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Photos
The most beautiful state park in every state
While visitors flock to America's national parks, many of the country's state parks are overlooked by travelers. But plenty have natural beauty that matches that of their national counterparts. From mountain preserves to coastal oases, we reveal the 50 most beautiful state parks in the USA.
Love Exploring Travel
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Flying blind: Apps help visually impaired navigate airport
Navigating airports can be tricky. They're loud, crowded and not always laid out intuitively. They're even more challenging for visually impaired people. Chieko Asakawa knows those challenges firsthand, and she has also devised a remedy. Asakawa has been blind since she was 14 and is now an IBM Fellow and a professor in Carnegie Mellon University's Robotics Institute. This spring, she and other researchers at Carnegie Mellon launched a...
Associated Press Travel
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Photos
40 under-the-radar boating destinations across the country
Why chart a course for the same waters year after year? Take a look at these under-the-radar boating spots and see if they hook you in. Whether you're into sailing, houseboating or fishing, places like the Columbia River Gorge, the Apostle Islands, and Jackson Lake in the Grand Tetons all offer unique charms.
Cheapism Travel
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Photos
The one thing you must do in every state
For travelers looking for a reason to visit every state, here are 50 memorable things worth putting on your bucket list. From a Texas-size state fair and the epicenter of country music to profound and moving destinations like the 9/11 Memorial and Gettysburg — whatever your interest, there’s something for you.
Cheapism Travel
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New Mexico ghost town saloon uses civility to draw crowd
WHITE OAKS, N.M. (AP) — A saloon in a New Mexico ghost town attracts regulars with diverse backgrounds and opinions with a promise to "have dialogue." The No Scum Allowed Saloon in the White Oaks, New Mexico, pulls in people from around the state and sometimes tourists from overseas because of its reputation and catchy name, the Albuquerque Journal recently reported . Saloon owner Karen Haughness, one of the nine people who live in White Oaks,...
Connecticut Post Travel
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Video
UNESCO lists Iraq's Babylon as World Heritage Site
SHOTLIST HILLA, IRAQJUNE 29, 2019SOURCE: AFPTV 1. Aerial shot ruins of the historical Mesopotamian city of Babylon in Hilla, Iraq HILLA, IRAQJUNE 22, 2019SOURCE: AFPTV 2. SOUNDBITE 1 - Qahtan al-Abeed, head of the Basra Antiquities Department (male, Arabic, 21 sec): "Babylon is a symbol of identity for the Iraqis. So the city is considered a part of the history of Iraq, whether it was from the humanistic, architectural, scientific, administrative, or legislative aspect. Until today, it still has an influence on Iraqi artists." 3. Cutaway: Aerial shot ruins of the historical city of Babylon 4. Cutaway: Aerial shot animal engraved on the ruins of the historical city of Babylon 5. SOUNDBITE 2 - Farzad Salihi, visitor (male, English, 17 sec): "From the time I was very small, and as a kid, in our schools, we have heard about Babylon and its ancient history. So it was the first time I came here, with my friends, I came here to see what was the history of Iraq." 6. Pull focus exterior of the ruins of Babylon ///-----------------------------------------------------------AFP TEXT STORY: WRAPUNESCO lists Iraq's Babylon as World Heritage Site =(Picture)= Baghdad, July 5, 2019 (AFP) - UNESCO's World Heritage Committee voted on Friday to list the sprawling Mesopotamian metropolis of Babylon as a World Heritage Site after three decades of lobbying efforts by Iraq.Iraq had been trying since 1983 to have the site -- a massive 10-square-kilometre complex of which just 18 percent has been excavated thus far -- recognised by UNESCO. Straddling Iraq's Euphrates River about 100 kilometres (60 miles) south of Baghdad, the city was the centre of the ancient Babylonian empire more than 4,000 years ago."What is the world heritage list without Babylon? How to tell the history of humanity without the earliest of old chapters, Babylon?" said Iraq's representative to