Calgary’s Hidden Charms: 6 Must-Have Experiences Before Your Banff Adventure

Southwest made a startling discovery earlier this month.

“Since the pandemic, we’ve seen an increase in demand for immersive and out-of-the-box experiences—people don’t just want to be a spectator at the event, they want to be a part of the event,” explains Barnabas Carrega, CEO and Founder of GR8 Experience, a bespoke organizer of ultra insider experiences in the worlds of exclusive restaurants, travel and sports among others. Many companies promise that they can deliver rarified experiences but this one actually does due to a team with exclusive connections into the inner reaches of those worlds. As out of reach as something may sound, they can usually achieve it.

Finding genuine experiences that allow you to dive deeper into Kyoto’s rich history can be difficult. Like any widely visited destination there are plenty of so-called “traps.” But the city also has a sense of mystery, with its plethora of unmarked buildings tucked behind noren curtains and many traditions that require connections if you want any sort of access.

Yes, NYC can easily monopolize all of your vacation time but don't sleep on the incredible landscapes that await you in New York State – we've got all the info you need on how to get there and around.

Since 1885, travelers have been exploring the snow-capped Rocky Mountain peaks and aqua-blue lakes that define Banff National Park: Canada's first national park and the third in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has served as a home for guests ranging from mountain climbers to Olympians to Queen Elizabeth, and has belonged to six indigenous tribes in the area for thousands of years.

Editor’s Note: Call to Earth is a CNN editorial series committed to reporting on the environmental challenges facing our planet, together with the solutions. Rolex’s Perpetual Planet initiative has partnered with CNN to drive awareness and education around key sustainability issues and to inspire positive action.

Solo travel can be lonely. 

New York City is home to 73 Michelin Star restaurants, with a new batch of awards due this fall. Before the official ceremony on November 7, the world renowned guide has announced a batch of 15 new restaurants that can be up for stars or Bib Gourmand recognition this coming year.

Traveling around the world can be challenging — and costly— let alone when you have three dogs in tow, including a massive Great Dane.

Shanghai is known for its forest of skyscrapers with the world’s third-largest megatower leading the charge. Travelers wary of heights will find a medley of things to do at ground level including the historic waterfront, trendy Xintiandi, and the ancient Yu Garden. In terms of where to stay in Shanghai, the city is a playground of high-rise luxury hotels with infinity pools, rooftop bars, and awesome skyline views. The best hotels in Shanghai, China, are near or within eyesight of The Bund.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Jeff Farschman, a 74-year-old retiree who lives in Dover, Delaware. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

Birch Selsdon, once an historic estate and golf course, covering 200 acres on the outskirts of London, is now a hip new hotel, a much anticipated followup to sister property Birch Cheshunt, which opened three years ago. It’s a great blend of classic and contemporary elements, providing a serene retreat, surrounded by natural beauty. Like the Cheshunt hotel, this peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle is a short drive or train journey from London but feels like the middle of the countryside once you arrive.