The excursions, tours, performances, and other activities you experience on your travels can make or break a trip. No one wants to be disappointed when an activity booking doesn’t work out or turns out not to be what you though it was—so you’ll want to be able to search offerings, and preferably to compare ratings of them. Plus, it’s essential to make sure you’re booking with reputable ticket websites offering reasonable prices. 

The Best Excursion Ticket Websites for Travelers

Here are seven ticket websites and providers that won’t let you down. Click to read more.

Viator
GetYourGuide
Tripadvisor
StubHub
Airbnb Experiences
Atlas Obscura
Tiqets
Groupon

Viator

Owned by TripAdvisor, Viator is a vast activity and excursion ticket website; one of the largest out there. Travelers can book anything from airport shuttle service, to guided tours, to skip-the-line admission at attractions all over the world. And because it’s similar to TripAdvisor, travelers can also browse reviews of the activity they’re eyeing. Most listings include comprehensive details about the tour and a generous cancellation policy (usually 24-hours prior to the activity with no penalty).

Viator does not operate the tours it sells. Rather, it’s a search engine of things to do. As such, its offerings tend to focus on cities and better-known travel destinations, although that includes excursions out of those places into the surrounding areas; like tours from Boston to New Hampshire’s White Mountains, tours of the Dutch countryside from a departure point in Amsterdam, etc. This makes Viator a great option for travelers who want to headquarter themselves in one hotspot but still experience the broader region. 

GetYourGuide

Another day-tour-heavy option, GetYourGuide overlaps somewhat with Viator, but is focused more solely on experiences and tours (Viator includes services such as airport and in-town transportation services). Functionally, the sites aren’t very different; both offer an opportunity to compare tours and prices. And on that last note, it can be worth checking both: I found the exact same Niagara Falls day tour from Toronto on both sites. GetYourGuide allowed guests to book the base tour without the optional lunch and boat cruise for just $79, while Viator required guests to book the entire package for $138.

Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor leverages its massive inventory of user generated content to roll the research and booking process into one. Users can access all the standard tour information—such as age range, duration, start time, and language—while also browsing reviews and real-life photos from travelers who have actually booked the activity. The experience pages also feature what percentage of travelers would recommend a given activity, based on the “percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher.” The authenticity of the one-to-one style recommendations and opinions of fellow travelers can help give users the confidence to book.

Travelers without a specific landmark or tour in mind can also search for activities organized into top destinations like Las Vegas, Miami, and Washington D.C.

StubHub

For more event-focused resale ticket website StubHub is a useful last-minute option for verified tickets to everything from sports and concerts to comedy shows and theater seats. For the uninitiated, StubHub is a resale marketplace for ticket holders (and, let’s be honest, scalpers) to unload tickets they can’t use. This means shopping on StubHub is a double-edged sword: You’ll likely pay well above face value for high-demand or sold out events, but you can also find great deals at the last minute if the opposite is true. In the former case, StubHub (or similar initial-sale and resale option Ticketmaster) may be your only viable option. And in the latter case, StubHub can be a savvy way to save or even make some money; keep that in mind if you’ve ever bought some event tickets and then couldn’t attend.

Airbnb Experiences

Airbnb is all about living like a local, and Airbnb Experiences is no different. The emphasis here is on small or even private tours led by locals rather than tour companies, with an eye toward unique experiences rather than traditional sightseeing. Sometimes these experiences can be tailored to your interests: I booked a private bicycle tour of Berlin through Airbnb Experiences a few years back, and the guide all but ditched his preset itinerary and improvised based on my interests. As a result I got to see parts of the city I might never have found on my own. 

One important consideration to remember: These are often regular folks, not full-time professional guides or tour operators, so it’s a good idea to bring a go-with-the-flow attitude on your excursion. Your experience may not be as polished or precise as a traditional tour, even if the host has been doing this for a while. Of course, the point of these experiences is to forgo those cookie cutter tours in favor of something different. AirBnB includes reviews and makes it easy to communicate with the experience host beforehand, so don’t hesitate to ask questions prior to booking.

Atlas Obscura

Speaking of forgoing the cookie cutter experience, Atlas Obscura focuses, as its name implies, on all things obscure: The bizarre, forgotten, and hard-to-reach corners of a given city or destination that you wouldn’t normally find on excursion ticket websites. While nowhere near as robust as the other entries on this list, Atlas Obscura also offers a curated selection of tours and experiences. It’s currently in a half dozen U.S. cities, with more to come. Think: A guided wine-and-bug (yes, insects) pairing experience in Los Angeles, or a trip inside a holographer (maker of holograms) laboratory in New York. The tours are offered through Atlas Obscura, but AirBnB handles the booking. After all, anyone can visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame, right? So why not be different and check out a … Sewage Garden? 

Tiqets

Launched in 2014, Amsterdam-based company Tiqets is a comparatively newer ticketing platform that emphasizes flexibility and convenience. Optional free cancellation polices are available on all bookings, allowing travelers to cancel tickets up to 11:59PM the night before the event. Tiqets also offers last minute deals on activities and events like palace tours, broadway shows, and city sightseeing tours. Browse by location or get inspired by their list of Most Popular Places to Visit. Tickets can be managed through their app (iOS | Android).

Groupon

With a broader focus than the other sites on this list, Groupon can find great deals on everything from guided tours to restaurants at your destination. To search specifically for event tickets and travel activities, enter your destination in the search bar and browse their Things to Do category, which includes subcategories like Kids’ Activities, Nightlife, and Sports & Outdoors. From there, travelers can filter by price range, distance from the main destination, rating, and season.

Users can also browse via their Hotels & Travel section to book an entire trip via Groupon Getaways.

Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

The post The 8 Best Ticket Websites for Booking Day Tours and Travel Activities appeared first on SmarterTravel.

How to Make the Most of a Stay at The Landings Resort & Spa

We stayed at The Landings Resort & Spa in Saint Lucia and are sharing our exclusive advice to help you get the most out of your Caribbean vacation—from the best off-resort excursions to tips you won’t find anywhere else.

Table of Contents

The Location
The Property
The Rooms
Amenities
Dining
Off Resort Excursions

The Location 

Saint Lucia is a Caribbean island situated between Martinique, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Barbados. Just under four hours from Miami, the island itself is small—roughly 230 square miles—and can be crossed length-wise in a two hour drive. The tropical climate is tempered by coastal breeze, and travelers can expect to enjoy temperatures in the mid-70s to mid-80s year round.

The Landings Resort & Spa is located on Gros Islet on the northern tip of the island abutting Pigeon Island National Park, only a half hour drive from the capital of Castries and a two hour transfer from Hewanorra International Airport. Guests can contact The Landings’ Concierge Team to arrange a taxi, rental car, or private transfer to the hotel. 

The Property

Built in 2007 and renovated in 2016, The Landings is a sprawling resort encircling its own private marina, where guests can dock their private vessels for a nightly fee. Stone paths, lined with butterfly-filled gardens and swaying palm trees, meander throughout the grounds, all leading toward a peaceful stretch of white sand beach. 

Each of the suites at The Landings is privately owned, with residents given the option to enter their property into a rental pool and authorize the resort to book their suites out to guests. Of the 150 suites making up the resort, 93 are currently bookable to travelers. 

Every rental unit must pass a rigorous inspection and approval process by hotel management, so you know you’re getting the best quality and highest standard.

The Rooms 

Each suite at The Landings is equipped with a full kitchen, washer and dryer with complimentary detergent, and private outdoor space with views of either the ocean or marina. 

Rooms include a mix of US (type A) and European (type G) style outlets. You may want to bring a plug adapter to make full use of all outlets, but you won’t be left stranded without one.

