Despite the tasty crabs and picturesque waterfront, Baltimore often gets overlooked in favor of its larger neighbors Philadelphia and Washington, DC. But this revitalized former industrial city offers endless historic and cultural attractions that compete with the bigger cities with one major advantage – it’s easy on the wallet.

Baltimore's two major museums, the Baltimore Museum of Art and the Walters Art Museum scrapped admission fees in 2006 while many of the historic attractions are partially free. The city is filled with stunning 18th- and 19th-century architecture and miles of waterfront walkways that visitors can leisurely explore. Here’s our guide to Baltimore’s 10 best free attractions.

Climb up Federal Hill Park's 99 steps

Locals know that the best view of the Inner Harbor can be found by crossing Key Highway and heading south to the expansive green hill known as Federal Hill Park.

Tourists, dog walkers and fitness fans who climb the 99 steps to get to the top are rewarded with a phenomenal view of Baltimore skyscrapers and the attractions that dot the Inner Harbor, including the National Aquarium in Baltimore, Harborplace Mall and the Maryland Science Center.

Visitors will find monuments that commemorate the War of 1812 and The Battle of Baltimore in 1814, during which the park served as a lookout point due to its strategically high elevation.

Peruse Walters Art Museum's vast collection

The Walters Art Museum’s vast art collection spans seven millennia — from ancient times to the 21st century — and five buildings. The best part is that visitors can enjoy Islamic art and manuscripts, archaeological finds from Egypt and two Fabergé eggs completely free.

Most of the museum remains open except for the Family Art Center (closed due to Covid-19) and the Hackerman House, which recently underwent a $10.4 million renovation is now getting a new exhibition.

Baltimore's top neighborhoods

Grab a bite to eat on The Waterfront

While Baltimore’s waterfront has added swanky restaurants, apartments and hotels in recent years, city planners have kept the path open to the public so pedestrians can enjoy miles of uninterrupted views of the Patapsco River.

Start at the Inner Harbor and make your way to the newer neighborhoods of Harbor East and Harbor Point, where you can stop at the beachy hangout Sandlot. Or pop in one of the many excellent restaurants like Cindy Lou’s Fish House and Lebanese Taverna, before you make your way to the cobblestone-lined streets of Fells Point.

There you’ll pass by the Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park, where you can read the outdoor placards highlighting the story of Black Americans' role in Baltimore’s maritime trade. Indoor admission is just $5.

Visit Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

Sitting on the eastern edge of the industrial Locust Point neighborhood lies one of Baltimore’s most important historic treasures. Fort McHenry defended the city in many wars and inspired Francis Scott Key to pen the USA's national anthem. While there’s a fee to enter The Star Fort, the entrance to the grounds offers one of the city’s best waterfront views and plenty of green space where you can enjoy a bench picnic or a game of your choice with friends.

Scope out the city's art scene

Baltimore’s artsy edge is on display everywhere you turn. Local artists have painted more than 250 colorful murals scattered throughout the city depicting everything from the Chesapeake Bay watershed to impactful female leaders and John Waters’ iconic drag queen and actor Divine.

A dazzling courtyard where every inch is filled with bright scribbles from street artists, Graffiti Alley in the Station North Arts and Entertainment neighborhood attracts selfie snappers.

Best day trips from Baltimore

Meet authors at Enoch Pratt Free Library

Baltimore’s central library completed a $115 million renovation in 2019 that updated its structure while preserving its resplendent Neoclassical-meets-Art Deco design. Its vast collections include ancient maps, sheet music for Broadway shows and photographs, paintings and drawings. Check the library’s calendar to attend one of the free live and virtual author events.

Hike the Gwynn Falls Trail

The 15-mile trail covers 30 Baltimore neighborhoods and passes through 10 parks, including its namesake Gwynn Falls, making it the perfect green urban escape. Start at one of the nine trailheads and make your way past the Patapsco River, streams, wooded paths or the Inner Harbor. Also known as Leakin Park, the green space offers a mix of gravel and paved trails of varying difficulty.

Tour the Baltimore Museum of Art

Located in the Charles Village neighborhood a few miles north of the Inner Harbor, the admission-free Baltimore Museum of Art makes a great first impression with its column-lined neoclassical facade. Inside, visitors will find a staggering collection of 19th-century, contemporary and modern art, including the world’s largest public collection of works by Henri Matisse.

The ever-expanding museum also recently received 90 works of art by nearly 70 artists that encompass photography, prints, drawings and paintings. Don’t leave before experiencing the serene sculpture garden, where you’ll sometimes be entertained by jazz musicians or other events.

Marvel at The Washington Monument

The Washington Monument towers 178ft above the mansion townhomes in the Mount Vernon neighborhood, like a beacon welcoming visitors to Baltimore’s cultural epicenter.

Not to be confused with the statue in DC, the 206-year-old monument underwent a $7 million restoration in 2015, which enhanced the indoor gallery space at the base of the monument with interactive touch screens that offer a virtual tour of the attraction.

It stands at the center of the Mount Vernon neighborhood as the crowning jewel of a neighborhood whose eclectic historic buildings give it a European feel. Entrance to the gallery is free.

Best time to visit Baltimore

Watch Mr. Trash Wheel work

In a mission to clean up the Inner Harbor water of cigarette butts, plastic bottles and other debris, Baltimore officials installed the first Mr. Trash Wheel in 2014. Shaped like a face with eyes and a mouth, the contraption sucks up the litter with a conveyor belt powered by a water wheel and sunlight.

Watching Baltimore’s trash wheels in action offers a great activity with kids who will enjoy seeing them in action while getting a lesson on the environment. You can find the current location of the whole trash wheel family on social media.

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This article was originally published on July 21, 2021.

Go easy on your wallet with these 10 free things to do in Baltimore 

Planning a trip to the Lone Star State can be overwhelming, choosing between the desert mountains of West Texas, the beaches of the Gulf Coast or the river-bound cities of Austin, San Antonio and Dallas.

And while Hollywood cliches may conjure up images of weathered cowboys and dusty saloons, there is a wide variety of museums, architecture, outdoor adventures and, of course, delicious food you won’t want to miss. We’ve rounded up some of the best things to do across Texas.

Soar to new heights from San Antonio’s Tower of the Americas

While San Antonio is home to some of the state’s oldest architecture and the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas, don’t miss some of the exciting modern architecture as well. Wander around the Hemisfair area for dinner, ice cream and park activities. Currently in the first phase of an extensive restoration, Hemisfair is the original site of the 1968 World’s Fair.

The sky deck of the nearby Tower of the Americas may be a bit of a tourist trap, but the view from the top is well worth it. Skip an overpriced meal in the revolving restaurant and enjoy a late-night snack at Dough Pizzeria Napoletana or ice cream from Paleteria.

Take a dip in a Hill Country swimming hole

While there are several natural springs to choose from in the sprawling Texas Hill Country, the quaint tree-lined town of Wimberley boasts two of the best. Just a short drive from the town’s main street, Jacob’s Well is one of the state’s largest fully submerged caverns.

Water from the Trinity Aquifer flows from an extensive underground cave system, maintaining a temperature of 68F — the perfect way to beat that scorching Texas sun. Nearby, Blue Hole Regional Park offers an equally scenic swim, shaded by towering cypress trees. Be sure to make advance reservations for both highly sought-after swimming destinations.

Head to Lockhart for barbecue and more

While legendary barbecue pitmasters hold court across the Lone Star State, some of the longest-lasting legacies still call Lockhart home. Kreuz Market, Black’s Barbecue and Smitty’s Market are some of the best, but the mouth-watering brisket and smoked sausage are not the only reason to head to Lockhart.

Be sure to admire the Caldwell County Courthouse and wander the historic downtown square, grabbing a refreshing drink at Old Pal Bar or a root beer float from Commerce Cafe.

