Given the beauty and majesty of America’s national parks, it can be easy to forget that countries all over the world are home to spectacular protected areas of their own. There are more parks than you could see in a single lifetime, so we’ve selected 50 eye-popping locales on 6 continents that showcase the diversity and splendor and other nations’ national parks. Prepare to be amazed by sights you didn’t even know existed on Earth.
With the rapid spread of the Zika virus and growing concerns about its health effects on pregnant women, popular destinations including Mexico and many Caribbean islands are suddenly off-limits to would-be babymooners for the foreseeable future. But fear not: a babymoon is all about relaxation, and you certainly don’t need to travel internationally to find that. We’ve picked 15 destinations across the U.S. where you’ll find beautiful hotels with top-notch service and gorgeous surroundings. Leave your passport behind, don’t worry about changing money, and get ready to have a babymoon you’ll never forget.
Ditch the box of chocolates and long-stemmed roses this Valentine’s Day in lieu of an experience you won’t soon forget. Hotels and resorts across the country aim to wow with enticing package deals and offers that are hard to resist. Whether it's tickets to the ballet, an afternoon zooming around in a Porsche 356 Speedster, or a moonlit couple’s massage, these 10 trips are a perfect way to rekindle your romance this Valentine’s Day. —Zachary Laks
Paris rang in the New Year with a multitude of exciting events, starting with the long-awaited reopening of the legendary Musée Rodin. With Valentine's Day approaching, now is an ideal time to take advantage of low winter fares for an amorous weekend at one of Paris's new hotels, with dinner in a gourmet bistro to experience what the City of Lights does best: romance.
Not since Rodin lived and worked here has the graceful Hotel Biron received a facelift of this magnitude. Saved from demolition by the artist when he moved his studio here in 1908, the former convent became so integral a backdrop for Rodin's work that he bequeathed his entire output to France on the condition his work remain at the Hotel Biron. Now, after a $17.4 million renovation, the gorgeously restored Musée Rodin features the sculptor's rarely seen early paintings, his private art collection, and sculptures by his famous pupil and lover, Camille Claudel, along with all the masterpieces of his oeuvre.
The Centre Pompidou's ambitious Anselm Kiefer show (through April 18) is the German artist's first French retrospective in 30 years, and features 150 works on paper, monumental paintings, some 40 glass "display cases," and a site-specific installation all around the themes of alchemy and the Kabala, destruction, and rejuvenation. The artist, who has lived in Paris since 1992, looks at the recent events in France and Europe through the lens of German romanticism, evident in the melancholy grandeur of these beautiful, penetrating works.
Chinese artist Ai Weiwei's largest exhibition to date in Paris appears at Le Bon Marché, the left bank's chic department store, until February 20. This fantastical series of mythological creatures, handmade with the help of 12 Chinese kite-makers from bamboo and white silk, were constructed with the age-old techniques. Titled Child's Play, the three-part show fills the outside windows in front with 10 vignettes, and inside the store 20 glorious creatures—including a many-headed dragon, a winged fish, and menacing birds—soar above the store's central lobby. A 65-foot-long dragon guards the main floor.
Pablo Picasso, the most influential artist of the 20th century, made an indelible mark on the artists who followed him, many of whom grappled with his influence as a mentor and artistic father. Insightful, fascinating, and often hilarious, the beautifully articulated show Picasso.mania, at the Grand Palais through February 29, juxtaposes Picasso's emblematic works with those of contemporary artists (Johns, Lichtenstein, Hockney, and many more) illustrating the pervasive influence of all of Picasso's great stylistic phases in almost every medium, including painting, photography, film, video, installation, and graphic arts.
Beginning March 8, the Musée Picasso examines the diversity of the master's sculptural works and the creation process from drawings, prints and photographic enlargements to the original finished sculptures. The exhibition, titled Picasso. Sculpture, reunites seminal works from several sculptural series spanning decades of the artist's output, including "Absinthe Glasses" and "Bathers."
Following the huge success of the first iteration in 2015, this year's Taste of Paris (February 11–14) will once again offer a rare opportunity to taste the gastronomic creations of Paris's great Michelin-starred chefs from the city's top tables—Alain Ducasse from the Plaza Athénée, Guy Savoy, Lucas Carton, Le Pré Catalan, and many more. Entry is €15 or you can splurge on a Gourmet Pass (€45) or Premium Pass (€120), which includes jump-the-line privilege, access to the champagne bar, and €45 in food credits (dishes cost between €6–€12).
Foodies unite at the annual Omnivore Food Festival (March 6–8) dedicated to "young cuisine." The Paris-based organization, with its own publication and yearly awards, tours the world discovering new talent and celebrating young chefs' contributions to the world of gastronomy. This year, the festival will feature a series of demonstrations titled Sweet & Savory, Street Food, Artisan, and Avant-Garde.