UNESCO's World Heritage Committee ahead of the vote. The committee met in Azerbaijan's capital of Baku to consider Babylon and another 34 sites, including in Brazil and Burkina Faso, for the List."It fills a gap that was evident on the list and indeed, this is a type of site that we can say this convention was actually designed to protect," said Tunisia's delegate.After the successful vote, Iraq's delegation clasped hands and invited all delegates "to visit Babylon, the cradle of civilisation." Babylon developed as a walled city of mudbrick temples and towers, known internationally for its hanging gardens, the Tower of Babel, and the Ishtar Gate.Excavation began there in the early 1800s and artefacts were sent abroad, including parts of the Ishtar Gate which remain in museums across Europe. - 'Extremely vulnerable condition' - The site was substantially impacted by new structures built under dictator Saddam Hussein and further damaged by soldiers during the US-led invasion that toppled him in 2003. UNESCO on Friday said the site's "extremely vulnerable condition" sparked "serious concerns, with many structures in urgent need of conservation and several on the verge of collapse."But it opted not to designate Babylon as a World Heritage Site in Danger after objections from Iraq, and instead said it would work with local authorities to set a plan of action for conservation. "Babylon is the largest populated city in ancient history," said Qahtan al-Abeed, who heads the Basra Antiquities Department and led efforts to get the site listed. "The Babylonians were the civilisation of writing, administration and science," he told AFP. The UNESCO designation "will encourage research and development of the site," and would "be free publicity for tourists," he added excitedly.Babylon is one of 7,000 archeological sites across Iraq, many of which were destroyed by the Islamic State group or ravaged by lucrative artefact smuggling.Five have been listed by UNESCO, including the Arbil citadel in northern Iraq and the southern Mesopotamian marshes.The three others are also on the agency's "World Heritage in Danger" list and include Hatra, an ancient city in northern Nineweh province damaged by IS in 2014. Samarra, along the Tigris River, was added in 2007 and Ashur, the capital of the Assyrian empire, in 2003.Iraq has another 11 "tentative" sites hoping to be listed by UNESCO.After decades of back-to-back conflict, the country declared victory against IS in 2017 and is now basking in a period of relative calm.It has sought to attract both international investors and tourists, and hopes its prominence on UNESCO's lists can do both.bur/mjg/rsc -------------------------------------------------------------
AFP Travel
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Lubbock is smack in middle of nowhere and everywhere
Lubbock is a long way from anywhere, and even in this West Texas town with a population of just over a quarter-million, because of its remoteness it still somehow feels uncrowded, maybe a little lonesome. Its closest neighbors of any size are a two- to three-hour drive away, give or take. Amarillo is to the north, Midland and Odessa to the south, Abilene's to the southeast, and Roswell, over ...
Tribune News Service Travel
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Video
10 road trips to take this summer
See the best that America has to offer from the open road. 1. Pacific Coast Highway Highway 1 stretches along much of the California Coast. Explore the outdoors with stops at Muir Woods and Big Sur. 2. Turquoise Trail Drive New Mexico State Road 14 between Santa Fe and Albuquerque. Immerse yourself in Southwestern Culture where turquoise was first mined. 3. Historic Route 66 There is no other highway in the world as famous as this one. From Chicago to Los Angeles, there's plenty of exploring to be done. 4. Great River Road This 3,000-mile road follows the Mississippi River. This road trip tells the tale of life along Ol' Man River. 5.
Sports Media Group Travel
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Statue on Slovenia's Melania tourist trail divides opinion
After Melania cake, Melania honey, and even Melania slippers, the Slovenian hometown of the US first lady will now boast a statue of its most famous daughter -- albeit one that has faced decidedly mixed reviews. "Melania is a Slovenian hero, she made it to the top in the US," she said.
