Travel Insights

Best Places to Eat in the Gulf of Papagayo

On the north end of Costa Rica's Pacific coast lies the Gulf of Papagayo, a tropical beach-laden region that's still relatively undiscovered. As remote as Papagayo is, you'll find many options for grabbing a bite. Most are centered in Playas del Coco, where you'll find (very) fresh seafood, vegetarian Lebanese cuisine, and authentic Italian fare. The list below also includes a beachfront option in Playa Ocotal and innovative Asian-fusion in Playa Hermosa.

Best of China - 13 Days

This packed itinerary checks off China's top cultural and natural highlights. Visit Beijing to see the Forbidden City and hike along the Great Wall, then take the bullet train to Xi'an to see the Terracotta Warriors. Visit Guilin to see the world's tallest Buddha and enjoy Yangshuo's serene countryside. Tour Chengdu's panda research station before finishing your trip in metropolitan Shanghai.

Algarve Luxury Wellness Escape - 4 Days

Leave your worries behind and treat yourself to a relaxing getaway on Portugal's stunning southern coast. Recharge in the spa at your five-star hotel, dine on gourmet food, and go on a cycling tour of Ria Formosa National Park on this long weekend break. Nourish your mind and body in the turquoise waters and Iberian sunshine of Algarve.

Luxury Wellness Escape in Algarve - 8 Days

Pamper yourself on this eight-day getaway to a resort in sun-soaked southern Portugal. Recharge your body, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, and explore the natural beauty of Ria Formosa National Park. You'll bask on Mediterranean beaches, stretch your muscles on a yoga retreat, dine on gourmet food and more on this blissful week in paradise.

Northern England's Castles - 5 Days

Explore iconic medieval castles in England's Northeast region. Visit ruins and modern-day palaces, discover the area's military history, and spend quiet afternoons strolling in countryside villages. Start your trip in industrial Newcastle, then continue to Alnwick Castle to see the backdrop for the Harry Potter films. End on the wild Northumberland coast to see isolated 16th-century Lindisfarne castle and sample fresh-caught lobster.

Top Regions in Ireland

Ireland is a study in diversity. From the gentle slopes of the Mourne Mountains to the looming Cliffs of Moher, from the patchwork fields to the pebble beaches, and from the kinetic energy of Dublin's streets to the reconciled northern metropolis of Belfast, no two regions are exactly alike. That makes Ireland a veritable treasure trove of culture, sights, and activities perfect for newcomers.

3 Options for Crossing the Border Between Argentina & Chile

Crossing the border between Argentina and Chile is a memorable journey in itself. There are three main crossing points, each with distinct scenery—and modes of transportation. After sipping wine in Mendoza, bus over the snow-capped Andes to Santiago. Cruise in a catamaran across glacial lakes from Bariloche. Or, cross the dramatic Atacama Desert, passing through a center of Argentine indigenous culture. Learn more about all three options below.

Moroccan Cities from Coast to Coast - 14 Days

Travel from the Atlantic Coast to the Strait of Gibraltar on this two-week tour of Morocco's famous cities. Hop between ancient hubs like Marrakesh, Fes, and Tangier, as well as photogenic, blue-hued Chefchaouen and Essaouira with its nearby Caves of Hercules. Along the way, you'll explore Roman ruins and mosques, wander maze-like souks, drive through the striking Atlas mountains, and take a Moroccan cooking class.

Santiago & the Lake District - 5 Days

Kick off this 5-day Chilean sojourn in Santiago for a day of cultural and culinary delights. You'll then fly south for activities surrounding native forests, hot springs, glaciers, and waterfalls. Base yourself in the traveler hub of Pucón for lakeside strolls with views of one of Chile's most active volcanoes—not to mention international eats ranging from Middle Eastern to French to Peruvian.

Chile Grand Tour: Santiago, Torres del Paine & Easter Island - 15 Days

Outdoor adventurers rejoice—this curated 15-day itinerary immerses you in the unparalleled natural beauty of Chile. First, you'll head to the far north of the country and tour the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert. Then it's off to Patagonia and Torres del Paine National Park, home to the most awe-inspiring mountains and unspoiled nature in Chile. You'll then finish the journey far west in the Pacific, amid the mysterious stone idols of Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island.