Tour a Two-Bedroom Suite at The Landings Saint Lucia

Each suite at The Landings feels like a luxe vacation rental rather than a hotel room. We stayed in a two-bedroom, 2.5 bathroom ocean view suite. The full-sized kitchen and separate dining area makes it easy to stock up and families with children will appreciate the fridge space for much-needed snack storage. 

The rooms offer ample living space to accommodate four people (the suite’s max occupancy) without stepping on each other’s toes and feature plenty of storage, with multiple closets throughout including a walk-in closet off the main bedroom. 

Outdoor spaces include a small private patio at the front entrance and a large back deck overlooking the beach below.  

Other features include:

• Ironing board
• Hair dryer
• Toiletries
• Umbrellas
• Lockable safe with code
• Coffee in kitchen

Amenities

A stay at The Landings is a guest-first experience like no other—if you can dream it up, the friendly and knowledgeable staff can make it happen. A sample of the amenities on offer includes:

• 7,000 square foot spa and salon featuring showers, saunas, and a hot tub open to all guests regardless of whether they’ve booked a treatment
• Spacious health club outfitted with Cybex equipment
• Complimentary fitness classes such as water aerobics, Pilates, and Beach Fit classes 
• Direct beach access with private lounge chairs
• Shopping boutique in the main lobby
• Four heated outdoor pools
• Access to water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, and paddle boarding 
• Tennis courts
• Kids’ Club (ages 4 through 12), offering Creole language classes, fishing, hair braiding, and more. 

Make Your Stay All-Inclusive

The easiest way to take full advantage of the amenities that The Landings has to offer is to make your stay all-inclusive. 

What’s Included in the All-Inclusive Package at The Landings?

The all-inclusive rate at The Landings includes all meals, all drinks including select alcoholic beverages, access to non-motorized water sports like kayaking and snorkeling, private butler service, beach ambassador service, and more.

All meals and beverages eligible for the all-inclusive package are clearly marked on each restaurant’s menu. Simply give your room number to the server or host upon arrival.

Search for all-inclusive rates during your travel dates through the link here.  

Dining

All room rates include access to the complimentary breakfast at The Beach Club. Breakfast is served as a buffet and includes American-style options like pancakes and scrambled eggs alongside Caribbean favorites such as stewed saltfish and roast bakes.

Callaloo Beach Bar and Grill

Dine with your toes in the sand at the newly renovated beachfront Callaloo Beach Bar and Grill. Each meal comes with a basket of plantain and breadfruit chips served with a side of perfectly spicy salsa.

The Beach Club

A short walk down the beach from Callaloo is The Beach Club, where guests can order from an à la carte lunch and dinner menu in addition to the breakfast buffet. In the evenings, enjoy live entertainment from local musicians and performers on a patio illuminated by glowing tiki torches. 

The Palms

The Palms, located just off the main lobby, serves up a fresh seasonal menu that can be enjoyed indoors or on an outdoor patio overlooking the central marina. 

The Coffee Shop

The Coffee Shop is located in the main lobby next to The Palms and is perfect for guests looking for a grab-and-go option before heading out for the day. 

The Turquoise Beach Bar

Hop straight from the sand and onto a barstool at The Turquoise Beach Bar. Sharing a patio with The Beach Club, beachgoers can relax with a mid-afternoon Piton Shandy or kick off the evening with a creative cocktail.

The Viscount Lounge

The Viscount Lounge offers small bites and signature drinks just off the main lobby across from The Palms. 

Other

In addition to traditional room service, private chefs are available to prepare meals in-room on request. You can also have your kitchen stocked with your favorite drinks and snacks upon arrival with The Landings’ Personal Pantry Service. 

Off Resort Excursions

While it’s true that you won’t need to leave the property during your stay, don’t miss out on the many exciting off-resort excursions around the island. Here are a few stand out options:

Explore Pigeon Island National Park

Distance from The Landings: 4 minute drive or 15 minute walk

Pigeon Island National Park is connected to the main island via the manmade Pigeon Island Causeway. Take in the park’s history amongst the 18th and 19th century military ruins and hike to the top of the two peaks of the park, Fort Rodney and Signal Peak, for an incredible 360-degree photo op.

The Landings offers guided hikes of the park twice a week with the option to schedule additional hikes upon request.

Visit the Sulphur Springs in Soufriere

Distance from The Landings: 1.5 – 2 hours drive from The Landings

The Sulphur Springs in Soufriere are much more relaxing than their nickname—‘The World’s Only Drive-In Volcano’—makes them sound. The crater of this dormant volcano is now home to several natural mud baths, where travelers can unwind and take advantage of the mud’s detoxifying properties.  

Wander the Diamond Falls Botanical Garden

Distance from The Landings: 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours

The six-acre Diamond Falls Botanical Garden in Soufriere invites guests to learn about the wide variety of tropical birds and flora within the park, wonder at the colorful mineral-rich waters of Diamond Falls, and bathe in the on-site hot springs.

Hike the Pitons

Distance from The Landings: 2 hours drive

The dual peaks of the Pitons tower over the southwestern coast of Saint Lucia, just south of Soufriere. Gros Piton, the larger of the two volcanic spires, rises 2,530 feet above sea level and is a bucket list stop for many hikers. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004, the area is rich in biodiversity, including nearly thirty endemic bird species. 

It is strongly recommended to complete this hike with an experienced professional guide.

Party the Night Away at Gros Islet Jump-Up

Distance from The Landings: 4 minute drive

For over 50 years, the Gros Islet Jump-Up has welcomed travelers and locals alike to dance, eat, and shop from dozens of local vendors that line the streets each Friday night. 

Take a Coastal Tour

Coastal tours are the best way to take in the island scenery and get up close with the region’s incredible marine life. Tours include romantic private sunset cruises, group whale watches, and day trips to Martinique as well as half- and full-day sailing charters.

Price and How to Book

Room rates start at around $350 per night and can be booked on SmarterTravel Hotels. 

Book Now

Editor’s Note: The author of this story was hosted by The Landings Resort & Spa.

Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

The post SmarterTravel Spotlight: The Landings Resort & Spa appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The Lightest Carry-on Luggage

We’ve rounded up 10 carry-on spinner and roller bags that weigh in under the six-pound mark. They range in price from affordable to splurge-worthy and come with a variety of bells and whistles. From lightest to heaviest (based on manufacturers’ specs), here they are.

July Light Expandable Carry-On

The Numbers: The July Light Expandable Carry-On is 4.9 pounds.

Why We Like It: This 35L option can be expanded up to 40L, providing plenty of packing space. The lining is water- and stain-resistant and the exterior is made from a strong polycarbonate exterior, making this one of the most durable options on this list.

Osprey Ozone 4-Wheel Carry-On

The Numbers: The 22-inch Osprey Ozone 4-Wheel Carry-On weighs 5 pounds.

Why We Like It: Top and bottom handles and high-clearance wheels make the Osprey Ozone easy to carry and maneuver throughout the airport, while the included Travel Sentry ID means you don’t need to worry about lost luggage should you need to gate check your bag.

Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On

The Numbers: The Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On weighs 5.1 pounds.

Why We Like It: This extra tiny carry-on comes outfitted with a TSA-approved lock, compression straps, and a laptop compartment. Its small size is perfect for squeezing into frequently cramped overhead bins,

Flex Vega Carry-On Suitcase

The Numbers: Flex Vega Carry-On Suitcase also weighs in at just 5.1 pounds.

Why We Like It: Marketed as “the world’s first collapsible suitcase”, the Flex Vega Carry-On is lightweight and compact. This bag expands to 9″ thick with a volume of 42L, but folds down to just 2″ thick for easy storage.