One day a year, the capital's top pastry makers offer their own special versions of Paris's favorite sweet, the delectable almond-based macaron, either free with a purchase or two for the price of one. Jour du Macaron (March 20) is a great opportunity to see what all the fuss is about. Hint: don't miss Pierre Hermé. A percentage of the proceeds go to charity.
From March 4–6 the Grande Halle of La Villette hosts the Mondial du Tatouage, where the world's greatest tattoo artists converge for this unique event, featuring exhibits, contests, concerts, DJ sets, food trucks, and around-the-clock tattooing. Watch the tattooist at work or take the opportunity to get inked by a top international artist.
Named for a splendid seventh-floor terrace with panoramic views of Paris spread out before you, the new Terrass Hotel has just reopened after a sleek top-to-toe renovation. First opened in 1911, this architectural gem, inspired by the artists of Montmartre, stays true to its graceful bones, beautifully highlighted in shades of dove gray, brown and beige with splashes of brilliant color. Complete with a restaurant and bar (with spectacular views), a wellness center, fitness room and library, being away from it all has never been so relaxing or so chic. Double rooms, some with private balconies, from €165.
Just steps from the Champs-Élysées on Paris's famous Golden Triangle, this one-time home of the Marquis de Sers has been totally transformed, giving the historic Hôtel de Sers' spacious rooms, restaurant, and bar a luxe contemporary look and a total update of its naturally gracious spaces and elegant finishes. Common areas and all of the hotel's 45 glamorous rooms focus on natural materials—wood, stone, metal—and opulent fabrics. For utmost pampering, a full range of massages and beauty treatments are available in the privacy of your own room. Double rooms from €290.
Daniel Rose, of the foodie-favorite Spring, once again dazzles in his newest endeavor, La Bourse et la Vie. Keeping the name only, Rose performed a Cinderella transformation on a classic Paris bistro, updating all the tropes in elegant versions—globe lighting, zinc bar, tile floor—and bringing his telltale flair to the beloved classic dishes. Succulent veal pot-au-feu, velvety house-made foie gras served on a bed of artichokes, and an unforgettable tête de veau with sauce ravigote are all worth the trip alone. A plate of the best gougères in Paris starts you off, and wise diners will not skimp on dessert: tarte tatin, mousse au chocolat, crème caramel. Come for breakfast (croissants, tartine, jambon persillé, coffee), lunch, or dinner and dine in haute bistro style.
After stints at in Copenhagen (Noma), London, and Tokyo, British chef Daniel Morgan showcases his love of meticulously sourced produce and the freshest seafood at Salt, serving dishes that are seemingly too delectable to be this healthy. Buckwheat spätzle of fermented cèpe mushrooms; steamed mussels with green dashi, cucumbers, and hot red pepper; roasted pumpkin with walnuts; and trout caviar and smoked trout are served with an excellent selection of natural wines or craft beer (like BapBap, brewed a few blocks away). The bright, streamlined space is a Paris hot spot, so be sure to reserve in advance.
Need some inspiration for planning your 2016 travels? Let this list of notable hotel openings be your guide. From a multiyear makeover of a Parisian legend and a downtown Manhattan spot with dome-topped penthouses, to W Hotels’ first Indian resort, Park Hyatt's first opening in Spain, and Nobu's first European outpost, these 25 spots around the world are the ones we're most excited about this year. —Sandra Ramani
If you’re not an experienced outdoors enthusiast, planning a trip to one of the country’s national parks can seem like a daunting process. And even if you’re no stranger to the parks, you might assume you need to plan an entire vacation around a park visit. Fortunately, neither scenario is true; in fact, there are many national parks that are relatively easy to visit in a day—you don’t even have to spend the night. We’ve selected 15 cities and picked the best national parks that are less than 3 hours away. Whether you’re a resident of these cities or just visiting on vacation, these parks make for extremely worthwhile (and breathtaking) day trips.
Winter isn’t exactly peak season for tourism in Venice—and that’s exactly why it’s the best time for you to visit. Unlike summer, when the city belongs to out-of-towners, La Serenissima in winter is deserted, quiet, and, yes, serene. If the mist-shrouded canals and melancholy romance aren’t enough of a draw, rooms at luxe hotels like The Gritti Palace and the Baglioni Hotel Luna are available for a fraction of their high-season rates, while landmarks like Saint Mark’s Basilica sit blissfully empty. There’s still plenty of excitement, if you seek it: Carnevale kicks off on January 23, breathing life into the city’s sleepy streets with food, music, and dancing. Sure, Venice is enchanting any time of year—but go now, while you can have it all to yourself.
