke excellent English. I tried to remember what not to say.

“How long have you been here?” I asked.

Two months, he said. He explained that he had learned English from interacting with the volunteers. I tried to focus on the future by asking in which country he hoped to end up.

“Germany, Italy, or Spain,” he told me. Hopefully, he added, “I hear Spain is very nice.”

It is, I assured him.

In addition to being exceedingly social, the children were smart, cheerful, and infinitely curious. They asked the volunteers questions about where we were from, what our hometowns were like, where we had traveled to, what our favorite pastimes were. We asked them about their families, their favorite activities, and their aspirations for the future. Such resilience at such a young age! Their optimism floored me.

The volunteers finished up working late in the afternoon, and I was able to get a cab to come out to the camp to pick me up. To meet my ride, I had to walk quite a distance: past the tent city, over a dilapidated bridge, beyond the port-a-potties and main warehouse until finally I saw the taxi driver, who was chatting with the Greek soldiers—the first I’d seen—under a white tent. I was sweaty, covered in dust, and limped a bit on my left leg, which I had injured moments earlier while walking up some makeshift steps.

The driver regarded me skeptically. “What are you doing here?” he asked.

Good question. Why had I come? The condition of the camp was much worse than I had anticipated, and the government's role even more limited than I'd been led to believe. Most of the volunteers had no cultural, religious, or geographic affiliation with these refugees. There was every reason in the world to just stay home.

Before my experience at the Softex Refugee Camp, I didn't really think volunteering made much of a difference. But during my time there, I realized every single person who had come to help mattered. Their presence was felt. The small band of approximately 20 volunteers worked tirelessly to feed 2,000 people. If three volunteers hadn't shown up that day, food production would have slowed considerably and the residents would have had to wait even longer to receive their meals. If the female volunteers weren't around to help in the play area, not all of the kids would have felt comfortable getting their faces painted by a bunch of young men they didn't know. Where governments were failing, humanitarians were picking up the slack.

“I was volunteering,” I told him.

Until a solution for self-sufficiency is found and implemented, volunteers and NGOs will continue to be an indispensable force in caring for the millions of refugees throughout Europe who rely on their aid for survival. You can join us. Visit the Al-Khair Foundation or Amnesty International to find ways to get involved.

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2fpqURX
via IFTTT

George Lucas Unveils Designs for Narrative Art Museum http://ift.tt/2eLtcXY

The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art promises an exploration of how visual art tells a story, from the paintings of Edgar Degas to the animated films of Pixar. Where the museum’s collection will be ultimately housed is still a matter that’s up in the air. George Lucas is currently courting both San Francisco and Los Angeles with proposals that include architectural designs for the future museum.

Both of the designs, which show what the museum would look like in Los Angeles’ Exposition Park and in San Francisco Bay’s Treasure Island, depict sleek and futuristic structures that will be home to a myriad of objects. The majority of the museum’s planned exhibitions will come from Lucas’ personal collection, which includes work by Norman Rockwell, N.C. Wyeth, and R. Crumb, as well as costumes and objects from a number of films including “The Ten Commandments” and, naturally, “Star Wars.” San Francisco Chronicle art critic Charles Desmarais said that Lucas’ items “may just be the core of a great museum.”

Depending on where the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art is eventually established, plan your trip with the Los Angeles Travel Guide or the San Francisco Travel Guide.

For more on this story visit the Los Angeles Times.

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2eMrQ24
via IFTTT

How to Get a Seat Upgrade http://ift.tt/2eMnRCB

If you've been traveling for a long time, you might remember the days when it was fairly easy to upgrade your coach seat to business or first class. But rigid rules have made gettinga better seat more difficult, since they are usually reserved for an airline's top customers. Not an elite flyer? Here are a few ways to snag more legroom on your next flight.

PAID UPGRADES

Often, you can pay the airline for a better seat—whether it's in economy plus, business, or first class. You can usually buy up to economy plus—which has a little more legroom than economy—when you make your reservation. Upgrades to business/first are often available online prior to check-in or at check-in. You can also check for upgrade possibilities when you get to the airport.

