Travel in Salem, state Oregon

What does the president of the U.S. have that you don't have?

Rainbow-like stripes of vibrant tulips as far as the eye can see. White, lavender, deep purple, and even rare yellow and blue lilacs perfuming the air. Acres of fluffy cotton candy-colored peonies as big as salad plates. And 500 varieties of irises in just one charming display garden.

Discount carrier Avelo Airlines in May will launch four more routes from its base in Sonoma County, Calif.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Hayden Rue, a 32-year-old expat who's lived in Nepal since 2016. This essay has been edited for length and clarity.

Over the past few years, many small regional airports across the country lost some or all of their commercial flights due to pilot shortages and other challenges facing the airline industry.

Avelo officially has a new base, and this time, it's in a key hub known for its gambling and bright neon lights.