The Eagles in the fall, the South 9th Street Italian Market Festival in the spring, ice skating at Dilworth Plaza in the winter or strolling Independence National Historical Park in the spring; Philadelphia is a city graced with all four seasons. Yes, it's hot and humid in the summer. Yes, it's bitterly cold in the winter, but that doesn't mean an end to the party.

Philly is the kind of city that you can enjoy with or without crowds, with money to burn or a tight purse; whenever you're ready to visit, the City of Brotherly Love is always waiting – with a cheesesteak in hand.

Low season: October through February

Best time for budget travelers

The early half of the low season sees comfortable temperatures during the day (ranging between 85-79 degrees), perfect for a bit of sightseeing, shopping or dining outdoors. At night, the temps dip, but grab a coat and watch the city's architecture come alive with colorful and spectacular light shows. Head to Boathouse Row during the holidays to marvel at sparkling lights affixed to the grand Victorian and Tudor homes along the east bank of the Schuykill River.

Heading into the actual winter months, expect fewer tourists (locals aren't going anywhere) and a dip in hotels and airfares (not including the holiday seasons).

Shoulder season: March through May

Best time to sightsee

The weather is cold but not freezing like in January. You definitely will want to check the weather before arriving. March is the last month of snowstorm season. But don't let a few snowflakes stop you, wear a thick coat, sweatshirt and a thick pair of socks while exploring the historic landmarks in downtown Philadelphia. For the sports lover, head to South Philly to check out the Philadelphia 76 Sixers or Philadelphia Flyers in action.

High season: June through September

Best time to enjoy outdoor festivals

During summer, the temperatures begin to rise to hot and steamy, and crowds descend on popular parts of town. Expect to pay more for hotels and flights and possibly elbow a few people at some of the city's most famous landmarks.

Head to Spruce Street Harbor, an outdoor park situated under a canopy of trees next to the Delaware River, to keep cool. Spruce Street Harbor offers everything from Stand-Up Paddle Board yoga to Taco Tuesday, live musical performances, to roller and ice skating.

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January

In the winter months, Dilworth Plaza, located at the doorsteps of City Hall, is transformed into a festive holiday park offering ice skating and mini cabins to grab a bite to eat and a warm beverage.
Key events: Mummers Parade, Chinese New Year.

February

The Philadelphia Flower Show always draws large crowds despite the threat of snowstorms. If you're willing to brave the genuinely frigid temps, you'll be rewarded with low-season deals for hotels and flights.
Key events: Black history month events.

April

Cherry blossoms usher in the arrival of spring as the city shakes off the final traces of winter.
Key events: Penn Relays, Philadelphia Black Pride, Philadelphia Science Festival, Subaru Cherry Blossom.

May

Held during the second Saturday of May, the Dad Vail Regatta is the largest regular intercollegiate rowing event in the United States, drawing over 100 colleges and universities from North America. The regatta has been held annually on the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, since 1953.
Key events: South 9th Street Italian Market Festival, Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby & Arts Festival.

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June

June is the start of peak travel to the city with larger crowds and higher hotel rates. Book ahead as much as possible.  The Odunde Festival is a one-day festival catered to Black American interests and the African diaspora. It's derived from the tradition of the Yoruba people of Nigeria in celebration of the new year. Another growing Philly tradition is the annual Roots Picnic – a one-day music festival hosted by Philly’s own The Roots. Catch performances from a slew of new artists and established headliners.
Key events: Philly Pride, Philly Beer Week, Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts.

July

The days are sweltering and humid, and you can expect huge crowds in the city for Independence Day celebrations. To cool down, head for shadier sections of Fairmount Park. One of the biggest events of the month is Welcome America Philadelphia. The festival begins the third week of June and lasts until July 4. Enjoy Ice Cream Day, Build a Hoagie Day or attend movie screenings or free concerts.
Key event: Bastille Day.

August

It's still pretty hot, and the crowds haven't let up yet. Check out The Black Star Film Festival – an annual celebration of the visual and storytelling traditions of the African diaspora and global communities of color.
Key events: Philadelphia Folk Festival, Citadel County Spirit USA.

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September

The heat breaks. Kids go back to school, and the semester begins at the city's many colleges and universities – making this a busy season for visitors.
Key events: Made in America, Fringe Festival, Audi Festival, Labor Day.

October

Eastern State Penitentiary is a historic prison where a few noteworthy mobsters like Al Capone and “Slick Willie Sutton” have had extended stays. You have several options to tour the prison, which is now in ruin.
Key events: Revolutionary Germantown Festival, Philadelphia Film Festival.

November

It's getting darker and colder now – the average low is 40°F  – though the appearance of holiday decorations and lights brightens up Center City and Rittenhouse Sq.
Key events: Philadelphia Marathon, Thanksgiving parade.

December

Christmas lights sparkle but bundle up as temperatures are low at around 31°F, with ice and snow almost guaranteed. This is an excellent time to enjoy Philly's many galleries and museums.
Key events: Army-Navy game.

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Charming Charleston makes you feel like you stepped back in time with its striking architecture and easy-going rhythm. But this modern city's incredible cuisine reflects the diversity of its population, as does its cultural scene.

This historic port has incredible beaches, markets and historical sites on offer and plenty of them are free to visit. Our round up of the best free things to do in Charleston will make sure your next vacation doesn't bust your budget.

1. Angel Oak Tree

One of Charleston’s most popular attractions is also one of its most unique. Located on Johns Island, around 11 miles outside of the city, this southern live oak tree is said to be 1500 years old (others say it's only 400 to 500 years old).

Whatever the truth, it's one of the oldest living organisms east of the Mississippi, standing 66.5ft tall and measuring 28ft around. Its thick branches shoot off in all directions, in many cases twisting to the ground and back up again. There’s no admission for Angel Oak Tree. There’s no climbing allowed either.

2. Charleston City Market

Attracting browsers and buyers since 1804, Charleston City Market bustles with more than 300 vendors hawking everything from sweetgrass baskets to piping-hot biscuits. Running for four blocks, this vibrant, open-air market is one of the oldest in the USA and is a great way to get a feel for the city.

Some travelers may feel it's a bit schlocky, but there are interesting finds and locally-made products here. Look out for items marked with a 'Certified Authentic Handmade in Charleston' seal. The night market is held in the same space and displays the wares of more than 100 local artists and craftspeople.

3. Folly Beach

There are a dozen islands within an hour's drive of Charleston, nearly of which have great beaches. Day-trippers will usually opt for Sullivan's Island or the Isle of Palms, whilst families head for Edisto Island. But Folly Beach, a motorway of white sand and gnarly waves just nine miles from the city, that is the ideal all-rounder for beach lovers.

4. Rainbow Row

With its 13 candy-colored houses, this stretch of Georgian row houses on lower E Bay St is one of the most photographed areas in Charleston. The structures date back to 1730, when they served as merchant stores on the wharf, a sketchy part of town at the time. Starting in the 1920s the buildings were restored and painted over in pastels. People dug it, and soon much of the rest of Charleston was getting a similar makeover.

5. Gateway Walk

Created in 1930 to celebrate Charleston’s 250th anniversary, the Gateway Walk is a loose, natural path that winds through several church grounds and overgrown graveyards between St John's Lutheran Church and St Philip's Church. Best visited in spring, when the wildflowers are in bloom, this much-loved local route will make you feel like you’ve stumbled on a secret all year round.

6. Charleston Tea Garden

A 35-minute drive out of the city on Wadmalaw Island, Charleston Tea Garden is America's only large-scale tea plantation. No enslaved people were ever held or forced to work here. Instead it was William Barclay Hall, a third-generation tea taster trained in London, who managed to turn this farm into a commercial operation.

Established in 1963, the owners were the first to create a tea made from 100% American-grown leaves. Today the Garden has free factory tours and tastings. Trolley tours, however, are charged.

7. Arthur Ravenel Jr Bridge

With its two sail-like concrete towers, this 471m-long cable-stayed bridge across the Cooper River is arguably the city’s most impressive construction. Named after the Republican politician who ran for the state Senate in 1996 just to get it built, Charleston’s much-loved suspension bridge cost an eye-watering US$531 million.