Each airline has a slightly different system for paid upgrades, but most are only available after their elite customers have been upgraded according to specific rules of the program. Some airlines, like American, only offer paid upgrades to business or first to members of its AAdvantage frequent flyer program. If you don't have elite status, you can only buy upgrades for flights on which you've purchased a full-fare coach ticket in the Y or B fare class. The cost is $30 per 500 miles. On Delta, more fare classes are upgradable, but not all routes are eligible. The price will depend on your ticket's fare class and the distance you're flying. For example, upgrades from the continental United States to Hawaii range from $269 to 399 per person on Delta flights. Check with your airline for its rules on paid upgrades.

UPGRADE USING MILES

Most airlines will allow you to use miles to upgrade a coach ticket to business/first. Be aware, however, that it's usually not a great value and you'd be better off waiting until you have enough miles in your account to redeem a ticket instead of using them to upgrade. Not all tickets can be upgraded (it depends on the fare class of the ticket) and some airlines—like United—charge a cash co-pay in addition to the miles, making the proposition even less appealing. For example, if you're traveling within the continental U.S. on a United flight, you can upgrade for 7,500 miles and no cash co-pay up to 20,000 miles and $250, depending on the fare class of your ticket.

CHARM

If there are no seats available, no amount of kindness will make a difference. But treating a gate agent respectfully and kindly can go a long way toward helping your case—especially during irregular operations. (Whatever you do, though, don't try to bribe them!)

OPERATIONAL UPGRADES

Sometimes the airline needs to upgrade passengers for "operational" reasons. Most often, the company has oversold the economy cabin and now needs to upgrade some customers from economy to business/first in order to get everyone on the aircraft and into the air on time. The gate agent has latitude to upgrade whomever he or she deems appropriate. So how can you improve your chances of getting selected? When you arrive at the gate, introduce yourself to the agent (when he or she isn't busy assisting other passengers). Explain that you have a seat in economy and would be interested in upgrading if economy is oversold. Be friendly and straightforward. If the answer is no, offer your thanks and mention that you'll be in the gate area if anything changes. Stay in the immediate vicinity so you're easy to find if the agent needs to make an upgrade. This only happens rarely, but in the event that it does, you'll want to be in the best position to take advantage of the situation.

BE A LOYAL CUSTOMER

If you fly often enough on the same airline, you will become an “elite” member of that airline’s frequent flyer program. This will entitle you to access to complimentary upgrades on that airline and sometimes even its partners. Below you’ll find what it takes to become an elite at the most popular U.S.-based airlines and what upgrades elites are entitled to.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines Elite Status Tiers

MVP: Fly 20,000 miles on Alaska Airlines, 25,000 miles on Alaska and elite-qualifying partners, or 30 segments on Alaska and elite-qualifying partners

MVP Gold: Fly 40,000 miles on Alaska, 50,000 miles on Alaska and elite-qualifying partners, or 60 segments on Alaska and elite-qualifying partners

MVP Gold 75K: Fly 75,000 miles on Alaska, 90,000 miles on Alaska and elite-qualifying partners, or 90 segments on Alaska and elite-qualifying partners

 

Alaska Airlines Upgrades for Elites

MVP: Preferred seating and first-class upgrades on Alaska Airlines, preferred seating and 50% off Main Cabin Extra seating on American Airlines, and preferred seating on Delta and unlimited upgrades on select flights

MVP Gold: Preferred seating, unlimited first-class upgrades for you and a companion, and four first-class guest upgrades per year on Alaska Airlines; preferred seating and complimentary Main Cabin Extra seating on American Airlines; preferred seating on Delta and unlimited upgrades on select flights

MVP Gold 75K: Preferred seating, unlimited first-class upgrades for you and a companion, and four first-class guest upgrades per year on Alaska Airlines; preferred seating and complimentary Main Cabin Extra seating on American Airlines; preferred seating on Delta and unlimited upgrades on select flights

 

American Airlines

American Airlines Elite Status Tiers

You can earn elite status on American in two ways: by reaching a certain number of Elite Qualifying Miles (EQMs) or Elite Qualifying Segments (EQSs) on eligible fares on American Airlines, American Eagle, OneWorld member airlines, Alaska Airlines, Horizon Air, and any codeshare flight with an American Airlines flight number.

