Beyond the bustle of London, rural England is made up of rolling hills, fairytale woodlands, and rugged stretches of coastline. Countryside villages with stone cottages and cobbled streets welcome travelers from afar with snug tea rooms and traditional pubs serving British comfort food. Here are the best English villages to explore across all four seasons for heritage, scenery, and food. 

Castle Combe, Cotswolds

As a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the Cotswolds is revered as one of England’s most beautiful regions. As one village simply isn’t enough to explore this idyllic place, start with Castle Combe. The original keep has long since been destroyed but the village today is a postcard-pretty scene of brookside honey-colored cottages bordered by verdant woodland.

Robin Hood’s Bay, North York Moors National Park 

Robin Hood’s Bay is a tiny fishing village next to the town of Whitby with a history of smuggling and fossil finds. Access to the beach requires a walk down a steep yet picturesque street lined with boutiques and cafes with bunting fluttering ahead. At low tide, you can wander along the tidal pools before settling in with a sunset portion of fish and chips while waves crash in from the North Sea. 

Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks and gather. There are so many things to be thankful for that are big and small, and if you think of one small thing you are grateful for every day, it will bring you joy.

​Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours.

Israel is a small yet mighty country. Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea in the west, Lebanon, and Syria to the north, Jordan to the east, Egypt to the southwest, and the Red Sea to the south, Israel is no larger than New Jersey. Yet, despite its size, Israel presents visitors with an impressive and diverse selection of geography, history, cultural activities, and cuisine. From the lively nightlife of Tel Aviv to the history of Jerusalem, we are breaking down the top five places you must visit while in Israel. 
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Tel Aviv  

Tel Aviv is Israel's second-largest city and the financial and cultural hub of the country. The city is most famous for its nightlife and is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. If you're looking for a more culturally enriching experience, Tel Aviv is also home to the national opera and philharmonic orchestra. 

Masada

Situated on a plateau high above the Dead Sea is the old fortress of Masada. First fortified by Herod the Great at the end of the first century, Masada is known as the last Jewish stronghold to fall to the Romans in the first Jewish-Roman war. Today, Masada is a popular hiking excursion for visitors and is especially spectacular at sunset. There is also a cable car that will take you up the hill for those who don't want to hike. 

The Republic of Ireland delights with its natural landmarks and culture-laden cities. Coming in at a similar size to the state of Indiana, it’s perfectly feasible to see a large portion of the country over the course of your vacation. Here are the top 10 luxury experiences in Ireland, the “Emerald Isle”. 

1. Stay in a castle 

One of the most luxurious experiences in Ireland is to sleep in a castle. With around 30,000 castles spread across the country, a portion of these have been revamped and will ensure you sleep, eat, and live like royalty. 

2. Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher in County Clare are one of the most spectacular natural sights in Ireland. A scenic 11-mile hiking trail traverses the cliff tops while helicopter tours are the best way to elevate the experience.  

3. Dublin

Ireland’s capital city is rich in cultural and heritage attractions including St Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin Castle. This is also an excellent destination for shopping, dining, and unwinding in upbeat pubs. Those with a thirst for history and beer can visit the Guinness Storehouse where pints are served with your portrait in the foam.

​4. Bend of the Boyne

The Bend of the Boyne is a World Heritage Site that predates even the Egyptian pyramids. The complex spans chamber tombs, standing stones, henges, and grave passes that elude modern-day engineers and historians. 

We are drawn to Hawaii for the beaches, natural beauty, and flawless resorts the archipelago provides. However, the state is not lacking in history and Oahu’s Iolani Palace is one of the best places to deepen your knowledge about Hawaii’s regal past. In addition to exploring such sights as Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and the Puu Ualakaa State Park, add touring the palace to your Oahu travel itinerary.

A brief history of Iolani Palace

Iolani Palace is conveniently located in downtown Honolulu, the capital of Oahu. Built in 1879 by the architect Thomas J. Baker with input from Charles J. Wall and Isaac Moore, the structure is the only example of American Florentine architecture. This one-of-a-kind order plucks inspiration from Italian Renaissance design and fuses these with Hawaiian elements. 