—Krisanne Fordham
Winter is a time for warming meals and lingering conversation around the table. With seasonally prepared dishes, classic baked goods, affordable steaks, and a mix of global influences, these Manhattan and Brooklyn hot spots also showcase robust wine and craft-cocktail programs. From smaller niche operations to well-established chefs and owners, here’s a look at our 12 favorite newcomers this season. —Kate Donnelly
Like it or not, winter seems to have finally arrived. And while that might be a cause for grumbling and daydreaming about warmer locales, you have to admit that winter isn’t all bad. In fact, snow-covered mountains and icy lakes make for some of the most captivating scenery on the planet. Don’t believe us? Keep reading to find 20 places that are so pretty that it’s worth braving the cold to visit them. —Michael Alan Connelly
No two beach vacations are exactly the same. Some travelers want sun during the day, and a trendy, urban scene to explore by night; others want deserted islands offering peace and quiet. Fortunately, there's no shortage of stunning beaches around the world to choose from, but which ones are the best to visit right now? With new luxury resorts and nonstop flights, these destinations are the best places to enjoy sun and sand this year. —Fodor’s Editors
A sunny break from winter weather, a fun-filled vacation for the whole family, a romantic couple's retreat—there's always a reason for a beach vacation. And here we give you a few more: these 10 new beach hotels—some already opened, some eagerly expected later in the year—have the views, locations, and noteworthy perks to make them ideal for a sun-soaked getaway. Read on to discover where you can find a taste of paradise in Mexico, the Caribbean, and Hawaii. —Sandra Ramani
One of the potential downsides of travel is leaving your favorite furry friends at home. Fortunately, it’s getting easier to incorporate your pets into your travel plans. We’ve rounded up 20 properties across the country where your four-legged companions will be treated to high-end hospitality—think homemade organic snacks, plush pet beds, and exciting activities such as doggie yoga, surfing, and skijoring. Ever heard of canine massage therapy? Read on to discover hotels that will make any dog wag its tail. —Anja Mutić
Mystical and remote Tibet, tucked high in the cloud-swathed Himalayas, has long inspired inquisitive travelers' imaginations. While rushing toward modernization today, Tibet remains a transporting locale, steeped as it is in ancient Buddhist tradition and breathtaking terrain (quite literally, with average elevations over 14,000 feet). Happily for would-be visitors, infrastructure improvements and diverse tour operator options have made traveling to Tibet more attainable than ever before.
While independent types might scoff, the sensitive politics in Chinese-occupied Tibet (called the "Tibet Autonomous Region," or TAR) have prohibited foreign travelers from entering the region on their own; instead, all visitors must enter while escorted on sanctioned guided tours, with special travel permits in hand. Leave the visa hassles and travel logistics to the pros, so you can focus fully on the joys and education of an immersive trip-of-a-lifetime, courtesy of one of these top tour operators to Tibet.
Entrust your Tibetan adventure to one of the most trusted names in travel and exploration, National Geographic. Their "Expeditions" travel portfolio is noted for its top-notch Nat Geo–affiliated experts/expedition teams at the helm, top-of-the-line accommodations, and special access to sites. In 2016, choose from a trio of distinctive Tibetan journeys, including a photo expedition, hiking adventure, and our favorite: the Tibet-centric, 15-night "Tibet and Nepal: Journey to the Highest Himalaya" itinerary, focused on the mountain lore and culture of Tibet and Nepal. Led by noted mountaineer Peter Hillary, guests will be immersed in Himalayan landscapes of towering peaks, hanging glaciers, and crystalline lakes en route, and have the chance to gaze upon Mount Everest from Tibet's North Face Base Camp. (Note that while the trip doesn't involve any mountaineering, participants should be physically fit for this high-elevation trip). Plenty of notable cultural stops are included, too, including a visit to Lhasa's legendary Potala Palace and Shigatse's immense Tashilhunpo Monastery. Departs April 22 or October 12; from $8,715/person.
Toronto-based G Adventures has been crafting affordable small-group adventures for 25 years, with an emphasis on supporting local communities. This extensive experience and sense of social responsibility landed the brand a newly launched National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures partnership this year. For 2016, G Adventures is hosting four different trips into Tibet, ranging from 13 to 20 nights. Embark on their 13-night "High Road to Tibet" itinerary, which runs round-trip from Kathmandu, Nepal, incorporating a series of high-altitude hikes and stops to fascinating sites—including temples, monasteries (including Rombuk, the highest monastery in the world), and more—in spots like Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse, and the Everest Base Camp. Or try out their new National Geographic Journeys–branded 14-night "Explore China & Tibet" trip, with a focus on the spirituality of Tibet, pairing a 3-night Lhasa stay (visit the sacred Jokhang Temple, Tibetan Medicine Institute, Sera Monastery, and more) with a tour of China (with Beijing, Shanghai, X'ian, and more). Tibet-inclusive trips run on select dates between April and October; from $2,549/person.
A cruise company might not be the obvious first choice when searching for a Tibet tour provider, but a handful of river cruise operators in China propose well-executed China- and Tibet-inclusive "cruisetour" itineraries (mixing both land- and water-based travel). Viking River Cruises, touting seamless logistics and top-notch local guides, is the best of the bunch, and is in fact one of the largest inbound American tour operators to Tibet today (where they've been operating since 2004). Their 15-night "Roof of the World" itinerary combines their signature 5-night Yangtze River sailing through the scenic Three Gorges region with the must-sees of China by land in Shanghai (with its futuristic skyline), Beijing (gateway to the Forbidden City and Great Wall of China), X'ian (home of the Terra Cotta Warriors), and most exceptionally, Lhasa, on the Tibetan Plateau. For three days, be immersed in the essential Lhasa highlights—the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery, and more—while participating in thoughtful cultural encounters, like a home visit with a Tibetan family to sample traditional treats and yak butter tea. Tours depart from April through October; rates from $5,350/person.