Relaxnews (AFP) Travel
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Video
A vast interactive lawn unveiled at Washington's National Building Museum
SHOTLIST WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, UNITED STATESJULY 3, 2019SOURCE: AFPTV 1. Tilt down Corinthian columns to hammocks 2. Mid shot feet of man lying in a hammock, people in the background 3. Wide shot children playing croquet on the artificial lawn 4. Mid shot children playing croquet on the artificial lawn 5. SOUNDBITE 1 - David Rockwell, founder of Rockwell Group, which designed ‘Lawn’ (male, English, 20 sec): "I was compelled by how lawns are an invitation. They’re an invitation to sit, roll. So that was the beginning of our process and everything beyond that was creating a world within a world complete with sounds, games, stories of summer, hammocks." 6. Cutaway: Tilt down man playing cornhole / 7. Cutaway: Tilt down cornhole set / 8. Wide shot 'Lawn' installation 9. Pan right boy playing a video game while lying in a hammock 10. SOUNDBITE 2 - David Rockwell, founder of Rockwell Group, which designed ‘Lawn’ (male, English, 10 sec): "We live in an era where everything is Instagram, and that’s how we determine what something looks like. But I think this is a space that you have to experience by touching and rolling and being in it." 11. Cutaway: Tilt down woman taking a picture of her friend sitting in a hammock / 12. Pull focus artificial lawn to people
AFP Travel
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Photos
The most luxurious ways to fly first-class in the world
From breakfast served in a private double bed and spa showers to butler service and bone china, the experience in these top-end first-class cabins is nothing like cattle class. Here's want to expect if you're lucky enough to find yourself sampling the best money can buy.
Love Exploring Travel
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Why Las Vegas Is a Great Place to Go With Kids. Seriously.
Our writer, a Las Vegas expert, has looked at the city from nearly every angle: This time, it’s through the eyes of his three young daughters. His conclusion? When done right, traveling with children to Vegas doesn’t have to be a gamble.
AFAR Travel
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Photos
13 expert safety tips to stay safe while boating this summer
The arrival of summer and warm weather means putting on your captain's hat and taking to the open water on boats. But like driving, boating is a big responsibility and comes with risks. Follow these 13 guidelines to make sure you stay safe while out at sea.
Mediafeed Travel
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Photos
spectacular outdoor public pools in all 50 states
Warm weather has arrived, and there's no better way to beat the heat than with a dip in a refreshing swimming pool. Don't have your own? Don't sweat it — this list includes an affordable community pool in every state, so you'll be splashing and swimming in the sunshine in no time.
Cheapism Travel
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Which Marriott Bonvoy Credit Card Is Right for You?
Both Chase and Amex continue to issue different versions of Marriott Bonvoy credit cards. There are now a total of six different options, with Amex and Chase each issuing three, though each issuer closed one of its products to new applicants, leaving only two Amex cards and two Chase cards that you can still apply for.
The Points Guy Travel
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Earn up to 100,000 Avios With the British Airways Visa
Although often overlooked in favor of US-based mileage currencies, there's a ton of value to be had in British Airways Avios. Sure, you can use these points to fly on British Airways, but they also have many other uses which can be ultimately more valuable. And now, it's even easier to rack up a hefty stash of Avios than before.
The Points Guy Travel
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Photos
How air travel has changed in every decade
From the early days of flight to the "golden age of travel," to the budget airlines of the modern day, air travel has changed a lot over the past century. Here, we take a journey through time to bring you the biggest milestones in commercial aviation history.
Love Exploring Travel
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Photos
12 Things You Can Get for Free at Theme Parks
Theme parks visits are big on fun and thrills, but between ticket prices, meals, and those sought-after souvenirs, they can also go heavy on the wallet. Still, there are freebies to be had at the parks, you just need to know where to look.
Reader's Digest Travel
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Want to Really Get to Know Charleston? Explore Its African American History.
From the arrival of the first slave ship through the civil rights era and into the present, Charleston’s black residents have shaped the Holy City’s food culture, art, music, agriculture, faith, and its national reputation. A visit to these landmarks can help create a fuller understanding of the city.
