Lifestyle

Travel and Vacations
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

Regulated Water Sports Operations and Community Empowerment Initiatives at Wandoor Beach by the Andaman Tourism Department

Wandoor Beach is experiencing a shift toward more regulated water sports activities, overseen by the Andaman Tourism Department. The plan emphasizes both visitor safety and community empowerment, laying the groundwork for sustainable island tourism.

Adventure Tourism

Eco-Tourism

 Regulated Water Sports Operations and Community Empowerment Initiatives at Wandoor Beach by the Andaman Tourism Department
Shark Attacks on Australia’s New South Wales Coast Prompt Beach Closures and Safety Warnings

Australia’s New South Wales coast is grappling with a recent streak of shark attacks, prompting authorities to close beaches and issue safety warnings. Locals and tourists alike are on edge as the busy summer season draws nearer.

Adventure Tourism

 Shark Attacks on Australia’s New South Wales Coast Prompt Beach Closures and Safety Warnings
Alabama Joins Ohio, North Carolina, Kansas, Nebraska, Washington and More US States to Prepare for Super Cosmic Northern Light Show, Turbocharging Astro Tourism in America, Full Guide on Aurora Borealis Visibility

Astro tourism is rising across the United States as an extraordinary northern lights display heads toward Alabama, Ohio, North Carolina, Kansas, Nebraska, Washington, and more. This “super cosmic” show on Monday night promises a dazzling glimpse of the Aurora Borealis and highlights the nation’s collective enthusiasm for celestial wonders.

Adventure Tourism

 Alabama Joins Ohio, North Carolina, Kansas, Nebraska, Washington and More US States to Prepare for Super Cosmic Northern Light Show, Turbocharging Astro Tourism in America, Full Guide on Aurora Borealis Visibility
Word Wrangler: January 17, 2026

A new Word Wrangler puzzle highlights Buc-ee’s locations outside of Texas. With ten non-Texas states featured, readers are invited to plan a road trip and solve the challenge presented by this playful addition to the publication.

Adventure Tourism

 Word Wrangler: January 17, 2026
Azerbaijan Unveils First State Tourism Plan to Boost Global Visitor Numbers and Sustainable Growth, Everything You Need to Know

Azerbaijan has introduced its first State Tourism Program, aiming to elevate global visitor numbers, improve infrastructure, and champion sustainable development. Spanning 2026 to 2030, this initiative underscores the nation’s commitment to shaping a more responsible and vibrant travel sector.

Eco-Tourism

 Azerbaijan Unveils First State Tourism Plan to Boost Global Visitor Numbers and Sustainable Growth, Everything You Need to Know
We zoomed down California’s longest and fastest zip lines. Here are 6 things to know

California’s longest and fastest zip lines highlight the adventurous spirit of Buellton’s Highline Adventures. Visitors can explore six essential insights before soaring above the scenic terrain or tackling the park’s epic ropes course, hiking trails, aerial net playground, and 4×4 Bronco tours.

Adventure Tourism

Rick Steves’ Europe: Car-free and care-free on Hydra

Hydra, less than two hours by ferry from Athens, offers a tranquil slice of Greek island life. It’s an escape where cars are absent, and the pace is decidedly slower, making it a haven for those seeking pure relaxation.

Eco-Tourism

 Rick Steves’ Europe: Car-free and care-free on Hydra
Why Europe’s Islands Are the New Must-Visit Hiking Destinations

Europe’s island getaways are stepping into the spotlight as go-to destinations for hiking enthusiasts. Once mainly known for their beaches, these islands now offer a blend of scenic trails, cultural immersion, and active exploration that captivates travelers seeking more than just sun and sand.

Adventure Tourism

 Why Europe’s Islands Are the New Must-Visit Hiking Destinations
Texas man discovers 2.09-carat brown diamond at state park

A casual inquiry into a digital helper ended in a remarkable surprise for a Texas family visiting Murfreesboro’s Crater of Diamonds State Park. Their spontaneous day trip yielded a 2.09-carat brown diamond, adding to the park’s growing list of notable gem discoveries.

Adventure Tourism

 Texas man discovers 2.09-carat brown diamond at state park
Norwegian Viva: New Winter 2026 Caribbean Sailings from Galveston’s Port

Norwegian Viva is ushering in its inaugural winter season from Galveston’s bustling port. Beginning in January 2026, travelers can embark on a new series of Caribbean voyages that mark a key milestone for both the cruise line and the Texas port.

Cruise Travel

 Norwegian Viva: New Winter 2026 Caribbean Sailings from Galveston’s Port
The 2,700-mile coastal walk in easy reach of Surrey named one of the best things to do in the world in 2026

A 2,700-mile coastal route in easy reach of Surrey has been named among the world’s best activities in 2026. Slated to become the longest managed coastal path on Earth, this extensive trail promises an unparalleled scenic journey for visitors and locals alike.

Adventure Tourism

 The 2,700-mile coastal walk in easy reach of Surrey named one of the best things to do in the world in 2026
Day Tripper: Geologic wonderland awaits at Wallula Gap

Wallula Gap lies just 30 minutes west of Walla Walla, Washington, yet it brims with astonishing geological exhibits. Visitors can soak in the spectacular landscapes shaped by centuries of natural forces while experiencing the best of the region’s outdoor recreation.

Eco-Tourism

 Day Tripper: Geologic wonderland awaits at Wallula Gap
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