Since 1975, World Expeditions (headquartered in Australia) has specialized in small-group and socially responsible adventure trips (trekking, walking, cycling, etc.) around the globe. With its roots as a Himalayan trekking company (they claim to be the first company to offer trekking trips through Tibet, back in 1981), the company's regional offerings are notably prolific, with some 10 Tibet-inclusive itineraries (ranging from 10 to 29 nights in length) on the roster for 2016. Look for unique journeys like the 15-night "Tibet Gandan Samye Trek," which combines hiking on ancient trails and visits with monasteries, Tibetan herdsmen, and more; or the 19-night "Journey to Mount Kailas," which incorporates a trek on the most sacred mountain in the Himalayas during the annual Saga Dawa festival. Bonus: Their tours support local Tibetan partners and suppliers whenever possible. Departures in 2016 in April, May, and from August–October; rates from $2,890/person.
Backed by The New York Times, look to a high-caliber portfolio of guided trips within the Times Journeys program, which pairs unique, small-group travel experiences (each inspired by the paper's headlines), with the expert guidance of an accompanying Times journalist or Times-selected specialist. With a focus on the sensitive politics and threatened culture of Tibet, this new-for-2016, 11-night "Tibet: In China and In Depth" trip ventures to Tibetan regions of China. The off-the-tourist-circuit route covers Tibetan temples, monasteries, villages, and cities that fall within mainland China (in the Chinese provinces of Gansu, Qinghai, and Yunnan)—outside of the designated Tibet Autonomous Region—where Tibetans strive to keep their culture and religious practices distinct and relevant. Along the way, encounter intricate Tibetan artwork and artifacts, learn about Tibetan Buddhist rituals and practices (with the great Labrang Monastery as a highlight), visit with local Tibetan families, and more. Four journeys are scheduled in 2016, led by assorted experts; the April 18 departure stands out, with an escort by two-time Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist John Burns. Tours departs April 18, May 8, May 29, or June 12; from $6,995/person.
Note that quoted fares are all based on double occupancy and exclude airfare from the U.S.
In many cities summer is the best time of year to head outdoors for a tipple, but in Hong Kong it’s quite the opposite, thanks to stifling humidity and the threat of typhoons in the warmer months. As soon as November rolls around, however, the city’s rooftops come alive well through April. You can never go wrong with the show-stopping views at Sevva, Ozone, Eyebar, Wooloomooloo, and Armani/Privé, but these longtime and well-loved hangouts were joined by a slew of newcomers in 2015. Check out some of our favorite tucked-away terraces and new-to-town rooftops while admiring the glittering city from all angles. —Kate Springer
People who say British food is terrible clearly haven’t been to London in the last 20 years. The English capital, at turns debonair and down-to-earth, is one of the greatest cities in the world for eating, and there have never been more delicious options than there are right now. So here are some priorities: Pedigreed doughnuts, the East End, a sirloin the whole town is talking about, and more. Drooling yet? Read on to discover five of London’s food experiences you won’t soon forget.
When the willowy servers warn the Galician sirloin will take 45 minutes, they’re not fooling around. “We cook [the steak] over English wood on the grill, [then] allow it to rest above the grill, ensuring that while it rests it still takes on the flavor of the smoke and wood,” explains Kitty Fisher’s (average main $28) hotshot chef/Londoner obsession, Tomos Parry. Fortunately, time is a malleable element here; the Mayfair restaurant feels like a comfy countryside cabin with a dose of bordello swag, a space in which you don’t so much dine as unwind, lingering over bold red wines and after-dinner cocktails at the five-stool boxcar-red bar. With just 40 seats spread across the first floor and cozy downstairs den—when you descend, you get a great look into Parry’s wood-fired kitchen—reservations are very, very difficult to procure. But it’s worth the effort for the signature sirloin, which is sourced from an 8-to-12-year-old Basque cow: “In the UK, we tend to slaughter our cows at 2 years old, but in Spain they celebrate the retired dairy cow. The deep, rich flavor of the meat is like no other.” Once the meat has rested, Parry slices the steak down into medium-rare dominoes that glow from within and serves them with a separate platter of intensely delicious vegetables: Pink Fir potatoes, buttery spinach, and petals of charred onions that cradle killer pickled green walnuts. The steak costs 80GBP ($121) but serves two comfortably. You might want to plan your hotel around this meal. Rooms with mini fridges need only apply.