Travelpro Walkabout Carry-On

The Numbers: The Travelpro Walkabout Carry-On comes in at just 5.2 pounds.

Why We Like It: Ball bearing wheels give this bag maximum maneuverability and the interior lid pocket as well as exterior organizational pockets keep necessary items close at hand.

Aerolite Carry-on MAX Lightweight

The Numbers: The 22-inch Aerolite Carry-On MAX Lightweight weighs 5.3 pounds.

Why We Like It: Aerolite’s lightweight carry-on has roomy pockets, an affordable price, and a five-year guarantee.

Travelpro Maxlite Expandable Spinner

The Numbers: The Travelpro Maxlite Expandable Spinner is 5.4 pounds.

Why We Like It: In many cases, lightweight comes at the expense of durability. Not so with this elegant, streamlined bag, which was built to be lightweight and tough.

Rockland Rio Carry-On

The Numbers: The Rockland Rio Carry-On is 5.5 pounds.

Why We Like It: The Rockland Rio is able to be wheeled with the retractable handle or carried by the ergonomic top or side handles. The best part: this suitcase comes with a matching tote bag, perfectly sized for use as a personal item.

Bric’s X-BAG 21″ Carry-on Spinner

The Numbers: The 21-inch Bric’s X-Bag Carry-on Spinner weighs 5.5 pounds.

Why We Like It: This dependable nylon carry-on can fit a ton, plus it’s stylish. It doesn’t skimp on features either, with four 360-degree spinner wheels, a telescoping handle, and leather detailing.

Lucas Ultra Lightweight 20″ Spinner

The Numbers: The Lucas Ultra Lightweight 20″ Spinner weighs 5.8 pounds.

Why We Like It: We love its roomy pockets and spinner wheels.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

Editor’s note: Carol McPherson, Ashley Rossi, and Codey Albers contributed to this story. This story was originally published in 2015. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post 10 Ultralight Rolling Carry-on Bags Under 6 Pounds appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Clothing uses a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) scale to measure the amount of sun protection provided—similar to how sunscreen is rated by SPF. The UPF scale goes up to 50+. A UPF rating of 25, for example, means that the fabric will only allow around 4 percent of UV radiation to penetrate through.

We’ve rounded up our favorite stylish sun protective clothing for travel that will keep you cool and safe no matter how hot it gets. 

Coolibar Café Ruche Pants

Coolibar, a leader in sun protective clothing, was the first clothing company to receive The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation. Coolibar continues to make stylish and practical clothing that blocks 90 percent of UVA/UVB rays, so you can stay outside and stay safe. 

Coolibar’s trademarked ZnO fabric is a favorite from the brand. It offers UPF 50+ sun protection, but is incredibly soft, lightweight, and cool. Try it out in the versatile Cafe Ruche Pants—the stylish ruched design means you can wear these on the trail, on the plane, or even to the office—all while being protected and comfortable. 

Toad & Co Sunkissed Maxi Dress

A maxi dress is great for sun protection, and Toad & Co’s Sunkissed Maxi Dress offers UPF 40+. The lightweight dress feels like air, so you can be covered up without overheating. You won’t be too covered though—there’s a cheeky on-trend cutout at the back of the dress. 

Bra-friendly straps, hand pockets, and a quick-drying fabric mean that the Sunkissed Maxi Dress gets packed for all of our warm weather trips. 

Orvis Jackson Quick Dry Pants

Can’t decide between a cropped leg or full length pant? Have both with Orvis’ Jackson Quick Dry Pants. The pants can be rolled up and secured with a built-in tab so you can wear them as a 32” inseam or a 23” inseam. 

The pants offer UPF 50 protection, and were designed for fishing—so they’ll dry in a flash to keep you comfortable no matter what the day brings. 

Kuhl Freeflex Dash

Made from a flexible fabric, Kuhl’s Freeflex Dash pants are stretchy without looking like leggings. In addition to freedom of movement, the Freeflex Dash offers UPF 50+ sun protection, a soft waistband, and pockets that are actually big enough to fit your cell phone.

Use the ankle cinch to change the look of the pants from straight leg to jogger style, or to keep your pants out of the way when biking. 

Kaenon Venice Polarized Sunglasses

Protect your eyes (and your wallet) with a pair of sunglasses from luxury eyewear brand Kaenon’s new Essentials line. This budget-friendly line starts at just $100, but features the quality that Kaenon is known for. Essentials sunglasses are handcrafted in Japan, and use the same lightweight, polarized, and ultra-clear SR-91 lenses that the regular line does. 

Our pick from the Essentials: the Venice Polarized Sunglasses, which are durable, stylish, and work for any activity. 

Mountain Hardwear Chockstone Pant

If you’ve ever been caught off-guard on a sunny fall hike and ended up with a burn, you know the deal—you need sun protection even in chilly weather. Mountain Hardwear’s Chockstone Pants provide both warmth and UPF 50 protection, along with plenty of pockets (two hand pockets plus a secure zip pocket in back).

The pants are available in both a women’s specific and men’s specific fit, with options for short, regular, and long inseams—so you can get the perfect fit. 

Houdini Wadi Pants

Long pants are a necessity on some hikes. You need protection from not only the sun, but also insects and rough terrain. However, finding a pair that won’t make you sweat even harder on a hot hike is a challenge. Fortunately, Houdini’s Wadi Pants rise to the occasion. 

Made from an ultra-lightweight Liquid Rock fabric, these pants will remain dry and breathable no matter how hot it gets. Use the adjustable leg endings to make the pants shorter as needed for water crossings or style. 

The pants pack down into their own side pocket for easy packing. Check out the men’s-specific version of the Wadis here.

Orvis Long-Sleeved Tech Chambray Shirt

Orvis’ Long-Sleeved Tech Chambray Shirt is made out of MarinoWul+, an eco-friendly fabric that’s composed of recycled plastic and reclaimed oyster shells. You’d never guess where it comes from, since the fabric feels softer than silk. In addition to UPF 30 sun protection, the shirt is equipped with Orvis’ trademarked OutSmart Fresh odor control, so you can wear this your entire trip without needing to wash it. 

The post The Best Sun-Protective Clothing for Travel appeared first on SmarterTravel.

I visited the park in early January, when the wintery stillness highlighted the otherworldly serenity of the region. However, Hocking Hills is worth a trip in any season. Whether planning a summer vacation or an autumn excursion, you’re sure to find your perfect escape in the Ohio wilderness.

Table of Contents

Fossils & History
Nature & Wildlife
Outdoor Recreation
Day Trips & Nearby Activities
Accommodations
Food & Drink
Weekend Itinerary for Hocking Hills, Ohio

Fossils & History at Hocking Hills State Park

Over 200 million years ago, an ancient ocean occupied the land that is now Hocking Hills. Sharp-eyed visitors can still spot marine life fossils high above sea level, embedded in the park’s characteristic black hand sandstone rock formations left behind as the water receded.

In the millions of years that followed, the region was home to many, including the people of the Adena culture, responsible for the incredible mounds built throughout Ohio, and the Wyandot people, who’s name for the river flowing through the region—hockhocking—inspired the name for the park. Hocking Hills State Park is established on the lands of the Shawnee, Delaware, and Wyandot people. 

In 1924, the State of Ohio purchased the first 146 acres of what would become modern day Hocking Hills State Park. Visitation rose throughout the 20th century, resulting in the over 3 million annual visitors that enjoy the park today.

