Author Archives: Krista Simmons

Air Travel Could Be a Nightmare in the Coming Weeks—Here’s What You Need to Know

It seems like it’s been ages since we’ve had a functional federal government, and now the ripple effects are starting to reach travelers on… Read More

The Best New Place to Camp Is… a Farm? These Are the Most Scenic Spots in California

If you hadn’t heard, it’s now a whole lot easier to pitch your tent (or park your Westie) on California farmland than it… Read More

I’m a Travel Editor and These Are Officially the Best Pants for Traveling, Period.

Finding pants that look chic and feel like pajamas is the travel holy grail. After years of testing every so-called “perfect travel pant,” I’ve… Read More

Haunted Hotels, Apple Picking, and Baking Bootcamps—This Is the Ultimate Fall Travel Checklist

When the days grow shorter and the leaves start to shift, the West transforms into a playground of autumnal delights. From haunted seaside… Read More

These Are Hands Down the Best Girls’ Trips to Take—No Bachelorette Required

There’s something almost sacred about a proper girls’ trip, when you can truly let your hair down, belly laugh until your abs are sore,… Read More

Sure, You Can Still Go to National Parks During the Shutdown—But You Still Need to Follow the Rules

Since the government shut down on October 1, several national parks have closed. And while some remain open, they’re wildly understaffed. Over the… Read More

These Charming Inns Are the Epitome of California Cottagecore, and Are the Perfect Cozy Fall Retreat

The cottagecore aesthetic—which celebrates simple living, vintage style, and an idealized return to rural life—has taken off on social media as of late,… Read More

Your Guide to Oceanside, Southern California’s Sleeper Hit of a Surf Town

For many years, the town of Oceanside in San Diego’s North County was looked at as a rough-around-the-edges area that was certainly worth… Read More

These Secret, Under-the-Radar Leaf-Peeping Spots Will Fulfill All Your Fall Fantasies

When most people think of fall foliage in the American West, they picture Colorado’s famous golden aspens or the undulating variated hills… Read More

These New Floral Retreats Are the Bloom-Based Vacations of Your Dreams

Certainly we’re no stranger to making a visit to botanical gardens like Lotusland and San Francisco Botanical Gardens a highlight of our… Read More

These Are the Best Gym Memberships and Fitness Apps for Travelers

As much as I’m an advocate for lacing up for a run in a new city, sometimes you just need the motivation of… Read More

This Restaurant Is a Love Letter to Vintage Waikīkī

Step inside 855-Aloha and you’re transported back to the golden era of Waikīkī, the swinging ’60s when it had… Read More

Here’s Exactly What to Do in South Lake Tahoe, According to Locals

Between all the winter and water sports, awesome hiking, and killer entertainment, it’s hard to sift through what’s worthy of your time in Tahoe. Read More

The Pickett Fire in Napa Valley Has Now Been Declared a State of Emergency

The Pickett Fire in Napa County, which started on August 21 in the town of Calistoga, has now burned nearly 7,000… Read More

These Are the Travel Trends You Need to Pay Attention to this Fall

It’s hard to imagine that autumn is on the horizon with all the heatwaves the West is experiencing right now, but believe it… Read More

This Is the Ultimate Guide to Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara’s nickname as “The American Riviera” isn’t just marketing speak. This coastal town truly embodies Mediterranean elegance with a decidedly California vibe. The… Read More

Tonight Is the Most Powerful Perseids Meteor Shower—These Are the Best National Parks for Stargazing

Astrotourism has been an emerging travel trend for some time now, and the fascination with the night sky doesn’t seem to be slowing down. Read More

Cabo’s Most Celebrated Chef Is Opening a Napa Restaurant with Cottagecore Vibes

A historic Yountville train station from the 1800s has been given new life as a playful new restaurant called… Read More

5 New Ways to Explore Yosemite

It’s hard to contemplate the idea of newness when it comes to a place that’s been around for millions of years like Yosemite National… Read More

This New Floating Sauna in the Bay Area Is the Wellness Escape of Your Dreams

The sleepy seaside hamlet of Sausalito has historically been known for its unique houseboat community and stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. Read More

I Was Terrified to Fly with My Senior Dog for the First Time. This Air Carrier Made It a Breeze.

For the past 15 years, I’ve had the world’s best travel companion. But despite the thousands of miles we’ve clocked… Read More

The Raging Megafire in One of the National Parks Has Grown to the Largest in the Country

According to the National Park Service, the Dragon Bravo Fire has continued to balloon in size, and is now contained… Read More

You Can Visit Your Favorite National Park for Free Next Week. Here’s How.

Mark your calendars and get ready to lace up your Danners. The National Park Service is waiving entrance fees for… Read More

These Skincare Products Are Powered by the Sea and Will Heal Your Tired Skin

The ocean has long been a source of healing and renewal, and these days the beauty world is diving deep into marine-powered skincare. We’ve… Read More