The coolest kids may have migrated farther across the East End, but Shoreditch remains one of London’s hottest neighborhoods—especially for dining. Alums of Fergus Henderson’s seminal restaurant St. John (see #4) have launched their own projects in the once-gritty district, like Lyle’s (set menu $66), where cool, industrial looks belie a warm, convivial spirit. There, in the open kitchen, chef James Lowe recently prepared a mosaic-like terrine of wild game with vivid crabapple jelly and other Instagram catnip. (“Game may contain shot,” warns the menu.) Meanwhile, at polished-up Victorian pub The Marksman (average main $25), even the most obsessive American food nerd should be prepared to Google "Welsh Black" (a breed of cattle), "cos" (romaine), "hipsi" (type of cabbage), and other items from chefs Tom Harris and Jon Rotheram’s thoroughly English menu. Hit both, one for brunch, the other for dinner, killing time between at Old Spitalfields Market.
Five years ago, Matt Chatfield started the Cornwall Project, a network linking London restaurants with farmers in Cornwall, which has “the best climate in the UK for growing crops and feeding cattle and has a large supply of quality fish and shellfish,” according to Chatfield. “Over time I realized my main motivation was the creation of lasting [and] worthwhile jobs in Cornwall, a very poor county by UK standards.” The entrepreneur has doubled down on this endeavor by signing on as a partner of the Newman Arms, a cozy pub just off bustling Oxford Street in Fitzrovia. Every Sunday in the second-floor dining room, chef Eryk Bautista turns the Cornish bounty into a set menu inspired by the British tradition of Sunday Roast.
“Pretty well every British person would have had a roast dinner every Sunday for the fist 16 years of the life,” Chatfield says. “We’re trying to recreate that feeling,” although he admits, “everyone says their nan’s is the best.” It’s hard to imagine anyone’s grandmother besting Bautista’s roast rump of beef, sliced into ruby-red petals around a landscape of tender sprouting purple broccoli, caramelized carrots, and (the chef’s favorite) impossibly crispy puffed potatoes fried in rendered animal fat. You get a generous plate of hearty, homey, expertly seasoned and executed food for 18GBP ($27), a tremendous deal in an expensive capital. Don’t miss the sticky toffee pudding for dessert.
Fergus Henderson’s St. John is one of the most acclaimed restaurants in London, famous for its marrow bones and for its status as a pillar of contemporary British cooking (which is to say old-school, yet modern). The original location now has several offshoots, including a dedicated bakery in the South Bank neighborhood of Bermondsey. It’s only open on Saturdays and Sundays, and you have to beat the crowds along Druid Street to snatch a half-dozen of their glorious filled doughnuts. The bakers only do the stuffed variety—stuffed-stuffed. The sugared pastries are so loaded with house-made jams (raspberry, rhubarb) and silky custards (salted caramel, gingerbread) they feel like they’re about to pop like water balloons. Revel in the messiness of it.
Conveniently located between Covent Garden, Bloomsbury and the City, the Rosewood London (rooms from $575) cuts a stately silhouette along High Holborn. All carved limestone, pruned topiaries, and grand, flickering lanterns, the building housed the former Pearl Assurance Company before Rosewood invested 85 million pounds and opened its first European hotel here in 2013. There are many things to love about the property (the doting butlers, the neroli-scented soap, the resident golden retriever, Pearl), but food lovers will be especially seduced by its culinary amenities. The inner courtyard, for example, hosted a Christmas market scented with mulled wine, hot cocoa, and roasting chestnuts earlier this winter.
There are three restaurants (Holborn Dining Room, the Mirror Room, Scarfes Bar) you’ll actually want to eat at; all are accessible from the street and draw a local crowd. HDR is a copper-plated brasserie with a charcuterie bar, wild game program, and a chef, Calum Franklin, who, incidentally, is roommates with Matt Chatfield of the Cornwall Project. French chef Aamandine Chaignot oversees the Mirror Room, which hosts a Sunday brunch informed by the Slow Food movement. Indian curries and snacks populate the menu at the clubby Scarfes, named for artist Gerald Scarfes, whose political caricatures decorate the gentlemanly room. (If you’re familiar with the album cover for Pink Floyd's The Wall, he needs no introduction.) The Rosewood pays just as much attention to dining in the room. Room service brings a parade of pressed linen and painted china, tomato soup poured from Staub teakettles, and condiments in dainty Weck jars. Except for alcohol, everything in the well-designed mini-bar is complimentary. With fresh citrus, boutique tonic, and proper glassware, having a G&T en suite is just like having a cocktail downstairs at the bar—except you can do so in a supremely comfy robe.
If your 2016 resolutions include learning something new, these hotels and destinations can help. From teaching you how to take better photos to butcher a whole hog, these classes will engage you, help make the most of your vacation, and send you home with a brand-new skill—so that's one resolution you can cross off the list. —Sandra Ramani
With United having bid goodbye to JFK last October, shifting its hub to Newark as a result, now's as good a time as any to look at the flight options available to consumers when flying coast to coast. Responding to growing demand for non-stop flights between New York City (JFK and EWR) and Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO), the range and quality of service has never been greater onboard the country’s preeminent airlines. In an arms race to offer one-of-a-kind amenities and experiences at high altitudes, these airlines are offering their best on their transcontinental services.