The drive across it is spectacular, but the best way to appreciate it is by walking or cycling via its pedestrian walkway – though probably not in April when the annual Cooper River Bridge Run sees 40,000 people legging it over too.

8. College of Charleston

With lush landscaping, which includes live oaks draped in Spanish moss, as well as its historic mansions and homes, it’s little wonder the College of Charleston campus has been called America's most beautiful. Spread over a few city blocks at the center of Charleston's downtown, travelers can visit South Carolina’s oldest university for free. Both self-guided and student-led tours are free.

9. The Battery and White Point Garden

For a walk steeped in history head to The Battery and White Point Garden at the southern tip of the Charleston Peninsula. Buffered by a seawall, it takes its name from the fortifications that used to line the seafront here and the mounds of oyster shells that once piled over the point.

Stroll past cannons and statues of military heroes in the gardens, then walk south along Charleston Harbor (the confluence of the Ashley and Cooper Rivers will be at your left) and look for Fort Sumter, whose bombardment by the South Carolina militia started the American Civil War.

10. Farmers Market

Each Saturday, Charleston's terrific farmers market sells local produce, including homemade food and drinks. For budget travelers, it’s the art and free entertainment that's worth checking out.

11. ArtWalk

On the first Friday of every month, more than 40 galleries in Downtown Charleston open their doors for free and host events, activities and special programs. There’s often a variety of styles on show, from both regional and national artists, and the Charleston Gallery Association has a map on its website which allows travelers to enjoy the ArtWalk by themselves all year round.

12. Waterfront Park

This lovely, eight-acre park on the Cooper River is notable for its landscape architecture and the eye-catching Pineapple Fountain which you’ll see across the city on everything from postcards to tourism brochures. If it’s hot, make like the locals and wade into one of pools that dot Waterfront Park.

13. Palmetto Trail

A short drive from Charleston, the Palmetto Trail is a boon for outdoor enthusiasts. When completed, this mountain-to-sea route will ribbon 500 miles from Walhalla in Oconee County to Awendaw in Charleston County, cutting through acres of Palmetto forests, the palm tree that features on South Carolina’s state flag.

There are two good routes that begin close to Charleston: the 7.1-mile Awendaw Passage, which offers wonderful vistas of Lowcountry salt marsh, and the Swamp Fox Passage, which at 47.6 miles is the longest stretch of the trail, but can be completed in small chunks.

14. Sullivan’s Island

Only ten minutes by car from Charleston itself, Sullivan's Island is where life comes to slow right down. At 3.3 miles long, this barrier island of wispy dunes and white sand beaches is ideal for doing very little at all. Fishing, maybe. Cycling through the marshes, if you fancy it. Photography, if you can muster the energy. Beach walks, however, are almost mandatory.

This article was originally published on March 4, 2021.

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Edwardian novelist E.M. Forester might have made the phrase Room with a View synonymous with the romance, passion and thrill of travel, but he was just calling them like he saw them.

Since his classic was published in 1908, hotels have only gotten taller, glassier and farther-flung to some of the most scenic regions of the globe, giving travelers a bird's-eye view of all the exciting splendor they came so far to see.

From urban skyscraper views out of glass-walled rooms to tropical fish and coral seen through a glass floor, some hotels around the globe take the room with a view concept to a whole new level. Here we check out ten hotel rooms with the best views on the planet, making sure to cover all the bases from urban to the remote, luxury to affordable. The only general qualifier is that this view is one you won’t ever forget.

Le Meridien, Bora Bora

The view: Colorful reefs without getting wet

On an Instagram-perfect white sand islet lined up just right for a dead-center view of Mt Otemanu, Le Méridien Bora Bora 's out-of-this-world hotel room views were built to wow. The overwater bungalows hover over the Tiffany-blue lagoon synonymous with Bora Bora and feature glass-bottom floors big enough to lay your entire body across. You can spend hours watching the reef from your floor, or you can grab your snorkel mask and hop off your balcony to get even more up close and personal.

While overwater bungalows (and Bora Bora) in general are definitely a bucket-list splurge for most, Le Méridien is more affordable than similar properties on the island. And, thanks to a recent renovation, it also has a more modern look than its neighbors. The property even hosts a sea turtle rehab center, and guests have the option of paying a visit to the turtles during their stay.

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Longitude 131° at Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa, Australia

The view: Two natural wonders at once

The only hotel in Australia to offer views of the iconic red curves of both Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa, Longitude 131° has some of the best views in the world. The entire property makes the most of its location, with floor-to-ceiling glass in the lobby and the Dune House bar and restaurant.

There are 15 private, luxe tents wrapped in glass with views of what was once known as Ayers Rock by European settlers right at the foot of your bed. The tents are kitted out with details like private balconies with day beds, fireplaces and en-suite rain showers. But it's the Dune Pavilion suite that boasts panoramic views of both of the massive landforms held sacred by the Pitjantjatjara and Aṉangu people and mythologized in the Aboriginal Dreamtime.

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Kimpton EPIC Miami, USA

The view: A birds-eye-view of the party scene

Fresh off a top-to-bottom renovation that modernized the rooms, the Kimpton EPIC Hotel offers views to match its name. The hotel sits in the middle of the downtown Miami skyline with rooms and suites that feature floor-to-ceiling walls of glass overlooking the financial district and Miami River. What really sets this property apart are the spacious balconies in every room. Book a corner suite for not one, but two balconies, including one off of the bathroom that also boasts a window wall.

More views can be found on the terrace of its house restaurant Area 31, which serves seasonal Mediterranean fare and does an excellent happy hour. There are even top-notch views from the adjacent swimming pool area. Other luxe amenities here include an outlet of Exhale Spa with fantastic deep pressure massages; and Zuma, one of Miami’s hottest modern Japanese restaurants. Don't forget to share the view with man's best friend – the Kimpton EPIC is fabulously-dog friendly and never charges a fee for pups of any size.

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The Silo Hotel, Cape Town, South Africa

The view: A luxurious perch over one of the world's busiest harbors

The views from the pillowed glass windows at The Silo Hotel in Cape Town are legendary. Set inside an old grain elevator in the vibrant V&A Waterfront, The Silo is one of the most luxe of the city's newer properties. The rooms and suites are stylishly decorated with a contemporary but romantic appeal and have become a favorite spot for honeymooning couples and social media influencers alike.

The views don’t stop in the rooms (and bathrooms), either. Head up to the roof for panoramas across the Mother City, including the harbor area, Table Mountain and the ocean. The Silo Hotel also features a swimming pool with glass sides for uninterrupted viewing.

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A Room with a View, this hotel affords numerous views of Paris' most iconic sites, including the Eiffel Tower © Francis Amland / Dorchester Collection" data-embed-button="images" data-entity-embed-display="media_image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"image_style":"","image_link":""}" data-entity-type="media" data-entity-uuid="c280e886-f096-4ded-abe9-b00b17c6f326" data-langcode="en" title="suite-eiffel-hotel-plaza-athenee.jpg">

Hôtel Plaza Athénée, Paris

The view: The Eiffel Tower, need we say any more?

If your idea of a perfect morning in Paris is throwing open your balcony doors and seeing the Eiffel Tower nearly straight ahead a la Carrie Bradshaw in the final season of Sex and the City, you're in luck. That scene was filmed in the Eiffel Suite right here at the Hôtel Plaza Athénée, an Art Nouveau palace hotel which has been at the center of the Paris social scene since opening in 1911.

With a fabulous location in the 8th arrondissement walking distance from the Champs-Élysées, you're right in the middle of it all. And the views at this opulent five-star landmark don’t diminish after dark either – at night you have front row seats to the tower’s impressive light show just across the Seine. There are multiple dining options onsite, too, including renowned chef Jean Imbert's new Le Relais Plaza.

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Jade Mountain, St Lucia

The view: The transfixing serenity of St Lucia's natural splendor

The 29 postmodern suites at Jade Mountain in St Lucia have just three walls and a roof, leaving the fourth open to bring the outdoors inside. It is an amazing design scheme that, combined with the resort’s hilltop locale, creates unobstructed sight lines to the jungle, ocean and soaring mountains. The suites also feature either double Jacuzzi baths or private infinity swimming pools, so choose the style that best fits your vibe. Either way, you'll be tempted to linger in your room.