Get outside at Austin’s Lady Bird Lake

Creating a 10-mile loop along the Colorado River in the heart of downtown Austin, the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail is a top destination for locals and tourists alike. Nearby Zilker Park is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic with a view of the city’s growing skyline or venture downtown for brunch at one of Austin’s best restaurants.

La Condesa is an upscale pit stop not far from the north shore of the river, while a further detour to Better Half Bar and neighboring Hold Out Brewing is a good place to while away an afternoon. In the evening, make a reservation at P6, the scenic rooftop patio of the Line Hotel for fantastic sunset views over Lady Bird Lake.

Learn how Texas became Texas at Washington-on-the-Brazos State Park

About halfway between Houston and Austin, a humble little state park is known as the place “Where Texas became Texas.” Here, in a wooden schoolhouse at Washington-on-the-Brazos, delegates from across Texas gathered to sign the Texas Declaration of Independence on March 2, 1836.

A digital copy of it is on display at the Visitor’s Center, which features an exhibit on the events that led to that declaration, as well as Texas’ subsequent fight for independence from Mexico. The park is always worth a stop, but it really comes alive on the first weekend in March for live reenactments of the 1836 Texas Army Camp.

Step back in time at the Fort Worth Stockyards

If you want to step back in time, look no further than the historic stockyards of Fort Worth. This is the destination for anyone wanting a front-row seat for an immersive experience of the history of cattle drives in Texas. A genuine herd of longhorns parades East Exchange Avenue twice a day, or you can see them up close and personal at the Livestock Exchange Building on weekends through the summer.

Wave to Big Tex at the Dallas State Fair

Perhaps the most famous cowboy in Texas, Big Tex resides in Dallas at the historic Fair Park, home to the annual State Fair of Texas. Big Tex has been the event’s mascot since 1952 (though he almost burned down in 2012 due to an electrical fire). He stands at the heart of the fair, which also features a full auto show, live performances and the famous ferris wheel.

America’s largest since it debuted in 1985, the views across Dallas and down at the fairgoers below are unforgettable. But most memorable of all, of course, are the endless booths of fried foods on display. From fried Oreos to fried bubblegum and cotton candy tacos, vendors introduce crazy new experiments every year.

Explore WWII naval history aboard the USS Lexington

Docked in the bay at Corpus Christi, the USS Lexington is an Essex-class carrier that fought in WWII and was the oldest working carrier in the US Navy before it was decommissioned in 1991. Nicknamed the “Blue Ghost,” the ship arrived in its permanent home in Corpus Christi in 1992, where it now hosts a number of gripping exhibits. The flight deck is among the most popular, featuring twenty different aircraft from the National Museum of Naval Aviation.

Right next door, the Texas State Aquarium is the state’s largest aquarium and features a dazzling array of marine wildlife from the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean.

See the stars at McDonald Observatory

You probably know that the “stars at night are big and bright, deep in the heart of Texas,” and there’s no better place to test that idiom than the McDonald Observatory in Fort Davis. A research unit of the University of Texas at Austin, the observatory offers interactive educational exhibits and regular evening programs for stargazing. Don’t miss the Star Party, which requires advance booking and features night sky constellation tours and access to state-of-the-art telescopes in the Rebecca Gale Telescope Park.

Stay at the Indian Lodge at the Davis Mountains State Park, and don’t miss the 75-mile scenic loop through the Fort Davis Mountains while you are in the area. Winding through Limpia Canyon and past Mount Livermore, the drive is the highest public highway in Texas — and one of the most unforgettable experiences in the Lone Star State.

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Barbecues and stunning views: the best things to do in Texas

It’s easy to lose 48 hours in Portugal’s dashing, duel-hilled, sun-drenched second city. Sliced by the slow saunter of the Duruo river and ribboned together by the rails of its sunflower-yellow trams, you could spend a lifetime sighing at its breathless beauty, in awe of its curves and cobblestones and its clinquant Klimt-esque sunsets.

Best day trips from Porto

Think: Emotive churches, evocative poetry, a passionate fado guitarist playing mournfully in a riverside tavern. Get ready to go giddy. Here are some suggestions of how you could spend a weekend in Porto.

Call ahead to reserve for Friday evening dining

After arriving down in Porto, head towards the river. The Ribeira district is magnetic for tourists and lovestruck couples – and for good reason: it’s loud and lively and boasts some of the best views in town. Get acquainted with the fabulous Portuguese wine selection at the Wine Quay Bar. Order a side of local cured hams and cheeses to tide you over until dinner.

Call ahead for a table at Tapabento to try modern petiscos (Portuguese sharing plates) like freshly-shucked oysters drizzled in shallot vinaigrette or tangy Azores cheese with walnuts and rocket. Then wander uphill along the bustling pedestrian street Rua das Flores to take in the remarkably intricate architecture of one of the city’s oldest streets.

Start your Saturday with an espresso and custard tart

Do as the locals do and keep breakfast low-key with an espresso and a pastel de nata (yes, Portuguese custard tarts are a perfectly acceptable breakfast choice). Pick from any of the traditional cafes dotted around the city, but we’d plump for the determinedly archaic Confeitaria do Bolhão, a patisserie that has been doing the business since 1896. And still, locals can’t get enough.

From there, it’s a 10-minute saunter to Igreja do Carmo for some rococo to knock-o your socks off. Adorned in blue-and-white azulejo tiles from tip-to-toe, this 18th-century church is an architectural dazzler and a must for Instagrammers. Note the sliver of a house separating Carmo from its neighbor Igreja das Carmelitas, which kept the monks separated from the nuns.

Carry on south towards the unmistakable spire of the Torre dos Clérigos. The 249ft (76m) tower is the artistry of Nicolau Nasoni, who is oft considered the architect of Porto, and Clérigos is arguably his most famous contribution. Pay €6 ($7) to spiral up the 240 steps for a sweeping view of the city. The old staircases are narrow and often crowded, so if you’re claustrophobic or impatient, give it a miss and wander along Porto’s main avenue, Avenida dos Aliados, instead.

Stroll the cobblestoned streets on Saturday afternoon

Tonight will be spent on the town, so line your stomach with Porto’s famous multi-layered meat sandwich, the francesinha. Wrapped in cheese, drowned in tomato sauce and crowned with a fried egg, this artery-clogging masterpiece has more layers than the movie Inception (and takes just as long to finish). Send your medical bills to tried-and-trusted belly fillers: Capa na Baixa and Café Santiago.

The afternoon goal is to cross the river for a port tasting, but let your food settle with a stroll along Porto’s undulating cobblestones. Pass the baroque Igreja de Santo Ildefonso and wander through the Batalha district to reach the mighty Sé, a cathedral where centuries’ worth of architecture is bundled into one structure.

It’s elevated position sets up a walk across the top level of the Ponte de Dom Luís I to reach the cross-river city of Vila Nova de Gaia – home of the port wine lodges. Mosey down to World of Wine (WoW), a dazzling, new €105 million ($143 million) cultural district squeezed inside former port wine cellars.

There are six museums, five restaurants and an entire afternoon’s worth of fun to be had here. The Wine Experience and the immersive Pink Palace – an Insta-ready whirl through the rosé industry – are both worth a peek, but for a real taste of the city’s fantastic fortified wine, head a wee bit further out and take a personalized tour at Croft, which ends with a port tasting.

Remember locals don't start to party until midnight Saturday

Make the most of being on the south side of the Douro and watch the sunset from Jardim do Morro. Then take the metro back to Porto for a pre-dinner drink at Capela Incomum, a 19th-century chapel that’s been wonderfully transformed into a hushed and reverent wine bar. Locals don’t often eat until 9pm, which leaves you plenty of time to grab a taxi to the esteemed O Paparico, a romantic stone-walled restaurant which looks traditional but is anything but. Expect gastronomic fireworks using local produce like liqueur-laced Rendufas figs drizzled in a sweet fig vinegar.

