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Gerrish Lopez

Gerrish Lopez

Contributor, New Orleans

Gerrish Lopez is an avid traveler and freelance writer from New Orleans. For Time Out, she has written about everywhere from Vancouver to New York, and she also has bylines in USA Today and Thrillist

Articles (105)

The best New Orleans festivals

The best New Orleans festivals

New Orleans is pretty much number one for having a good time. The city is known for its amazing food, music and culture, and it takes every opportunity to celebrate these things that make the city so unique. There’s a festival dedicated to almost everything, from musical styles (jazz, zydeco and blues) and iconic foods (like crawfish, gumbo and beignets) to specific neighborhoods and cultures that define the city. The best festivals in New Orleans feature music, food, dancing, art and a non-stop good time. While not a traditional festival by definition, Mardi Gras (and the preceding Carnival season) is the best-known celebration in New Orleans. However, there are so many other festivals that, regardless of the time of year, there’s probably a festival happening. Spring and fall, with the great weather they bring, are the most active times for festivals. Here are some of the best festivals in New Orleans that are worth a spot on your bucket list for a chance to experience the city’s food, culture and music all in one spot. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in New Orleans

The best things to do in Atlanta right now

The best things to do in Atlanta right now

Atlanta may be a sprawling metropolis, but it’s brimming with Southern hospitality and plenty of charm. Georgia’s capital city draws throngs of visitors each year, both for business and pleasure, making it one of the most popular destinations in the South. First-timers and repeat visitors—not to mention locals—can continually discover new and amazing things to do in Atlanta, and with such a variety of options, there’s something for everyone (even the kids). Atlanta boasts award-winning restaurants and bars as well as a vibrant nightlife scene that gets plenty of attention. The city’s other offerings will inspire, educate and entertain. From historic sites and renowned museums to parks, markets and theaters, there’s plenty to explore. Here are the best things to do in Atlanta that highlight the unique character of this Southern city. RECOMMENDED:🍽️ The best restaurants in Atlanta 🍷 The best bars in Atlanta 🐟 The best things to do with kids in Atlanta🏛️ The best attractions in Atlanta 🌳 The best treehouse Airbnbs in Atlanta

The best things to do with kids in Atlanta

The best things to do with kids in Atlanta

The South’s largest city boasts a wealth of attractions, historic sites, renowned restaurants and bars, music venues, a vibrant nightlife scene and an eclectic range of entertainment options that draw throngs of visitors each year. For those with little ones in tow, Atlanta can be just as entertaining. There are plenty of family-friendly activities and things to do with kids in Atlanta, with opportunities for kids of all ages (and attention spans) that are both entertaining and educational. Museums and markets can keep both kids and adults busy, while the Beltline, leafy parks and other outdoor activities are perfect for burning off energy. Attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca Cola will hold kids’ attention for hours. Kids can appreciate the South’s rich history and Southern charm, and these things to do with kids in Atlanta will make your next visit a memorable one. RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Atlanta🎨 The best attractions in Atlanta🏛️ The best museums in Atlanta🍽️ The best restaurants in Atlanta🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Atlanta with pools

The 40 coolest neighbourhoods in the world

The 40 coolest neighbourhoods in the world

It’s that time again. Every year, we ask thousands of city-dwellers to tell us the coolest spots in their cities. What are the places locals love and visitors flock to? Where are the exciting new openings across food, drink and culture? Where are people going out, hanging out and having fun? For the sixth year running, the results are in. Over 12,000 people had their say in this year’s shortlist, naming the neighbourhoods in their hometowns where everyone wants to be right now. Then, we narrowed down the selection with the insight and expertise of city editors and local experts who know their cities better than anyone else. To create and rank the final list, we considered factors including community and social ventures, access to open and green space, and thriving street life. In 2023, our neighbourhoods are more global than ever before. The rise and rise in post-pandemic digital nomadism has led to an explosion of brand-new community spaces, multi-purpose culture centres and more cafés than we can count on two hands. But while most of these neighbourhoods have experienced a transformation over recent years, they remain resolutely local at heart. Slick new developments and cool cafés might bring in new crowds, but neighbourhood stalwarts – from old pubs to family greengrocers – keep it real.  The world’s coolest neighbourhoods this year are, therefore, places with big personalities. Each area’s diversity is reflected in its food, culture and festivals. Community is key: local

