The double-decker Tobin Bridge—the largest in New England—looms overhead as I bob on the waves of the Mystic River in my 10-foot Tucktec folding kayak. I am paddling the length of one of the most industrialized rivers in America, if not the world, as it flows from the suburban beaches of Medford to the smokestacks and shipping platforms at the mouth o

Venture beyond the historic inns and kitschy clam shacks along Route 6, and discover secluded beaches, rare wildlife, and mysterious ruins.

This state embodies all the historic charm of New England – red barns, white steeples and colonial country estates – just a short train ride from New York City. By staying at the best bed and breakfasts in Connecticut, which are generally small and owner-operated, you experience the local culture in a way no chain hotel can recreate. From the storied seaports of Westbrook and Greenwich, to the Farmington Hills and the Connecticut River Valley, each of the properties on this list has its own unique character and story to tell.

White steeples against crisp blue skies, glorious autumn colors and fall foliage like you wouldn’t believe, fresh lobster rolls, REAL maple syrup – New England conjures all kinds of cozy associations! And some not so cozy, like great white sharks, witch-hunts, whaling, and rabid sports fans (don’t worry, they don’t attack unless you’re wearing a Yankees hat). Whether you’re planning a fall getaway or a summer vacation, the coastline and mountains of New England make for one truly unforgettable road trip!

From tropical escapes to cozy cabins in the woods, here’s how COVID-19 heroes can save on some well-deserved R&R

From plush velvet sofas and Persian rugs, to tribal-print throw pillows, this West End hotel is the epitome of boho chic. Start your day with a yoga class in the plant-filled courtyard. Hang out in the “living room”, an inviting open-concept communal space that replaces a traditional lobby. Curl up with a book in one of the living room’s welcoming seating areas, or sidle up to the bar for a craft cocktail. Set the mood with a record from El Donut Shoppe, which sells new and used vinyl from its s

Luxury and location make for an unforgettable stay at the Four Seasons. Ride the swan boats at Boston Public Gardens, directly across the street from the hotel, or take in a Broadway show two blocks down at the Colonial Theatre. Die-hard romantics note: the hotel is also handy for the brownstone-lined thoroughfares of Newbury Street and Commonwealth Avenue, modelled after the Champs- in Paris. Afterwards, enjoy a couples massage or candlelit dinner without leaving the privacy of your room, or w

The path leads me deeper into the jungle, where towering gum and ceiba trees block the sunlight, their limbs dripping with lianas and red bromeliads. The canopy is alive with humming insects, bird song, and howler monkeys’ eerie guttural cries. I round a bend and suddenly a pyramid looms before me, overgrown with moss and vines. It’s easy to imagine I’m the first explorer to stumble upon these ruins. Deep in the jungle of Chiapas, where monkeys still outnumber tourists, slumbers the ancient c

It’s not the Asian-contemporary decor, Frette linens, or in-house French bistro that earns the Mandarin Oriental the most rave reviews – it’s the spa, which consistently gobbles up awards. The ritual begins with a hot towel and fragrant cup of tea before moving on to the quartz-crystal steam room and the heated Vitality Pool – all this before your treatment even begins. Choose between favorites like the Himalayan Salt Stone Massage or the Millennial Posture Treatment.

Study abroad offers insight not only into a foreign culture, but into our own. This is especially true for US students studying in Mexico. The two countries are connected not only by geography, but history – most of the southwestern US belonged to Mexico until 1846 – and immigration, which has given new vitality to Mexican culture within the US. As you consider the many different study abroad locations, programs, and living arrangements in Mexi

Set on a former dude ranch in the sunlit foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado feels secluded, but is actually just 10 minutes from downtown galleries and restaurants. Plan the expedition of your dreams – traverse the red rocks of Abiquiú in the footsteps of Georgia O’Keeffe, or ride the rapids of the Rio Grande – with the help of the hotel’s Adventure Center. Or stay and enjoy the enchanting mountain views from your private patio or the hillside p

Despite the threatening clouds, the procession swelled in size, stretching as far as I could see in either direction. I was swept along by the crowd, down winding cobblestone streets and past colonial buildings painted tropical fruit colors. In doorways and windows, behind the wrought iron curlicues, whole families stood and cheered. This kind of procession, called a calenda, is how the people of Oaxaca, Mexico, traditionally kick off a fiesta, and the Guelaguetza of Lunes del Cerro is the bigges