Patagonia's W Trek & Marble Caves - 15 Days

This 15-day itinerary packs a lot of punch for those keen on experiencing as much Chilean nature as possible. Start off with some urban culture before flying south to frolic with thousands of penguins. Next, you’ll spend several days trekking in one of the most beautiful national parks in the world. Finish in northern Patagonia's Aysén region for glaciers and marble cave formations you won't soon forget.

Highlights of Britain's East Coast - 12 Days

Explore the ancient history and modern culture of northeast England. Visit medieval York, discover Roman ruins, and sample hearty English pub food in Tynemouth. See the impressive Durham Cathedral, 16th-century Lindisfarne, and the wild seascape of the Farne Islands. End your trip in Edinburgh—home to the Scottish monarchy, world-class whiskey, and the café where J.K. Rowling penned the first Harry Potter novel.

Atacama Desert & Easter Island - 13 Days

This 13-day trip combines two bucket-list items in Chile, rarely visited by tourists. Kick-off with a day in Santiago before you're jetting off again—this time to the South Pacific. Halfway between Tahiti and Chile, Easter Island is graced with white sand beaches and 600+ mysterious statues carved from volcanic rock. The second half of the trip takes place in a high-altitude desert on the mainland with sand dunes, geysers, hot springs, and starry skies—perfect for sipping Chilean wine.

Culinary Tour of Wales - 5 Days

Explore local cuisine and adventure on this 5-day journey through Wales' intimate landscapes. Hike the mountain grasslands of Brecon Beacons and taste local whiskey, then visit sleepy harbor towns and ancient monasteries in Pembrokeshire. Drive along the spectacular Cambrian coast, then end your trip in the jagged mountains of Snowdonia, where mountain views and medieval castles await.

Ring of Kerry Self-Guided Hike - 8 Days

Explore the southwest corner of Ireland at your own pace on this 8-day walking itinerary of the Kerry Peninsula. This popular driving route is even better on foot as you cover the countryside from cliffs to beaches across rolling pastures, peat bogs, and mountain ranges. Start in Killarney, walking through Kenmare, Sneem, and Caherdaniel. Veer west through Waterville and Cahersiveen to your final village in Glenbeigh.

Chile's Iconic Wine Valleys - 6 Days

Calling all oenophiles: This guided 6-day tour is a chance to become a Chilean wine connoisseur. Starting in the capital city, you'll hit the open road for the country's best wine valleys offering an array of climates, varietals, and production techniques. There will be estates and vineyards to explore galore, as well as dozens of tastings—often paired with delectable local cuisine.

Santiago & Patagonia Exploration - 13 Days

Few other places in the world can compete with Patagonia's wild, jagged mountains and enormous panoramas. With this 13-day adventure, you'll get the best of the region—in both countries—starting with Chilean Patagonia. Here, you'll partake in the famed W Trek, a multiday hike that covers the furthest reaches of Torres del Paine. Then, bus over to Argentine Patagonia for ancient glaciers and the iconic Mount Fitz Roy. Kick off the adventure in Chile's capital for a dose of big-city culture.

Chile's Beaches & Natural Wonders - 12 Days

Stretching thousands of miles in length, Chile can feel a world away with its mountains, glaciers, deserts, and rugged coastline. This 12-day trip hits the highlights with a series of unique guided tours. Move at a relaxed pace as you make your way from the Atacama Desert in the north, to Patagonia in the south. You'll also make urban stops in Santiago, Valparaiso, and upscale Viña del Mar for two days of beachy fun.

Central Chile, Lake District & Atacama Desert - 13 Days

Thin and uniquely long in shape, it can be hard to know where to start in a country like Chile. This 13-day itinerary explores three distinct regions known for urban culture and outdoor adventure. After a taste of Santiago and its nearby wine region, fly north to the driest desert in the world known for geysers, moonscapes, and starry skies. Then fly south to the Lake District for volcanoes, waterfalls, and a road trip to Chiloé Island—a booming food destination with coastal trails.