The adults-only resort is one of the most luxe in St Lucia and butlers attend to every whim here. You can even enjoy all your meals in your room, should you choose. Jade Mountain’s sister property Anse Chastanet Resort is just down the hill and guests have access to its spa, dive center, restaurant and beach if you do decide to grab your room key and venture out.

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InterContinental San Francisco, USA

The view: Golden panoramas of the Golden City

Touch a button and the seriously stunning cityscape fades to black as the shades automatically draw close for sleep at the InterContinental San Francisco. Just make sure to set your alarm for a few minutes before sunrise then hit that button again to rise and shine to the city bathed in a brilliant golden pink glow. This glass tower skyscraper hotel is in a convenient SoMa location walking distance from Union Square, and fits right in as part of the downtown skyline.

At night, the views from the floor-to-ceiling wrap-around glass walls – extending all the way into the bathroom in some – are the best in the city. You can watch a light show play out from various buildings and as far as the Golden Gate Bridge from your super comfy bed in the newly renovated rooms and suites. Many rooms also come with Molekule air purification systems, which remove dust and allergens from the air and led to a great night’s sleep (especially when traveling with a dog – the InterContinental is pet friendly). The Michelin-stared restaurant Luce on the ground floor is worth a reservation, and a brief break from taking in 49 square miles of bliss.

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Hotel Explora Patagonia, Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

The view: A snow-globe come to life

Set on the shore of Lake Pehoé in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park, Explora Patagonia Hotel features in-your-face panoramic views of the Paine Massif from large picture windows. The interior room design here features varying types of wood and neutral colors so as not to compete with the natural beauty outside. The hotel makes a great base for exploring this wild region of Chile, whether you're into brief day excursions or rewarding yourself after completing a Torres del Paine thru-hike. Daily rates at the property are inclusive of food and drinks, as well as more than 40 different outdoor door activities from hiking to horseback riding.

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Park Hyatt Tokyo, Japan

The view: The bright lights of the big city

If you’ve seen Lost in Translation then you know the Park Hyatt Tokyo. It’s been nearly two decades since Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson got the world to fall in love with it, and yet this legendary five-star property still makes the list.

Covering the top floors of a glass skyscraper in the Shinjuku district, the best rooms have views of Mount Fuji and the city skyline from walls of glass. The 52nd floor New York Bar and Grill should not be missed, and not just because of it's big-time feature in Lost in Translation. The bar remains a Tokyo hotspot with excellent cocktails, live jazz and killer views.

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Le Sirenuse, Amalfi Coast, Italy

The view: One of the most romantic views of the ocean in the world

A favorite of honeymooners and artists, Le Sirenuse offers deeply romantic views of the Mediterranean, not to mention the colorful coastal hillsides of Positano coated in terraced buildings. It's inspired such creative greats as John Steinbeck, who stayed here in 1953 and called it "a dream place that...becomes beckoningly real after you have gone."

These days, however, you might be more likely to see the Sirenuse flash by on your Instagram feed. The rooms boast private terraces and balconies perfect for fruit-filled breakfasts overlooking the sea, while inside the design is simple, classic Italian luxe, with Amalfi tiles, Frette linen sheets and well-selected antiques. If you can tear yourself away from the scenery, you'll have no problem falling asleep with turn-down niceties like Italian chocolates on the pillow, too.

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This article was originally published on December 4, 2019.

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A love of nature is deeply ingrained in the Swedish national character, so it’s unsurprising that the country’s capital ranks near the top among world cities in terms of green space. Covering 40 percent of Stockholm’s area, the city’s public parks and gardens are diverse, ranging from tiny squares to Nationalstadsparken, the world’s first National City Park, established in 1995 and made up of several contiguous natural areas that together cover 27 square kilometers (nearly 10½ square miles).

Any list of top parks in Stockholm is sure to be incomplete, but here are some highlights including both well-known classics and slightly off-the-beaten-path parks worth visiting for scenic views, recreation or specific attractions.

Djurgården

Part of Nationalstadsparken, Djurgården is Stockholm’s green lung. A former royal hunting park, this large island east of the city center is home to many museums as well as abundant fields, meadows and woodlands, including one of Sweden’s most northerly beech forests. Near the island’s eastern tip is Isbladsviken, once an inlet of the Baltic Sea but now a lake that attracts plentiful birdlife including swans, ducks, geese, herons and lapwings.

Djurgården’s many trails are easily explored on foot or on two wheels. Bicycles and maps are available at the Djurgården Visitor Center next to the Djurgården Bridge.

Waldemarsudde

On a small peninsula on the south side of Djurgården lies Waldemarsudde, the former home of Prince Eugen, the youngest brother of Gustav V. A noted landscape painter and art collector, the prince left his property to the Swedish state when he passed away in 1947. His house is now an art museum.

The surrounding park has terraces, gardens and walking paths with fine views of Djurgården and the Baltic approach to Stockholm. Scattered throughout the grounds are sculptures purchased by Prince Eugen. Also on the property is an 18th-century Dutch-style windmill that was a favorite motif in the prince’s paintings. A café in the park serves lunch and snacks in summer.

Kungsträdgården

This small park at the heart of Stockholm began life as a royal kitchen garden in the 1400s and has evolved into one of the city’s most beloved gathering spots, with a rectangular pool, fountains, a giant chessboard, many cafés and restaurants, and a more formal garden section surrounding a statue of the warrior king Karl XII.

During the warmer months, Kungsträdgården comes alive with festivals and other events. In spring the Japanese cherry trees lining the pedestrian avenues on either side burst into glorious pink bloom. In winter there’s ice skating around the towering statue of another Karl (XIII) in the center of the park.

Humlegården

Just off busy Stureplan, Humlegården is an oasis within the Östermalm shopping and nightclub district. In 1619 Gustav II Adolf created a royal kitchen garden here to grow fruit, herbs, and the hops ( humle) that gave the park its name. His daughter, Queen Christina, converted Humlegården into a baroque garden with pedestrian avenues lined with linden trees. A later redesign added winding paths and trees from various parts of the world. Recreational facilities include a large playground and a youth center with a skateboard ramp, a playing field, a basketball court, and an outdoor gym.

Kungliga Biblioteket (the National Library of Sweden) dominates Humlegården’s southern end. In the center of the park, a statue of famed Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus stands on a high plinth surrounded by four female figures representing botany, zoology, medicine and mineralogy.

Observatorielunden

Observatorielunden is located just off Stockholm’s busiest street, Sveavägen, but its hilltop location makes it feel much more removed, making it a nice spot for a picnic or just some relaxation. At the highest point stands the old Stockholm Observatory, built in the 18th century. It’s no longer in operation, but there are good views of Vasastan from the terrace, as well as a café famous for its waffles.

At the park’s northeastern edge lies Stadsbiblioteket, Stockholm’s iconic city library with a famous rotunda. To its south, Sigrid Fridman’s 1936 sculpture of a centaur stands on a precipice, seemingly ready to leap over the edge. Below, a reflecting pool surrounded by benches and willow trees dominates the park’s lower elevations along Sveavägen.

Vasaparken

This inner-city park is a popular spot for year-round recreation. Here you’ll find grassy areas and walking paths shaded by large trees, as well as a minigolf course, a playground centered around an artificial rubber hill, basketball and pétanque courts, an outdoor gym and a dog park. In winter a playing field is converted into an ice skating rink.

Along the southern side of Vasaparken is a small garden designed to stimulate all five senses with seasonal plants including flowers, herbs, berry plants and bushes.

Rålambshovsparken

At the north end of Västerbron (the Western Bridge), which connects Kungsholmen and Södermalm, lies Rålambshovsparken, a grassy, tree-lined park with front-row views of Lake Mälaren. A popular venue for concerts, outdoor theater and other events, “Rålis” also has a variety of recreational facilities including jogging trails, a playground, a kiddie pool, an outdoor gym, a climbing wall, and pétanque and beach volleyball courts. Beneath Lilla Västerbron there are basketball hoops and a skatepark.

In summer Rålambshovsparken is a popular spot for picnics, sunbathing and dips in Lake Mälaren. In winter the park’s outdoor amphitheater is converted into an ice skating rink.

Långholmen

Once an infamous prison island, Långholmen is now full of people seeking escape from urban stress rather than from jail. Much of the island is parkland, with meandering walking paths, luxuriant vegetation and two popular swimming spots. The former prison is now a hostel and museum.