AFAR Travel
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Here's what you need to know about using Costco to book your next vacation
In addition to being able to shop in bulk for peanut butter and toilet paper, your Costco membership also grants you access to a travel agency. Here are eight tips from travel experts to help you get the most out of your Costco travel experience.
CNBC Travel
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Beat the heat of Vegas with a day trip to Mount Charleston
In the summer months, a day trip to Mount Charleston is the perfect way to get out of Las Vegas’ scorching desert heat for a while. You can go for a hike, have lunch and enjoy beautiful views while enjoying the milder temperatures of the Spring Mountains.
10Best Travel
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Video
How to Get the Most Out of Your Frequent-Flier Miles
Rewards travel is getting cheaper, according to an annual IdeaWorks survey. WSJ’s Scott McCartney digs into the data and explains how you can take advantage of the miles you’ve saved. Photo Illustration: Drew Evans/The Wall Street Journal
The Wall Street Journal. Travel
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How to Find All Flight Departures From an Airport
When you book a flight through travel booking sites like Vayama or Google Flights, you hope you’re getting the best deal, but here’s the catch: Many low-cost carriers airlines prevent their flights from showing up on some of these third-party travel websites.
Lifehacker Travel
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Save your family money with an annual Delta companion ticket
Families need as many miles as possible to get everyone where they want to be, so part of our strategy to increase our mileage balances is to pull the trigger on increased card offers a few times a year. The line-up of Delta Amex cards has increased offers as high as 80,000 miles right now through July 2. That makes this a perfect time to consider whether a new Delta card should be in your family's future.
The Points Guy Travel
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Why this island is called the Riviera of Denmark
From the world-famous Louisiana Museum of Modern Art to blooming blue hydrangeas lining traditional thatched cottages, this seaside escape is ideal for both locals and travelers who want to explore the coast and countryside
Architectural Digest Travel
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Photos
The most historic hotel in every state
The history of the United States might not be as old as that of other countries in the world, but it's just as storied. Although not necessarily the oldest, all of these hotels have left a significant mark on American history and played a part in the development and growth of this great nation.
Love Exploring Travel
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This is how much you should tip the hotel’s housekeeping staff
We polled an international etiquette consultant to clear up the confusion about tipping housekeeping staff at the end of your next hotel stay. The post This Is How Much You Should Tip the Hotel’s Housekeeping Staff appeared first on Reader's Digest.
Reader's Digest Travel
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Photos
The 40 best places in America to travel back in time
Whether you’re a history buff or not, it’s fun and informative to get up close and personal with how things were done in the past. Find the top places in America to experience historical re-enactments, renaissance fairs, and interactive museums. You’ll be surprised at what you learn.
Cheapism Travel
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Photos
Amazing tourist destinations being ruined by trash
From filthy beaches and stinking cities to plastic-choked waterways, litter is threatening some of Earth’s most beautiful destinations and last remaining wildernesses. We take a look at holiday hot spots overwhelmed with rubbish as a result of over-population, mass tourism and poor environmental practices.
Love Exploring Travel
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Photos
These American destinations feel like you're visiting another country
These spots may feel a world away from the USA but they're actually right on its doorstep. From dinky German-style towns to cities with Spanish flair, we've picked 15 surprising places that are closer to the States than you'd think.
Love Exploring Travel
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How to experience Cuba in Miami
Compared with beautiful decaying Havana, 500 years old this year, the skyscrapers and freeways of Miami, the capital of the Cuban diaspora, seem ever more upstart and Dubai-like. But the common history of Cuba and Miami is a lot older, though you have to search for evidence of it through the vast grid of the Florida metropolis. And constantly evolving Latin Miami is about more than just Cubans. A good symbolic starting point for exploration is...
The Independent Travel
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Photos
The world's most adrenaline-inducing travel adventures
Bored of beach vacations? Tired of city breaks? Unchallenged by a ski trip? Perhaps you need a more epic escape. We've found some extraordinary adventure holidays that will take you way out of your comfort zone and really test your mettle.