The best spas in NYC

The best spas in NYC

We know how it goes: one day you’re loving life in this fine city of ours, the next day you’ve had it with the hustle and need to get away from it all. If a weekend getaway isn’t in the cards, perhaps you can spare a few precious hours for a visit to one of the best spas in NYC. These spas dish out serious serenity in the form of massages, facials and other relaxing treatments so you can be refreshed and on the way to stress-free bliss. Spas are not just for melting away stress (though that’s certainly a welcome side effect) — these spas offer services that can soothe sore muscles, refresh tired skin or get you ready for a beach weekend or big night out. Others offer facilities where you can spend a full day unwinding (girls’ day, anyone?). Some offer or even specialize in couples massages for a romantic date option. NYC spas range from affordable to all-out luxurious. Treat yourself to a pampering at one of these spas — you deserve it.

The 15 best hotels in Boston

The 15 best hotels in Boston

Thinking about visiting Boston? We’ve got you covered. The city is known for its sports culture and huge baseball arenas (as well as its clam chowder, obviously), but it’s got a ton more to offer than that. From shopping till you drop to some lip-smackingly good restaurants and the most perfect spot to grab a cup of coffee, Time Out has all you need for a great stay. But everyone knows the only thing that can ruin a well-planned trip is a bad hotel - so we’ve got you sorted on that front, too. Read on for our roundup of the best hotels in Boston for your travels.  Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Boston RECOMMENDED: The best Airbnbs in BostonRECOMMENDED: The best waterfront Airbnbs in Boston

The best New Orleans attractions

The best New Orleans attractions

Visitors have always descended on New Orleans for major events like Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, and a slew of annual festivals. Many are also drawn by the locally-grown music — jazz, brass band, funk, and more. Others come to eat (and eat and eat) at the amazing restaurants in the city. Aside from all that, both visitors and locals can spend time checking out the best New Orleans attractions. From historic properties and museums to colorful locales and Crescent City icons, these attractions are must-sees among the best things to do in New Orleans. In a city rich with history, each neighborhood — from the French Quarter to the Garden District — is an attraction. The Spanish, French, and Caribbean influences in the city are worth exploring in New Orleans’ museums, as well as its arts and cultural scenes. The city is evolving but rooted in its past, with the modern and historic mixing seamlessly. When exploring these New Orleans attractions, whether cemeteries, streetcars, or museums, you’ll get swept up in the unique flavor of NOLA. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in New OrleansRECOMMENDED: The best cheap hotels in New OrleansRECOMMENDED: The best hotels in New Orleans  

The best things to do in New Orleans

The best things to do in New Orleans

New Orleans has won many an admirer after a single visit, and many of the city's unique experiences are on bucket lists of all types. Whether it's for the home-grown jazz, the colorful, food-forward festivals, the unique neighborhoods or the iconic foods served at the city’s top restaurants, the best things to do in New Orleans bring attract visitors from all walks. Mardi Gras and Bourbon Street are also a draw, but the city is more than just a party. New Orleans is home to world-class attractions like the National WW2 Museum,  amazing architecture, loads of history and natural beauty.  Cocktail enthusiasts have many award-winning choices among New Orleans’ best bars. History buffs can explore the city’s varied influences at museums like the Cabildo, the Historic New Orleans Collection and the New Orleans Jazz Museum. And while the city may not have mountains or beaches, the bayous, lakes and parks offer a chance to soak up the charm of Southern Louisiana. Put these things to do on your list and you're sure to fall in love like so many others have done. RECOMMENDED: 🏠 The best Airbnbs in New Orleans🏨 The best hotels in New Orleans🏨 The best cheap hotels in New Orleans

The best Christmas tree farms in NYC

The best Christmas tree farms in NYC

It’s that time of year when you start to prep that task list for the upcoming holly jolly season. After Thanksgiving, we’re in the home stretch toward peak holidays, and getting the most important holiday centerpiece — a Christmas tree — should be at the top of your list. These Christmas tree farms in NYC are packed with beautiful trees ready for picking. Find the perfect spruce or fir to complement your seasonal decorations. Make it easy and pick a pre-cut tree or go the adventurous route and chop your own. Not only will you find a top tannenbaum, you can make a day of it as many of these farms offer holiday activities like train rides, hot chocolate and even photos with Santa. Once you’ve found your tree, you can focus on a plan to visit all the holiday light displays, holiday markets and ice skating rinks around the city. Most tree farms open for business after Thanksgiving, but be sure to check each spot for operating hours.