Central Chile, Lake District & Atacama Desert - 12 Days

Experience three distinct regions in Chile with this 12-day itinerary that combines culture and outdoor adventure. After a taste of Santiago and its nearby wine region, fly north to the Atacama desert known for geysers, moonscapes, and starry skies. You'll then fly south to the Chilean Lake District for volcanoes, waterfalls, and a road trip to Chiloé Island—a burgeoning foodie destination with coastal hiking trails.

Los Glaciares & Torres del Paine - 8 Days

This active trip highlights two UNESCO-listed parks in South America with some of the most magnificent scenery in the world. Start off in Argentine Patagonia for several days in Los Glaciares National Park—home to a whopping 13 major glaciers and the iconic Mt. Fitz Roy. Next is Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia for snow-capped peaks, thundering waterfalls, and turquoise lakes. Kick off the adventure in Buenos Aires for a taste of big-city culture.

Wine Regions in Argentina & Chile: Which is Best For You?

Both Argentina and Chile have multiple wine producing regions that welcome visitors, from world-famous destinations like Mendoza to coastal wineries near the Pacific Ocean that make an easy detour on your way to the beach. Whether you're interested in tasting a crisp white in a desert canyon or sipping a full-bodied Chilean red under the stars, you have great options on both sides of the Andes—learn more about the six main regions with this guide.

Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & the Pacific Coast - 11 Days

This 11-day itinerary combines mountain adventures with beaches, starting in Rincón de la Vieja to explore the environs of one of the country's most active volcanoes. Then travel deeper inland to spend a few days crossing suspension bridges, ziplining over trees, and hiking through the jungles of La Fortuna and the Monteverde Cloud Forest. More than stunning white-sand beaches, you'll end your trip in Manuel Antonio National Park, rich in biodiversity and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Family Adventure in Manuel Antonio National Park & La Fortuna- 7 days

Natural wonders await on this refreshing weeklong journey around Costa Rica. Highlights along the 7-day trip include the beautiful beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park, the awe-inspiring Arenal Volcano and the nearby Hanging Bridges, the pristine Damas Island Estuary, and much more. Mixing wildlife viewing and outdoor adventure, this itinerary captures the essence of the Costa Rican motto — Pura Vida!

Highlights of Costa Rica Wildlife - 12 Days

This itinerary is specifically tuned for wildlife lovers. Expect to get up early and stay out late to see monkeys, lizards, birds, insects, and other spectacular fauna that inhabit the virgin rainforest, cloud forest, and swampy estuaries covered here. The trip begins with a southwest journey from San José to Parque Nacional Corcovado (Corcovado National Park) before continuing northwest along the Pacific coast. Next, head inland to Monteverde for birdwatching and spotting wildlife in the unique ecosystem of the cloud forest.

Trekking in Bariloche - 7 Days

An alpine hub in Argentina's Lake District, Bariloche is considered one of the most scenic spots in the country, offering a plethora of year-round activities. Starting in Buenos Aires, you'll fly to the Andean foothills on the shores of Nahuel Huapi Lake for a series of treks, history tours, and kayaking excursions while enjoying the town's numerous restaurants and chocolate shops.

Argentina's Wine Country: Buenos Aires & Mendoza - 7 Days

This fun weeklong trip splits time in two of Argentina's most desirable destinations: Buenos Aires, with sophisticated restaurants, theaters, history, and architecture, and the smaller, more relaxed city of Mendoza, surrounded by impressive Andean views and lush vineyards. Take part in guided activities like tangoing, wine tasting, trekking, rafting, and ziplining for the ultimate South American adventure.

Best Places to Eat in Tamarindo

Despite being a small surf town, Tamarindo is officially on the radar of intrepid travelers seeking a slice of tropical paradise. Restaurants continue to pop up to meet the growing demand, and now visitors can find everything from shrimp burgers at a chilled-out seafood shack to beachside fine-dining, flame-grilled barbecue buffets, and even gluten-free Sicilian pizza. Here are eight best bets for getting your grub on in Tamarindo.

Torres del Paine Relaxed Adventure - 6 Days

This itinerary covers a lot of ground in less than a week yet sticks to a relaxed pace. After a day exploring Santiago, fly south to Torres del Paine—one of the most famous national parks in the world. Here, you'll stay two nights at a luxury eco-camp for a range of outdoor activities that capitalize on the views. As an added bonus, you'll visit a working Patagonian ranch for the ultimate taste of local culture.