Love Exploring Travel
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Bustling Bazaars, Ancient Cities, and the Silk Road: 10 Ways to Explore Uzbekistan
With the debut of high-speed trains providing connectivity to breathtaking natural wonders to a newly implemented e-visa system offering easy entrance into the country, Uzbekistan is quickly emerging as Central Asia‘s most coveted travel destination.
Men's Journal Travel
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AutoCamp Yosemite: This Luxury Airstream Getaway is the Ultimate Summer Escape
If you’ve yet to experience the sprawling natural beauty of Yosemite National Park in California, you probably got the travel bug after watching professional climber Alex Honnold scale El Capitan in the gripping documentary Free Solo. In the film—which follows Honnold as he prepares for arguably the toughest, most dangerous free climb ever attempted—you see him spending most of his down time in a small RV with nothing more than the bare...
Men's Journal Travel
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The ultimate 4-day weekend in Kyoto
A visit to serene, preserved Kyoto is an obvious followup—and a perfect complement—to your futuristic, often overstimulating stay in Tokyo. Whereas the big city demands you keep pace and build up up up, Kyoto wants you to slow down, stay grounded, and savor it all. (Though Kyoto is itself a big city, at 1.5 million, though much smaller than Tokyo’s 9.5) It’s a much more straightforward visit than one to Tokyo, too. The main attractions and...
Men's Journal Travel
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Sicilian surprises in Palermo
One thing I enjoy about my work is getting my outdated impressions back up to date. Europe is always changing-- and recently I discovered that Sicily's capital of Palermo has become a whole new city since my last visit. It's cleaner, safer and more efficient than it was in years past.
Tribune Content Agency Travel
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A Trip to Utah: Visiting the Other American D-Day Beach
With the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings coming this June, most Americans visiting France's D-Day sites will focus on Omaha Beach-- where thousands died on June 6, 1944. But if you're planning to visit Normandy this year, don't miss the other American landing site-- Utah. The excellent Utah Beach Landing Museum is the best place to start a visit to the area.
Tribune Content Agency Travel
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Rick Steves: Exploring Slovenia's romantic alpine retreat
Tiny, overlooked Slovenia is one of Europe's most unexpectedly charming destinations with spectacular natural beauty, a fascinating recent history, and a spirit of adventure-- yet much of it is still off the typical tourist path. Here, in the land where the Adriatic meets the Alps, lies a romantic getaway...
Tribune Content Agency Travel
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Rick Steves: Tranquil towns snuggle on the Franco-Spanish border
Along the western Mediterranean coast, two easygoing-- and easy-to-enjoy-- beach towns stand like sister cities on each side of the border between France and Spain. Both Collioure, in France, and Cadaques, in Spain, are off the grid when it comes to glitzy resorts. And each has a delightful ambience, with...
Tribune Content Agency Travel
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Off the beaten track in Switzerland
Mountainous Switzerland is well-known for its cows, chocolate, and stunning scenery-- but there's more to enjoy. Here are some lesser-known Swiss travel treats. To protect its prized neutrality in the tumultuous 20th century, Switzerland wired its roads, bridges, and tunnels so they could be destroyed...
Tribune Content Agency Travel
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Lighten up your souvenir shopping in Europe
Shopping in Europe can be fun, but don't let it overwhelm your trip. I've seen half the members of a guided tour of the British Houses of Parliament skip out on the tour to survey an enticing array of plastic "bobby" hats, Big Ben briefs and Union Jack panties instead. Focus on local experiences, and don't let...
Tribune Content Agency Travel
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Italy's Riviera: Beyond the Cinque Terre
When it comes to basking in the beauty of Italy's Riviera, the Cinque Terre is tops for me. But there's much more to this region on the Mediterranean coast than those famous five villages. A handful of charming towns lie within an hour of the Cinque Terre, with posh ports set against rugged mountain...
Tribune Content Agency Travel