Bonaire stands out as a holiday destination in the Caribbean for several unique reasons.
11.05.2024 - 13:45 / cntraveler.com / Condé Nast-Traveler / Matt Ortile
As April showers turn into May flowers, it's time for another memorable Memorial Day weekend. This time every year holds a special place in the hearts of many Americans, especially those who eagerly plan and pack for upcoming travel. As the unofficial kick-off to the summer season, this end-of-May vacay is a quintessential American experience. Whether it's a quick getaway or an extended 3-5 day weekend, MDW serves us all as an open door of endless potential for summer fun (and, of course, the outdated societal approval to wear white jeans). In any case, who doesn’t love a long weekend?
Our Condé Nast Traveler editors are obviously taking advantage of the last weekend in May. From international to domestic, from Panama City to Norwalk, Connecticut, all the way through the Pacific Northwest; and even to the islands of French Polynesia—our editors are jet-setting all over the world to set the stage for the summer season (and, of course, to enjoy a well-deserved holiday break). Here’s how our editors are making the most of their Memorial Day weekends.
Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo
I’ll be heading down to the home of the Panama Canal for the long weekend since it’s just an easy five-hour flight away. I’ve long been fascinated by the history and importance of that artificial 82-kilometer waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific, but the more I’ve researched the capital—which is one of Condé Nast Traveler’s Best Places to Go in Central and South America in 2024—the more I’ve been eager to experience its jazz scene (it plays annual host to one of the world’s largest jazz fests), its diasporic food culture (hello, Chinese Panamanian cuisine!), and its historic colonial downtown (with plenty of beautiful hotels like the Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo). It’ll be my first time in the region, and—after nine days honing my Italian language skills in Milan, Rome, and Capri this April—I’m excited to put my very rusty Spanish to work. —Matt Ortile, associate editor
After spending approximately four years talking about it, my husband and I are finally venturing on a road trip through the Pacific Northwest. We’re starting in Seattle and heading north to Vancouver and then Whistler for some outdoor adventure in mud season, which I’ve heard from so many is a magical time of year for bear sightings, off-peak rates once the snow has melted, and Indigenous activities in nearby Squamish—plus plenty of oysters and local wine. We’re staying downtown in both cities but mixing things up with two nights at the legendary Four Seasons Whistler in between. I’m intent on getting my hiking legs back into action, but also spotting some wildlife, and meandering plenty of vast, rugged beaches on the long drives between the two cities. —Shann
Bonaire stands out as a holiday destination in the Caribbean for several unique reasons.
Rome is pretty crowded — the city welcomed a record-breaking 35 million tourists in 2023. Any gorgeous photos you see of breathtaking and empty piazzas were likely taken long before most people have woken up.
Millions of travelers took to the skies over the Memorial Day holiday weekend in record-setting numbers, but flight delays and cancellations rolled into Tuesday and created a post holiday weekend hangover.
In a state where the journey is as often as absorbing as the destination, the temptation to draw up a challenging, action-packed Alaska itinerary is more than compelling. Routes here take in everything from Panhandle forests to frigid Arctic tundra.
With its beautiful cities and countryside of polders, dykes, windmills and canals connected by superb, sustainable infrastructure, the Netherlands is one of the easiest places to travel. As a visitor, you won’t find too many potential pitfalls, but there are still a few things to be aware of (starting with getting its name right!). Having written about this charming and fascinating country for almost two decades (and experienced it over a lifetime), these are my key tips for a smooth trip.
It's that time of year again—spring is finally turning into summer and travelers are excitedly planning their next great vacation. As we celebrate Memorial Day weekend, the last hurrah before the official beginning of the summer season, we can't forget about the many great travel deals that are popping up this week. From PLAY's Memorial Day flash sale to Cruise Croatia's 20 percent off savings for active and retired military, there is no shortage of great deals.
Short-term rentals are experiencing a boost for this year’s Memorial Day.
Memorial Day officially kicks off the summer travel season here in the US, and millions of travelers plan relaxing long weekends around it. But in order to get to a sunny beach or serene national park to unwind, you'll likely have to contend with stressful crowds and traffic—unless you time your great escape exactly right.
Whether you’re looking forward to a much-needed vacation or are scrambling to plan a last-minute getaway, make sure shopping some of the best Memorial Day sales is on your three-day weekend itinerary. We’ve been eyeing deals on comfortable shoes, activewear, and outdoor essentials that will get use all summer long. To make sure you don’t miss out on any of the best deals while you're barbecuing in your backyard or laying poolside this weekend, we’ve curated a list of top Memorial Day sales for travelers—some of which last well into next week—so you can shop when you have time. Read on for all the best sales to shop from travel-friendly brands we love: Everlane, Calpak, Cozy Earth, and more.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) is forecasting that 38.4 million people will be hitting the road for Memorial Day Weekend—up 4% from last year and the highest number since the Triple-A started tracking the holiday’s traffic in 2000.
“We have a responsibility to make tourism jobs valued and decent jobs and that we make tourism an opportunity for a better future for everyone, women and global youth especially” said Zurab Pololikashvili.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expects to screen more than 18 million travelers and crew over the Memorial Day holiday weekend, even more than last summer.