Michael Goldstein

Once overlooked, airport hotels have transformed into essential havens for travelers, especially business guests. While not luxury destinations, major chain properties provide crucial services, comfortable stays, and valuable loyalty points. They've evolved dramatically over two decades, now offering robust Wi-Fi, conference facilities, modern gyms, and exceptional staff. From versatile properties like the Westin LAX, catering to diverse events, to the unique, retro-themed TWA Hotel at JFK, their capabilities extend beyond simple stopovers. Ultimately, these establishments are vital "lifesavers," offering a clean, well-lit sanctuary for weary travelers navigating today's chaotic journeys, as a recent Heathrow experience perfectly illustrated.

Chicago is a vibrant destination, currently marking Route 66's 100th anniversary, with its official start at Navy Pier, and the 40th of "Ferris Bueller's Day Out." Visitors can explore the renowned Art Institute, offering a "Be Like Ferris" tour, or take architectural boat tours detailing the city's iconic skyline and "Second City" origins, including its post-Great Fire resilience. Navy Pier hosts the legendary Billy Goat Tavern, famous for the Cubs' curse, while Millennium Park features "The Bean." Luxury accommodations, like the Fairmont Chicago, provide special Route 66 experiences and amenities, blending history, culture, and modern appeal for an unforgettable visit.

Airbnb is intensifying its fight against disruptive parties, particularly for holidays like July 4th, employing advanced technology to block high-risk bookings. This commitment stems from a tragic 2019 Orinda incident and the need to protect its reputation and hosts. Their system screens bookings based on factors like listing type, duration, and guest location, redirecting potential party-goers. AirCover for Hosts further supports with identity verification, background checks, and robust damage protection up to $3 million. These measures, including neighborhood support lines, have significantly reduced party allegations to under 0.06% of US stays, ensuring community safety and host peace of mind.

Rancho Mirage, in the heart of the California desert area around Palm Springs, is beautiful any time of year.

California's Central Coast is known for its dramatic Pacific views. The area is also part of the state's agricultural heartland, from table grapes to California cattle.

Writers have long told tales of exotic foreign lands, from the Greek historian Herodotus (c.484–425BC) to Marco Polo (1254–1324) with his stories of his 24-year journey along the Silk Road to China.

Airlines and credit card companies are heavily investing in upscale airport lounges, with Chase recently opening a new Sapphire Lounge by The Club at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. This 18,000-square-foot, split-level facility offers Chase Sapphire Reserve cardmembers luxurious amenities like upscale dining, a full bar, family and nursing rooms, and a dedicated whiskey and sports bar. Guests can also book showers, rest pods, and facials. The DFW lounge features locally inspired design, a chef partnership with Encina for Texas-rooted cuisine, and local beverage selections. This expansion is part of Chase's growing lounge network, aiming to provide elevated travel experiences for premium cardholders.

Maui's Wailea boasts beautiful beaches and gorgeous sunsets, but hotels like Andaz Maui and Grand Wailea also offer fun activities from making poke to outrigger canoeing.

Legendary film icon Marilyn Monroe would have been one hundred years old in 2026, and there are many places and ways to celebrate her in Los Angeles this year.

A playwright recently visited New York on a budget to help his son and experience Broadway. He chose the historic Paramount Times Square, a 1928 boutique hotel, for its prime location and reasonable price, finding it an oasis amidst the city's bustle despite some noise. Dining included iconic spots like Juniors and Bluefin. Navigating expensive Broadway tickets, he utilized strategies like the TKTS booth and rush tickets, securing a $40 seat for "The Great Gatsby" after paying $278 for a "partial view" "Death of a Salesman" ticket. He observed a generational shift, with younger audiences drawn to shows like "Gatsby" via social media, signaling a hopeful, energetic future for Broadway.