Pouring $2 billion into the revitalization of its Newark hub, United has responded to the surge in demand for transcontinental travel with up to 10,000 daily round-trip seats available between Newark and Los Angeles/San Francisco. United has the most transcontinental flights between JFK, LAX, and SFO of any airline: 17 daily flights each way between Newark and San Francisco, and 15 daily flights each way between LAX and EWR.
Flying a fleet of Boeing 757s (an older fleet, with planes dating back to 1989), United was the first to introduce a domestic transcontinental luxury service with its p.s. (premium service) in 2004. Leading the p.s. program is BusinessFirst’s flat-bed seats that provide 6-feet-4-inches of sleeping space. Complete with a duvet and personal pillow, the flat-bed seat is perfect for uninterrupted sleep on the red-eye haul. Three entrée selections (think lobster mac and cheese) and pre-arrival freshly baked cookies have become the new standard for the fleet as of 2015.
Economy class on p.s. flights offers only a few perks to distinguish the service from the short-haul experience. All planes have been recently updated to feature seatback nine-inch screens and one AC power outlet and USB port for every three seats. Entertainment options on the screens feature DirecTV for $7.99 with WiFi onboard provided by Gogo, starting at $4.95.
Virgin America, one of the newest airlines offering transcontinental service, has been operating since 2007. With an expanding fleet of A320s, Virgin America currently flies six return flights daily from JFK to LAX and SFO. An airline that prides itself on its in-flight experience, Virgin America sets the atmosphere in the cabin with its club-like mood lighting. The first airline to offer fleet-wide WiFi in 2009, Virgin America continues to innovate on modern luxuries of travel, offering its custom Red seatback free entertainment system with live TV (24 channels for free), new movies on demand (for purchase), and a first-of-its-kind messaging system, allowing guests to interact and play games. Don’t bother reaching up to page a flight attendant when hunger strikes, since Virgin America offers an on-demand food and drink ordering system.
In the first-class cabins of transcontinental flights, there are eight seats that don’t fully recline, trailing the competition’s lie-flat seats. And while you won’t be able to lie flat on your journey, you’ll want to sit up for the Netflix streaming capabilities on the new high-speed satellite, clocking in up to ten times faster than current competitors. Best of all, the service is free through March 2016.
Delta flies a range of 767s (the only carrier to regularly fly a wide-body plane on transcontinental routes) and 757s on its transcontinental routes (up to ten flights a day from JFK to LAX and up to eight daily flights from JFK to SFO). Delta One, which began in March 2015, encompasses the premium first-class experience onboard its transcontinental service between JFK and LAX or SFO. Adding to the Delta One experience at LAX, Terminal 5 underwent a $229 million facelift introducing the company’s first-ever first-class check-in lounge with a dedicated curbside entrance, a club lounge, and exclusive access to airport security. Expect fine dining on board as a Delta One passenger, as celebrity chef Michael Chiarello’s menus include short ribs and pork tenderloin with dessert options that range from a cheese plate to salted caramel gelato.
As for the economy experience , there’s been some fun additions to the service by way of streaming. Fringe amenities included with the fare are limited to Delta’s standard snacks (Biscoff cookies, peanuts, and pretzels) and refreshments, while the new Delta Studio brings streaming to your mobile device with a catalog of new movies and TV shows (for an additional fee) and free Delta Studio programming. WiFi is available on all of its transcontinental planes through Gogo, starting at $4.95.
An airline still in its teens, JetBlue offers a fresh take on the standard in-flight experience. JetBlue stepped into the big leagues of the transcontinental race in June 2014 with a new fleet of A321s outfitted with the company’s first premium flight experience, Mint. Luxurious lie-flat seats with an in-seat massage feature and a privacy door are domestic transcontinental firsts, not to mention their length at 6-feet-8-inches, second only to American’s first class. Fine dining comes by way of Saxon and Parole, an NYC hotspot with upwards of six entrées ranging from a burger to crab pot pie. With fares from $599, Mint offers incomparable value for its premium service.
JetBlue offers transcontinental service on six peak-day flights from JFK to SFO and nine daily flights from JFK to LAX, with plans to add additional flights in early 2016. There’s reason for the expansion, as demand for Mint far exceeds their limited supply and JetBlue’s economy service continues to impress. In the A321's main cabin, expect ten-inch video screens on every seatback with 100 free channels of DirecTV, power access in every seat, unlimited snacks, and most excitingly, free, fast Internet access via Fly-Fi. Look for streaming through a new partnership with Amazon Prime on board in the near future. Red-eye flights include the Snooze Kit: eyeshade and earplugs, and hot-towel service prior to arrival.