Originally, Iolani Palace served as the royal residence for Hawaii's reigning monarch. The property hosted lavish functions and received dignitaries from all corners of the world. Queen Liliʻuokalani acquired the throne from her brother, King David Kalākaua, in 1891 and resided in the palace for two years. However, in 1893 the monarchy was overthrown and Liliʻuokalani relinquished her claim to the throne. Upon her trial, she was subjected to eight months of imprisonment in one of the upper chambers within the palace.

What do you think of when you imagine Hungary? While the country does have delicious food, exciting traditions, a unique language, and a distinctive culture rooted in folk traditions. Any season is a good time to visit Hungary, the warm weather of summer brings more tourists to the area, but in the fall and winter, you can experience one of the many Christmas markets. 

Delicious Food & Local Wines

Hungarian culture is deep-rooted in its culinary traditions, and the best example is a piping hot bowl of Goulash, a hearty stew packed with meat and vegetables. Goulash can trace its origins back thousands of years to a soup made by Hungarian shepherds and is just one of Hungary's nationally prized dishes.

It's easy to find a locally grown wine to pair with your meal, as Hungary boasts seven wine-growing regions. The many vineyards offer tours complete with tastings, making Hungary an appealing destination for wine enthusiasts and couples.

Culture in Budapest (including folk culture)

Budapest is a hub of culture and offers all the amenities of a European capital city with the charm of a small town. Chic pubs and trendy stores dot the streets of this architectural wonderland. Everyone is sure to find something of interest. Hungary's rich folk culture is still going strong, too, with many museums and local artisans keeping alive craft techniques that have been passed down through the generations.

Kauai earned itself the nickname “Garden Isle” due to the lush tropical rainforest that blankets most of Hawaii’s fourth-largest island. This dramatic hinterland teems with waterfalls, mountains, and canyons while the coastline is fringed with golden beaches and plunging coastal cliffs. Here is what to expect from the stunning Hawaiian island of Kauai.

Beaches of Kauai

Located on the southern coast of the island, Poipu Beach is a wonderful spot for swimming, snorkeling, and wildlife watching. Basking monk seals and sea turtles are frequently sighted on this beach. 

To the north, Hanalei Bay is a long crescent of sand bordered by mountains. Gentle conditions make this a prime spot for swimming and paddle boarding. Meanwhile, a short drive north of the bay brings you to the tidal pool formed by lava rocks known as the Queen’s Bath.

Kee Beach was used as a movie location in Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End. The presence of a reef results in calm waters and phenomenal snorkeling opportunities. On land, it is not unusual to spot the occasional chicken roaming the shoreline! 

Weighing as much as 200 kg, gorillas are the largest ape species. There are two distinct kinds of gorilla: eastern and western. Among these, the four gorilla subspecies are eastern lowland gorillas, eastern mountain gorillas, western lowland gorillas, and western cross river gorillas. What links all subspecies is that they reside exclusively on the African continent. You have the possibility to see these remarkable, endangered mammals when you book a gorilla trekking excursion in the following African countries.

Rwanda

Mountain gorillas dwell across the Virunga Mountains in this small Central African nation with the Volcanoes National Park providing the highest possibilities for a sighting. Rwanda is considered one of the best countries for observing gorillas in their natural habitat. Trekking conditions are somewhat demanding and you will be exploring a high-altitude area. As the bands are nomadic, they are constantly on the move. However, primatologists and trackers are skilled at keeping abreast of their whereabouts. 

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is considered to be both the most accessible as well as the most luxurious destination in Africa for gorilla trekking. With a personal butler service provided to all guests and views that stretch across the park and Musanze Valley, Virunga Lodge is a deluxe accommodation option for gorilla trekkers. 

