Pamela Wright

As the famous saying goes: “The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry.” And as all frequent travelers know: Things never go according to plan.

Another reason to love Maine, besides the usual all-star lineup of lobsters, lighthouses, whoopie pies, and craggy coastline? The spa scene is solid.

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. — Yogurt topped with cherries. Pulled pork with a spicy cherry rub. A salad swirled with “cherry bomb” ranch dressing.

If the only thing keeping you from camping is the whole sleeping-on-the-ground situation, you're out of excuses.

There are thousands of places to camp in New England. There are campgrounds surrounded by forests and mountains, and along rivers, lakes, and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

The Appalachian Mountain Club , known for its backcountry huts, lodges, and campsites, extensive trail work, and conservation efforts, celebrates its 150th anniversary this year.

Yay for beach days, those glorious, golden, sun-splashed hours we dream about during Wind Chill season. Here in New England, we've got some gorgeous sandy specimens.

Oceania Cruises is known for their culinary program, and they just upped the ante with a collaboration with Master Chefs of France.

With all the uncertainty surrounding travel these days, including wildfires, low river levels, and geopolitical unrest, this may be a good time to consider a group tour. Someone else — your group leader — will handle the hiccups. Your job is to 1) show up on time and 2) not be a jerk. (Rick Steves has a “no grumps” policy on his tours!) Sightseeing with a group of strangers might sound unappealing, but it can be a fun way to go, even solo. Here's a look at what's hot on the group tour scene, and what 2027 has in store.