Hot springs are the original wellness trend that never went out of style. For centuries, thermal spas have been a central focus of physical and mental well being, improving stress, circulation, chronic pain, and more.
History
Summer Solstice Rituals to Celebrate the Longest Day of the Year
The longest day of the year falls somewhere between June 20-22 each year in the Northern Hemisphere. The exact date rotates each year due to the astronomical calendar length of 365.25 days. In 2024, the summer solstice falls on Thursday, June 20th. In some places, this is also when 24 hours of sunlight, or the Midnight Sun, is also present. Throughout time, humans have honored this monumental anniversary with a variety of rituals, ceremonies, celebrations and festivals, many of which continue today.
Sami People: The Oldest Indigenous Tribe in Europe
Nestled within the Arctic Circle lies a land of breathtaking beauty and cultural richness — northern Scandinavia including Finnish and Swedish Lapland, Norway and Russia — home to Europe’s oldest Indigenous tribe, the Sami people.
The Ultimate Northern Lights Trip to Finnish Lapland
When my husband and I arrived in Finland, we had only one expectation: to see the Northern Lights. Spoiler: we did NOT see the Aurora. (Well…not technically. More on that later.) But after a week in Finland and five of those days spent in Finnish Lapland, we returned home with newfound appreciation of Finns, Indigenous Sami culture, and the wilderness they call home.
Spookiest Places in the World
The spookiest places in the world range from historic sites to entire geographic regions. Pack your bravery when you visit these mysterious places!
What is Dark Tourism?
Dark tourism encompasses travel related to the mysterious and macabre to the tragic and sad. Covering a wide variety of circumstances and experiences, dark tourism is a relatively new phrase in the travel industry referring to some very old practices.
Poland: Home of the Best European Christmas Markets
Every year, annual traditions take over Poland as buildings and houses are decked in decor while colorful and cobblestone streets are flooded with twinkling lights. Massive Christmas trees take over charming squares as horse drawn carriages become the town Uber. The fatty and fried oil smell of delicious pierogi dances through the air coupled with people using mulled wine as a source to stay warm, physically and mentally. The colorful buildings of famous and historical streets lead you through town during the day, at the same time becoming engulfed in Christmas illumination by night. Throw a little snow into the mix to create a real life snow-globe and winter wonderland masterpiece.
Hidden Gems of Andalucia, Spain: Vejer de la Frontera, Carmona, and Antequera
Andalucia, Spain, is unlike any other region in southern Europe. Imagine sun-drenched days in an epic landscape that includes pristine beaches and impressive mountain ranges. Charming white-walled towns speckle the region and the dining is unparalleled. Cultural influences range from Moorish to Mediterranean, and Flamenco is a way of life. This is Andalucia.
5 Reasons to Explore Sarawak, Malaysia
There’s never been a better time to explore Sarawak. Between their award-winning annual Rainforest World Music Festival in June and unparalleled year-round outdoor adventure, this Malaysian destination is bursting with culture, flavor, and activity.
Best Christmas Markets in Europe: Hidden Gems
It’s that time of year again. Twinkling lights strung up across buildings, decorated trees commanding city centers, holiday music dancing through the air, the smell of hot wine and baked gingerbread suffocating your nose and of course, chestnuts roasting on an open fire. If you love the holiday season, then there aren’t too many experiences as magical as exploring different Christmas Markets across Europe. While they’re all worth seeing, it may be hard to choose the right market for you. Each country does it differently as vendors focus on local cuisine and souvenirs that will leave you overwhelmed, wanting to buy everything. The biggest and most famous markets definitely live up to the hype, but it is the lesser known ones off of the usual tourist route that will give you the most unforgettable Christmas market adventure.
Dolomiti Superski: Making the Most of Your Time in this Winter Paradise
Combine winter activities, world-class cuisine, iconic mountains, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in one adventure at Dolomiti Superski!
Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula: Beyond Cancun & Tulum
The famous and picturesque Yucatán Peninsula stretches into the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea whilst being occupied by the three Mexican states of Campeche, Yucatán and Quintana Roo. This area of Mexico has some of the best history, culture and scenery across the entire country, however most travelers only visit the “tourist hotspots”. Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen are not just three of the most visited places in Mexico, but the world. Yes, these resort towns are appealing and have some of the most gorgeous beaches around, but are they the best places to visit? If you’re searching for authentic Mexico, the simple answer is no. The best way to enjoy this stunning peninsula and be immersed in Mexico’s rich culture is by taking the road less traveled to these six destinations.