American Airlines was at the forefront of transcontinental travel, dating back to 1953 when a non-stop flight aboard a DC7 from New York to Los Angeles took eight hours. The airline’s new A321Ts, a dedicated fleet of transcontinental planes, now average about five hours, as American Airlines continues its legacy of transcontinental service with up to thirteen flights a day from JFK to LAX and seven flights a day from JFK to SFO. American stands out among the competition as the only airline to fly three separate classes domestically, offering first and business class plus its main cabin.
First and business class aboard the A321Ts feature many of the same amenities, including lie-flat seats, Bose noise-cancelling headphones for use during the flight, and a 15.4-inch screen with up to 250 movies on-demand. The distinction of first class comes with a bit more privacy, access to one of the A321T’s two pet cabins (available for an additional $125), and American’s Flagship Check-In at JFK and LAX, where a concierge is available to help for any of your travel needs and provide expedited access to security.
From the economy seats, the service offers high-end 8.9-inch HD touchscreen monitors with select NBC TV shows (free) and on-demand new movies and TV shows starting at $4.99. Unique to the A321T, look for the Disney entertainment library, where one price grants access to many Disney movie classics, TV shows, and more. WiFi is available from Gogo, starting from $4.95.
When most people think of India, they imagine Rajasthan, whether they know it or not. Literally translated, the state’s name means “Land of Kings,” and it was the birthplace of the Indus Valley Civilization, one of the three early civilizations of the Old World dating back to 7500 B.C. Eventually it became the seat of the powerful Rajput kings and, later, an important holding during the British colonial era. Today, evidence of Rajasthan’s history abounds at every turn, from its towering forts and palaces to its ancient cities and religious temples, but modern India can be found here too, in bustling morning markets, brilliantly colored textiles, striking arid landscapes, and traditional cuisine. To get the most out of your trip to Rajasthan, here are 20 experiences not to miss. —Abbey Chase
With its vibrant downtown and eclectic neighborhoods, Portland promises an abundance of activities for almost any traveler. Foodies flock to the microbreweries, artisanal eateries, and independent coffee shops. Shoppers will find plenty of design-savvy boutiques stocked with everything from design goodies to edgy fashions, classic books to outdoor apparel. And nature lovers will appreciate the hills and Douglas firs, not to mention day trips to Mt. Hood (don’t forget to pack your flannel) and nearby coastal spots like the seaside town of Astoria.
You'll want to eat everything in Portland—so pace yourself and plan meals accordingly. In southeast Portland, the critically acclaimed Italian spot Ava Gene’s is best enjoyed at the small counter, where you can watch the kitchen line work their magic on the fresh pastas of the day plus hearty meats like ribeye with squash, hazelnuts, and a pecorino called Fiore Sardo.
In the Mt. Tabor neighborhood, the new Coquine from chef Katy Millard is a narrow, accessible-wine-and-sandwich spot by day. Do yourself a favor and order the porchetta on ciabatta with cabbage, basil, mint, and lemon; sip a crisp white wine; and indulge in the perfect chocolate-chip cookie. In the evenings, the menu features dishes like black cod with fresh coco bianco, sweet pepper sofrito, and pancetta.
Downtown, the venerable Clyde Commons (part of the hipster paradise at the Ace Hotel), is now helmed by chef Carlo Lamagna and is the place for fried-chicken roulade, been salad, espelette biscuits, and gravy. Afterwards, digest with a drink like the Sophomore Slump (rye, Italian vermouth, Averna, bitters, and orange peel), slung by the capable Jeffrey Morganthaler. If you still have room, Blue Star Donuts (with new outposts in Japan and Los Angeles) are made from a fluffy brioche recipe and include a decadent, Instagram-worthy options like blueberry with bourbon and basil and Valrhona chocolate crunch, lovingly (and dangerously) filled with vanilla custard.
Behind chef Trent Pierce’s B&T Oyster Bar (stocked with fresh Washington State oysters) is a second secret spot, Roe. With only 30 seats, it offers a rotating tasting menu that's keenly invested in fresh fish. Elsewhere, from her open kitchen at Lincoln, James Beard Award-nominated chef Jenn Louis (who also helms the awesome Sunshine Tavern) serves straightforward, unpretentious meats and pastas such as rigatoni with chicken ragu and parsley.
The spacious Red Star Tavern is smart for small plates like the "tavern toast" (olive relish and goat cheese) and a microbrew. Really hungry? Stay for chef Kyle Rourke’s smoked wagyu brisket. On the carnivore front, the old-school steakhouse (in the vein of Brooklyn’s Peter Luger) is Ringside Steakhouse, which takes honors for their dry-aged steaks glazed with butter and served by sharp, tuxedoed waiters. Meanwhile, under-the-radar Davenport scores points for its seasonally-changing simplicity and refined, fresh ingredients and reasonably priced insider wine list to boot.
Of course, the microbrews are vast in Portland; in fact, the city currently holds record for most per capita. For a unique twist, head to Base Camp Brewing Company and try malty S’more Stout with a roasted marshmallow perched on top. Zip over to Mississippi Street for a pint at Storm Breaker and later, across the street, Mississippi Marketplace hosts food trucks that serve vegan-friendly rice bowls and Korean tacos.