The party scene doesn’t kick off until around midnight, so enjoy the evening air after dinner by pulling up a beanbag beneath the Passeio dos Clérigos olive trees at Base, a trendy open-air bar. Once the Clérigos clock strikes midnight, join the throngs of partygoers spilling out onto parallel streets Rua da Galeria de Paris and Rua de Cândido dos Reis, which are packed wall-to-wall with nightclubs and bars.

Despite looking like a jumbled garage sale at first glance – given its shelves of toys, vintage clocks and model cars – Galeria de Paris is worth a pit stop. Then follow the human tide to find other hotspots and dance until the sun comes up. The locals dress down with comfy shoes for a reason.

Spend Sunday morning checking out the galleries

If Saturday is a late one, join the rest of the city but enjoying a lie-in. Grab breakfast and a specialty brew at Noshi Coffee (where vegan, vegetarians and gluten-free diets are well catered for), then wander along Rua do Rosário and Rua de Miguel Bombarda to browse concept stores and galleries.

Stop for a tea in the peaceful garden of Rota do Chá, then follow Bombarda to the end and turn left into the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal. Watch the peacocks parading the grounds for photos and scope out the small gardens scattered across the park’s eight hectares (20 acres). Eventually zigzag your way back down to the river, pit stopping at the new Miradouro Ignez roof terrace for a snack or a drink with a knockout view.

Spend a lazy Sunday afternoon on the Douro River

Hire a bike at Biclas & Triclas and sweep west along the Douro River to find some lunch. Choose from fresh fish barbecued on the street (follow your nose and the plumes of smoke), pizza overlooking the river at Casa d’Oro, or Portuguese share plates at Casa de Pasto da Palmeira. Brave the waves thrashing the Farol de Felgueiras jetty then continue around the bend as the Douro becomes the North Atlantic. Follow the coast to the beachside suburb Matosinhos or cut across to Portugal’s largest urban park, Parque da Cidade. Backtrack along the river to return your wheels.

bifana (pork sandwhich) and beer at local institution Conga - Casas das Bifanas is a chilled way to start Sunday evening © Emily McAuliffe / Lonely Planet" 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="771df815-0464-420f-91f4-55c20a6365f4" data-langcode="en" title="Bifana at Conga_EmilyMcAuliffeConga_Emily McAuliffe (1).jpg">

Don't leave without trying a famous bifana

Keep things low-key with a beer and a bifana at Conga - Casa das Bifanas. This no-frills joint is a local institution and specializes in Portugal’s traditional thick-filled pork sandwiches. It's best to also take the opportunity to grab a pre-departure pastel de nata from Manteigaria or Fábrica da Nata. Perhaps even buy a box of the flaky, crispy, custard-filled tarts to take home with you.

This article was originally published on August 21, 2019.

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Post-lockdown liaisons: A weekend in Porto is the break you have been pining for

The world’s largest country beguiles and fascinates with its world-class art, epic landscapes and multifaceted society. You may also find that perseverance  and a sense of humour will go a long way in enriching your first-time Russian travel experience. From the things you absolutely must do before you travel to the things we recommend that you steer clear of once you're there, here are some top tips for avoiding common pitfalls when visiting Russia.

DO apply for a visa early and register on arrival

Visas must be applied for in advance by all visitors. How you do that varies depending on your nationality and where in Russia you are traveling to. Travelers from many countries, including the UK and US, need to apply in-person at an embassy or consulate and provide biometric data. An e-visa may be an option for passport-holders from 52 countries, which include many EU travelers, as well as those from China, India, Japan, Singapore, and some Middle Eastern countries. Check with your local Russian embassy or consulate for confirmation.

You can apply at the last moment, but it may cost you a fortune. Start the application process at least a month before your trip and consider using a specialist travel agency to arrange visas and make key transport bookings. Every visitor to Russia should have their visa registered within seven days of arrival, excluding weekends and public holidays. The obligation to register is with your hotel or hostel, or landlord, friend or family if you’re staying in a private residence. Also keep in mind that your visa entry and exit dates will be written according to European calendar convention (day/month/year) as opposed to the American style, so don't get mixed up or over-stay your visa.

DO check the events calendar

During major holidays – the first week in January (between New Year’s Day and Orthodox Christmas) and the first week or two of May (around Labour Day, or May Day, and Victory Day) – Moscow and St Petersburg empty out. Despite this, both cities are festive during these times, with parades, concerts and other events, but museums and other institutions may have shortened hours or be shut altogether. May to September is the best time to visit St Petersburg but mid-June is when the city is irresistible, with the White Nights revelry at its peak.

DO dress up for a night out

We can’t guarantee you’ll make it past Moscow’s "face control" (the term comes from clubs trying to "save face" by only letting in patrons who meet their image standards) but you can better your chances of getting in to the top clubs by making a sartorial effort – high heels and skirts for women, all black for men. Russians also make an effort when they go to the theater or a posh restaurant – you should do likewise to fit in.

DO learn the Cyrillic alphabet

Making an effort to familiarize yourself with the Cyrillic alphabet repays tenfold. It will help you decode street and metro signs, maps, timetables and menus, even if you don't know many Russian phrases. While digital tools like the Russian Metro app and Google Translate make it easier than ever to visit countries where you don't speak or read the language, brushing up beforehand can reduce frustration and endear you to the locals.

Rideshare options such as Taxovichkoff and Yandex Taxi upended the taxi industry in Russia as much as anywhere else. That means less pressure to know the Russian phrases you'd need to hails cabs in the streets, but it still is wise to learn key phrases in case there's a navigation mixup, like the address of your hotel or intersection of your short-term apartment rental.

DO expect to spend your money

Moscow is one of the most expensive cities in the world and St Petersburg is not a cheap destination either; wallet-thinning shock is common at many restaurants and hotels. As a foreigner you’ll also find yourself paying more than a Russian for some museums – often as much as 10 times the price Russians pay. If you’re a student, flashing your ID can save you money at museums and other institutions.

You can save on dining out a few different ways. Many restaurants offer "business lunches" that are great value and very filling. Several years ago the trend for " anti-cafes" cropped up in larger Russian cities, and there are still a few where you pay by the minute for coffee, biscuits, and a little wi-fi time.

Food markets that blend farmers markets and food halls are popular, and are often found in architecturally significant vintage buildings. You can shop for ingredients to cook yourself or sample cuisines from around the world from dozens of  vendor stalls. Many food markets are less expensive than sit-down restaurants and let you try a wider variety of local and international dishes.

DON’T ask for a mixer with your vodka

Few traditions in Russia are as sacrosanct as the drinking of vodka, and any foreign notions of drinking it with orange juice or tonic are anathema to your average Russian. If you need something to wash it down, you can chase it with a lemon, a pickle or, perhaps, a separate glass of water. Vodka is drunk in swift shots, not sipped. It’s traditional (and good sense) to eat a little something after each shot, so order some vodka snacks too.

DON’T be disrespectful in a church

Working churches are open to everyone, but as a visitor you should take care not to disturb any devotions or offend sensibilities. There's no face control, but women should cover their heads and bare shoulders when entering a church. In some monasteries and churches it’s also required for a woman to wear a skirt – wraps are usually available at the door. Men should remove their hats in church and not wear shorts.

DON’T take photos of government buildings

Be very careful about photographing stations, official-looking buildings and any type of military-security structure – if in doubt, don’t snap! Travelers have been arrested and fined for such innocent behaviour.