Nature & Wildlife in Hocking Hills State Park

The 2,000 acres of Hocking Hills State Park are teeming with wildlife. Drive slowly down the park’s winding roads and you’re sure to catch a glimpse of a white-tailed deer returning your gaze from the edges of the forest. Listen to the hoots of barred owls as you hike the trails and keep your eyes peeled for the bright yellow chest of a Magnolia Warbler. 

There are a few residents of the park you won’t want to run into up close, however. Black bears and bobcats both call Hocking Hills home, although spotting the former has become rare in recent decades due to overhunting. 

Outdoor Recreation

Notable Trails

Each of the seven main trails in Hocking Hills has its own unique history and landscape. 

• Ash Cave: Named for the large piles of ash uncovered by settlers when first encountering the cave. (Length: 1.5 miles)
• Old Man’s Cave:  Named after and, according to many, haunted by the reclusive settler who lived in the cave in the late 18th century. (Length: 1 to 1.5 miles depending on the chosen trail.)
• Whispering Cave: One of the longer trails in the park, hikers will encounter a swinging bridge, steep stairways, and platforms overlooking stunning views. (Length: 5 miles)
• Rock House: Despite many trail names suggesting otherwise, Rock House is the only true cave in Hocking Hills. (Length: 1 mile)
• Cedar Falls: Follow the trail branching off from Old Man’s Cave to see Cedar Falls, a spectacular 50-foot waterfall. (Length: ½ mile)
• Conkle’s Hollow: Choose between the Upper Trail (2 miles) or the Lower Trail (Length: ¾ miles long and wheelchair accessible) to explore the cliffs and caverns of Conkle’s Hollow.
• Cantwell Cliffs: The most rigorous hike in the park, the two loops of Cantwell Cliffs will bring hikers through remote wilderness, up and down winding stone steps, and through the narrow corridors of rock. (Length: 2 miles)

Guided Hikes and Climbs

Sign up for a guided excursion to get the most out of the region. 

High Rock Adventures

High Rock Adventures offers rappelling, rock climbing, EcoTours, and nature therapy tours in Hocking Hills. The adventure guides are knowledgeable and well-trained, facilitating a smooth experience for even the most anxious of hikers.

Touch the Earth Adventures

Touch the Earth Adventures, founded by Mimi Morrison in 1984, is a guide service dedicated to reconnecting guests with nature. Participants are encouraged to take a break from a society that is, according to Mimi, “focused on fast and forward.” The company’s day- or weekend-long programs are a whole mind-and-body experience, with itineraries including moonlight kayaking, poetry reading, beaver-watching, hiking, and mindfulness exercises. Find details on upcoming retreats here.

Canoeing and Kayaking

Get out on the water and explore with one of the many canoeing and kayaking tours available throughout Hocking Hills. Popular paddling areas include the Hocking River, Lake Logan, and Lake Hope.

Stargaze at John Glenn Astronomy Park

The John Glenn Astronomy park, named after the first American astronaut to orbit earth, invites visitors to take advantage of the park’s lack of light pollution to experience the wonders of the night sky. Visit to simply gaze at the uninterrupted view of the stars or participate in one of their pre-planned programs, from constellation spotting to viewings of the full moon. Make sure to take advantage of their telescope for a better look! 

Days Trips & Nearby Activities

Hocking Hills Orchard

Derek Mills, founder and owner of Hocking Hills Orchard and long-time apple enthusiast, invites guests to explore the more than 1,700 varieties of apples grown on his property. Sample one of his three varieties that taste eerily like bananas or marvel at an Arkansas Black apple, named for its deep purple-red skin. A true expert, Derek is always ready to fill guests in on the history of everyone’s favorite fruit, from the location of the first apples in America (Roxbury, Massachusetts) to George Washington’s favorite variety (the Newton Pippin).

Peak picking times are the second and third week of September. 

Glass Blowing at Jack Pine Studios

Get in touch with your inner artist with a glass blowing class at Jack Pine Studios in nearby Logan, Ohio. Participants are guided through every step of the process, from heating the molten glass in the forge to shaping the final details. The studio offers group sessions starting at $49 per person and private lessons starting at $195.

Moonshine Tasting

For travelers bored of typical wine tastings, try a sampler of moonshine at Hocking Hills Moonshine. This distillery offers unique flavors such as peach tea, granny apple, and blackberry. Hardcore enthusiasts can try a shot of Buckeye Thunder, a 151 proof Hocking Hills original—just make sure you have a designated driver to corral the group back to the hotel afterwards.

Hit the Golf Course

Hocking Hills Golf Club in Logan is just a short drive from the park. Play a round while enjoying the beautiful scenery, then hit the Pro Shop or the course’s onsite restaurant, The Urban Grille,  for lunch.

Accommodations

Hotels in the Park

There are dozens of accommodations within Hocking Hills, from glampgrounds to log cabins to classic bed and breakfasts. Browse through the entire catalog here. In the meantime, here are some standout options to start your search. 

Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls

The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls is a quiet escape from the outside world. The decentralized layout of  individual cabins, cottages, yurts, and geodomes will leave guests feeling like they’re camping alone in the woods. However, the luxury of the hotel’s on-site spa, restaurant, and gift shop are all within easy reach. Parking is spread throughout the property, so guests do not need to walk to the main building to access their vehicle. 

Magical Earth Retreat

No longer do Lord of the Rings fans have to travel to New Zealand to feel like a part of the adventure. Vacation Shire-style in one of Magical Earth Retreats partially underground rooms, stylized to look like hobbit houses from the famous franchise. Each room features sinks made from reclaimed wine barrels, cozy electric fireplaces, colorful vintage-style kitchenettes, and unique decor.

Shared amenities include an outdoor sauna and communal fire pits dispersed throughout the property. 

Hocking Hills State Park Lodge

Floor-to-ceiling windows, rustic wooden beams, and roaring fireplaces greet guests as they enter Hocking Hills State Park Lodge. Rebuilt bigger and better than ever following fires in 2016, the State Park Lodge has 81 guestrooms and 40 free-standing cabins, including pet-friendly cabins. The property has an indoor and outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and restaurant on-site—a much-appreciated convenience after a long day exploring the park.

Food and Drink

Rock House Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty meal at Rock House Restaurant, located inside the Hocking Hills State Lodge, surrounded by rustic architecture and roaring fireplaces. 

The Ridge Inn

The Ridge Inn is located in nearby Laurelville, Ohio. While the restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, locals know it best for Jo’s Famous Donuts, made fresh and sold first-come, first-serve on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. 

Kindred Spirits Restaurant

Kindred Spirits Restaurant, located at The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls, serves up gourmet dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a cocktail or coffee by the sitting room fireplace before heading into the spacious dining area, both located inside the property’s original 19th century log cabins. 

Hocking Hills Winery

Unwind after a day of hiking with a sampler flight of wine and a charcuterie board at Hocking Hills Winery. Try one of their Wine Slushies in flavors like pink lemonade and sangria for a fun summer treat. 

Weekend Itinerary for Hocking Hills, Ohio

Friday

• Fly into John Glenn International Airport (CMH) in Columbus; rent a car to drive to Hocking Hills State Park (approx. 1 hour)
• Local Hike (Old Man’s Cave and Cedar Falls)
• Check-in to centrally located Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls (after 4pm)
• Dinner at The Rock House Restaurant
• Stargazing at John Glenn Astronomy Park

Saturday

• Breakfast at The Ridge Inn
• Local Hike (Rock House)
• Lunch at The Urban Grille at Hocking Hills Golf Course
• In  summer and autumn: Pick Your Own Apples at Hocking Hills Orchard
• In winter and spring: Glass Blowing Classes at Jack Pine Studios
• Dinner at Kindred Spirits Restaurant
• Nightcap at Hocking Hills Winery

Sunday

• Breakfast at Kindred Spirits Restaurant
• Check out of Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls (before 11am)
• Depart for John Glenn International Airport (CMH)

Editor’s Note: The author was hosted by Hocking Hills Tourism Association.