Langtang, Gosaikunda & Helambu Trek - 17 Days

This two-and-a-half-week trek through Langtang and Helambu is one of the most spectacular Nepal has to offer. Just north of the Kathmandu Valley, this route is classified as moderate and will take you from the banks of the Bhote Kosi River through the Langtang Valley to the sacred Gosaikunda Lake and the Hyolmo villages of Helambu. You'll see expansive mountain views, travel through lush forests and sleep in Nepali tea houses on this Himalayan adventure.

Dolomites High Traverse: Hut-to-Hut Hiking in Italy - 7 Days

On this seven-day trek, you'll encounter some of the world's most beautiful alpine scenery, including Tre Cime di Lavaredo, a mountain group that includes three of the most famous peaks in Italy's Dolomites. It's a rugged adventure where you'll hike between mountain huts, traverse sheer rock walls on the famous via ferrata routes, and enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in cozy refugi lodges along the route.

Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided Trek - 11 days

Circle the highest summit in Western Europe in ten days of trekking with this summer itinerary. Start in the Chamonix Valley and hike through France, Italy, and Switzerland with iconic Alpine vistas throughout. Hike over high mountain passes and quiet meadows, see the Alps reflected in mirror-like Swiss lakes, visit the classic resort towns of Courmayeur and Chamonix, and spend each night sleeping comfortably in charming mountain huts and lodges.

Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided Trek - 8 days

Circle the highest summit in Western Europe in just seven days of trekking with this summer itinerary. Start in the Chamonix Valley and hike through France, Italy, and Switzerland with iconic Alpine vistas throughout. Hike over high mountain passes and quiet meadows, see the Alps reflected in mirror-like Swiss lakes, visit the classic resort towns of Courmayeur and Chamonix, and spend each night sleeping comfortably in charming mountain huts and lodges.

Tour du Mont-Blanc Self Guided Trek - 7 days

Circle the highest summit in Western Europe in just six days of trekking with this weeklong summer itinerary. Start in the Chamonix Valley a nd hike through France, Italy, and Switzerland with iconic Alpine vistas throughout. Hike over high mountain passes and quiet meadows, see the Alps reflected in mirror-like Swiss lakes, visit the classic resort towns of Courmayeur and Chamonix, and spend each night sleeping comfortably in charming mountain huts and lodges.

Dracula's Bran Castle - Day Trip

Lovers of folklore and fairy tales shouldn't miss this day trip to Bran Castle in Transylvania, known for its links to the legend of Dracula. You'll enjoy a guided tour of the mysterious castle, as well as stops at the dramatic Peleș Castle and a champagne tasting at a nearby cellar on this cultural excursion.

Latvia's Castles and Palaces - Day Trip

Go back in time on this guided tour of three of Latvia's castles and palaces. Learn about the long history of this Baltic nation through the grand buildings erected by its leaders. You'll visit the medieval Bauska Castle, the Baroque Jelgava Palace, and the extravagant Rundale Palace — all just a short drive from Riga.

Guided Walking Tour of Riga - Day Trip

Put on your best walking shoes and discover the Baltic region's largest city on this comprehensive guided tour of Riga. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Latvia's capital as you take in the fascinating blend of Gothic, medieval, and Art Nouveau architecture. You'll also test Riga's reputation as an up-and-coming foodie destination with a visit to the Central Market, where you'll sample local delicacies.

Classic Highlights of Japan - 14 Days

Welcome to Japan! On this two-week journey around the main island, Honshu, you'll enjoy a mix of cultural sightseeing and active adventures. Visit sacred temples and shrines, cycle through the countryside, and wander around Tokyo's most fashionable neighborhoods. From the history of Hiroshima and the wonders of ancient Kyoto to the historic farmhouses of Shirakawa-go and the quiet island of Miyajima, there's so much to see and do.

Multi-Day Hiking in Torres del Paine - 7 Days

This weeklong itinerary highlights Torres del Paine National Park for a once-in-a-lifetime hiking trip in Patagonia. After a day to explore Chile's capital, fly south to experience the park's nearly 450,000 acres of glaciers, ice fields, forests, lakes, and rugged mountains that will get your heart racing. Your jumping on/off point will be Puerto Natales—a port city attracting trekkers from all over the world.

