green living, smart spending
This July Fourth week is one of the busiest of the year for my hometown, with visitors from around the world flocking here for the Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks extravaganza, Broadway shows, free outdoor concerts and movies, and more. Here’s everything you need to know to enjoy NYC on the cheap.
The Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks returns to the East River in 2025. Here are the best viewing spots in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens, intel about street closures, and more.
Beaches are supposed to be serene escapes, where you can hear the sound of the surf. But many are full of buzzing phones, crowded boardwalks or party crowds blaring loud music. These US beaches are top-rated for being calm, quiet and relaxing, based on online reviews which include at least one of those words.
Travelers under 21 years old are under new restrictions on Carnival Cruise Line. Apparently because of so-called disruptive behavior by Spring Breakers and other unaccompanied younger cruisers, the cruise line which actively markets its party atmosphere now requires passengers under 21 to be accompanied by a someone at least 25 years old. The new restriction
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With clogged roads and flight cancellations and delays, this is a good time avoid them both and take the train. These are the best scenic train trips in the USA, ranging from a few hours to a few days, including on vintage steam trains.
Travel insurance is as essential as auto insurance and homeowner’s insurance. Software glitches and severe weather mean cancelled and delayed flights, missing a cruise or a wedding, not just your luggage. Simply, never leave home without it. The choice is which kind of coverage you want to buy, and whether it is a per-trip policy or annual coverage.
Valle Nevado, one of South America’s top ski destinations, is officially the first resort in Chile to open for the 2025 season. Improved access and interconnect options with neighboring La Parva make it the largest skiable destination in the Southern Hemisphere with 7,000 acres, 30 lifts, and 80 trails.
One of the best things to do on a warm spring or summer day is a picnic in the park. Here are the best picnic spots in NYC’s Central Park, whether you bring your own food or purchase take-out at one of the local cafes, and the rules and restrictions for barbecuing or grilling.
Some of the best reasons to visit national parks are the chance to spot wildlife, including bison, elk, bear, moose, wolves, eagles, trumpeter swans and more. Plus, of course, hundreds of species of birds. With more than 400 national parks and preserves in the National Parks System, there’s plenty of opportunity.
Like most of you I’m already looking forward to the 2025/26 skiing and snowboarding season. There are changes to multi-resort passes, and new lifts and terrain on the horizon. Here’s what we know now.