Långholmen’s eastern end provides stunning views across Lake Mälaren to Kungsholmen, Stadshuset and Gamla Stan. On the west side, there are pretty allotment gardens, as well as exposed cliffs and mixed parkland with more lake views. Along the south side, Pålsundet, the narrow channel separating Långholmen from Södermalm, is lined with long rows of small boats. There are kayaks for rent near Pålsundet's western end.

Skinnarviksparken

For panoramic views of Lake Mälaren, Gamla Stan, Stadshuset, Kungsholmen and Västerbron, head to Skinnarviksparken on Södermalm. The park’s western side has walking paths through landscaped areas with many trees, lawns and benches. The eastern section contains Stockholm’s highest natural point, a rocky outcrop known as Skinnarviksberget, which tops out at 53m (just under 174ft). Its unobstructed vistas make it a popular picnic spot and one of the best places in Stockholm to catch a summer sunset.

The name Skinnarviksparken comes from the skinnare (tanners) who lived and worked in this area starting in the 1600s. The unpleasant smells from the tanneries meant that they had to set up operations away from populated areas. Several 18th-century wooden houses remain along Gamla Lundagatan and Ludvigsbergsgatan by the park’s southeastern corner.

Tantolunden

Tantolunden’s mixed elevations, abundant vegetation and diverse recreational opportunities make it a favorite park among locals. In summer, swimmers and sun worshippers flock to its beach, which has jetties, a jumping tower and a beach volleyball court. Other facilities include a minigolf course, a playground, an outdoor gym and a dog park. In winter, there’s good sledding on the park’s slopes.

One of the most delightful things to do in Tantolunden is to take a walk among the many allotment gardens with lush flower beds, vegetable patches and quaint little cottages.

Vitabergsparken

During the 18th and 19th centuries the now-trendy Södermalm district was one of the poorest parts of Stockholm. Vitabergsparken was created in the late 1800s to give local factory workers access to a bit of nature. With varied terrain, broad lawns and plenty of trees it’s a popular spot for picnics and other activities. In addition to walking paths, there’s a dog park, a playground and a kiddie pool, as well as allotment gardens and a summer café. In winter, the park’s hills draw sledding enthusiasts.

Several well-preserved 19th-century wooden houses remain in the streets around Sofia Church, which crowns the park’s highest point in its northwest corner.

Ivar Los Park

Named for the author Ivar Lo-Johansson (1901-1990), who lived across the street, this tiny park on the heights of Södermalm, west of Slussen, is a popular spot for adults and children alike. The charming playground has a rural theme, with wooden farm animals and playhouses designed to look like farm buildings. The grassy slope below is a popular picnic spot thanks to its panoramic view of Gamla Stan, Stadshuset and Lake Mälaren.

Hagaparken

Located on the western shore of Brunnsviken, just north of the city center, Hagaparken is a classic English landscape garden with lawns, woodlands and semi-open landscapes dotted with architectural features such as the Echo Temple, a Chinese pavilion and a Turkish kiosk. Gustav III commissioned the park and most of its structures, though some of his plans remained unfinished following his assassination in 1792.

Near the main park entrance stand Koppartälten (the Copper Tents), connected buildings with blue-and-gold facades designed to look like Roman campaign tents. Erected as housing for Gustav’s lifeguards, they now house a café and a free museum about Hagaparken.

Bergianska Trädgården

Trees, bushes, flowers and herbs from all over the world thrive in this botanical garden, which occupies a beautiful waterfront setting on the eastern shore of Brunnsviken. Exhibits include lush flowerbeds, vegetable and herb gardens, a fruit orchard and wetlands. Three rockeries represent mountains in Scandinavia, North America and Asia, with flora specific to each region. A rhododendron valley with more than 70 species blooms in late spring.

There are also two conservatories with plants from warmer climates, including the world’s largest species of water lily. There is a small admission fee to the conservatories but the park is free to access.

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After an 18-month ban on most inbound travel, the US is set to relax its stringent border rules to allow vaccinated travelers to enter. Here's what you need to know about the new travel policy.

The US closed its borders to most travelers back in March 2020, at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. While many countries around the world have loosened their restrictions around international travel – including neighboring Canada, which has lifted entry restrictions for vaccinated American and international tourists – the US had, until now, announced no plans to ease its strict border policy. However, this is set to change this fall.

When will travel restrictions be lifted?

The White House will introduce a new policy that will allow for many vaccinated international travelers to visit the US, beginning in November.

Who can then travel to the US?

At present, travelers who, in the last 14 days, have been in the UK, European Schengen Zone, Republic of Ireland, China, Iran, Brazil, South Africa and India, are barred from the US with few exceptions. But that will change from November, when the US will permit all fully vaccinated foreign travelers entry, provided they show proof of vaccination and a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of traveling to the US.

Travelers will have to wear a mask throughout their journey and provide their telephone number and email address as part of a new contract-tracing system for inbound travelers, according to CNN.

Read more: England updates international travel rules with a "new, clearer system"

What about returning vaccinated Americans?

Fully vaccinated Americans will only need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before traveling to the US, as per CDC guidelines.

What about returning unvaccinated Americans?

US citizens and permanent residents who are not fully vaccinated will still be able to enter the US but they will need to be tested within 24 hours of boarding their flight, and undergo testing upon arrival.

Do children need to be vaccinated to travel to the US?

For now, the new policy only applies to adult travelers. There will be some exceptions for children who are not yet eligible to be vaccinated.

What vaccines does the US accept for travel?

The CDC accepts vaccines authorised by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) which currently include the Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson jabs. It is not yet clear if it will add vaccines approved by the World Health Organisation for emergency use such as AstraZeneca, which is widely used throughout Europe, and China’s Sinovac.

Will the US/Mexico/Canada land border reopen?

The new rules do not yet apply to travelers crossing land borders with Mexico and Canada. Nonessential travel restrictions at these borders have been extended until October 21, with no announcement from the White House on whether they will be dropped in time for the return of international travel.

Will I need a health pass?

Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test are increasingly required for aspects of daily life in the US, such as eating indoors, going to a museum or tourist site, or attending concerts and large events. But the patchwork of rules surrounding these passes can be a little confusing, particularly as there is no standardized system in the US. So what you need and where you're expected to use it depends on where you're going.

In New York City, for example, proof of vaccination is required to dine or drink indoors at restaurants, bars and cafes; and to visit gyms, fitness classes, theaters and other entertainment venues. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result are needed to gain entry to similar venues in New Orleans, and in O'ahu and Maui in Hawaii.

In California, proof of vaccination is required across many indoor venues in San Francisco, and to access indoor bars and nightclubs in Los Angeles County. It will soon be needed to visit theme parks such as Universal Studios Hollywood and Six Flags from October 7.

There are other cities and counties across the US where proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test is required as a condition of entry so always check ahead before planning any travel. As a tourist, you'll need to have proof of vaccination to enter the US anyway so it's a good idea to keep that proof with you at all times to reduce the risk of being denied entry to certain places.

This article was first published on September 20 and updated on September 21, 2021.

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There's nothing like a Springsteen song to make you want to travel. The lyrics are packed with the pleasures and freedom of the open road, escaping "a town full of losers", and the redemptive magic of a "last-chance power drive.” Though he's forever known as a Jersey boy, Springsteen's lyrics have carried listeners far beyond the boardwalks of the Shore. To celebrate The Boss turning 72 on September 23, we pulled together a list of travel destinations in the US straight from his songs, along with why you might want to visit them. So leave the familiar streets behind for somewhere new with the love of your life or your best buddy by your side.

It’s midnight in Manhattan: New York City

Springsteen's characters weren't rooted in Jersey, like "Magic Rat" who drove "his sleek machine/over the Jersey state line" or Billy and Diamond Jackie who enjoyed a  "boogaloo down Broadway". Like the stars of "Jungleland" and "New York City Serenade", you'll find plenty to do in the New York City.

Travel through Manhattan, where you'll find some of the city's most iconic sites. There's incredible architecture in every direction, like the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, and Grand Central Terminal. Don't miss world-class museums – head to the Met for antiquities, the Guggenheim for abstract and contemporary exhibitions, and The Whitney for American greats like Warhol and O'Keeffe. And of course, New York boasts theater-galore, not to mention fantastic live music – try jazz in Harlem if you're craving a Clarence Clemons sax solo. On a budget? Then check out the free things you can do in the city.