There’s a nascent local cider movement that is producing surprisingly complex beverages. For great tastings, make stops at Reverend Nat’s Hard Cider, Portland Cider House, Wandering Aengus and Bushwhacker to experience the new wave of cider yourself.
The Space Age-styled Departures (on the rooftop of The Nines) offers stellar panoramic views as you sip on sake and chow on Top Chef runner-up Gregory Gourdet’s Asian fusion plates. A few blocks away, the handsome Multnomah Whiskey Library is Old World chic with dim lighting and walls upon walls of whiskey. Small, intimate Angel Face, with lovely pink-hued wallpaper, is a perfect spot to nab cheese and charcuterie boards and steak tartare, not to mention polished handcrafted cocktails. There's no cocktial list, only whatever your heart desires, shaken to order. The hip Sweet Hereafter serves their namesake drink with vodka, bourbon, lemon, and iced tea in a mason jar. Drink up!
Since 2005, the long-standing, popular design shop Canoe (which recently relocated a few blocks away) has stocked their own exclusives (Eena Canvas bags and Mazma Ceramics tumblers), plus Oregon-designed products alongside delicate Noguchi lanterns and Heath Ceramics. The cooler-than-thou Frances May is an indie, unisex clothing stop for labels like Acne Studios, Rachel Comey, Correll Correll, and Saturdays tees for the gents. The outdoor outfitter Poler Stuff sells stylish cold-to-warm weather gear, from stocking caps to tents to backpacks. Colorful Woonwinkel hawks brightly covered blankets and textiles, tabletop items, and local goods. For an easy, compact shopping experience, charming Union Way is a narrow shop-lined alleyway including Steven Alan, denim from Self Edge, sturdy boots from Danner, niche grooming products made by Ursa Major and Fig + Yarrow at Spruce Apothecary, and a colorful candy shop called Quin.
Remember, Portland puts the "l" in local, so don’t leave town without buying some unique and affordable souvenirs. Using coconut and essential oils, OLO Fragrances channel the Pacific Northwest in scents like Cedar & Rose and Wyeth, a mix of rain and pine trees. Chocoholics should head to the family-run Woodblock Chocolate for two reasons: the fantastic packaging and the quality of their dark varietals, including 70% Toasted Sesame, Salt and Nibs, and the Madagascar.
The beloved Jacobson Salt Co. sources locally from the chilly waters near Netarts Bay, and varieties like Flaking Finishing Sea Salt and Pink Himalayan. Portland’s Apothecary turns out a variety of handmade soaps like the divine Forest edition, made with cedarwood and vetiver.
Wolf’s Apothecary’s hand-poured soy and beeswax Evergreen candle gives you the forest without stepping foot among the green. Besides thousands of books, the legendary indie Powell’s Books carries great tote bags bearing the store’s name and a funky variety of Sock It To Me Socks. In a well-known coffee town, the caffeinated set will love the authentic bags of beans from Ristretto Roasters. Lastly, nab some goodies at Smith Tea, where you'll find a variety of black and white teas and herbal infusions like peppermint leaves and a blend called Meadow using chamomile, rooibos, rose petals, and linden flowers.
Renting a car gives you freedom to explore the various regions near Portland, from Willamette Valley wineries to the smaller artist haven of Eugene. Take a trip to the neighboring Hood River; nearby, you'll find various trails to hike and expand your lungs in the fresh mountain air. The early bird catches the worm, so hike early and then stop by Double Mountain Brewery & Taproom for a brick-oven, New York-style pizza washed down with a lager. Afterwards, head to the microbrewery Pfiem for views of the Columbia and White Salmon rivers. If there’s a chill, nab a seat around the outdoor patio complete with a fire pit.
With just 84 rooms, The River Place Hotel sits on the peaceful Willamette River. In the mornings, watch the early kayakers, read the paper by the warm fireplace, and sip the local Caffe Vita brew. At night, you'll find complimentary beers from the Widmer Brothers. Need some exercise? The hotel provides a fantastic jogging map with various routes ranging from 3–7 miles. To end your day, grill complimentary s'mores’ between sips of warming Pendleton whiskey as you head to your comfortable bed topped with another local delight, a Pendleton Woolen Mills Los Ojos Sham.
It may not be a flashy destination, but Bhutan has a reputation that holds a lot of hype for travelers. Identifying as both "The Last Shangri-La" and the happiest country on earth, this tiny Himalayan country tucked between India and Tibet talks a big game but manages to maintain a relatively low profile on the tourism circuit. There’s a lot to love about Bhutan—a strong Buddhist tradition, local foods, wonderful people—but the country’s natural and architectural beauty will leave the strongest impression for most visitors. To inspire you to make the trek, here's a look at 10 of Bhutan’s most spectacular sights. —Abbey Chase
