TRAVEL NEWS

A dose of inspiration for your next trip.

Writers, with their vivid imagination, paint such a fine picture of a destination that readers aspire to walk the same paths. On one page, you’ll be breathing in the crisp air of a mountain town. Pick another book and you’ll be sitting down for a meal in the home of an Italian family. Someone else will take you deep into America’s small cities and you’ll have this yearning to discover your own backyard.  For centuries, authors and poets have satiated the curiosity of their readers about the world and we’ve been better for it. This list of travel authors is another way to find direction for your next big trip—let them be your guide, compass, and inspiration. These stories are truly special, so even if you don’t take these journeys, you will taste a slice of this world unknown to you before.

With its impressive roster of world-class museums, royal palaces, and scenic parks, here are the best things to do and see in the Spanish capital of Madrid.

With an estimated population of 6.7 million, the Spanish capital is famous for its rich culture, historic landmarks, green spaces, museums, and food scene. Most of Madrid’s main attractions sit within walking distance from one another, so with a little determination, you can tackle them all in just a few days. But taking in all Madrid has to offer can be daunting, especially if you plan to dabble in the city’s other major claim to fame: sundown-to-sunup nightlife. From people-watching at the world-famous Plaza Mayor to prestigious art at Museo del Prado and exquisite tapas and unmissable rooftop bars, these are the 20 things you won’t want to miss on your next trip to the sunny capital. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MADRID?The best times to visit Madrid are outside the peak tourist seasons: between September and November and from March to May. The weather will be mild, there will be fewer crowds, and the prices for accommodations and flights will be more affordable. For up-to-date COVID-19 information in Madrid, please check out Madrid’s official tourism website, the website of your government’s consulate/embassy, or follow the Spanish language Twitter account: @SaludMadrid.

Dine on history at these centuries’ old Parisian culinary institutions.

Paris is one of the world’s top culinary destinations and taking in its gastronomic pleasures is a highlight of any trip to the French capital. The city may currently have over 10,000 restaurants, however, the tres Parisienne concept of dining out in a venue with an attractive setting and a menu of dishes to select from, is relatively new. From the 1760s to the turn of the 20th century, the city’s dining scene transitioned from the tables of modest inns to those of glamorous gastronomic restaurants and dazzling Art Nouveau eateries. You can savor a delectable bite of French history at these restaurants in Paris.

All of the most incredible beaches in and around Miami for every type of traveler.

It’s impossible to travel to the 305 without getting a bit sandy. Miami’s beaches are some of the best in the continental United States, and millions flock to enjoy them each year. Even though beach hopping is one of the best things to do in Miami, most Miami vacationers fail to venture beyond South Beach, and while SoBe is absolutely worth a visit, the Magic City has much more to offer. From secluded locales that will make you feel like you’re on a tropical island to family-friendly parks and kite surfing heavens, Miami truly has an oceanfront to satisfy all. Whether you’re looking for a day party, a place to enjoy with your dog, or everything in between, here are the top beaches in Miami for you and your travel style.

The best things to do in New Orleans.

Legend has it that Dionysus, the indulgent god of wine and pleasure, only ever left the lush gardens of Mount Olympus to visit New Orleans. According to historians, he’d often stumble home with a black eye, no shirt, and an ear-to-ear smile, bringing eternal shame to his father, Zeus. Whether deity or mere mortal, it’s impossible not to have a good time in the Big Easy. But, with so many ways to spoil your every delight, it can become overwhelming. Depending on the length of your visit, you may want to pack in too much or not enough, and you might find yourself at, Zeus forbid, Bubba Gump Shrimp Company. Rest easy because we’ve curated a list of the city’s greatest hits, the top experiences, and the best places to eat in New Orleans. Here are the 25 best things to do in New Orleans. THE BEST TIME TO VISIT NEW ORLEANSFrom a weather and fun perspective, the best months to visit NOLA are April, May, October, and November. For all the latest information on COVID-19 in New Orleans, visit NOLA Ready. Related: What Should You Avoid in New Orleans? 12 Things NOT to Do in the Big Easy