I went out for a ride and I never went back: Baltimore

The opening lines to "Hungry Heart" would have you believe that it’s not worth hanging around in Baltimore, but don't fall for it. There's a vibrant waterfront that plays host to one of the best aquariums in the US, which includes a rooftop rainforest and a re-creation of an Indo-Pacific reef. The American Visionary Art Museum hosts a collection from "self-taught" artists and is a world-class zone of creativity. Check out the food scene too, where you can find anything from fantastic sushi burritos to biscuits and gravy. There's plenty to keep those hungry hearts in town.

Meet me tonight in Atlantic City

Atlantic City, the largest city on the Jersey Shore, doesn’t have a lot of the Prohibition-era glamour seen in TV series Boardwalk Empire, but there are still many good reasons to visit. You could try your luck in the casinos, or keep to a tighter budget at the amusement arcades on the Steel Pier. There are plenty of spots to chill out along the vast beach, and you won't want to miss a stroll along the atmospheric boardwalk.

Southern California, down San Diego way

The protagonist in "Rosalita (Come Out Tonight)" is hoping to liberate Rosalita from her overbearing parents and run away to "a pretty little place in Southern California, down San Diego way" – and it really is an incredibly beautiful part of the world. In Southern California you’ll find vast desert landscapes, glorious beaches and spectacular alpine areas. San Diego is a laid-back place with a world-famous zoo, and a massive cultural hub at Balboa Park, packed with museums and art galleries.

4th of July, Asbury Park (Sandy)

Asbury Park experienced a revival in the 2000s with hip restaurants downtown and new property developments beachside, giving it more to its name than simply the Springsteen legacy. But while you’re there, be sure to stop by rock venue Stone Pony where Bruce and other musicians started their careers.

Trouble in the heartland: Badlands National Park

Bruce’s "Badlands" lyrics may be more focused on the struggle to get by than the stunning Badlands National Park in South Dakota, but all the same, consider driving the 40-mile Badlands Loop Rd to see its key sights. Look out for incredible cliffs, bighorn sheep and prairie dogs as you go, then park up to take on one of the impressive hiking trails.

Streets of Philadelphia

The charming city of Philadelphia is packed with street art, superb places to eat (be sure to join the locals for a meal at Reading Terminal Market) and several historic sites. Independence Historical National Park is the spot where the foundations of US government were built, and McGillan’s Olde Ale House is a historic tavern that survived the Prohibition era. Explore Philadelphia Museum of Art, which holds a massive collection of art and architecture from around the world.

Gonna meet down at the Cadillac Ranch

The song "Cadillac Ranch" is dedicated to cars and how we’ll all end up in a junkyard eventually. Cadillac Ranch itself is a massive sculpture off I-40 in a field near Amarillo, Texas, made up of 10 Cadillacs (some literally saved from being junked). They’re all half-buried standing on their ends hood first. The site has evolved over the years as visitors have added scribbles and colors to the cars. Take some spray paint and add your mark when you visit.

Here in Youngstown

Springsteen digs deep into the history of Youngstown, Ohio on his song of the same name, charting its history from the moment a miner first struck ore "back in eighteen-o-three." You can do the same at the Youngstown Historical Center of Industry and Labor, before exploring the broader region – Youngstown is sandwiched between Cleveland to the northwest and Pittsburgh to the southeast, with the Allegheny National Forest to the east. Take your pick of urban cultural offerings, outdoor adventures, or embracing the open road on the Ohio Lincoln Highway Historic Byway, which runs from Pittsburgh through Ohio along the route of America's first coast-to-coast interstate highway.

On a rattlesnake speedway in the Utah desert

Don’t get caught "chasing some mirage" in the Utah desert like the character in "The Promised Land". Instead, set your sights on Moab, the state’s adventure capital, loved by hikers, bikers, rafters and off-road drivers. Beginner mountain-bikers should try the flat 9-mile Intrepid Trail. Westwater Canyon offers some serious white-water rafting with Class III and IV rapids; and hikers will enjoy Fisher Towers Trail, which is particularly beautiful at sunset.

From the town of Lincoln, Nebraska with a sawed-off .410 on my lap

It's best to not take too much inspiration from the title track to 1982's Nebraska album – it is, after all, a fictionalization of the real-life 1950s killing spree undertaken by teens Charles Starkweather and Caril Ann Fugate. But the pair's ill-fated ride from Nebraska to Wyoming is prime road trip country, as long as you keep the mayhem to a minimum. The wide open prairies are pure Springsteen fodder, where two lanes can really take you anywhere. Here you can follow in the footsteps of ancient dinosaurs in Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, catch the annual sandhill crane migration, and take in epic starry skies free of light pollution at a Nebraska star party.

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usa's -best-destinations-have-something-for-everyone-link" href="https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-places-to-visit-in-the-usa">Canyons, volcanoes and urban adventures: the USA's best destinations have something for everyone

This article was first published on September 11, 2019.

Born in the USA: our favorite destinations in Springsteen songs

Japan darts into the future while keeping a quiet hold of its traditions. Dazzling towers of light and luxury goods sit alongside timeless temples and traditional inns with old-world manners, and Japanese dishes that continue to delight the tastebuds.

Quirky cafes and Japanese uniqueness brim with youthful glee, while sleek bullet trains zip you to turquoise beaches, ice sculptures and to hot springs nestled on emerald mountains. Japan manages to delight you instantly and have you coming back to discover its slow secrets.

This is how to get the best out of Japan, both ancient and modern.

Experience old Japan in Kyoto

With over 2000 exquisite temples, Kyoto is where traditional Japan thrives. Visiting splendid gardens and ceremonial teahouses are part of the deep dive into history. One of the most exquisite sights in the whole of Japan are the gold-leaf tiers of Kinkaku-ji beaming gloriously in the sun, with a mirror image in the pond below, framed by layers of pine trees.

The garden tradition in Kyoto has close ties to monks, emperors and philosophers. Japanese gardens are minimalist designs to allow breathing room for meditation and reflection. The finest gardens in Kyoto can show personality even through simplicity with subtle choices; a weathered bridge to represent the march of time, or unique pebbles. The most intriguing Zen garden is Ryōan-ji, a mysterious arrangement of 15 rocks.

Take an evening stroll through lantern-lit streets lined with 17th-century traditional restaurants and teahouses in the Gion entertainment and geisha quarter. There is a lot to love in Kyoto, so arrive early on a weekday to beat the crowds and enjoy some peaceful time reflecting on Japan’s living traditions.

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Drink sake in Saijō

Come to a sake town for blissfully quiet history. Lift the small cup with two hands, one supporting the bottom. Admire the gold leaf dancing on the clear sake. Sip and feel the smooth, crisp liquid go down, chased with a hint of plum. Then it’s on to the next brewery next door. Transforming rice into alcohol goes back 2000 years and some Saijō breweries date back 150 years.

For so much history, the town is an austere set of eight white-washed breweries with brick chimney stacks proclaiming the name of each brewery in Japanese. Begin your taste-testing at the Kamotsuru Sake Brewing Company where you can watch the brewing process. Feudal lords drank here during the Edo period (1604–1868) and it was this brewery that produced a gold-leaf sake that US President Obama tried in Tokyo, poured by Japanese President Abe. The sake may even entice you to declare your devotion to the god of sake .

Sleep in a capsule hotel

Get ready for a wonderfully unique Japanese experience. Scan the stacks of capsules, and step up the ladder into your 'space pod'. Sit cross-legged (there’s enough room) and enjoy the plush mattress and feeling of being cocooned in comfort.

A capsule hotel is where a bed is for sleeping and privacy, paramount in Japan. The spaciousness happens in the communal bathrooms where there are usually ample shower cubicles. On the weekends, the cheaper capsule hotels might get drunken revellers snoring, but people are usually very respectful. This is not a place for socialising, which is heaven for solo travellers that just want a good night’s rest in what looks like a spotless space station.