Switzerland is a land-locked Central European nation where you will find crystal clear lakes, pristine mountain ranges, and fairytale villages. Hiking, skiing, and shopping are equally popular in the country known for producing world-class chocolate and superior-quality watches. Bordered by France, Germany, Austria, and Italy results in spectacular Swiss cuisine. Here is your guide to planning a luxury getaway in Switzerland. 

Zurich

The largest city in Switzerland is located on the northernmost banks of Lake Zurich and is bisected by the Limmat River. Spend a day pottering around Zurich Altstadt before heading to the elaborate Zürich Opera House to catch the latest opera or ballet production. Do also indulge in an afternoon at the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa – sited in a former brewery, the complex features a rooftop pool and a fantastic bistro.

Where to eat: Maison Manesse 

This exquisite restaurant tempts with a four-course menu and wine pairing. Local ingredients are sourced with care and you can take your pick from vegetarian, vegan, and “everything”. 

Where to stay: Baur au Lac

This 5-star property occupies a privileged location in the city center with award-winning gastronomy. Rooms and suites are inspired by Art Deco and Louis XVI with specialty furnishings and opulent marble bathtubs.

There are many reasons why someone would want to visit a spa. Especially while traveling. We're living in a face-paced society, and, over time, keeping up with everything takes its toll. We are all looking for an escape. Many people travel to escape the trials and tribulations of everyday life. You can enhance those vacations by visiting a wellness spa resort. Let's look at how! 

Reduction of Stress Levels

After enjoying scenic views or a stunning sunset, you can cap off the day by receiving a massage treatment at the spa. Luxurious treatments feature ambient lighting and pleasing aromas to help you feel calm and relaxed. You can book these treatments from the comfort of your hotel suite, in the spa or perhaps even oceanside under a cabana your resort has set up for massage. 

Body Detoxification

​The air in city environments is full of harmful toxins. As time passes, these toxins can impact your health. In addition to enhancing your emotional well-being, visiting a spa can also help your physical well-being. For example, when you receive a spa massage, that helps your body's lymphatic system flush harmful toxins within your body. 

Imagine combining the luxury of a Maldives or Caribbean all-inclusive with the breathtaking scenery of the United States. 

Luxury dude ranches merge the outback experience with creature comforts that we need from a vacation. Typically, these farmsteads offer an all-inclusive, all-immersive package that includes lodging, meals, and activities such as horseback riding and fishing. 

As travelers seek destinations that provide the opportunity to soak up the Great Outdoors. Let this guide to the best dude ranches in the US inspire your next staycation. 

Triple Creek Ranch

Managed by the prestigious Relais & Châteaux group, Triple Creek Ranch is located at the base of Bitterroot Mountain Range within the Montana Rockies. Designed for epicurean adventurers, the resort consists of deluxe log cabins and ranch homes. Cathedral windows, open fireplaces, and hot tubs provide an ideal sanctuary after a day of encountering the surrounding landscape. Activities at the ranch include horseback riding, archery, snowshoeing, and playing tennis. Culinary plating classes, wine tastings, and the chef’s table dining experience round off this luxurious retreat. 

The Caribbean consists of more than 7,000 islands, islets, and keys. Of course, only a modest proportion of these are inhabited and available for travelers. Choosing which Caribbean island you should visit the first time is a challenge but this guide will help you establish a shortlist. 

Saint Lucia

Frequently compared to Hawaii, Saint Lucia is one of the most beautiful Caribbean islands. Two volcanic spires termed the Pitons rise from the island which is blessed with a mixture of black and white sand beaches. Saint Lucia is ideal for travelers seeking excellent hiking opportunities; trails navigate the dense interiors of the rugged isle and lead you to waterfalls. Luxurious properties such as Jade Mountain are ideal for honeymooners and make it easy to recharge with a view over the Pitons. Fun fact: Saint Lucia is the only country in the world to be named after a woman!

