Some places in the world present delightful surprises around just about every corner. Along one of many twisty roads is a picturesque cove with no sign of development, and then a stretch of golden sands backed by wild grass-covered dunes. Past a roiling river and across a stone bridge, an atmospheric tea room makes an appearance, coated in a blanket of crimson-hued Virginia creeper. Down a long set of polished rocky steps, a centuries-old stone chapel is snuggled in the side of rugged limestone cliffs. Elsewhere, in a bucolic landscape, a neolithic burial chamber pops into view, seemingly out of nowhere. All of these discoveries and many more can be found in Wales, a country whose reputation, in the minds of many travelers, seems to revolve solely around an abundance of grazing sheep, a multitude of Medieval castles, and a landscape that’s a patchwork of verdancy. To truly discover Wales in all her unique, cool and, sometimes, quirky glory, lay your head in any (or all) of these stellar accommodations that range from the understated to the serene to the eccentric.
Whether you’re a bibliophile, a writer who craves a peaceful stay with no distractions, or someone desiring a romantic weekend, you’ll be enthralled with the calm vibe of Gladstone’s Library. Named for William Gladstone, the four-term former prime minister who was very much focused on a pursuit of knowledge, and especially the idea of open scholarship, connecting unread books with readers, this residential library that holds some 200,000 tomes is home to tens of thousands of Gladstone’s private collection. In essence, you are never far from the books, most notably those lining the shelves in the grand Reading Rooms that are like a time portal, often described as resembling Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry of Harry Potter fame. Though this destination library attracts people from all over the world who come to inspect myriad manuscripts, even Victorian papers, and books in a wide range of subjects from theology to politics, it’s the guests who have reading room access after hours. Sure, the no-noise-of-any-sort policy is strictly enforced, but that shouldn’t dissuade you from embracing the scholarly vibe of the main reading room Sit in one of the leather arm chairs on the ground floor of the expansive space with elaborate pine carved columns, and gaze at the almost wraparound mezzanine overhead—with charming, individual reading nooks—and the soaring exposed timbered ceiling.
Each of the 26 simply decorated bedrooms comes with a do not disturb sign that reads “Shhh…I’m reading.” You won’t find a television, but you will find a retro transistor-like radio. And, depending on the room, you may have bucolic views of the lush grounds.
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Debbie Owen assumed that the British Airways flight from the Ivory Coast to London Gatwick would be straightforward: seven hours non-stop, swapping the heat of Africa for the cozy pre-holiday glow of Britain. At seven months pregnant, Owen was traveling solo back to the UK with her four-year old daughter, Claire, in tow; husband Duncan was still at home in Africa, and would follow closer to the birth. But it wasn’t long after take-off that the twinges started, which soon turned into contractions. Owen knew her baby wasn’t due until Christmas, seven weeks later: She’d even visited her doctor for a check-up before the flight, and had a letter deeming her safe to travel. Still, it was clear that her second child was planning an early arrival.
Since having children 10 years ago, I've never been away from them for more than two nights. And those infrequent two-night mini-getaways have been with my husband. So, in 10 years, I've never traveled alone.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year — if you live in the Washington, D.C. area that is. That’s because from Janury 15–21, 2024, it’s Metropolitan Washington Restaurant Week, a bi-annual event held throughout the District of Columbia, Maryland and Northern Virginia each winter and summer. Whether you’re lucky enough to live in the DMV or are just passing through, it’s a great way to try out new restaurants and revisit old favorites for a fraction of the cost.
Nevada is getting a brand-new state park this month. It’s one every would-be Indiana Jones (or maybe more like the Ross Gellers among us) will love, and as a bonus, it’s within a quick driving distance to The Strip.
The new year brings travel predictions that cover everything from where we’ll be vacationing in 2024 to how we’ll be getting there, plus the new hotels that are worth getting excited about. But what about the travel trends that are falling out of fashion?
Seattle skies were glowing with color as the Space Needle rang in 2024 with a brilliant light, drone, and pyrotechnic spectacular for the West Coast—and the world—to see. The T-Mobile New Year’s at the Needle extravaganza was the longest show in the event’s 32-year history, stunning viewers with an 18-minute display. More viewers were able to tune in than ever before with the event broadcast live for the first time in Portland and Spokane, in addition to Seattle.
PBS has long been home to the best armchair travel series on television. If you’re looking for a quick escape or some inspiration on where to go in 2024, you’d be wise to watch a new episode or two from these four acclaimed travel series.