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Get your otaku on in Akihabara

Akihabara in Tokyo is the promised land for anime otaku (fanatics). Even if you aren’t a fan, Akihabara is worth experiencing for the height of artistic geekiness done the Japanese way. In Japan, anime is more than something you watch – it is toys, video games, fashion... and a way of life. Even big banks sometimes print anime characters onto their credit cards. Step into Akihabara and see fans bringing to characters to life in costume.

Under towers of Japanese signs and flashing lights, it’s easy to be dazzled and transported into a cartoon world. French-style maids tout you to enter a maid cafe. You can dress up as a Mario Bros game character and drive real life Go-Karts on the streets of Akihabara. While in the hundreds of stores, there are all the manga (comics), retro collectables and cutting-edge tech gadgets your otaku heart could want.

Tokyo Anime Center is especially foreigner-friendly and hosts live radio events where you can see anime artists and actors and get their autographs.

If you, or the kids, prefer a calmer way to be spirited away by anime, the Ghibli Museum in West Tokyo is also magical.

Experience a multi-course kaiseki meal

Capturing ingredients at the height of their freshness is the essence of a kaiseki meal. The tasting menu is where the height of Japanese design meets natural beauty and flavour with roots in sixteenth-century tea ceremonies. In-season ingredients make up a formal kaiseki meal, that might start with a course of sea urchin and horsehair crab, move on to a soup, and then a seasonal platter of cute dishes such as sushi and Kameoka beef.

Following courses are dedicated to in-season sashimi, colour-coordinated vegetables and tofu, grilled seasonal fish, sake, rice in a clay hot pot and dessert. In spring expect a budding cherry blossom decorating your plate. Every course is a gasp-inducing journey through Japanese ceramics and presentation in a tatami -floored room. You can experience some of the best kaiseki in Kyoto, such as at Kikunoi.

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Try every Japanese snack in a konbini

Japanese konbini (convenience stores) are one of the most fun eating experiences in Japan. It might not be fine dining, but they’re part of many Japanese bullet train journeys, and surprisingly (to most foreigners) high-quality snacks wherever you are in the country, 24-hours a day.

Delicious sushi, onigiri (rice balls filled with tuna, meat or plum), and grilled-fish bento meals are delivered around the clock so you are likely to get something fresh. There is more novelty and an explosion of choice (and matcha flavours) in the candy, beer, and green tea aisles. The most reliably good konbini are Family Mart, 7-Eleven and Lawson.

Shoot across Japan on a bullet train

Its space shuttle nose glides into the station as if from another cosmos. That galaxy is Japan where high-speed trains zip between cities up to 199 m/h (320 km) with extra-terrestrial accuracy and comfort. From the clean, comfortable seats, skyscrapers scroll whisper-quietly by, transforming into pines and rural Japan in a flash. There is a touch of yesteryear to the hardwearing carpets and putty coloured luggage racks to some train models. Yet nothing looks weathered, and there is just carriage-loads of retro-futuristic charm to Japanese bullet trains.

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Take a dip in an onsen

A hot onsen hot spring is a 3000-year tradition that takes volcanic energy and converts it to a hot bath with the power to evaporate your worries. Onsen are found all over Japan and are one of the most Japanese experiences, either within humble public bathhouses or bathing outdoors in Zen gardens. The natural settings let you really feel the delicious contrast of the hot waters against the pine-fresh open air.

You have to bathe thoroughly at separate facilities before getting in to a hot bath. Expect to get utterly naked (modesty towels are allowed at some modern baths) and refreshed head to toe.

You can try them in many ryokan and in resort towns such as Kusatsu Onsen and Beppu Onsen where budget options are available in public bathhouses. To literally dip your toes in, there are free outdoor public foot baths in onsen towns.

See the wilds of Japan in winter

Snow poised on the eaves of temples. Trees glazed with ice. Steam wafting over onsen (hot springs). Winter in Japan is a time that fewer travellers see, leaving the open spaces all to yourself. Ski and hike across powdery snow in the wilds of Hokkaidō. Or enjoy the Japanese art of cosiness in izakaya (taverns) with winter comfort dishes like oden fishcakes in a dashi broth. A side trip for taste-testing at Nikka Whisky is a warm delight. For families, the ice sculptures of Sapporo Snow Festival and the bathing wild monkeys of Jigokudani Monkey Park are fun for all ages.

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Sleep in a ryokan

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn that, at its best, is fit for a feudal lord. Staying in a ryokan room is easy and rewarding. Slip off your slippers, slide open the shoji paper-screen door, and step across the tatami mat floor of your room to the window. The sunset flickers through the maple leaves and across the futon. When you are ready, change into your yukata (traditional cotton robe) and head to the dining room for a multi-course kaiseki meal of the region’s cuisine. Afterwards, take a dip in the onsen or slip straight into your reassuringly firm bed.

Quirky Japan

Spend a day embracing Japan’s wonderfully weird side in Tokyo. Start the day at your hotel, staffed by humanoid robots. Test every button on the Japanese toilet from angled sprays for men and women to a modesty button that plays sounds of the ocean. Head out and buy a treat from one of 5 million vending machines. There are soft drinks and sugar-free green tea on every corner, but more novel choices include masks, sake, fresh popcorn, dashi stock, flowers, umbrellas, or hot corn soup. Even small restaurants often use vending machines to buy meal coupons, so staff never handle any cash.

Visit a Nintendo-themed café, Pokémon-themed café, or Tokyo Character Street for cartoon toys for kids. Finish the day with the bonkers Kawaii Monster Café.

Catch one of 200,000 festivals

Yes, there are plenty of matsuri (festivals) to celebrate snow, summer, music or any excuse possible. They are a way to catch dancers and drummers in traditional dress of each region, enjoy some street food and be dazzled by lanterns and fireworks. Things always stay orderly, making them good if you have young ones in tow. The biggest festivals worth planning for include Kyoto’s summer bash Gion Matsuri in July when you can see giant floats and locals dressed in elegant yukata (cotton robes). Sapporo’s annual snow festival Yuki Matsuri in early February includes the international snow sculpture contest, ice slides and mazes for kids.

Plum-blossom viewing is nature’s own festival, if not an official one. Pink and white blooms signal the end of February and winter. The gardens in Mito have the country’s most spectacular plum blossoms.

Make a wish at a Shinto shrine

Shinto shrines are where the Japanese pray or ask for good fortune. The kami (deities) range from the Princess Konohanasakuya, the Shinto deity of Mount Fuji, to founders of powerful clans, or local shrines to neighbourhood deities. A wall of wooden tablets ( ema) hangs at many shrines, where you can write down your wish or offering on an ema for the deities to read. For a visitor, it’s a chance to reflect and appreciate the tranquil surroundings.

A Shinto shrine is a place in harmony with nature, where the trees and wind are framed by a giant gate. Pray to the kami of rice at Kyoto's Fushimi Inari-Taisha and its tunnel of vermillion torii gates; for good exam results at plum-tree decorated Tenjin shrine Dazaifu Tenman-gū; or at an imperial shrine with a chrysanthemum crest like grand Meiji-jingū, or Japan’s oldest Shinto shrine, Izumo Taisha, in Tokyo.

Go clubbing in Tokyo

Tokyo is the cool kid of Japan’s club scene. That means a reliable night of house music at Womb, subterranean cool at Circus Tokyo and exclusive partying at Tokyo's coolest members-only club (sign up online) Contact. Leading the way for LGBTQIA+ inclusion, the raucous crowds spilling on to the street around the gay clubs of Shinjuku-Nichome show how progressive Tokyo can be.

Eat sashimi at a fish market

Japan is the largest fish-eating nation in the world. Preparing fish and seafood is an art and its fish markets are the lifeforce of that tradition. They are impeccably clean places with barely any fishy smells. Early risers can catch the wholesale auctions at their new home in Toyosu Market from behind glass. The real action is still in the laneways of Tsukiji Market. Stalls sell excellent fish cakes, sashimi bowls, fish floss and every tool to prepare seafood, including some only a pro would need (gumboots, anyone?).

Karato Ichiba is a favourite for a local vibe. On weekends, fisher folk set up stalls selling bentō of sashimi and cooked dishes of the local speciality, puffer fish (with the deadly parts removed, of course).

Relax in towns by the sea

Japan is a country borne of the sea. This is where you’ll see squid being dried on spinning racks in the sun, eat the freshest sashimi, find wooden shopfronts of yesteryear and soak up the lazy rays.