The post Hocking Hills State Park Travel Guide appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The Best Frequent Flier Programs for 2023

WalletHub compared ten major domestic carriers using 21 key metrics—such as number of international destinations, earning limits, and booking blackout dates—factoring in the travel needs and budgets of light, average, and frequent fliers. Use WalletHub’s Frequent Flier Miles calculator to get a personalized recommendation on what frequent flier program best suits your travel style.

United Airlines: MileagePlus

United Airlines’ MileagePlus overtook Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan to become the best frequent flier program for 2023. Mileage Plus offers the most award destinations of any reward program and MileagePlus Premier members have access to even more perks, such as seat upgrades and complimentary baggage check. Sign up here.

Alaska Airlines: Mileage Plan

Award travel with Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan starts at 5,000 miles, and members earn up to 30% more miles on their travel than with competitor programs. Earn miles by flying Alaska Airlines (one mile earned for every mile flown), booking with one of their travel partners, or shopping with an Alaska Airlines credit card. Sign up here.

Delta Air Lines: SkyMiles

SkyMiles are earned with every Delta flight at the Main Cabin level or higher, by booking with a SkyMiles partner, or by making purchases with a SkyMiles American Express card. Sign up here.

Hawaiian Airlines: HawaiianMiles

HawaiianMiles can be earned by flying Hawaiian, shopping with a Hawaiian Airlines credit card, or booking with one of Hawaiian’s airline, hotel, car rental, or shopping/dining partners. Miles can also be purchased, with a limit of 30,000 miles. Sign up here.

American Airlines: AAdvantage

AAdvantage recently introduced a rewards level below Gold, with membership starting at just 15,000 miles and including perks like guaranteed group five boarding, preferred seat coupons, and priority privileges. Earn miles by flying American, booking with airline partners, or signing up for an AAdvantage credit card. Sign up here.

The post The Best Frequent Flier Programs for 2023 appeared first on SmarterTravel.

To celebrate the launch, each property—Stanly Ranch, the Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, and Wildflower Farms—will host an exclusive Mercedes-Benz weekend test drive event. Book a stay to get behind the wheel of a Mercedes-AMG SL or Mercedes-EQ model accompanied by a product specialist, shop Saks’ event-exclusive virtual pop-up store to stock up on road trip essentials, and experience the unique special events held at each property.

Stanly Ranch: Napa, California

Stanly Ranch is a 712-acre resort surrounded by the serene Napa Valley wine country. The ranch invites guests to unwind with regional adventures such as botanical cocktail classes and hot air balloon rides. Enjoy the property’s own sprawling vineyards, interspersed with walking and biking trails, or relax at the two separate on-site spa facilities.

Test Drive Weekend: April 28th-30th

Special Event: Guests are invited to participate in a workshop with fashion brand Lingua Franca, known for their hand-stitched cashmere sweaters and subversive slogans. 

Book Now

Inn at Mattei’s Tavern: Los Olivos, California

Built in 1886 as a stagecoach stop, The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern remains a historic fixture on the Central Coast. Travelers can opt to stay in individual rooms in the Guest House or book an entire cottage, original to the property and restored to bring travelers modern comfort and privacy. While there, don’t forget to book your llama farm tour or grab a bite to eat at paella night.

Test Drive Weekend: May 12th-14th

Special Event: In this two part event, guests will sample local wines from the Santa Ynez region and create their own infused olive oil with ingredients from the inn’s onsite garden.

Book Now

Wildflower Farms: Hudson Valley, New York

With 60 cabins and cottages and 5 luxury suites set on 140 acres, guests will feel totally immersed in the surrounding nature of the Hudson Valley. Experiences at Wildflower Farms are tailored to connect guests to nature, teaching them the art of foraging, cooking with local ingredients, and giving a behind-the-scenes look at their namesake farm.

Test Drive Weekend: June 9th-11th

Special Event: Join fellow guests for a class in floral arrangement or botanical baking with ingredients sourced from Wildflower Farms.

Book Now

When Can Guests Register for the Test Drive Event?

Registration for the test drive event opens April 10th. Guests that do not pre-register will be able to sign up on a first-come, first-serve basis. Special events are open to general hotel guests as well as test drive participants.

How Can Guests Reserve a Car?

Each property will have a fleet of five vehicles in a variety of models, from sedans and coupes to Cabriolets and SUVs. There is no reservation system—cars are available on a first come, first serve basis. Guests simply need to contact the property and fill out a waiver to take out a vehicle, free of charge. 

Perks for Mercedes-Benz Owners

Those lucky few bringing their own Benz on vacation have access to an additional suite of perks. Mercedes-Benz owners receive special benefits during their stay, which vary by property but include amenities like complimentary spa treatments, free room upgrades, credits toward amenities, and more. 

What Other Properties Offer Mercedes-Benz Rentals?

Other Auberge properties within the partnership include:

• Auberge du Soleil, Napa Valley, CA
• Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection, Napa Valley, CA
• Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection, Austin, TX
• The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection, Park City, UT

The post How to Drive a Luxury Car for Free On Your Next Vacation appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Many people aren’t aware that most of the best vacation rental websites are owned by a handful of large companies—so you could find yourself wasting time searching the same inventory on multiple sites.

The Best Vacation Rental Sites

To help you sift through the options, I tested more than a dozen top vacation rental sites to figure out which ones offer the best combination of plentiful inventory, useful filters, informative listings, and fair prices, without too many hidden fees. I discovered that there’s no single best vacation home rental site, but that each one has pros and cons to suit different types of travelers.

For example, some of the top vacation rental websites are better if you’re open to both hotels and rentals, while others are more specialized to suit those who already know they want a vacation home, rental apartment, or private room in someone else’s space. Some vacation rental sites make it easier than others to browse properties on a map or to contact the owner of a property to ask questions before your stay.

The following are the best vacation rental sites I found in my testing. Scroll down for more in-depth analysis of each.

• Airbnb
• Booking.com
• Expedia
• HometoGo
• Hotels.com
• Tripadvisor
• Tripping
• Vrbo
• Plum Guide
• Sonder
• Marriott Homes & Villas
• Agoda
• Getaway

Airbnb

The name of this site is almost synonymous with short-term rentals these days, and its reputation as one of the best vacation rental sites is well deserved: Airbnb offers abundant listings in most popular travel destinations, and its site is cleanly designed and easy to use. There’s a prominent map of properties accessible from the main listing page, so you can quickly browse by location. The main listings page offers useful filters right off the bat, including the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, price, key amenities, and type of accommodation—such as “entire apartment” or “private room in house.” You can also scroll through a listing’s photos right on the initial results page.

Once you click into a given listing, there’s more than enough information to help you decide whether to book, including house rules, bed configurations, cancellation policies, amenities, reviews from past guests, and a full price breakdown (which typically includes things like a cleaning fee and Airbnb’s own service fee). You can also contact the property’s host through the platform if you have questions before you book.

Best feature: The site makes it easier to sort through hundreds of properties by identifying Superhosts (“experienced, highly rated hosts who are committed to providing great stays for guests”) and Airbnb Plus listings (“a selection of places to stay verified for quality and design”). Because standards can vary so widely from one vacation rental to another, choosing properties with one or both of these designations can help travelers feel more confident in their selection.

