Forbes Travel Guide 2024: Middle East Leads 5-Star Hotel Gains

CoStar Group, the real-estate data giant, was hit last week with a consumer class action lawsuit alleging it enabled several hotel operators, such as Marriott and Hilton, to artificially boost their hotel rates.

Marriott said Monday that the 200 millionth person had joined its loyalty program as the company aims to retain its title as having the world’s largest hotel rewards program.

Rome is a mesmerizing mélange of art, faith, and history that has spanned almost three millennia. Here you will encounter legendary monuments from Republican matriarchs, the finest frescoes in the world to some of the most iconic landmarks in history such as the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Roman Forum. Located in the central-western portion of the Italian Peninsula, Rome is one of Europe’s most visited cities, with millions of tourists flocking to it each year to experience its rich culture and history. Due to its popularity, hotels in Rome can come with a hefty price tag and can book up far in advance. If you’re planning a getaway to the city, want to save money, and stay somewhere as remarkable as the historic capital, plan ahead of time.

Kyoto, Japan has become one of the hottest destinations around the globe in recent years, and for good reason. Surrounded by lush mountains, rivers, and bamboo groves, and studded with exquisite gardens, the city’s natural beauty is positively enchanting.

Welcome back to another episode of the TravelPulse Podcast! 

Experience some of Africa’s extraordinary wildlife while staying in one of these recently opened (or soon-to-debut) safari lodges and camps built for luxury travelers. Whether you’re searching for game, fine dining or an infinity pool overlooking the savanna, these properties offer an abundance of nature and nurturing.

Forbes Travel Guide has included 12 cruise ships in its 2024 Star Awards. That's up from five ships last year.

Last week, we revealed our 2024 Forbes Travel Guide Star Awards. Click here to see the list of winners.

The Middle East won big in the 2024 Forbes Travel Guide Star Awards, with Dubai leading the pack — the city earned the highest number of new Five-Star honors worldwide.

Whether you’re an indoor gym climber or you’re lucky enough to have access to real boulders in wide open spaces, you’ll need to have a proper pair of climbing pants as you progress in the sport. For Valentine’s Day this year give your loved one something that supports their passions and interests. Here are the coolest pants for rock climbing.

Welcome back to another episode of the TravelPulse Podcast! 

Sure, you could walk into any wine shop and walk out with a bottle of big-name Champagne. But to show that you really put some thought into the bubbly you are gifting to that special someone, why not choose something unique — and made in the United States? From California to Vermont (and everywhere in-between), wine makers are crafting surprising sparkling wines that are perfect for Valentine’s Day, or honestly every day. Here are a few of my favorites right now.