Tomonoura inspired anime maestro Hayao Miyazaki to create Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea. No wonder, the views from a hillside temple are impressive – green hills sheltering old Japanese houses and a timeless port of bobbing white boats.

The Oki Islands are a natural seaside oasis of rock formations jutting up from the water, quiet sea coves, the highest sea cliffs in Japan, traditional fishing villages, and pristine waters all to yourself. On one of many coastal walks you’ll come across varied plant life and maybe even small grazing horses.

Matsue has one of Japan’s best sunsets. The giant red orb melts into the water with a silhouette of a torii gate on a distant shimmering island.

To really go slow, Okinawa is an island dreamland.

Surf and chill

Japan has a surf scene of one million surfers, who know where to find turquoise waters and sparkling sand. Even if you can’t yet catch a wave, the best surf beaches in Japan have a chilled vibe that you can soak up. You can learn to surf at one of the schools at Shira-hama, which has year-round, easygoing breaks. Swells tend to be smaller in Japan (outside of typhoons), making it a great spot for newbies.

Ōkinohama in Shikoku is a surfer’s paradise. The jewel-like blue water is warm year-round and sees very few visitors.

Even if you are in Tokyo, the waves and summer beach shacks are just an hour away at Yuigahama Beach in Kamakura.

Eat Japanese food with locals

Wafts of charcoal yakitori chicken skewers with sweet teriyaki sauce. The sizzle of okonomiyaki seafood and cabbage ‘pancakes’ on the hotplate. Everywhere you turn there are restaurants and tiny diners serving world-beating Japanese dishes. Taking a walk through a different food style every day is one of the most exciting Japanese experiences.

For casual eating for couples and groups, a cavernous izakaya is part bar, part restaurant, and great for a good-value meal of nabemono (hotpot dishes), sashimi and grilled fish. Narukiyo in Tokyo is a favourite.

Solo travellers (and fussy kids) can join in on the fun, picking out sushi from a kaiten-sushi conveyor-belt restaurant. Numazukō is a fresh choice. Most casual ramen-ya (ramen restaurants) are filled with solo diners slurping down a bowl of ramen topped with sliced roast pork.

Plenty of small restaurants and train station stands that specialise in just one dish but taste incredible, such as kara-age (fried chicken), udon (thick wheat noodles), soba (thin buckwheat noodles) or katsu-kare (crumbed pork-cutlet in mild curry). Even small yakitori (barbecued chicken skewers) bars can wow you with their simple smoky flavours washed down with a glass of sake. A teishoku (set menu) lets you try a bit of everything (rice and miso soup included) and makes a good choice for lunch or at tempura restaurants.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima today is an attractive city of boulevards and okonomiyaki restaurants. It’s also a city that has the ability to change the way you think about world conflicts. The great wonder of the Peace Memorial Park is how the human tragedy of the atomic bomb on the city has been transformed into a message of peace. The Peace Memorial Museum is humane and moving, while the outdoor space gives visitors the breathing room to reflect with hope. There, the Children's Peace Monument is decorated with strings of thousands of paper cranes sent from schoolchildren around Japan and the world. The origami symbol of longevity and happiness is an ongoing living message of peace.

Cycle between islands around the Seto Inland sea

The  Shimanami Kaido is a place spun from the stuff of cyclists’ dreams. A 43-mile (70km) blue-painted cycle route unfurls across six islands taking in jade mountains, orange groves and sea air. From Onomichi on Honshū to Imabari on Shikoku, you can make stops to swim at secluded beaches, visit a museum dedicated to local painters, and visit shrines with sea views all to yourself. To get even more off the beaten track, take the Tobishima Kaido.

See carp swimming on a former samurai street

Tsuwano is one of those Japanese mountain towns where time seems in no hurry. Take your time up through the many torii gates to reach its hillside temple. Up there, you might be the only person taking in the spectacular views across the town and green mountains.

At the heart of Tsuwano, surrounded by sleepy sake storefronts, is a former samurai mansion. You can’t help but feel like you are in an ancient Japanese fairytale with the red-tiled eaves and a narrow canal that runs through the center of town. Swimming about are orange, gold and black carp, sparkling in the sun and going about their business as they have for two centuries.

Discover art on a rural island on Naoshima

Encountering contemporary art on an island village is a delight. On Naoshima and the surrounding islands, you’ll find traditional Japanese buildings converted into modern-art installations incorporating the island’s history. Outdoors, sun and sea air add magic to a treasure hunt of uncovering outdoor art installations. One of the most famous and joy-filled is the Yayoi Kusama Yellow Pumpkin sculpture waiting for you at the end of a jetty.

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Puerto Rico is an island that beckons visitors with world-class eats, buzzing night and arts scene and ultra-modern venues.

Over 300 miles of coastline offer a variety of beaches – from black sand to crystalline waters – while year-round warm weather provides the perfect backdrop for all sorts of outdoor activities like ziplining, hiking, canyoning and surfing, just to name a few.

Spanning only 100 miles long by 35 miles wide, you can easily drive across the island in a day – all you need is your own set of wheels to experience the many wonders the Caribbean island has to offer. Here are Puerto Rico’s must-visit destinations.

Old San Juan

The old city makes for a striking introduction to Puerto Rican culture and history. Founded a full two centuries before the Pilgrims arrived on the Mayflower, Old San Juan is one the best-preserved cities of the Americas with its blue cobblestone streets, pastel-colored buildings, and sweeping ocean views around every corner.

Best explored on foot, you can stroll through the city’s many tranquil plazas, historic churches or artisanal shops. Tour either of the commanding fortresses, El Morro or San Cristobal, a Unesco World Heritage Site, to feel like you’re on the set of Pirates of the Caribbean. For some downtime away from the crowds, grab a refreshing piragua (Puerto Rican snow cone) and head to the gardens of Museo Casa Blanca, the city’s oldest residence built in 1521.

Santurce

San Juan’s biggest and most populous neighborhood has emerged as one of the largest art districts in the Caribbean. Santurce is colorful and vibrant, especially around Calle Cerra where impressive murals canvas most buildings. Take it in on your own or sign up for a street art tour with the Art Walk PR for a more curated experience.

Santurce has also become home to the island’s trendiest art galleries, coffee shops, bars and restaurants. Drink a café at Café Comunión or dine at Vianda, which was a semifinalist for Best New Restaurant by the James Beard Foundation.

There’s no shortage of spots to choose from for a night out on the town, and the scene is a huge draw for locals and travelers alike. Check out La Esquina Watusi or La Placita, where partygoers spill out onto the streets with cold drinks in hand for impromptu open-air block parties, with lots of dancing often involved.

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Bathe under waterfalls at El Yunque National Rainforest

Hike the 25 miles of trails, swim in natural pools or bathe under waterfalls at the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System. Located in the northeastern part of the island, El Yunque is 29,000 acres of lush mountainous terrain.

See what the area has to offer on an easy and enjoyable day hike. Take the Angelito Trail down to the Las Damas pool. A winding trail with thick vegetation will lead you to a deep pool of clear, cold water with a rope swing. This popular swimming hole is perfect for families looking to relax in the pools.

Or, if you’re looking for a bit more of a challenge, try the more intense 2.6-mile El Yunque Trail. This trail takes you to the highest points in the forest, where from the trailhead you’ll ascend through sierra palms and the Cloud Forest, a unique zone under a nearly constant state of rain. At the top is a reward of towering views of the rainforest below.

Another great spot for a bit of fun after a day of hiking is Las Pailas. While not part of the park proper, it’s located on private property at the park’s edge and certainly worth a detour. River waters rushing down from the rainforest have transformed rocks into natural playgrounds and smoothed them into natural water slides complete with refreshing pools.

Note: As of December 2020, reservations are required to enter the park. Visit the El Yunque National Forest website for more information.

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Distrito T-Mobile

Billed as the Caribbean Time’s Square, San Juan's new entertainment hub has over a dozen eateries, an urban adventure park, state-of-the-art technology and a multitude of entertainment venues. Start your visit at the Popular Plaza, where bright lights lead the way to the other venues and play host to live entertainment.