Gold: 25,000 EQMs or 30 EQSs

Platinum: 50,000 EQMs or 60 EQSs

Executive Platinum: 100,000 EQMs or 120 EQSs

 

American Airlines Upgrades for Elites

Gold: Complimentary auto-requested upgrades on flights 500 miles processed 24 hours before departure, free Preferred Seats, 50% off Main Cabin Extra seats, which are complimentary at check-in if still available

Platinum: Complimentary auto-requested upgrades on flights 500 miles processed 72 hours before departure, free Preferred and Main Cabin Extra seats

Executive Platinum: Four one-way systemwide upgrades with the ability to earn up to four more for a total of eight per year, free auto-requested upgrades that are processed 100 hours before departure, free Preferred and Main Cabin Extra seats

 

Delta Air Lines

Delta Elite Status Tiers

You can earn elite status on Delta by reaching a minimum number of Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs), or Medallion Qualification Segments (MQSs) and Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs).

Silver Medallion: 25,000 MQMs, or 30 MQSs and $3,000 MQDs

Gold Medallion: 50,000 MQMs, or 60 MQSs and $6,000 MQDs

Platinum Medallion: 75,000 MQMs, or 100 MQSs and $9,000 MQDs

Diamond Medallion: 125,000 MQMs, or 140 MQSs and $15,000 MQDs

 

Delta Upgrades for Elites

Silver Medallion: Unlimited complimentary first-class upgrades for all revenue tickets except E fares and Pay with Miles tickets, Delta Comfort+ upgrades, unlimited complimentary companion first-class and Delta Comfort+ upgrades, complimentary preferred seats

Gold Medallion: Unlimited complimentary first-class upgrades for award tickets and all revenue tickets except E fares and Pay with Miles ticket, Delta Comfort+ upgrades, unlimited complimentary companion first-class and Delta Comfort+ upgrades, complimentary preferred seats

Platinum Medallion: Unlimited complimentary first-class upgrades for award tickets and all revenue tickets except E fares and Pay with Miles ticket, unlimited complimentary Delta Comfort+ upgrades, unlimited complimentary companion first-class and Delta Comfort+ upgrades, complimentary preferred seats

Diamond Medallion: Unlimited complimentary first-class upgrades for award tickets and all revenue tickets except E fares and Pay with Miles ticket, unlimited complimentary Delta Comfort+ upgrades, unlimited complimentary companion first-class and Delta Comfort+ upgrades, complimentary preferred seats

 

JetBlue

JetBlue Elite Status Tiers

You can earn elite status on JetBlue by reaching a certain number of points based on the dollar amount spent per ticket.

TrueBlue Mosaic: 30 segments plus 12,000 base flight points within a calendar year, or 15,000 base flight points within a calendar year

 

JetBlue Upgrades for Elites

TrueBlue Mosaic: Redeem for Even More Space seats at reduced rates

 

United Airlines

United Airlines Elite Status Tiers

You can earn elite status on United Airlines by reaching a certain number of Premier Qualifying Miles (PQM) or Premier Qualifying Segments (PQS). Residents of the United States also need to meet minimum Premier Qualifying Dollars (PQD) requirements.

Premier Silver: 25,000 PQM and $3,000 PQD, or 30 PQS and $3,000 PQD

Premier Gold: 50,000 PQM and $6,000 PQD, or 60 PQS and $6,000 PQD

Premier Platinum: 75,000 PQM and $6,000 PQD, or 90 PQS and $9,000 PQD

Premier 1K: 100,000 PQM and $12,000 PQD, or 120 PQS and $12,000 PQD

 

United Upgrades for Elites

Premier Silver: Complimentary Economy Plus access at check-in for you and one companion, complimentary Premier upgrades for you and a companion confirmed as early as the day of departure, and instant upgrades on Y- or B-class full-fare economy tickets

Premier Gold: Complimentary Economy Plus access at booking for you and one companion, complimentary Premier upgrades for you and a companion confirmed as early as 48 hours before departure, and instant upgrades on Y- or B-class full-fare economy tickets

Premier Platinum: Complimentary Economy Plus access at booking for you and eight companions, complimentary Premier upgrades for you and a companion confirmed as early as 72 hours before departure, instant upgrades on Y- or B-class full-fare economy tickets, and Regional Premier Upgrades eligibility

Premier 1K: Complimentary Economy Plus access at booking for you and eight companions, complimentary Premier upgrades for you and a companion confirmed as early as 96 hours before departure, instant upgrades on Y- or B-class and M-class full-fare economy tickets, and Regional Premier Upgrades eligibility

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/1nl8GKB
via IFTTT

America�s Most Popular Haunted Houses According to Instagram http://ift.tt/2eTHQvy

�Fodor�s Brooklyn� Wins Lowell Thomas Award http://ift.tt/2dYUBaE

Fodor’s Brooklyn won silver place from the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Competition. Sponsored by the Society of American Travel Writers, this is the premier competition in travel journalism.