The best spas in Atlanta for relaxing and recharging

The best spas in Atlanta for relaxing and recharging

One of the best things about Atlanta is it has a bit of everything. After a bit of that slow southern charm? You got it. But if you’re looking for the hustle and bustle of a city? You’ll find that here too. But whichever vibe you’re looking for, you’re going to want at least a bit of downtime on your trip. And don’t panic: we’ve got plenty of that going on. Whether you’re looking for a mani/pedi, a brightening facial, or a deep tissue massage to work out the kinks, you’ll find what you need at the best spas in Atlanta. Time to relax.  RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Atlanta🍽️ The best restaurants in Atlanta🍷 The best bars in Atlanta🌳 The best treehouse Airbnbs in Atlanta This guide was last updated by Atlanta-based writer Jennifer Bradley Franklin. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

Where to find the best gumbo in New Orleans

Where to find the best gumbo in New Orleans

One of the most iconic New Orleans dishes, gumbo is a staple of home cooking. Many locals will say that the best bowl of gumbo in New Orleans is made by a relative, or comes from a recipe passed down over generations. It’s worth noting that Gumbo takes a good amount of time to prep, starting with the delicate process of making a perfect roux, which proves to be too time consuming for most. Fortunately, various local restaurants offer bowls of gumbo that are a worthy substitute for mama’s cooking or making it at home. Gumbo is a rich, flavorful dish—much more than just a stew—full of Creole spice. Classic versions include chicken and sausage gumbo or seafood gumbo. Traditionally, it’s thickened with okra or filé (dried ground sassafras leaves), and while some chefs put their spin on it, the roux and a mix of flavorful spices are standard elements. Served over rice, gumbo is a complete, comforting meal, though a side of grilled cheese and/or potato salad is always welcome. The dish is so revered that there are two popular festivals devoted to it. If you’re passing through town in October, you can catch the Bridge City Gumbo Festival—featuring a gumbo cookoff—across the Mississippi River in Bridge City, AKA “The Gumbo Capital of the World.” In March, the Tremé Creole Gumbo Festival in Armstrong Park celebrates the dish with a variety of gumbo styles, including vegan. For all other times of year—especially in the cooler months—here’s where to get some of the best gumbo in New Orl

Where to go shopping in New Orleans

Where to go shopping in New Orleans

New Orleans is a funky, eclectic town, and shopping in New Orleans can be equally so. Certain streets and neighborhoods are packed with shopping opportunities of all sorts, while the city also offers a slew of shopping spots for specific interests, from art and antiques to music and books. Trinkets and treasures can be found in the French Market and in shops throughout the French Quarter, but go further out to find some amazing, only-in-New Orleans treats to bring back. This is a party town, so you can find plenty of costume shops and vintage stores. All the standard big-name stores have a presence in New Orleans—shop high-end fashions at Canal Place or check out the Riverwalk for outlet shopping — but it’s much more fun to shop local here. Browse art galleries, local-made crafts and jewelry, even locally-designed clothing. If you’re looking to shop like a local, here are the best spots for shopping in New Orleans. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in New Orleans

Listings and reviews (100)

La Barbecue

La Barbecue

5 out of 5 stars

at the helm, you know this Central Texas-style barbecue joint will be good. Located inside the Quickie Pickie (a big upgrade from former food truck park digs) with indoor and outdoor seating, La Barbecue serves up brisket, pork ribs, and house-made sausage. Sandwiches are tasty too, both straightforward options and over-the-top ones like La Frito Loco (pulled pork, chopped beef, chipotle slaw, fritos, cheese, and jalapeños).

haley.henry

haley.henry

4 out of 5 stars

Tinned fish, charcuterie, and other luxurious small plates set the stage for unique wines at this Downtown Crossing wine bar. Small producers, especially female winemakers, are the stars of the list of primarily natural wines. If you’re not familiar with natural wines, the friendly staff is willing to help. Sample from the list of wines by the glass, or—if you commit to two glasses—they’ll open any available bottle for you. For your non-wine-drinking friends, there’s also a solid craft beer list.