Check out Airbnb

Booking.com

Booking.com lists just about every type of accommodation imaginable, from hotels and B&Bs to vacation rentals and apartments. This is a perk for travelers open to a variety of lodging options, while those who know they want a vacation rental will have to take the extra step of filtering out extraneous search results. (That’s easily done via a “Homes and Apartments First” button at the top of the results page or searching by property type.)

Property listings offer plenty of information, including amenities, guest reviews, house rules, and an option to contact the host through the site. The site clearly labels whether your booking is nonrefundable or you can cancel without penalty up to a certain date. (In some cases, you’ll pay less if you’re willing to make a nonrefundable booking.)

Keep an eye out for extra fees, which can be significant depending on the property. For example, one property’s listed price was a seemingly affordable $689 for seven nights in the Outer Banks—but when I clicked “book,” the site added a 12.75 percent tax, $63.11 tourism fee, $105 resort fee, $130 cleaning fee, and $260 property service charge, taking my total charges to $1,406—more than double the original quoted price. However, none of these were Booking.com’s own fees; unlike Airbnb, Booking.com does not charge guests a service fee.

One annoyance: The site sometimes clutters up the search results page with sold-out properties, complete with a little “You missed it!” message. These are probably meant to spark a sense of booking urgency, but many travelers will find it irritating to see options that aren’t actually available.

Best feature: The sheer breadth of offerings on Booking.com means you’re almost guaranteed to find something suitable, even if it doesn’t end up being a vacation rental.

Check out Booking.com

Expedia

Like Booking.com, Expedia offers a variety of accommodation types, but it has a dedicated vacation rental search page so you can skip the filtering step. The site offers a good selection of results, though for certain searches I got some listings that really didn’t seem like vacation rentals (TownePlace Suites by Marriott, Outer Banks Motel).

Expedia also features a map to browse through listings in an area, which can be toggled on and off from the results page. Filters are also available while in map mode, so you can set your preferences without going back to the results listings.

Once you click into a listing, you’ll find photos, amenities, policies, reviews, and a list of nearby attractions. However, there does not appear to be a way to contact the owner of a given property. The total price is not visible until you click “reserve,” at which point you’ll see an additional amount listed vaguely as “taxes and fees,” with no detailed breakdown. On many properties, the site notes that you can save 15 percent if you log in as an Expedia member.

Best feature: The site has useful filters such as “Business friendly,” to help you find properties with Wi-Fi and breakfast, and “Family friendly,” for listings that have “in-room conveniences and activities for the kids.”

Check out Expedia

HometoGo

The prime advantage of HometoGo is that it’s a hybrid marketplace, which means that you can book onsite or search through deals from many of the best vacation rental sites (including most of the others on this list) with one click. Persistent pop-ups and offers to sign you in with Google or Facebook are annoying, but once you’ve cleared them away you can view tons of properties, visible in a clean listing format or on a map. Each listing features photos you can scroll through as well as user rating, type of lodging, and where you can book the property (such as Airbnb, Hotels.com, Vrbo, or directly on HomeToGo).

One handy feature: You can toggle the price filter to show you either the nightly rate or the total cost of your stay, and then adjust your price range accordingly. Other filters include accommodation types (including an “instant booking” option), location, user rating, and amenities.

In most cases, when you click on “view deal,” you’ll be taken to the site where the property was originally listed. However, there are occasional properties where you will go to a HometoGo listing page and fill out a booking request that will then be fulfilled through one of the site’s partners.

I occasionally found that when I clicked over to a deal (particularly on Airbnb), I was not taken directly to the property I was interested in but rather to a list of other rentals in my destination. Unfortunately, travelers will be familiar with this from other meta-search sites; sometimes a given deal simply isn’t available anymore. I also sometimes discovered that the price on HomeToGo didn’t match what was advertised on the original listing site.

Best feature: Despite the occasional pricing glitches, this site is the closest thing the vacation rental industry has to a one-stop shop, as it lists inventory from hundreds of other short-term rental websites.

Check out HometoGo

Hotels.com

Like Booking.com, Hotels.com lists a wide array of accommodation options, so travelers who know they want a vacation rental have to use the “Property Type” filter on the search results page to weed out hotels, hostels, and other options. I appreciated the honesty of the note at the top of the page: “How much we get paid influences your sort order.” That said, you can sort your results by star rating, distance from a given landmark, guest rating, and price, and refine the list with a variety of other filters.

There is a map view available, though I didn’t find it very useful; it shows properties that don’t meet your criteria by default, and by the time you screen those out, you’re often left with just a few options (even if the site is showing hundreds of listings on the main results page).

The list view of results is better, displaying both the nightly rate and the total price for your stay, as well as guest rating and location information. Note that you may need to weed through occasional “fully booked!” listings.

Once you click into an individual listing, you can see amenities, policies, photos, guest reviews, and a list of attractions within walking distance. One drawback: There’s no way to contact the owner or property manager directly. While there is a phone number given for “more info” about the listing, this does not put you in contact with the owner but rather takes you to a general Hotels.com corporate phone number. Taxes and fees aren’t visible until you click the “Let’s book” button, and there’s no detailed breakdown of where your money is going.

Best feature: Many vacation rental bookings are eligible for Hotels.com Rewards, so you can count your stay toward a future free night at either a hotel or a rental.

Check out Hotels.com

Tripadvisor

Although it’s best known for hotel reviews, Tripadvisor also provides vacation rentals thanks to its acquisitions of FlipKey and HolidayLettings. (The sites share inventory, so searching Tripadvisor will turn up properties from the other two sites.) There are plenty of listings, which you can filter by price, number of bedrooms/bathrooms, distance from a landmark, and many other factors. The site also lets you change the order of your results based on traveler reviews and number of reviews, making use of its large base of user generated content.

The site has a mix of properties, some of which can be paid for online and others that require direct arrangements with the owner. (The former is generally preferable, as paying with a credit card is the safest way to go—and you’ll be backed by Tripadvisor’s Payment Protection guarantee.)

I found that photo quality could vary widely from one listing to another on Tripadvisor, whereas some other vacation rental sites have more consistently glossy images. Otherwise, Tripadvisor’s listings are generally informative, with traveler reviews, house rules, and an owner profile. Prices and fees are spelled out in detail. However, cancellation policies are not as clearly stated on this site as on some others. There is an option to send a message to the owner through the site.

Best feature: The price on the listing results page is the final price you’ll pay, including taxes and fees—rather than the base rate, which is what most vacation rental sites list. Tripadvisor also lists both the nightly rate and the total cost.

Check out Tripadvisor

Tripping

Acquired by HometoGo in 2019, Tripping is another meta-search site for vacation rentals that turns up listings from hundreds of different sites, including many on this list. When I searched HometoGo and Tripping side by side, I found a lot of overlapping properties, but the results did not appear to be completely identical. (A Rome search turned up 8,800+ properties on HometoGo vs. more than 14,000 properties on Tripping, for example.) So even though the two sites are owned by the same company and offer virtually identical layouts and filters, it may be worth your time to check both.

Tripping offers a prominent map view alongside the listings on its main results page. Like HometoGo, Tripping shows hotels and hostels in addition to apartments, homes, and other types of properties, so you can use the “Accommodation types” filter to trim your results. You can toggle between “per night” and “per stay” options for pricing, specify a minimum number of bedrooms, and filter for amenities such as internet, air-conditioning, and washer. And you can scroll through listing photos right from the results page.

Clicking on “view deal” takes you to an external site for information and booking. As with HometoGo, there were occasional snafus in this process; prices didn’t match, properties weren’t available, or (in one case) I got a dead-end error page. But in most cases the listings were as advertised.