DON’T be surprised if you’re stopped by the police

Although new laws were passed in 2011 that ostensibly reconfigured Russia's police and their interactions with the public, it's still wise to carry a photocopy of your passport, visa and registration – not to mention travel documents that indicate how and when you'll return home – and present them when an officer demands to see your documents. You may also see special tourist police near major attractions like the Red Square, who have special training and language skills to assist travelers.

If you're issued a fine, Russian authorities might expect an "unofficial payment" to expedite their service on the spot, as opposed to handling the matter later at the station. Either way, always ask for an official receipt, and consider carrying the phone number for your country's embassy in case matters get more complicated.

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This article was originally published in August 2009.

The dos and don'ts of visiting Russia for the first time

Classy, cultural Bath in southwest England is famous for its exquisite architecture and Bridgerton backdrops.

While the Roman Baths and Georgian Royal Crescent are must-see sights, there’s also a cool, contemporary city to explore. True, the city can be expensive. But avoiding peak times brings accommodation prices down. Add superb shops, arts and music venues and some surprising outdoor activities, and you have an appealing city break for couples and friends.

Tour Bridgerton filming locations

When it premiered in late 2020, Bridgerton quickly became Netflix's biggest-ever series. A record 82 million households watched in the first month. Set in Regency London, the show was filmed extensively in Bath and city buildings are clearly identifiable behind the action.

The Visit Bath website lists the locations so you can do a self-guided tour taking in Lady Danbury's mansion, the home of the Featheringtons and the Assembly Rooms, the settings for those lavish balls. Or book a tour with BritMovie Tours for an anecdote-filled, two-hour guided promenade around Bath’s Bridgerton locations – spiced with scandal, naturally.

Soak like a Roman in a rooftop pool

Bath was born of geothermal springs which flow from the earth at a toasty 46°C (114ºF). Those arch lovers of luxury, the Romans, spotted their potential and built a state of the art bathhouse. Almost two centuries later, the Thermae Bath Spa means you too can blissfully float in mineral-rich waters.

The complex has massage jets, whirlpools, an ice chamber and steam rooms. But the big draw is the open-air, rooftop pool. Schedule an evening session, and you could be soaking under the stars with views of illuminated rooftops as the steam rises all around.

Experience the Roman Baths

Although the Roman Baths are undeniably a tourist attraction, they’re also the key to unlocking both Bath’s historic narrative and the city you see today. The Romans built the sumptuous bathing complex in 70AD and today the cluster of atmospheric pools, courtyards and exhibits are brought vividly to life by projections, soundscapes and CGI displays.

The baths are beside a temple to the healing goddess Sulis-Minerva. It’s this connection between the geothermal waters and health that has  helped the city flourish and has funded grand building projects – from the Roman era to the spa town and tourist hotspot it is today.

Book tickets online and aim for a slot first thing in the morning. Or check the baths' What’s On page for special events like T’ai Chi on the Terrace overlooking the Great Bath.

Delight in the Royal Crescent

An exquisite semicircle of grand honey-colored homes, Bath’s Royal Crescent is another of the city’s can’t-miss sights. The terrace of 30 houses sweeps for 150 meters around a manicured lawn and was built between 1767 and 1775.

This gorgeous place inevitably featured as a backdrop in Bridgerton . One of the houses, the museum No 1 Royal Crescent, appeared as the Featheringtons’ home. Book a visit to see lavish Georgian furnishings, and the pots and pans of the servants’ quarters. After a June 2021 reopening, the story of the house and its residents has been brought to life by new digital projections and soundscapes.

Discover the Circus & the Georgian Gardens

After visiting the Royal Crescent, one of Bath’s big draws, many visitors take in the Circus en route from the city center as a bit of a sideshow. This means they miss an intriguing insight into the city’s past. A ring of 33 graceful townhouses split into three semicircular terraces, the Circus features stonework with beautiful emblems and symbols.

A short stroll away, down Gay St and back along Royal Ave, sits one of Bath’s unsung sights. The Georgian Garden is set behind No 4 The Circus. The compact space has been restored to resemble a typical town garden dating from around 1760. Complete with authentic plants and a copy of an elegant 18th-century garden seat, the space provides a rare glimpse into life behind Bath’s grand Georgian facades.

Book a Reading Spa

Novelist Jane Austen lived in Bath in the early 1800s. Mary Shelley wrote much of Frankenstein while in the city. So what better to do in a geothermal town awash with literary links than indulge in a Reading Spa? Run by the beautiful bookshop Mr B's Emporium, these one-off experiences allow you to sit down with a bibliotherapist over coffee and cake to discuss what you love to read. They then scour the shelves for armfuls of books to suit your tastes. All you have to do is decide which to take home.

Unfortunately, there’s a big backlog for in-person sessions. Mr B’s bespoke reading subscriptions – where a dedicated bookseller selects a book for you each month – are a good alternative while you wait.

Clamber up Bath Abbey’s tower

Bath’s famously fabulous architecture has visitors tracing trails from the Roman Baths to the Georgian Royal Crescent. But the best way to see these exquisite buildings initially is to actually look down on them from the roof of Bath Abbey.

During the medieval abbey’s Tower Tours, you’ll climb 212 steps, navigate a stone spiral staircase, weave past bell ropes and emerge onto the roof for panoramic views. From here, the city’s architecture and street plan appears like a giant animated map.

Go to a great grassroots gig

Touring all that gorgeous architecture can leave you gasping for a pint. Handily Bath is blessed with some brilliant, beautiful pubs, including locals’ favorite, the Bell Inn. This ethical, lively, live-music pub is owned by the customers – around 500 of them bought it in 2013.

The inn is a living-wage employer and is part of the Musicians’ Union Fair Play Venue Scheme, which helps performers get a fair deal. The Bell is also home to seven real ales, bar billiards, a real fire and live music sessions three times a week spanning jazz, blues, Cajun and folk.

Cycle through a musical, mile-long tunnel

In a city of splendid sights, the idea of cycling through a tunnel might seem odd. But Bath's Two Tunnels Greenway is a unique cycling experience. It runs from East Twerton, east of the city center, to Midford, 3.8 miles to the south.

After views of the Royal Crescent, riders enter the Combe Down Tunnel. At 1672 meters – or a little over a mile – this subterranean stretch is the longest traffic-free cycling tunnel in Europe. It’s also packed with interactive sound and light installations. Your movement through Passage, an installation by United Visual Artists and the composer Mira Calix, triggers audio-visual displays set in 20 separate alcoves. It’s an unforgettable ride.

Hire a row boat

If visitors stray from Bath’s streets, they probably hop on a boat trip from Pulteney Bridge. But a more atmospheric way to explore is by walking a mile north east of the city center to hire your own craft from the Bath Boating Station.

This Victorian boathouse hires out vintage wooden rowing boats, Canadian canoes and punts. You then get to propel yourself along some 2 miles of river, looking out for birds like kingfishers, herons and moorhens en route to the Bathampton Mill pub.

Make your own bauble

Bath Aqua Glass specializes in making aquamarine artworks using techniques that haven’t changed much since Roman times – many of the pieces echo styles of the era. Most visitors spot the shop near Bath Abbey. But if you walk 10 minutes north to the outlet on Walcot St, you can watch the artisan glassblowers at work.

The doors to the workshop are often open to disperse the heat. But if you visit on Friday or Saturday you can head inside for a closer look. Or you can book activities including choosing the colors for a personalized bauble, crafting your own glass artworks, or hiring a glassblower for the day.

Enjoy superb shopping

Bath’s shops are some of the best in the west. High-quality independent stores line the narrow lanes just north of Bath Abbey, Milsom St is good for upmarket fashion, while the SouthGate shopping center has all the high street brands.