Turks and Caicos

​Turks and Caicos is an archipelago of around 40 low-lying coral islets that many say offer the best beaches in the region. While all Caribbean islands provide a luxury experience, Turks and Caicos carries an even more exclusive atmosphere. Oprah Winfrey, Keith Richards, and Rihanna are regular visitors and COMO Parrot Cay does not scrimp on opulence. This is a leading destination for snorkeling, diving, and swimming with sites including a 14-mile-long barrier reef, underwater walls, and wrecks. Caribbean reef sharks, hammerheads, nurse sharks, and bull sharks are frequently encountered on excursions.

Flowing through ten countries, the Danube River is the second-longest waterway in Europe. It originates in the Black Forest, Germany, before traveling eastward through Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, and Ukraine. Here are the 10 best experiences along the Danube River.

1. Danube River Cruise

One of the best ways to travel the waterway and maximize your overall experience is with a liveaboard Danube River Cruise. Vessels are luxuriously appointed with comfortable cabins and an exemplary onboard dining service – when you’re not indulging in dishes at restaurants on dry land!

2. Vienna

Vienna is one of the capital cities that rests on the riverbank and features on most Danube itineraries. Mozart and Beethoven left their legacy on the “City of Music” with tours of the Opera House ranking highly among visitors. Meanwhile, the Belvedere and Schönbrunn palaces provide insight into the history of the Habsburgs.

3. Nuremberg

Although Nuremberg does not sit directly on the Danube, it is an easy excursion that appeals to medieval history enthusiasts. This German city contains the 11th-century Imperial Castle complete with elevated royal gardens. Hauptmarkt is the setting for gothic churches, an open-air market, and the Beautiful Fountain.

​4. Thermal Baths

Budapest is another capital bisected by the river. The city is brimming with statement architecture such as Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Castle, and the Hungarian Parliament Building. But do not miss the opportunity to bathe in the thermal waters that feed the city. The open-air Széchenyi Thermal Bath is an icon while the equally decadent Gellért Thermal Bath is attached to the sumptuous Hotel Gellért.

Maui is the second largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago. With 120 miles worth of coastline coupled with a tropical climate nourished by the volcanic terrain, one of the main draws of the island is discovering the best beaches. Here are 6 of the most beautiful hidden beaches on Maui.

Wailea Beach

Located on the west coast, Wailea Beach is a sandy haven with wonderful swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing conditions. It is one of the best beaches in Maui for catching sight of sea turtles and whales (November through May). The Wailea Beach Path is a stunning hiking trail where you can stretch your legs and savor vistas of the Pacific Ocean.

Mākena Beach State Park

Mākena Beach State Park is situated at the southwest corner of Maui. It is made up of the dormant volcanic cinder cone, Puʻu Olai, and two separate beaches: Makena Beach (also known as Oneloa Beach and Big Beach) and Puʻu Olai Beach (Little Beach). This pristine stretch of fine golden sand with its emerald waters is fringed by greenery and black lava cliffs.

All chefs desire the famous Michelin Stars. When a restaurant receives one Michelin Star, it clearly indicates that it has flourished and succeeded to a higher level. Surprisingly, the Michelin guides had little to do with cuisine as they originally initiated guidebooks published by the French tire company Michelin for more than a century. The term coined from the Michelin Red Guide, the oldest European hotel and restaurant reference guide, grants up to three Michelin stars to a select few restaurants. Businesses can be influenced dramatically by the addition or loss of the Michelin Star. Once a restaurant obtains all three, the restaurant is usually booked for months in advance and vastly populated. 

The era of Michelin Stars came to place as car demand increased and tire manufacturers became more apparent. The company had started in 1889 as brothers Edouard and Andre Michelin published a guide for French motorists explaining the repair and replacement instructions, car mechanics listings, hotels, gas stations, and more throughout France. They joined in to look for a method to draw in the limited number of drivers to make more journeys and, as a result, buy more tires to increase their profit. The first print included 35,000 free copies of the guide that displayed the wealth of information for motorists showcasing the best meals and accommodation while touring in their vehicles. As time went on, the business expanded along with the guide.