Mojave Desert Bike Tour - 6 Days

Explore southeastern California's Mojave Desert by bike and experience its arid desert landscapes. You'll ride through Joshua Tree National Park, the Anza-Borrego Desert, and Yaqui Pass, rewarding yourself with breathtaking views of the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa mountains, and the Yucca Valley.

Northeast England - 9 Days

Explore northeast England's diverse history and culture as you travel from medieval towns to remote coastal trails. Visit industrial Newcastle, discover Roman history along Hadrian's Wall and see medieval Tynemouth Castle. Continue your trip to see the impressive Durham Cathedral, 16th-century Lindisfarne, and the wild seascape of the Farne Islands.

Nature & History in Wales - 7 Days

This adventurous itinerary checks off the top historical and recreational highlights in Wales. Hike through the Brecon Beacons National Park, get wet and wild coasteering along the Pembrokeshire coast, and explore ancient Roman ruins. End the trip in the north in Snowdonia, where jagged peaks, whitewater rafting, and the iconic Caernarfon Castle await.

Best of Bernese Oberland - 5 days

Hike from hut to hut under the snowy facades of some of the most famous peaks in the Swiss Alps with this five-day itinerary. As you hike past the iconic peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, you'll make your way through Alpine pastures, glacial lakes, and rushing waterfalls, with stops on mountaintop tramways and charming villages in between.

Bernese Oberland Traverse - 7 Days

Take a classic Swiss hut-to-hut hike through the Bernese Oberland mountains on this week-long trek. You'll go from scenic valley to scenic valley as you traverse past the bases of some of the best-known mountains in the Alps, such as Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau, making your way through waterfalls, cliff faces, and dairy pastures.

Dolomites High Traverse - 10 Days

Traverse the northern Dolomites starting at the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, three of the range's most famous peaks, and make your way to the Grupo Latemar near Bolzano. You'll hike through a number of national parks, crossing desert rocklands, forests, and green pastures as you travel the cultural and historic border between Europe's southern Latin and northern Germanic regions.

Legends of Wales - 6 Days

This exploration of Wales' history and legends take you deep into a magical country of King Arthur's legends. Explore the Fortress of Isca, hike in Brecon Beacons, and head west to discover the prehistoric landscape of the Preseli hills and the Pembrokeshire Coast. Drive north along the Cambrian coast to the rolling mountains of Snowdonia to explore King Arthur's legendary landscapes and politically rife Caernarfon Castle.

Food & Nature in Slovenia - 8 Days

This adventurous itinerary brings you on a thrilling gastronomic and cultural journey through Slovenia's top regions. Explore Ljubljana's old town, see Lake Bled's 11th-century castle, and explore the fairytale-like landscapes of the Soca River Valley. End your trip in Slovenia's Goriska Brda region, where world-class wines, a Mediterranean vibe, and exceptional farm-to-table cuisine await.

European Amber Road Tour - 14 Days

Follow Europe's ancient amber trading route through five countries as you discover local art and history. Explore medieval town squares, taste the infamous amber drink, and try your hand at netting amber pieces from the Baltic Sea. End your journey in spectacular St. Peterburg to see rococo castles and the crown jewel of the amber road—the extravagant Amber Room.

Hiking in Romania's Macin Mountains - 4 Days

Explore Romania's Macin Mountains on foot and by bike on this 4-day adventure. Thanks to its microclimates and vicinity to the Danube, over 50% of Romania's flora and fauna can be found in this region. Hike on mountain trails and look out for birds from the observation towers on the peaks. Bike through thick forest and go horseback riding in Macin Mountain National Park.

Iceland's South Coast Guided Tour - 5 Days

This 5-day tour of Iceland's South Coast hits the top natural sights. Visit Thingvellir National Park and Gullfoss Waterfall, see the Reynisfjara black sand beach, and drop by the small village of Vik for coffee and local history. Stop and see the Jokulsarlon lagoon and Skaftafell National Park's many glaciers. Enjoy viewing the Northern Lights in comfort.