Bookworms love Mr B’s Emporium and Topping & Co – the latter has rolling library ladders and free pots of coffee. Walcot St, the city’s self-styled Artisan Quarter, has the Bath Aqua Glass outlet, the workshop and store of renowned weaver Katherine Fraser, and the fabulously pungent Fine Cheese Co shop and cafe.

See a film in an art deco cinema

In a city rich in history, it’s fitting that one of its independent movie spaces is historic too. The Little Theatre Cinema was built by community theater pioneers in 1935, primarily to screen newsreels and documentaries.

Since then it has added a second screen, and it now focuses on art house films and foreign language flicks. It also holds special autism-, toddler-, child- and dementia-friendly screenings, and it still has an art deco feel.

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Soak up Bath with these wonderful things to see and do

Basque Country, in case you haven't heard, isn't like the rest of Spain.

Proudly perched on the northern Atlantic coast, near the border of France, the fabled region – locally known as Euskadi or País Vasco (‘the land of Basque Speakers’) – has its own language, its own culinary traditions and a distinctive geographic and cultural landscape.

With COVID-19 travel restrictions from the US to Spain recently eased, Basque Country brims with an eager and warm welcome back. Make sure to read up on the latest COVID-19 travel guidelines on Spain's Ministry of Health’s website here prior to booking your trip.

Once you're all clear, here's a guide to get started with the best of the Basque, from fairytale villages to modern architectural wonders and so much more. Here are our 10 favorite reasons to visit Basque Country now.

San Sebastián, the best place in the world to eat

You shouldn’t need extra motivation to visit San Sebastián – the impossibly lovely seaside metropolis is widely considered one of the best places to eat in the world.

This designation brings with it a packed calendar of events that enlivens the city throughout the year, from a human rights festival each April to the famous film festival in September that attracts Hollywood stars to a Jazz festival in the warm summer month of July.  Explore the city and its cultural offerings on two wheels: the bicycle is one of the city's favorite modes of transportation.

World-class wining and dining

It's estimated that Basque people spend more than twice as much of their disposable income on food as people do in the United States. Step into any bar and look at the lavish spread of pintxos (small snacks) and you'll understand why. The region's cuisine, built around authentic and local products like grilled lamb, cured meats, salt cod, sheep's and goat's cheese, piquillo peppers, artichokes and fresh anchovies, to name a few, is rightfully world-famous.

You can swing high or low: Basque Country is home to the second-most Michelin star-restaurants per capita, but you'll be just as happy sampling finger food and sipping Basque cider or txakoli, a sparkling white wine typically served as an aperitif, at a bustling corner bar that's been run by the same family for generations.

The spellbinding curves of the Guggenheim Bilbao

Gleaming and otherworldly, the Guggenheim Bilbao is more than an art museum: it’s a modern architectural landmark, a stylized ode to the city’s shipbuilding past and an unmistakable emblem of Bilbao itself. When Frank Gehry's masterpiece opened in 1997 – on the banks of the Rio Nervión, in a derelict and highly polluted area that was previously an industrial wasteland – it was a symbol of revitalization and the dawn of a new era for the city. Stroll along the riverfront promenade for spectacular views of the museum's sculptural exterior.

A road trip that winds the clifftops of the coast

To experience the enchantment of the Basque coastline, you'll want to rent a car and explore the dramatic clifftop landscape at your own pace. Take the scenic route from Bilbao to San Sebastián; this unforgettable road trip leads you through a string of traditional fishing villages with names you'll struggle to pronounce, from tiny Elantxobe to drop-dead gorgeous Lekeitio to Getaria, the hometown of the fashion designer Cristobal Balenciaga (there's a great museum dedicated to his oeuvre). All of the towns along this stretch feature great pintxo bars and quiet medieval streets that invite a leisurely wander.

5 spectacular road trips around Spain

Basque Country's truly unique identity

If you follow the news, you know that Basque nationalism is a point of controversy in Spain. But that regional pride could be read as an expression of cultural independence: though mystery surrounds the topic, confounding anthropologists and archeologists, Basque people are believed to be descendants of the original human inhabitants of the European continent. Their culture is characterized by thoroughly unique traditions, including Euskara, the Basque language. It predates the Romans and it bears no relation to languages spoken elsewhere in Europe.

Travelers will hear Euskara spoken throughout Basque country, and see the language – with its own alphabet and dedicated typeface – printed everywhere from the train station schedule to newspapers and cafe menus. Luckily, most words are also printed in a language that's much easier to decipher – Spanish.

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe's s tairway to heaven

It's a small journey, getting to the ninth-century religious site of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe – a zigzag walk down a steep hill, passage across the Bay of Biscay via a picturesque stone footbridge, and a hike up 241 steps, to be exact. But the views from the top of the island make the effort worthwhile.

Gaztelugatxe derives from the Basque gaztelu (castle) and aitz (rock or crag). Even though the original hilltop church, dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, was demolished and rebuilt, ‘castle rock’ remains an apt description of this quintessentially Basque landmark.

Take in sweeping views of the dramatic coastline and the crashing waves below, and keep your eye out for Basque fishermen making the pilgrimage along with the tourists: it's a local tradition to hike to the church and ask for the saint's blessing for a bountiful season ahead.

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The storied, cobblestone streets of Vitoria-Gasteiz

The Basque capital doesn't see as many international visitors as Bilbao or San Sebastián – all the more reason to spend a few days exploring the cobblestone streets and pintxo bars of pretty Vitoria-Gasteiz. Highlights include the postcard-perfect historic center, considered the best-preserved medieval center in Basque Country, and the 13th-century Cathedral Santa María, a Gothic landmark perched at the summit of the old town.

Gernika's historical relevance

Even if your knowledge of art is limited, you've likely seen Guernica , Pablo Picasso's powerful mural depicting the violence and chaos of war. It's widely thought to be a response to the 1937 bombing of Gernika, a Basque village, during the Spanish Civil War. Today, you can visit the site yourself, stopping into the excellent Museo de la Paz de Gernika for an overview of wartime events and the town's significance in the greater context of Basque culture.

The chance to 'hang ten' at Mundaka

The waves at Mundaka, on Basque Country's central coast, have long been regarded as the best waves in all of Europe. The natural geography – a sandbar formed by an estuary – forms fast, hollow waves that some surfers have called the finest in the world. If you're not up to the challenge, watch the spectacle from the town's harbor walls.

The full-bodied wines of the region

You'll see the names of Basque Country's premiere wine-growing centers – Samaniego, Laguardia, Elciego, Labastida – scrawled on chalkboards at bars and cafes all over the region. Sample a Tempranillo or two before heading into the Rioja Alavesa wine region to see how they're made. Of particular interest are the stunning medieval city of Laguardia and the wineries around it, including Bodegas Ysios and its futuristic ‘temple dedicated to wine’ by Santiago Calatrava.

Can't get enough of that seductive pairing of fine wine and modern architecture? Don't miss the Bodegas Marqués de Riscal in Elciego, specializing in full-bodied reds produced from the old vines, and its whimsical Frank Gehry-designed hotel.

This article was originally published on August 20, 2019.

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Basque Country is unlike the rest of Spain - here's 10 reasons to visit

Hawaii isn't exactly famous for its blue-light-special price tag, but you don't have to break your budget to enjoy everything the state capital has to offer.

Honolulu is full of low-cost things to do, from markets and museums to beaches and stunning scenic drives, not to mention plenty of sites that tell the story of Hawaii's long, complex history. Here are the best free things to do in Honolulu.

Hawai'i State Art Museum

With its thought-provoking collections, this public art museum showcases art dating back to the 1800s, and every piece has a connection to Hawaii. The museum inhabits a grand 1928 Spanish Mission Revival–style building, formerly a YMCA and today a nationally registered historic site.