Greenhills Bakery

Greenhills Bakery

Head to Dorchester for traditional Irish breads and scones as well as pies, cakes, and cookies, all baked fresh. The classic Irish soda bread is top-notch, but don’t miss treacle soda bread, barm brack, or brown soda bread. There’s a whole cafe menu as well, with soups, sandwiches, and more Irish favorites like black pudding and Irish sausage rolls.

Il Tartufo e Il Vino - Eataly Boston

Il Tartufo e Il Vino - Eataly Boston

Eataly is currently hosting Boston’s only truffle-centric pop-up. Situated in the heart of Boston’s premier Italian food emporium, Il Tartufo e Il Vino is dedicated to fresh Italian truffles and fine Italian wines. Executive Chef Sam De Los Santos offers a menu full of truffle-friendly dishes; customers have the option of adding truffles to any dish for an upcharge, and those looking to celebrate can buy and enjoy an entire truffle right at tableside.

Empire

Empire

4 out of 5 stars

This Seaport stalwart hosts celebratory groups and corporate types for festive cocktails and a crowd-pleasing, pan-Asian menu of familiar favorites. Specialty nigiri and signature maki tantalize with interesting ingredients including marinated chinese celery, Wild Sockeye salmon, and yellow pepper sauce. The restaurant is exceptionally group-friendly, and perfect for private dinners and special occasions. A highlight for sushi-lovers is the unlimited sushi menu, available on Wednesdays starting at 5pm. 

Aquitaine

Aquitaine

This elegant bistro in the heart of the South End overlooks historic Tremont Street; the location adds to the sophisticated, Parisian atmosphere. The traditional bistro menu includes French classics—escargot, salmon rillette, steak frites, sole meunière—and plates du jour that include seasonal ingredients. The relaxed bistro atmosphere makes Aquitaine a popular spot for brunch as well.

Saus

Saus

Saus is a casual, counter-service joint offering made-from-scratch comfort foods enhanced by a plethora of condiments and toppings. There’s a whole section of poutines with toppings like carnitas, kimchi, and sambal for extra heft. There are a few tasty sandwiches and salads, plus friks—a few varieties of dressed-up beef and pork sausages served on Iggy’s brioche. But the centerpiece is the hand-cut, twice-fried fries. Choose from fifteen different homemade sauces, from basic ketchup to more creative options like hot beer mustard, Avo-Goddess, bacon-parm, or Secret Saus.

The Smoke Shop - Assembly Row

The Smoke Shop - Assembly Row

5 out of 5 stars

Chef Andy Husbands has invested more than two decades of barbecue practice and planning, in the process becoming a world champion pitmaster and author. His menu showcases slow-cooked meats and savory sides such as sweet-spicy coleslaw and cornbread with honey sea salt butter. The bar carries more than 200 whiskies, and the craft beer list offers something for everyone.

Anna’s Taqueria

Anna’s Taqueria

Anna’s has been dishing out home-style Mexican street food flavors since 1995. With several locations around the Boston area, it’s easy to get your hands on flavorful tacos or giant, filling burritos. Start with your main filling—options include steak roja, spicy chile verde pork, chicken ranchero, grilled veggies, and even tongue—then add on your toppings (guacamole, sour cream, and the like). It's open for breakfast too, so you can start your day with egg- and sausage-filled breakfast burritos or tacos. Fast and cheap, Anna’s is a longtime favorite of area workers and servers for Mexican eats.

No Name Restaurant

No Name Restaurant

This New England landmark has been serving classic seafood dishes on the historic Fish Pier since 1917. The restaurant is popular with tourists—the vibe and decor can’t compete with those of its trendy Seaport neighbors—but No Name is worth a visit for fresh seafood and harbor views. It’s no frills here, but the seafood—steamed lobsters, shrimp platters, clam chowder—is tasty, the staff is friendly, and you’ll get a feel for the historic Boston waterfront.