Best feature: Both Tripping and HometoGo have a new “flexible dates” feature that lets you search with a date parameter of “anytime” to see when the best deals are available.

Check out Tripping

Vrbo

Acquired by Expedia Group in 2015 and then merged with its sister site HomeAway in 2019, Vrbo (originally stylized as VRBO, which stands for “vacation rentals by owner”) offers the strongest features of both sites. You can browse by property type, from condos to cabins, through their catalogue of over 2 million vacation rentals. If you have an idea of the type of trip you’d like to take but aren’t attached to a destination, you can check out their curated lists of properties by vacation type and nearby activities. The search results are displayed alongside a convenient interactive map to show how far your rental is from your target destination. While this is a great visual, if you move the map even slightly the site will recalibrate your search to show you new properties, which can be a bit of a nuisance.

The search results display the top amenities at a glance for each property along with both the nightly price and total price of the stay for the selected dates. Click into a result to see an in-depth and easily navigable description of policies and amenities, along with star ratings and traveler reviews.

Best feature: Vrbo highlights Premier Partners that offer great guest service.

Check out Vrbo

Plum Guide

Aimed at taking the hit-or-miss guesswork out of vacation home rentals, Plum Guide has dedicated itself to what it refers to as “the science behind the perfect stay.” This site is extremely selective in its properties, with only 3 percent of homes at any given destination passing its 150 criteria Plum Test conducted by their seasoned Home Critics. 

With a real person team of Plum Experts available seven days a week to assist with any questions and an easy to navigate, highly visual website, the Plum Guide’s people-centric approach to booking will make your vacation rental experience easy and pleasant.

Best Feature: Plum Guide’s best feature by far is their selective criteria. You can be sure you’re getting what you see online. While this can be a blessing if you want the peace of mind that comes with knowing your accommodation has been given a professional seal of approval, it may restrict your options if your travel dates don’t allow for flexibility. 

Check out Plum Guide

Sonder

Focused on eliminating unnecessary steps in the rental process, Sonder is a streamlined way to book your next vacation rental. Guests can check in, make requests, and ask for recommendations all through their phones. The site’s layout is remarkably easy to navigate, with clearly marked amenities for each property and information on parking, accessibility, and house rules readily available.

Best Feature: Sonder offers a flexible cancellation policy on their site and app. Select “Flex Rate” when booking for the option to cancel your stay up to three days before check-in for a full refund. 

Check out Sonder

Marriott Homes & Villas

If you want the quality assurance of a big hotel brand without the big hotel feel, then Marriott Homes & Villas may be the right site for you. All accommodations come with 24/7 guest support, kitchen essentials, in-unit washer, bathroom amenities such as shampoo and soap, wi-fi, linens and towels, and a television.

The site has the same easy user interface you expect from Marriott. The search function allows you to filter by destination, with travel dates being optional criteria to narrow the search. This is great for those early in their trip planning process or travelers who like to let deals dictate their itinerary. No destination in mind? You can click the “near me” option to see what weekend getaways are available right down the road. Properties on this site typically have upward of 30 photos in their galleries so you’ll be able to see exactly what you’re booking.

Best Feature: Marriott Homes & Villas ties into the larger Marriott Bonvoy rewards program. You can earn points when you book or redeem existing points on a vacation rental. Just check the box labeled “Show in Bonvoy Points” next to the search bar to see how many points a booking costs.

Check out Marriott Homes & Villas

Agoda

Agoda allows you to book both hotels and vacation rentals through its online services. With over 2 million hotels and rentals available, at first glance booking through Agoda can seem overwhelming (my cursory search for an August week in Kuala Lumpur returned just shy of 3,700 results). 

Luckily, Agoda allows you to refine its catalogue with highly specific search criteria. Travelers can filter by the typical destination, trip dates, and number of guests, but they can further narrow their search through options such as 

• Deals and discounts
• Number of stars
• Payment options
• Guest rating
• Specific amenities
• Property type
• Proximity to local attractions 

This is great for whittling down your options as well as sparking some inspiration for how to fill your days at your destination.

Best Feature: Agoda will match any competing online price for their properties or refund the difference (in AgodaCash credited to your account). Once you know where you want to stay, do your comparison research to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

Check out Agoda

Getaway

If a break from your hectic day-to-day is calling your name, there’s no better option than Getaway. Getaway makes it their mission to give people the “time, space, and permission to be off.” Their thirty Outpost locations—focused mostly in the eastern and central parts of the country with a few options on the West Coast—are made up of minimalist cabins that range from about 140 to 200 square feet. The mini-kitchens at these properties provide only the bare necessities, but you can supplement your supply by opting for a $35 Sustenance Box, which includes some nonperishable meal and snack options. Other camping essentials, such as insect wipes and log bundles, are also available for purchase.

Each cabin has a firepit, grill grate, and picnic table. The neighbors are close enough to be seen but far enough away that everyone has their own outdoor space to enjoy. Check in starts at 3 pm with a personalized entry code sent to your phone, so it’s possible you may not see another soul your entire trip. The trade-off for some time in the great outdoors is that cell phone service may be spotty or unavailable. However, there is a landline for emergencies and to contact the Getaway team. There’s also no Wi-Fi (and “never will be” according to their FAQ) so make sure to download those Spotify playlists pre-trip. 

Best Feature: If you’re looking for the feeling of an off-the-grid escape but aren’t truly ready to pitch a tent in the middle of the wilderness, this is the right rental experience for you.

Check out Getaway

Book Your Stay With SmarterTravel Hotels

While vacation rentals are great options for a little more privacy and living space, some travelers miss the perks and conveniences that a hotel can offer. If you’re dreaming of room service and a poolside bar, book your hotel stay for a great rate with SmarterTravel Hotels.

Book Now

Follow Sarah Schlichter on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration. Carol McPherson contributed to this story.

Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2019. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post The 13 Best Vacation Rental Sites for Travelers in 2023 appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Editor’s Note: Fares are accurate at time of publication.

French bee

Launched in 2018, low-cost carrier French bee operates out of five major airports around the US, including its recently expanded service from Miami International Airport. Destinations include Paris and Tahiti. Guests can book a standard ticket for as little as $460 roundtrip or can upgrade to Premium Economy for a fraction of the cost of a Premium Economy ticket on traditional carriers. 

About the Fleet: French bee’s fleet is made entirely of Airbus A350 XWB aircraft, which are one of the most fuel-efficient models available and produce 40% less noise pollution than the previous generation. 

Who Should Book French bee: Travelers looking to explore Paris or to use France as a homebase for a larger EU trip. Climate-conscious travelers may also appreciate the airline’s Green Pilot Certification—the first airline in the world, alongside its sister company Air Caribe, to receive the status.

Norse Atlantic Airways

If you’re planning a trip to the UK, Norse Atlantic Airways is for you. Launched in 2021 and based in Norway, Norse Atlantic operates flights between the US and the UK, Norway, Italy, Germany, and France. This long-haul carrier is set to add four new routes to London this summer, making it the airline with the most routes between the US and London Gatwick (LGW). 

This expansion will add service from Boston, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Washington Dulles to existing routes from New York (JFK), Orlando, and Fort Lauderdale (service from Orlando and Fort Lauderdale will be launching May 2023).

About the Fleet: Norse Atlantic operates their flights with Boeing 787 Dreamliners, which produce 25% lower CO₂ emissions than the previous generation of aircraft.

Who Should Book Norse Atlantic: Travelers looking to get to London on a budget. 

IcelandAir

While not technically transatlantic, IcelandAir offers several flights from the US to Europe connecting through Reykjavik. It operates from twenty-one US airports across the country, with service expanding to include Detroit Metropolitan Airport beginning May 18th. With a wide network of US departure airports spanning coast to coast, travelers from anywhere in the country will be able to find an option that works for them. 