Upstairs, revolving exhibits of paintings, sculptures, fiber art, photography and mixed media are displayed around themes, such as the island’s Polynesian heritage, modern social issues or the natural beauty of land and sea. Hawaii’s complex confluence of Asian, Pacific Rim and European cultures is evident throughout, shaping an aesthetic that captures the soul of the islands and the hearts of the people.

Special events are very worthwhile. On the first Friday evening each month, galleries are open with live entertainment and a family-friendly atmosphere. Drop by at noon on the last Tuesday of the month for free "Art Lunch" lectures or between 11am and 3pm on the second Saturday for hands-on Hawaiian arts and crafts, often designed with kids in mind.

Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Wayside Park

Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Wayside Park offers the best free view in Honolulu! At this hillside park, sweeping views extend from Diamond Head on the left, across Waikiki and downtown Honolulu, to the Waiʻanae Range on the right. The airport is visible on the coast and Pearl Harbor beyond that. The blue Pacific is a backdrop to everything. It's less than 2.5 miles up Round Top Dr from Makiki St to the park entrance. Signs detail the area's history as a macadamia nut farm.

Chinatown Markets

The commercial heart of Chinatown revolves around its markets and food shops. Noodle factories, pastry shops and produce stalls line the narrow sidewalks, always crowded with cart-pushing people and errand-running families. An institution since 1904, the Oʻahu Market sells everything a person cooking Chinese food needs: ginger root, fresh octopus, quail eggs, jasmine rice, slabs of tuna, long beans and salted jellyfish. You may even spot a pig’s head among the stalls.

At the start of the nearby pedestrian mall is the newer, but equally vibrant, Kekaulike Market. At the top end of the pedestrian mall is Maunakea Marketplace, with its popular food court.

Kawaiahaʻo Church

Often regarded in the past as the "Westminster Abbey of Hawaii," Oʻahu’s oldest church was built on the site where the first missionaries constructed a grass thatch church shortly after their arrival in 1820. The original structure seated 300 Hawaiians on lauhala mats, woven from hala (screwpine) leaves. This 1842 New England Georgian (Palladian) style church is made of 14,000 coral slabs, which divers chiseled out of Oʻahu’s underwater reefs – a weighty task that took four years.

The clock was donated by Kamehameha III, and the old clock, installed in 1850, still keeps accurate time. The enclosed rear pews of the church, marked by kahilii (feathered staffs) and velvet padding, were for the aliʻi (Hawaiian royalty).

The tomb of King Lunalilo, the short-lived successor to Kamehameha V, is found at the main entrance to the Kawaiahaʻo Church grounds. Lunalilo died from tuberculosis on February 3, 1874, after a short reign of a year. Due to his popularity and status as Hawaii's first elected monarch, he became known as "The People's King." He was the first "elected monarch" because King Kamehameha V, the last of the Kamehameha kings, died in 1872 without naming a successor.

The cemetery to the rear of the church offers a who’s who of colonial history: early Protestant missionaries are buried alongside other important figures, including the infamous Sanford Dole, who became the first territorial governor of Hawaii after Queen Liliʻuokalani was overthrown.

Izumo Taishakyo Mission

This Shintō shrine was built by Japanese immigrants in 1906. It was confiscated during WWII by the city and wasn’t returned to the community until the early 1960s. Cleaning your hands at the shrine entrance basin is considered an act of purification for those who come to pray. Thousands of good-luck amulets are sold at their office, especially on January 1 to 3 when the shrine heaves with people who come seeking New Year’s blessings.

Honolulu Museum of Art

First Hawaiian Bank’s high-rise headquarters on Bishop St is home to the downtown gallery of the Honolulu Museum of Art, featuring fascinating mixed-media exhibits of modern and contemporary works by Hawaii artists. Exhibits cover several floors and the building itself features a four-story-high art-glass wall incorporating 185 prisms.

Aloha Tower

Built in 1926, the 10-story Aloha Tower was a landmark and once the city’s tallest building. In the golden days when all tourists to Hawaii arrived by ship, this pre-WWII waterfront icon – with its four-sided clock tower inscribed with "Aloha" – greeted every visitor. These days, Hawaii Pacific University occupies the mostly defunct Aloha Tower Marketplace, which was meant to ensnare people arriving at the nearby cruise ship docks. Take the elevator to the top-floor observation deck free of charge for fabulous 360-degree views of Honolulu and the waterfront.

Manoa Chinese Cemetery

The Lin Yee Chung Manoa Chinese Cemetery is on a knoll nestled on the eastern slopes of the Manoa Valley. Founded in 1852, with all the design elements of a classic Chinese cemetery, it is the oldest and largest Chinese cemetery on the Hawaiian Islands. Stroll among the gates and gravesites for a look into local history and enjoy the views out of the valley mouth to the tall buildings of Waikiki.

Washington Place

Formerly the governor’s residence, the colonial-style Washington Place was built in 1846 by US sea captain John Dominis. The captain’s son became the governor of Oʻahu and married the Hawaiian princess who later became Queen Liliʻuokalani. After the queen was released from house arrest inside ʻIolani Palace in 1896, she lived here until her death in 1917. The building is still used for official events. Free tours take place every Thursday, but you must register in advance.

Hawaii State Capitol

Built in the architecturally interesting 1960s, Hawaii’s state capitol is a poster child of conceptual postmodernism: two cone-shaped legislative chambers have sloping walls to represent volcanoes; the supporting columns shaped like coconut palms symbolize the archipelago's eight main islands; and a large encircling pool represents the Pacific Ocean surrounding Hawaii.  The building is closed to the public, but visitors can walk through the open-air rotunda and peer through viewing windows into the legislative chambers. Learn more about it with a self-guided tour brochure.

Columbia on the central tower is in the opening credits of Hawaii Five-0 © Alamy Stock Photo" 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="84972a51-a7d0-4274-8c5f-d6a4fb5545d3" data-langcode="en" title="Honolulu, Hawaii, USA. 28th Jul, 2015. The Lady Columbia statue, National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl Cemetery).">

National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific

Northeast of downtown Honolulu is a bowl-shaped crater, nicknamed the Punchbowl, formed by a long-extinct volcano. Hawaiians called the crater Puowaina ("hill of human sacrifices"). It’s believed that at an ancient heiau (temple) here, the slain bodies of kapu (taboo) breakers were ceremonially cremated upon an altar. Today, the remains of ancient Hawaiians sacrificed to appease the gods share the crater floor with the bodies of well over 50,000 soldiers.

The remains of Ernie Pyle, the distinguished war correspondent who was killed in Okinawa during the final days of WWII, lie in section D, grave 109. Five stones to the left, at grave D-1, is the marker for Ellison Onizuka, the Hawaiʻi (Big Island) astronaut who perished in the 1986 Challenger space shuttle disaster. Other notables buried here include longtime US senator and WWII vet Daniel K Inouye. Screens at the visitors center at the cemetery entrance let you look up the location of any gravesite.

Even without the war sights, Punchbowl is worth the drive up for the plum views of the city and Diamond Head. After entering the cemetery, bear left and go to the top of the hill, where there’s a sweeping ocean-view lookout. Special events held at the cemetery include Memorial Day ceremonies to honor veterans and a traditional Easter sunrise Christian service.

Sand Island State Recreation Area

A barely visited half-mile ribbon of sand hides in plain sight from much of Honolulu. Industrial Sand Island, sitting between the airport and the port, is home to this large urban park. The beach faces the open Pacific and has fine-grained sand. It's backed by vast lawns dotted with trees and public facilities.

From the sand there are fine views of planes taking off (wave to the morose faces overhead winging their way home) and of the high-rises of downtown and Waikiki. On the downside, the park suffers from shabby maintenance and there's a few people wandering about who clearly have no place else to go. It's also a bit of a trek to reach the beach. From the intersection where the Sand Island Access Rd heads southwest from the Nimitz Hwy (Hwy 92), it's about a 4-mile drive, as you have to drive all the way to the east end of the island before hooking back to the beach.