The judges released a statement saying “the neighborhood-by-neighborhood approach to a somewhat compact geographic area is especially welcome … With Brooklyn overtaking Manhattan as the trendy borough, this guidebook feels especially timely.” The judges also praised such touches as the guide’s inclusion of “commentaries by Brooklynites rather than observers who parachute into a location and write on the basis of superficial knowledge” as well as the guide’s “well-designed” maps and illustrations.

Click here to find out more about Fodor’s award winning guidebook.

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2dYXLev
via IFTTT

The World's Weirdest Museums http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Human interests are as diverse as the day is long, which is most evident in the way we choose to document our passions. Displayed in these 15 museums are tributes to innovation and tributes to the idiosyncratic. Then there’s the museum dedicated to Bigfoot, proving that there’s truly no limit to the human imagination and that whatever your interest, there’s a place for you in the world.—Vanita Salisbury

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2eTFRYv
via IFTTT

Cheap and Chic: 14 Affordable Hotels in Mexico http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

If you’ve been vacationing in Mexico for many years, or even decades, you may remember a time when it wasn’t that hard to score a stylish cabana for less than $50 a night. Here’s the new reality: the average room rate in Cancún can be pricier than in Florence. Riviera Maya is more expensive than Dubai, and Los Cabos is loftier than Venice. While Mexico isn’t quite the bargain it used to be, we've picked 14 affordable gems, most of which cost $150 or less and easily earn the chic label, while a few max out around $220 to $300 a night.—Christine Ciarmello

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/1gGD17y
via IFTTT

Experts May Have Uncovered the Mystery Behind the Bermuda Triangle http://ift.tt/2fedzvT

An upcoming Science Channel documentary claims to have uncovered the cause behind the Bermuda Triangle’s propensity for shipwrecks, downed planes, and vanished aviation pioneers. So what’s to blame? Aliens, an ancient curse, or an Illuminati conspiracy? It turns out that the likely culprit is clouds. According to meteorologists, the Bermuda Triangle sees an unusual amount of hexagonal-shaped clouds that can be up to 50 miles across that cause localized high winds. These winds may explain so many vessels have met an unfortunate end within the million square miles of open sea between Bermuda, Florida, and Puerto Rico.

However, some experts aren’t so sure that the mystery is solved. NBC meteorologist Kevin Corriveau saying that the hexagonal cloud shapes in Bermuda are “not the cloud signature of what a microburst looks like.”

For more on this story visit The Telegraph.

Go on a fact-finding mission of your own and plan your visit with the Bermuda Travel Guide.

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2fefCQs
via IFTTT

Sleep Like a King: 10 Castle Hotels in Germany http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

There's no shortage of castles in Germany. Customs houses and fortresses known as Burg line the riverbanks and crown nearly every hilltop. Scattered throughout the countryside are the more ornate homes of landed gentry and archbishops, or Schloss. While gorgeous to look at from the outside, many castles also are unique overnight lodgings. Here are 10 of our favorite places to sleep like a king or queen in Germany---places you can afford even if you're not royalty.—Courtney Tenz

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2e992Xb
via IFTTT

9 Must-Try Street Foods in Hanoi http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is famously home to some of the most incredible street food in the world. Delicious, fast, and fresh, there are endless options to choose from on every bustling street. Here are our picks for dishes you must try when visiting Hanoi. —Jennifer Arnow

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2eQN5h4
via IFTTT

Exhibit Dedicated to Taylor Swift to Open in NYC http://ift.tt/2dRlhKB

Taylor Swift fans visiting New York City should definitely leave a blank space on their sightseeing itinerary. “The Taylor Swift Experience,” an exhibit dedicated to the sparkly-guitar slinging singer, begins its three-month run at the Grammy Museum on Nov. 18. Fans will be able to get “an in-depth look” at Swift’s life and career and for just $9 a pop! Among the pieces on display will be baby pictures, personal photographs, home videos, costumes, her Grammy for best female country vocal performance, and handwritten lyrics to some of Swift’s biggest hits.

Can’t make it to New York? Shake it off! After its New York City run, the exhibition will make its way to Mississippi.

For more on this story visit The Daily News.

Plan your visit with the New York City Travel Guide.

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2eGaHVO
via IFTTT