About the Fleet: IcelandAir operates its long-haul flights on Boeing 757 (for trips to/from the West Coast and Canada) and Boeing 767 (for trips to/from Europe and the East Coast). They’ve also updated the fleet with the the Boeing 737 MAX 8 and Boeing 737 MAX 9, newer models that consume less fuel.

Who Should Book IcelandAir: Savvy travelers who want to take advantage of the airline’s  “Add a Stopover” offer to explore Iceland.

Condor

Condor is a low-cost carrier based out of Frankfurt, Germany that has been in operation since 1955. The airline maintains dedicated terminals at New York (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Anchorage (ANC), Fairbanks (FAI), and Seattle (SEA), with additional routes to Boston, Las Vegas, Baltimore-Washington, Minneapolis, Portland, and Phoenix.

About the Fleet: Condor operates its long-haul flights on Airbus A330-200, Boeing 767-300ER, and Airbus A330neo aircraft.

Who Should Book Condor: Travelers flying from the West Coast and Pacific Northwest.

PLAY Air

PLAY Air, founded in 2019 by former WOW Air executives, is another relatively new budget airline on the scene. Operating from just three East Coast airports—Boston Logan International Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport, and New York Stewart International Airport—PLAY air flies to 15 destinations across Europe, including France, Spain, Ireland, Greece, and the Czech Republic.

About the Fleet: PLAY Air operates its itineraries on Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft.

Who Should Book PLAY Air: East Coasters looking for a quick and easy flight.

Worldwide by easyJet

EasyJet itself does not operate transatlantic flights, but through their Worldwide by easyJet program, travelers can book multi-leg journeys through their many partners, including PLAY Air and Norse Atlantic. Through Worldwide, travelers can book flights from New York, the Los Angeles Area, Chicago, Atlanta, and Orlando to European destinations like Rome, Barcelona, Edinburgh, and more.

About the Fleet: EasyJet has one of the “youngest” airfleets in the world, with the average age of their aircraft being just under 7 years. Flights operate on Airbus A319, Airbus A320CEO, Airbus A320NEO, and Airbus A321NEO. Note that when connecting to a partner airline through the Worldwide initiative, flights will be operated on the partner airline’s fleet.

Who Should Book easyJet: Travelers who want to browse easyJet’s extensive roster of destinations and let the best deal guide their trip.

JetBlue

It may be surprising to see a bigger brand name on this list, but JetBlue does technically fall into the low-cost carrier category. Rivaling traditional major carriers in both reputation and brand recognition, JetBlue flies out of 73 airports across 32 states plus 6 airports from Washington DC, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. They also partner with American Airlines, Hawaiian Air, IcelandAir, JSX, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Silver Airways, South African Airways. AerLingus, Cape Air, and Porter, furthering their reach.

Passengers can fly Blue Basic for optimal savings or opt to fly Mint, Jetblue’s first class which offers extra comfortable lie-flat seats with aisle-access and plenty of legroom.

About the Fleet: Jetblue operates flights on a wide range of aircraft, including models that burn less fuel and models that reduce engine noise. Check Jetblue’s list of plane names to find the unique—and often pun-laden— name of your aircraft before departure.

Who Should Book Jetblue: Travelers who want the familiarity of a well-established domestic carrier for their long-haul experience.

The post The 7 Most Affordable Transatlantic Carriers for 2023 appeared first on SmarterTravel.

After all that, you then have to wait for the State Department to receive your application (which can take up to two weeks depending on where you mail your package from) before the estimated 8-11 week wait time to process and approve your new passport begins.

Fortunately, the US government is embracing technology and will soon be allowing travelers to renew their passports online. A spokesperson for the State Department told SmarterTravel, “Our new online system will save Americans money, time, and effort, making it much more convenient to renew their passports.”

A pilot program launched in summer of 2022 allowed 25,000 people to trial the online passport renewal process on a first-come, first-serve basis, closing to new participants in mid-August. Since then, the portal has been periodically reopened to new applicants and is expected to open to the public permanently later this year.

Who Can Renew a Passport Online?

You can renew your passport online if you meet the following conditions:

• Renewing a passport that was valid for 10 years
• Age 25 or older
• Most recent passport was issued over 9 years ago but less than 15 years ago
• People who live in the United States

Who Can’t Renew Their Passport Online?

You will not be eligible to renew your passport online if:

• You’re changing your name, gender, date of birth, or place of birth
• You’re traveling internationally in less than 11 weeks from the date of the application
• You do not have your old passport in your possession (because it was lost or stolen)
• You’re under 25 years old
• Your passport was issued more than 15 years ago
• Your are renewing a passport that was only valid for 5 years (passports issued to minors under 16 years old)

How Much Will Online Passport Renewal Cost?

Online passport renewals will cost the same as standard passport renewals. However, unlike with mailed applications, you can pay any fees with a credit card (and get those credit card miles for travel). You’ll also save money on postage (which can be significant if you want tracking to ensure your package arrived safely).

Where Can I Get Digital Copies of My Passport Photo?

To renew online, applicants must upload their passport photo as a digital file. Photos must be unedited and scanned photos will not be accepted. Your digital photo must be:

• At least 600 x 600 pixels
• In JPEG format
• In color
• No smaller than 54 kilobytes and no larger than 10 megabytes
• High-resolution (see further rules and suggestions regarding image compression on the State Department website) 

Many stores offer passport photo services, but not all will provide a digital copy of the images. CVS offers a USB with digital copies of the passport photo along with two physical copies for roughly $32 ($16 for the photo service, $16 for the USB). For those who prefer to skip the USB, Staples will send digital copies of your photos via email for $14.99.

While many people prefer the guarantee that their store-bought photo will meet all government requirements, budget-conscious travelers can also opt to take their own passport photo at home. Check out our how-to guide for the most up-to-date sizing and requirements.

How Do I Submit an Online Passport Application?

First, applicants must create a MyTravelGov account and wait for the account to be verified before they can begin their application. Verification can take up to 24 hours.  

Applicants do not need to mail in their old passport but be warned—old passports will be immediately deactivated upon submission. Furthermore, other than skipping the time applications would have spent in the mail before reaching the Processing Center, processing times for online renewal are the same as mail-in applications. Online submission takes the hassle out of applying for a renewal but don’t count on it to shorten your wait time.  

Online passport renewal is temporarily closed to new applicants. The portal will reopen to applicants periodically in the near future and then permanently at the close of the testing phase. Monitor the State Department website for announcements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Passport Renewal

When should I renew my passport?

Many countries require passports to be valid for at least six months after a traveler’s date of departure from the destination and some also require at least one blank page on the passport for the entry stamp. Even if your passport will be valid for the duration of your trip, it may need to be renewed to meet these requirements. Check the State Department website for information on your destination.

Can I renew my passport card online?

Yes, you can renew a passport book, card, or both online.

Does my old passport need to be expired to renew my passport?

You can renew your passport before your old passport expires, however your old passport will be immediately deactivated upon submission of the application.

Do I need to renew my passport if I move?

You do not need to renew or update your passport with a change of address if you move.

How long is my passport valid for?

Passports issued to minors under 16 years of age are only valid for 5 years, while passports issued to those over 16 years of age are valid for 10 years. 

Do I need a passport if I have a REAL ID?

Travelers must have a passport to travel internationally. You cannot travel internationally with just the REAL ID. To learn more about the REAL ID and what it can and cannot do, check out our article Everything Travelers Need to Know About the REAL ID Act.

Carol McPherson contributed to this story.

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