Kuan Yin Temple

With its green ceramic-tile roof and bright red columns, this ornate Chinese Buddhist temple is Honolulu’s oldest. The richly carved interior is filled with the sweet, pervasive smell of burning incense. The temple is dedicated to Kuan Yin, bodhisattva of mercy, whose statue is the largest in the interior prayer hall. Devotees burn paper "money" for prosperity and good luck, while offerings of fresh flowers and fruit are placed at the altar.

Royal Mausoleum State Monument

Known as Mauna ʻAla, or Fragrant Hills, in Hawaiian, this is the final resting place of Hawaii's two prominent royal families, the Kamehamehas and the Kalakauas. Completed in 1865 for Prince Albert, it's adjacent to the public Oʻahu Cemetery. The mausoleum is home to the remains of almost all of Hawaii's monarchs, their consorts, and various princes and princesses. There is no entrance fee to this sacred place to all Hawaiians, where the manicured grounds are peaceful and the Gothic Revival chapel is on the National Register of Historic Places.

John Young Museum of Art

A short walk downhill from the UH Campus Center, the John Young Museum of Art features 20th-century Hawaii painter John Young’s collection of artifacts from the Pacific islands, Africa, Asia and Mesoamerica, mostly ceramics, pottery and sculpture. The museum has a lovely outdoor courtyard and hosts excellent special exhibitions – often with Hawaii themes. The Art Gallery, in the nearby art building, is also free to visit, and also hosts excellent contemporary exhibitions in a 4000-sq-ft brutalist octagonal exhibition space surrounded by bamboo.

Aliʻiolani Hale

The first major government building ordered by the Hawaiian monarchy in 1874, the "House of Heavenly Kings" was designed by Australian architect Thomas Rowe to be a royal palace, although it was never used as such. Don't miss the King Kamehameha V Judiciary History Center to see short films and exhibits about the reign of Kamehameha I, the rule of law under the Hawaiian Monarchy, and martial law in Hawaii during WWII. The center is free to visit, and is a great place to learn about Hawaii’s judicial process and legal history during ke au ʻōiwi wale (the native-only period) through kēia manawa (present day).

Editor's note: Due to COVID-19, the Hawaii State Judiciary has announced restricted access to Aliʻiolani Hale until further notice. Access to the building is restricted to individuals with official business with the courts.

Hiroshima to Honolulu Friendship Torii

In a grassy median called the Mōʻiliʻili Triangle Park sits a symbol of Honolulu's close ties to Japan. This bright red Shintō gate is a half-size replica of a famous torii (traditional gate) at the water’s edge of Miyajima Island, just south of Hiroshima. Few know that Honolulu and Hiroshima are sister cities, even fewer know that the two cities' ties go back to the 19th century – when the first wave of Japanese immigrants were drawn from the Hiroshima region.

Tantalus-Round Top Scenic Drive

Starting 2 miles above downtown Honolulu, a narrow switchback road cuts its way up into the Makiki Valley's forest reserves and climbs almost to the top of Mt. Tantalus (2013ft), aka Puʻu ʻOhiʻa. There is a a profusion of tropical plants along the way, as vines climb to the tops of telephone poles and twist their way across the wires. This 8.5-mile circuit is a two-way loop called Tantalus Drive on its western side, Round Top Drive to the east.

Keliiponi Hale

The Keliiponi Hale was erected in front of ʻlolani Palace in 1883 as a pavilion for the coronation of King Kalakaua. As there was no other ranking person to perform the duty, Kalakaua placed the crown on his own head. The pavilion was later moved to its present site and used as a bandstand. These days, the Royal Hawaiian Band plays free concerts near the pavilion at noon on most Fridays. However, during COVID, their schedule has been altered. Check their website for updates.

Cathedral of St. Andrew

King Kamehameha IV, attracted to the royal Church of England, decided to build his own cathedral and founded the Anglican Church in Hawaii in 1861. The cathedral’s cornerstone was laid in 1867, four years after his death on St Andrew’s Day – hence the building's name. The architecture is French Gothic, using stone and stained glass shipped from England.

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This article was originally published on April 2, 2021.

Things to do in Honolulu without spending a dime

The heart of Montréal won’t be found at La Ronde amusement park or waiting in line at Notre Dame, it will be found in the 19 boroughs that make up the city, where locals and tourists mingle over the pleasure of a delicious coffee, perfect bagels, and a deep sense of community.

Exploring Montréal’s distinct neighborhoods is like a tasting menu at a restaurant, each course offers its own individual delight, and together they’ll give you the best time you’ll ever have.

Quartier des Spectacles ( Entertainment District)

Best neighborhood for arts and entertainment

Montréal is a deeply creative city, and perhaps there is no better place to experience the festivals, art, music, and performances of the local artisans than the Quartier des Spectacles (Entertainment District). Whether in the sweltering summer or in the midst of a snowstorm, Quartier des Spectacles is constantly buzzing with its 80 cultural venues and 8 public spaces. At night the boulevards light up with enchanting light displays, with the Place des Arts, the largest art and culture complex in Canada, at its heart.

If you want entertainment, look no further. Events and festivals happen year-round (even with 3ft of snow to trudge through) at the Place des Festivals. It is arguably the most festive and lively area of Montréal, and you can check out their schedule of events here.

Mile End

Best neighborhood for coffee and thrifting

One of Montréal’s most dynamic boroughs, this neighborhood is a laid-back and trendy spot for record shops, vintage shopping, cafes, and eateries. It’s a pedestrian-friendly area where even the alleyways have been converted into green spaces to connect the community.

The 40 blocks that make up Mile End are crawling with thrift shops and vintage goods – from Expo 67 coasters to vintage Chanel gowns, Mile End has a treat for anyone willing to spend a few hours combing through its shelves. Annex Vintage possibly sells the most pins and patches in the city, and you can pin them on a vintage bomber jacket from the same store. Another popular shop is Citizen Vintage – their goal is to provide a sustainable alternative to fast fashion through upcycling both clothes and home goods.

If you fancy spending a whole day in Mile End, you can start off by getting brunch at Le Butterblume and then stopping by the lively Librairie Drawn & Quarterly for a graphic novel. If you’re a proud plant parent, drop by the highly Instagrammable Dragon Flowers, fuel up with a coffee from Le Falco or for something stronger, a tipple at Le Darling, and finish your night at Cinéma Moderne for a drink and an avant-garde film.

If you’re still hungry, the famous St. Viateur bagel shop (Anthony Bourdain certified) has its original location in Mile End, and trust me, this bagel will not disappoint even the snobbiest of bagel connoisseurs. You can pit it against another Mile End competitor, Fairmount Bagel.

Gay Village

Best neighborhood to celebrate your pride (and party)

Home to Canada’s largest gay village and North America’s first recorded gay establishment (Moise Tellier’s Apple and Cake Shop), this borough in Montréal has an unforgettable atmospheric scene that is welcome to all and vital to the city’s landscape. In the summer the main boulevard, Rue Sainte-Catherine, becomes pedestrian-only as the streets are strung with pink and rainbow bunting and the patios spill out onto the streets.

Gay Village has an impressive LGBTIQ+ night scene and is most notably home to Cabaret Mado, a 1920s inspired cabaret that is owned by the local drag superstar Mado Lamotte. If you’re looking for something a little more modern, Complexe Sky has three stories of distinct music, a spa and a pool.

Not to be overshadowed with fantastic cocktails, good eats, and drag bars, Gay Village also has amazing shopping options, especially at the vintage shops on Atateken Street. You’ll get beautiful home goods at amazing prices – I have never come back empty handed even after a short browse on Atateken.

