Lifestyle

Travel and Vacations
Robots join the crew as Royal Caribbean expands automation on Icon Class ships

Royal Caribbean is introducing robots to its Icon Class ships, ushering in a fresh approach to maritime innovation. By integrating collaborative robots, or “cobots,” the cruise line aims to streamline and enhance various onboard tasks, including housekeeping.

Cruise Travel

 Robots join the crew as Royal Caribbean expands automation on Icon Class ships
Vernon’s SilverStar Mountain Resort now offering Ikon Pass for 2026/27 ski season (Vernon)

Skiers and snowboarders at Vernon’s SilverStar Mountain Resort will soon be able to explore multiple mountains with one convenient pass. Starting in the 2026–27 season, the resort will feature the Ikon Pass, offering a new level of flexibility and freedom on British Columbia’s renowned slopes.

Adventure Tourism

You say you’ll go camping in Maine this summer. Here’s why you won’t.

Despite big dreams of Maine camping, many never make it to the campsite. “Adulting” is often to blame, yet it might also be the key to turning wishful thinking into a scheduled reality.

Adventure Tourism

 You say you’ll go camping in Maine this summer. Here’s why you won’t.
Midcoast RV resort proposal at odds with a piece of Maine’s blueberry landscape

A Massachusetts couple aims to develop up to 80 RV sites, geodesic domes for glamping, and wellness retreats in Northport, Maine. Their proposal, set amid the state’s signature blueberry fields, has raised questions about balancing tourism growth with preserving local agricultural heritage.

Eco-Tourism

 Midcoast RV resort proposal at odds with a piece of Maine’s blueberry landscape
Celebrate the Route 66 Centennial With Special Events in Pulaski County, Missouri

Historic Route 66 marks a century of inspiring wanderlust across America, and Pulaski County, Missouri, is primed to celebrate. From Chicago’s towering skyline to Santa Monica’s sandy coastline, this legendary highway continues captivating travelers from coast to coast.

Adventure Tourism

Bemidji, other Minnesota state parks host tree tapping events

Minnesota state parks, including Bemidji, invite visitors to learn the craft of tapping maple trees. From gathering sap to boiling it down into syrup, these events give the public a hands-on introduction to a sweet local tradition.

Eco-Tourism

Shuswap Trail Alliance is still looking for volunteers to take part in this year’s Spring Celebration on B.C. Trails Day June 6 (Salmon Arm)

The Shuswap Trail Alliance is rallying local volunteers for the 2026 Spring Celebration on B.C. Trails Day, June 6. Organizers hope community members will step forward to help plan, set up, and run the event, ensuring a memorable outdoor experience for all.

Eco-Tourism

 Shuswap Trail Alliance is still looking for volunteers to take part in this year’s Spring Celebration on B.C. Trails Day June 6 (Salmon Arm)
Beyond the Slopes, a World-Class Wildlife Event is Hiding in Montana this March

Montana in March might mark the final runs of the ski season, but what emerges after the slopes quiet down is a spectacular wildlife event. Widely regarded as one of North America’s most extraordinary natural gatherings, it remains surprisingly overlooked by many visitors.

Eco-Tourism

You Can Now Take a (Virtual) Tour of the 345-Foot ‘Black Pearl’ Before Chartering

Experience the grand scale of Oceanco’s 345-foot sailing megayacht from the comfort of your home. For the first time, the “Black Pearl” opens its decks to a virtual tour, offering an exclusive glimpse at one of the world’s most advanced vessels.

Cruise Travel

 You Can Now Take a (Virtual) Tour of the 345-Foot ‘Black Pearl’ Before Chartering
Farm Stays and Sober Vacations Are Surging as Travelers Rethink How They Travel in 2026

As 2026 unfolds, many travelers are trading fast-paced itineraries for digital detoxes and alcohol-free escapes. Farm stays and sober vacations are on the rise, reflecting the growing desire for simpler, healthier, and less crowded holidays.

