Author Archives: Krista Simmons

Southwest Airlines Announces Huge Change to Its Seating Policy

Southwest Airlines has announced a significant shift in its seating policy with the introduction of assigned seating, marking a major departure… Read More

Thousands Flee Jasper National Park in Canada as Wildfires Rage

As summer temperatures soar in Alberta, Canada, Jasper National Park faces a crisis. Wildfires, ignited by scorching heat, spread rapidly through the rugged Western… Read More

The Best Room Service Orders, Ranked

Indulging in hotel room service is a cherished luxury for travelers, offering a moment of decadence or a much-needed reprieve amidst flight cancellations… Read More

From Joining a Run Club to Booking a Resort Pass, Here’s Your Definitive Summer Bucket List

With the Fourth of July holiday behind us, it may seem a little late in the game to create the ultimate summer bucket list. Read More

The Best Coastal Hikes in the West for Picture-Perfect Views

As the summer sun blazes, the idea of a hike might sound questionable to say the least. But for those of us who… Read More

This Is the Best Sport to Explore a New City (and It’s Free)

As a lifelong athlete and avid traveler, staying active while on the road isn’t just a matter of fitness for me, it’s a matter of… Read More

I’m a Travel Editor and These Are My Summer Travel Essentials, Year After Year.

Having spent nearly two decades traveling the world both professionally and for pleasure, I’ve garnered quite the routine, especially when it comes to packing. Read More

It’s Not Too Late to Book Your Fourth of July Camp Spot. Here’s How to Get the Best Deals.

With all of this year’s “May gray” and “June gloom,” it seems summer really snuck up on us. And yet, here we are, ramping up… Read More

This Is Hands Down the Easiest Way to Renew Your Passport (And Give It a Glow-Up)

There’s nothing quite like the anxiety of having to renew your passport. The deadline always sneaks up at the most inopportune time, usually right before… Read More

These Are Hands Down the Best Bathing Suits for Adventurous Swimmers

Ready or not, it’s swimsuit season. As someone who has spent a lifetime in the water—from my childhood as a competitive swimmer, eventually competing at… Read More

The Laguna Surf Lodge Will Fulfill Your ‘Endless Summer’ Fantasy

Perched atop Thalia Street’s gentle yet consistent break, the Laguna Surf Lodge has been revamped by SCP Hotels, breathing new life… Read More

We Just Got Two Newly Expanded National Monuments (And They’re Easy to Get to)

President Joe Biden has been restoring many of the protected parklands that President Obama designated during his terms, starting with the The Camp… Read More

These Least Visited, Under-the-Radar National Parks Deserve a Spot on Your Bucket List

Although summer is a great time to visit any of our country’s national parks, things can get crowded, so this is a perfect opportunity… Read More

Chili Crisp (or Chili Crunch) Is Better Than Hot Sauce. Whatever You Call It, These Are Our Favorite Brands.

Chili crisp, with its roots in regional cuisines throughout Asia, became wildly popular with the masses during the makers movement in the pandemic, and… Read More

Here’s How to Livestream the Total Solar Eclipse for Free on April 8

The final countdown to the total eclipse that will be taking place on Monday, April 8, has begun. And though there will indeed be… Read More

Get the ‘Cowboy Carter’ Look with the Best Cowboy Boots Made in the West

“Anything but country,” used to be the cool-kid response when queried what type of music one listened to. But the genre is making a real… Read More

These Hotel Bed Hacks Will Give You the Best Sleep of Your Life

We’re just past National Sleep Awareness Week, and for those of us who have wrestled with restlessness, let this be a… Read More

Where to See the Most Spectacular Wildflowers Across the West

As winter’s chilly grip makes way for warmer climes and longer days, spring wildflower blooms erupt in colorful splendor across the region’s alpine meadows, rugged… Read More

These Are the Absolute Best Destinations for Spring Break Camping

With many folks throughout the country currently experiencing blizzard warnings and storm watches, it’s time to set our eyes on spring break. And no matter… Read More

These Are the Best Carry-on Luggage Pieces to Get Around Baggage Fees

Between making passengers pay to select a seat and charging for snacks to upping baggage fees, it seems airlines know no end to the… Read More

I’m Single AF. These are the Girls Trips I’m Manifesting for Valentine’s Day.

For those of us who may not be partnered up, the days leading up to Valentine’s Day can be a bit lonely and isolating. Read More

Buddymoons Are the Biggest Trend in Travel. Here’s How to Plan Yours.

The multi-billion dollar wedding industry is known for fleeting trends that move just as fast as some relationships seem to. But the latest fad… Read More

Reservations for the Most Coveted Camping Destination Open Up Tomorrow. Here’s How to Get a Spot.

It’s become increasingly difficult to reserve camping sites in the West, where the interest in exploring the great outdoors has never been higher. Travel… Read More

Birds of Prey Are More Important Than You Think. Here’s Why.

It’s an uncharacteristically sunny winter morning in Big Sur, and guests have gathered next to the pond at Post Ranch… Read More