Centre-Ville ( Downtown Montréal)

Best neighborhood for shopaholics and urbanites

It’s time to shop! High-end fashion boutiques sit right beside affordable options in the city’s compact downtown core, many of them located on Rue Sainte-Catherine, Canada’s longest commercial street. Don’t fret if it’s too cold, the Underground City has 33km (just over 20 miles) of sprawling shops and subway connections.

If in need of a break from shopping, have a bite of brunch at the beautiful Cafe Parvis and stop by Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral (just as beautiful as Notre-Dame and St. Joseph’s Oratory, but far less busy). Afterward, head to The Montréal Museum of Fine Arts for an afternoon of gazing at masterpieces.

When you’re feeling peckish head to Henri Brasserie Française for upscale French cooking. If you’re on a budget, Reuben's Restaurant Delicatessen has some of the best smoked meat sandwiches Montréal has to offer. If you want multiple dining options and possibly also some live entertainment, Time Out Market Montréal is the perfect crowd pleaser.

Le Plateau-Mont-Royal

Best neighborhood to admire Montréal’s unique architecture

Home of the McGill campus and its famous streets of sprawling 19th century townhomes, Le Plateau borough is one you can spend hours walking around in. The vibrant houses with their colorful spiral stairs define this area (make sure to drop by Carré Saint-Louis for some really quirky residences), but the fun and bustling shops (like Mycoboutique, specializing in all things mushrooms), pretty churches, and multitude of green spaces offer plenty to the curious pedestrian.

Make sure to stop for breakfast at Maison Publique, or if you’re craving something a little different, try the gorgeous Byblos le Petit Café for a Persian brunch. Refresh yourself at the industrial Pikolo Espresso Bar, and finish your gastronomical adventure at LOV, a vegan Montréal restaurant that has now spread as far as Toronto.

Quartier Latin ( Latin Quarter)

Best neighborhood to sip a cocktail and socialize

This lively and vibrant part of Montréal thrives in the warm weather. In this part of the city you can experience the true liveliness of the locals; Montréalers have an unrivaled zest for life and you can join them drinking cocktails at bars with little french-cafe tables on every street corner. This is a great place for cheap eats, great drinks, and bar hopping.

In the winter you can cozy up at a candlelit jazz bar like Bistro à Jojo or Bootlegger, L'Authentique, after a stunning dinner at L’Express on the famed Rue Saint-Denis. In the summer the 60+ patios that open onto the streets will doubtlessly accommodate all your eating, drinking, and merrying.

Vieux-Montréal ( Old Town)

Best neighborhood to pretend you’re in Europe

Montréal’s most touristy neighborhood is famous for a reason – Old Montréal has been absolutely buzzing since the 17th century. It boasts winding cobblestone streets, ethereal gothic cathedrals, archaeological ruins, lively squares with street vendors, and of course, an old port (also known as THE Old Port).

The coffee scene in Old Montréal is totally underrated – come for Notre Dame, but stay for the sunlit cafes in pretty historic buildings. Right on the famous Rue Saint Paul sits Tommy, an Instagram-famous two-story cafe. Nearby is also the gorgeous Crew Collective & Cafe; it’s both a cafe and a co-working space, and located in an old RBC building (with the original chandeliers still dangling impressively on the vaulted ceilings). For something a little more quirky, try Le Petit Dep, a hidden gem in the Old Port.

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As COVID-19 restrictions to European travel evolve, you're more likely to pack your lederhosen for a weekend trip rather than a long-haul flight this fall.

While Munich's official Oktoberfest was canceled again this year, we're looking forward to many stateside Oktoberfest events with COVID-safety measures in place.

Many of the Oktoberfest events can be found in the delightful German-themed towns scattered across the US. All offer an irresistible look into Old World customs, plus some first-class beers, memorable wines and all sorts of sausage. Far from the wurst, these German towns are the best.

Leavenworth, Washington

2021 festival: Leavenworth Oktoberfest Markt, October 1 - 17, 2021

Entering Leavenworth feels like some sort of Germanic hallucination. Blink all you want, but you really are still in Washington. In the 1960s, this former lumber town went for a total Bavarian makeover to restore its crumbling fortunes – and it worked. The city is now a traditional Romantische Strasse village backed by a mountain right out of Sound of Music (OK, that's set in Austria, but you get the picture). Linderhof Inn is a cozy Bavarian-style B&B, and you'll find spaetzle and accordions galore at the lively Andreas Keller restaurant.

Hermann, Missouri

2021 festival: Oktoberfest Hermann, every weekend of October 2021

Perched above the Missouri River, between Kansas City and St Louis, the site of Hermann was hand-picked by German immigrants for its Rhine-like setting and climate. And like the Rhine, this region is known for wines: the Hermann AVA was one of the first designated American Viticultural Areas. This lovely town – one of the best reasons to take scenic Hwy 50 instead of I-70 across the 'Show-Me State' – has plenty of B&B options like Hermann Hill and is home to the oldest operating tavern west of the Mississippi, not to mention a town flag.

Helen, Georgia

2021 festival: 50th annual Oktoberfest Helen, now through November 7, 2021

Like Leavenworth, the town of Helen in the North Georgia mountains reinvented itself as a Bavarian village as a revitalization strategy. In 1969, local businesses and carpenters got to work, with help from a local artist with German roots, transforming this former mill town into the self-proclaimed best little German town in the South. Or in 'Appalachia,' if you will. Today, some 1.5 million visitors per year discover Helen's picturesque downtown, fueled by steins of Dunkelweizens, Doppelbocks and Pils. The region is also home to Georgia's best wines, including German-style Rieslings and Gerwurtztraminers.

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Fredericksburg, Texas

2021 festival: 40th Oktoberfest, October 1 - 3, 2021

Settled in 1870 by (you guessed it) German immigrants, Fredericksburg is a frightfully dainty, rewarding destination right between Austin and San Antonio, amidst Texas' lovely hill country. Visitors can shop in boutiques in the collection of Victorian townhouses, take in the area's myriad wineries via the wine-trail map and grab a bite to eat at the Old German Bakery, which serves up standbys like schnitzel and bratwurst. The Pioneer Museum gives a good overview of the lifestyle of the early settlers.

Frankenmuth, Michigan

2021 festival: Frankenmuth Oktoberfest has already occurred this year, plan ahead for next year: September 15 - 18, 2022

Some 75 miles north of Detroit, Frankenmuth, Michigan – affectionately dubbed 'the Muth' by locals – hosts two serious German-inspired festivals : a summer music festival in August and an Oktoberfest. It's also Christmas all year long at the 'rah-rah Tannenbaum,' 45-acre, year-round Bronner's Christmas Wonderland, said to be the world's largest Christmas store. As the temperatures drop this fall, head to Zehnder’s Splash Village 's enormous 50,000 sq ft indoor waterpark, a popular family destination.

Amana Colonies, Iowa

2021 festival: Amana Colonies Oktoberfest, October 1 - 3, 2021

Just northwest of Iowa City (and off mind-numbingly monotonous I-80), this string of seven Iowa villages occupy a fun-to-drive 17-mile loop. Amana, East Amana, West Amana, South Amana, High Amana, Middle Amana and Homestead were settled by German 'Inspirationists,' a religious group that had been persecuted in Germany, in the years before the Civil War. And unlike Amish or Mennonite religions, these communities embrace modern technology – they even generated a successful line of refrigerators that became the Amana Corporation, now owned by Whirlpool. Aside from learning about local culture at a half-dozen museums, including the insightful Amana Heritage Museum, it's worth coming for truly wonderful German meals and a mug of local Millstream wheat beer. Zuber's Homestead Hotel is a good value B&B in a late 19th-century building.

This article was originally published on August 29, 2018.

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