Eco-Tourism

 Farm Stays and Sober Vacations Are Surging as Travelers Rethink How They Travel in 2026
Oregon lawmakers propose deal to acquire Abiqua Falls in the Santiam State Forest

Oregon legislators are considering a plan to allocate $2.1 million for the purchase of Abiqua Falls and 200 miles of surrounding land. This move aims to secure a scenic gem within the Santiam State Forest and expand public access to one of the state’s popular outdoor destinations.

Eco-Tourism

 Oregon lawmakers propose deal to acquire Abiqua Falls in the Santiam State Forest
Aspen Snowmass to join Ikon Base Pass for 2026-27 season with access to Snowmass

Skiers and riders will soon have expanded options at Aspen Snowmass. Beginning in the 2026-27 winter season, the resort will join the Ikon Base Pass, offering five days of access to Snowmass with select blackout dates.

Adventure Tourism

 Aspen Snowmass to join Ikon Base Pass for 2026-27 season with access to Snowmass
Americans drive record bookings on rivers

River cruising is no longer confined to Europe’s famed waterways. Driven by Americans’ desire for longer itineraries and culturally immersive adventures, operators are expanding to more distant rivers around the globe and experiencing record-breaking bookings.

Adventure Tourism

Cruise Travel

 Americans drive record bookings on rivers
Trail Report: William M. Tugman Park and Eel Lake

With bright skies emerging last week, a dormant trail-report column found its inspiration to resurface. William M. Tugman Park and Eel Lake lie at the heart of this rekindled exploration of nature.

Eco-Tourism

 Trail Report: William M. Tugman Park and Eel Lake
North Dakota, Minnesota state parks offer cure for winter boredom

State parks in North Dakota and Minnesota invite visitors to beat the late-winter blues through invigorating outdoor adventures. Whether it’s scenic trails or the thrill of fat tire biking, these parks promise a welcome break from winter’s monotony.

Adventure Tourism

Officials, boosters seek funds for ‘reimagined’ Sabino Canyon visitor center

Coronado National Forest and the nonprofit Friends of Sabino Canyon have joined forces to secure funds for an expansive renovation of Tucson’s most popular outdoor destination. The proposed plan includes an enhanced visitor center and upgraded parking lot to accommodate the canyon’s growing appeal.

Adventure Tourism

Eco-Tourism

 Officials, boosters seek funds for ‘reimagined’ Sabino Canyon visitor center
Snow Fest winter celebration at Hunt Hill

Families and friends can gather at Hunt Hill Nature Center in Sarona on Saturday, Feb. 28, from 1 to 4 p.m. to celebrate the magic of winter. The annual Snow Fest invites participants of all ages to enjoy the spirit of the cold season together.

Eco-Tourism

Among Michigan’s oldest trees is a refurbished visitor center reopening with a $1.25M facelift

Michigan’s beloved visitor center near some of the state’s oldest trees has reopened after a $1.25 million facelift—its first major renovation since 1994. Expanded classroom facilities and renewed focus on education promise to heighten the center’s environmental mission.

Eco-Tourism

From snowmobile simulators to wildlife investigations, Detroit’s adventure center brings the outdoors inside

Detroit’s Adventure Center is turning multiple snow days into a playground for kids and families. Here, visitors can climb a tree, pilot a small plane, or drive a snowmobile—no winter coat required.

Adventure Tourism

RAGBRAI LIII to begin July 18 in Onawa

Organizers of the Des Moines Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI) have announced that the 53rd edition of this beloved cycling tradition will kick off in Onawa on July 18. Riders will traverse Iowa’s scenic terrain, celebrating both the state’s landscape and the community spirit that defines RAGBRAI.

Adventure Tourism

 RAGBRAI LIII to begin July 18 in Onawa
72% of US divers credit guides for their best underwater experiences

Local experts aren’t just guides; they’re the heart and soul of memorable diving adventures. According to Zicasso’s review analysis, 72% of U.S. divers believe that knowledgeable companions transform underwater travel into truly remarkable experiences.

Adventure Tourism

Eco-Tourism

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