travel advice

All the travel how-tos, where-tos, must-dos, packing suggestions and more.

Mount Athos: The Forbidden Mountain Where Women Have Been Banned for 1,000 Years
Imagine a mountain rising almost 6,000 feet above the sea, surrounded by deep blue water and thick forests. Along its slopes stand 20 ancient monasteries that look more like medieval fortresses than religious buildings.
By parwinder singh2 months ago in Wander
Twenty-Four Hours in Arlington, Texas. Honorable Mention in Twenty-Four Hours Challenge.
They say that everything is bigger in Texas. That saying is still true and holds up today. For those that aren't familiar of who I am, I grew up in Arlington, which is west of Dallas. I've always spoke very fondly of where I came from and the things I loved the most about it. In the town of nearly 400,000 residents, growing up in a large city meant that places were easy to find. Arlington is the home of two professional sports teams: Major League Baseball's Texas Rangers and the National Football League's Dallas Cowboys. Their respective stadiums are basically located close to each other. I've been a fan of both teams for decades and continue to support them, win or lose. Back in February, I took a vacation to my hometown for the first time in nearly 15 years. It was an overdue homecoming for me and spent two days down there. On the second and last day of my trip, I took part in a premium stadium tour of Globe Life Field, the home of the Texas Rangers, with a group of people. It was my first time visiting this enormous ballpark. The tour lasted for an hour and a half and for the final half hour, we were led by a tour guide to the field. Kids had an opportunity to play catch, while I admired the field. Stepping foot on an MLB field was a first for me and knocked that item off my bucket list, and yes, I took pictures of the field. Since then, I've gone back home for the second time for Memorial Day weekend, spending three days there. The following is a list of things I would do in Arlington for 24 hours.
By Mark Wesley Pritchard 2 months ago in Wander
Everything Dutch, just slower - A day on Texel
Before I moved to the Netherlands, I honestly had no idea this country even had islands. It sounds silly now, but somehow it never crossed my mind. So when I first heard about Texel , I was a bit confused - an island, part of the Netherlands, with its own dunes, sheep, and lighthouses? I had to see it for myself. And it turned out to be one of the most unusual places I've visited here. Everything about Texel is unmistakably Dutch - the flat green fields, the neat little houses, the way people say hello to strangers on the street. But at the same time, the whole island has this slow, calm energy that feels completely different from the mainland. It's like someone took the Netherlands and turned the volume down.
By Asia2 months ago in Wander
Bermuda Is Not the Caribbean—and 8 Other Things Smart Travelers Should Know Before Booking
Bermuda is easy to dream about. Pink sand, impossibly blue water, pastel buildings and polished resorts do most of the convincing before a traveler has checked a single flight.
By Jason Hair-Wynn2 months ago in Wander
Bringing in the New Year at Bell Cottage Benington
I had planned to publish this review much sooner, but as we reach the halfway point of the year, it feels like a good time to reflect on how it began and where we want it to go…
By Nessy Writer2 months ago in Wander
A Birthday and Anniversary Getaway to Park City, Kentucky
Some trips surprise you in the best ways, and our recent four-day visit to Park City, Kentucky, was one of those trips. We went there to visit Mammoth Cave and explore the area, but we found so much more than we expected. We discovered a tiny town filled with history, amazing food, wonderful people, and a peaceful atmosphere that made it the perfect place to slow down and enjoy our time away.
By Tim Carmichael2 months ago in Wander
5 Tips for a Comfortable Three-Hour Bus Ride
5 Tips for a Comfortable Three-Hour Airport Shuttle Bus Ride Taking a three-hour bus ride can be stressful. When I fly home to visit my family in Maine every year, my adventure starts with a bus ride. I have learned a few things to make my bus ride more comfortable. Here are 5 practical tips and a bonus tip to help you relax.
By Lisa Briskey2 months ago in Wander
Arlington, Texas at 150
Greetings, Vocal readers and subscribers! If you've been a loyal supporter of mine for a period of time, you know that I've been talking so much about Texas and the things that I loved so much about it. I've also previously talked about how much I loved growing up in Arlington, Texas. I'll have a link to that story down below, as well as other Arlington-related stories for your viewing pleasure. In this story, I'm going to talk more about Arlington. Located west of Dallas, this city is celebrating their 150th anniversary in 2026. Before I share how much I love this city, let's learn some facts about it.
By Mark Wesley Pritchard 2 months ago in Wander
What I Wish I'd Known Before Buying a Campervan in Australia
I had the spreadsheet. Eighteen months of saving, and a number at the bottom that finally looked like freedom. I knew what I wanted, too. A van I could drive to work through the week and vanish in on the weekend. Nothing flashy. Just enough room to sleep, make a coffee, and chase a bit of coast whenever the mood took me. The plan felt simple.
By Kate Brownell2 months ago in Wander
A Day Trip to Charlottesville — is it Worth it?
Just a few weeks ago, I headed with some family to Charlottesville, VA for a day. Although some places were closed for construction, we had a spectacular time, discovering a nibble of history about the city, exploring the unique architecture, getting to know some local shops. Based off the experience, here are some destinations I would highly recommend visiting there:
By Mary E. Wissinger2 months ago in Wander
India Passport Fees Hiked from July 1, 2026 — New Rates You Must Know Before Applying. AI-Generated.
If you've been planning to apply for a new passport or renew an existing one, now is the time to pay close attention. Starting July 1, 2026, the Government of India has officially implemented a significant revision in passport application and renewal fees under the Passports (Amendment) Rules, 2026. Whether you're a first-time applicant or looking for urgent Tatkal services, the new rates will directly impact your travel budget planning.
By Travomint3 months ago in Wander
Why the Darién Gap Is Considered the Most Dangerous Jungle on Earth
Dark green walls of towering trees stretch farther than the eye can see. Thick vines swallow old paths. Rivers change direction without warning. Every step feels uncertain. This is the Darién Gap, one of the most mysterious and feared places on Earth. It is far more than a remote jungle. It is a place where survival is never guaranteed.
By Ojo3 months ago in Wander