The sports bar Arena Medalla showcases Puerto Rican athletes and the local beer with impressive works of art and neon lights. Catch a game on any of the many jumbo tv screens, book a private karaoke room or tuck into a foosball, pool or arcade-style table, all with a beer in hand.

For some family fun, head over to Toro Verde Urban Park, with its two ziplines, a rope course, a rock-climbing wall and an arcade room with classic machines and VR games.

The district also offers several other casual and fine dining experiences. Go for burgers at La Burguesía, try some tapas at Barullo or sip on rum cocktails at La Central, all of which overlook the district's Plaza Popular.

Vieques

Just six miles off Puerto Rico’s eastern coast, the small island municipality of Vieques is home to the world’s brightest bioluminescent bay, an idyllic wildlife refuge and world class beaches like Chiva, Media Luna, or Caracas. A quick ferry from Ceiba or flight from San Juan will get you to and from this tropical paradise where the pace of life slows down dramatically and you can enjoy stretches of sand all to yourself.

For a truly relaxing retreat, stay at Finca Victoria where you can experience modern-day tree houses or tiny homes with outdoor showers, and partake in massages, daily yoga and vegan meals. For some freshly caught Caribbean spiny lobster, the island’s specialty, head over to La Esperanza for beach front dining at Bili or El Quenepo.

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Raise a glass on a rum tour

Thanks in part to its many distilleries Puerto Rico is considered the rum capital of the world. The liquor has been distilled here since the mid-1600s and visiting any of its distilleries is a perfect vehicle to appreciate the fine craftsmanship and rich history of the local spirit.

Casa Bacardí is home to the many flavors of Bacardi Rum – the world’s largest rum producer – and is the most popular choice with its three tour options (Historic Tour, Rum Tasting or Mixology Class), plus an informative visitor's center, waterfront cocktail bar and views of Old San Juan from across the bay.

For a craft distillery experience, head over to Ron del Barrilito's Hacienda Santa, the island’s oldest distillery where you’ll walk through the production process and feel like you’ve been whisked back to the 1800s. If you’re feeling more adventurous, make a day trip to the mountains of Jayuya for some pitorro (moonshine) at PitoRico’s Destilería Cruz.

Rincón

Tucked away in the far west corner of the island lies the surf town of Rincón. Literally meaning corner in Spanish, Rincón, is the perfect antidote to the more fast-paced, urban San Juan. Surfing is the main attraction here, with many spots to check the swell like Domes, Marias, and Tres Palmas, just to name a few.

But there are plenty of other activities to do as well, like horseback riding along the beach, snorkeling the horseshoe reef at Steps beach, paddle-boarding at the Balneario (public beach) or shopping at the Thursday Art Walk or Sunday Farmers Market at the town square.

Cabo Rojo

Located in the extreme southwest of Puerto Rico, Cabo Rojo has 28 miles of coastline – more than any other municipality on the island – where you’ll discover seascapes overshadowed by towering limestones cliffs, pristine nature reserves and creative seafood restaurants like DownTown Boqueron by Jose Carles.

Beautiful beaches like Buyé, Boqueron and Combate tend to get pretty packed on weekends and holidays. For a more remote experience head to Playuela beach, known by locals as Playa Sucia, or Dirty Beach in English, so named to deter visitors from spoiling its natural beauty.

On the way there, stop by the red-hued Salt Flats that give the town its namesake, as well as the Los Morrillos Lighthouse, one of 27 sites included in the National Register of Historic Places.

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La Parguera

This seaside fishing village lies within the La Parguera Nature Reserve, one of the island’s most biologically diverse ecosystems. Extensive coral reefs, mangrove forests, and wildlife make it the perfect eco-tourism destination for nature lovers, with ample opportunities to scuba dive, snorkel, hike, bike and bird watch.

There are no fancy hotels or resorts here, but plenty of intimate inns or boats turned into Airbnb’s to enjoy the town’s coastal simplicity. With over 30 cays and islets, exploring La Parguera looks different every day. Go scuba diving at the La Pared (The Wall), kayak through the mangroves, visit the bioluminescent bay, or stroll over to the malecón (boardwalk) for dinner and drinks.

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If you have a long way to go, don’t unthinkingly jump on a plane. An overnight train ride is a far more fun, immersive and eco-friendly way to travel – better for you and for the planet.

There’s something enduringly romantic about train travel. The slower pace, the gentle rhythm, the ability to surrender responsibility and just gaze out of the window. It’s true of all – well, most – rail journeys. But it’s especially true of the sleeper train, the hotel-on-wheels aboard which you can bed down in one country and wake up in another. On which you can spend long hours admiring the view, chatting to new compartment-mates, sharing bread/biscuits/tea/vodka, watching sunrises and sunsets as you roll ever on.

Of course, it’s generally quicker to fly. But if you don’t have to, why rush? Train travel is far less damaging to the planet: it releases the least amount of greenhouse gases of all forms of transportation. And it’s a more organic way to go. Roving by rail, covering each inch of land overground, means you’re better able to understand the connections that exist between places, see the segueing of scenery as cities become suburbs, which become farmland, which become foothills or deserts or plains.

Such journeys can be done in style. There are luxe overnighting locos that channel the bygone glamour of the Orient Express or the opulence of a maharaja’s palace, their wood-paneled carriages toting pianos and butlers. But you don’t need such accouterments. The greatest joy is the journey itself; even a frustratingly slow, overcrowded overnighter has its own appeal – and will certainly make memories. Squeezed into a second-class Indian bunk, unfolding your couchette as you bump across Europe or lazing back in a super-fast intercity service in China, you might not get a lot of actual sleep on your sleeper, but you’ll get a dream of a ride.

Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Nicknamed the Reunification Express when it resumed service after the Vietnam War, this 1072-mile (1726km) ride between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City runs the length of the country, providing a perfect Vietnamese diorama: historic towns, bustling suburbs, rice paddies, emerald hills and the glittering South China Sea.

How: Choose from hard seat (cheapest) or soft, hard berth (six-bed compartment), soft berth (four-bed) or VIP cabin (two beds; book in advance). Tickets can be booked online.

Duration: About 35 hours.

Chicago to San Francisco, USA

On its epic 2400-mile (3900km) journey, the California Zephyr tackles sheer gorges, hot desert, snowy mountains and a tonne of tunnels and switchbacks. In 1869, these tracks were the first to cross the Continental Divide, linking the Atlantic and the Pacific.

How: The Zephyr leaves Chicago at 2pm daily. Book early for the lowest fares and best availability; tickets can be booked up almost a year ahead.

Duration: The entire journey to San Francisco takes 52 hours non-stop.

Kapiri Mposhi to Dar es Salaam, Zambia and Tanzania

A sleeper train? Or a rolling two-day safari? The Tazara Railway crosses rivers, gorges and some impressive feats of railway engineering while trundling through the enormous, wildlife-filled expanse of Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania. You might spot elephants, rhinos, lions and more from your window.

How: Tickets can’t be bought online; buy them at stations in Dar es Salaam or Kapiri Mposhi or via a local travel agency.

Duration: About 44 hours.

Brisbane to Longreach, Australia

Most of Australia 's overnight trains are multi-day journeys across the continent, such as the Ghan that runs through Australia's "Red Centre" between Darwin and Adelaide, and the Indian Pacific that links Perth and Sydney. The Spirit of the Outback, however, is just over a day-long jaunt from Brisbane to Longreach. After flirting with the coast the train turns inland to reveal a changing landscape as it heads into the outback.

How: The tickets can be booked online. The train departs Tuesdays at 6:10pm and Saturday at 1:55pm.

Duration: The 1325km journey takes 26 hours.

Rome to Syracuse, Italy

To get from the Italian capital to the historic Sicilian city of Syracuse, this overnight loco has to board a boat. Having traced the Calabrian coast, it’s lifted on to a ferry to cross the Straits of Messina, before being lifted back off to continue on its way.

How: Two sleeper trains leave Rome nightly at around 9.05pm and 11pm. Tickets can be ordered online.

Duration: About 12 hours, including 30 minutes at sea.

Europe's other top sleeper services

Europe is a particular treasure trove when it comes to night trains, with services such as the Caledonian Sleeper, Berlin Night Express and the Red Arrow, so we've compiled a specific list of the continent's other top sleeper trains.

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Originally published on January 14, 2020.

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