Gather

Gather

4 out of 5 stars

Amidst the creative minds in the Seaport’s District Hall is Gather, which focuses on innovative New American cuisine. Using local ingredients whenever possible, the kitchen turns out dishes like shellfish ceviche toast, lobster cobb salad, duck tacos, and fungi ragout flatbread. Creative cocktails and an extensive beer and wine list—not to mention the large patio and Seaport views—make Gather a great place to meet for drinks. Stop by on Waffle Sunday to create your own waffle topped with anything from oreos and fluff to pretzels and cheddar cheese.

Morton’s The Steakhouse - Boston Seaport

Morton’s The Steakhouse - Boston Seaport

4 out of 5 stars

With a prime location on the waterfront, Morton’s is the place for steak in the Seaport. The stylish interior offers panoramic views of the Harbor from the bar and a seasonal patio for enjoying the breeze. With prime aged beef, signature steakhouse sides, an excellent wine list, and elegant desserts, Morton’s has the classic steakhouse experience down pat.

News (254)

The best Black Friday travel deals in the U.S. for 2023

The best Black Friday travel deals in the U.S. for 2023

Once you’ve digested that big Turkey Day dinner it’s time to start hunting for Black Friday deals. The day after Thanksgiving brings some of the biggest savings of the year, and we’ve rounded up the best ones to look out for. Flight deals Spirit Airlines is celebrating “Black & Yellow Friday,” and the deals have already begun. Early access deals include an offer to save 40 percent when you buy or gift at least 12,000 Free Spirit points through December 1. Use points to book flights. You can also save on hotels and vacations—up to 35% —when booking through Spirit Vacations, earn up to 3,000 extra points when booking a cruise, save up to 35% when booking a car with Avis or Budget and get free park upgrades to Universal Orlando. Find these deals and more on the Spirit website. French Bee, a French leisure airline, is offering deals on flights to Paris and Tahiti from NYC, San Francisco, L.A. and Miami starting at just $387 round trip. Book flights from November 20 to 27, 2023 for travel between November 20, 2023 and March 31, 2024. Hotel deals Hawks Cay in the Florida Keys is offering 45% off a stay plus a $50 resort credit and daily breakfast for two. Use promo code CYBERW for a 2-night minimum stay at the hotel and a 3-night minimum stay in the villas. Book between November 14 and November 29. Subject to availability, and blackout dates apply. Save 30% at The James New York - NoMad through Summer 2024. Plus, you’ll get a 2pm early check-in and late check-out to maximize your s

Allegiant announces a dozen new routes—and they’re all on sale right now

Allegiant announces a dozen new routes—and they’re all on sale right now

Starting in Spring of 2024, Allegiant Airlines will begin flights on twelve new routes to some of the airline’s most in-demand destinations. The addition of the new routes will expand its options in 22 cities around the country, giving travelers more options to fly to popular vacation destinations. The airline also announced the addition of Orlando International Airport to its network. New routes to Orlando include service from Asheville Regional Airport, Lehigh Valley International Airport and McGhee Tyson Airport. Service will begin in May of 2024. Other new routes include Orlando Sanford International Airport to Rapid City Regional Airport, St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport to Bismarck Airport and Los Angeles International Airport to Billings-Logan International Airport. To celebrate, the airline is offering flights for as low as $49 one-way. The sale is valid through November 17 for travel by August 12, 2024. "We are thrilled to offer Allegiant travelers new destination options taking off this Spring. The announcement of new service is a celebration of the success we've had in these markets," said Drew Wells, Allegiant's senior vice president of revenue and planning and chief revenue officer. "Also, the addition of a new station makes us a more dynamic airline. We are committed to opening the door to accessible travel in as many markets as possible and know our customers appreciate the low-cost, nonstop options offered by Allegiant." Find all the new routes and fl

This unlimited flight pass is the cheapest it’s ever been right now

This unlimited flight pass is the cheapest it’s ever been right now

Frontier Airlines is offering a never-before-seen deal on its Go Wild! All-You-Can-Fly-Pass. The airline is celebrating an early Black Friday with the lowest price ever for the unlimited flight pass. Typically costing up to $1,999, the annual pass—which allows unlimited flights within a period of time—is just $499. The deal is available until November 28, and the pass is valid for 2024-2025 travel from May 1, 2024 through April 30, 2025. Even better, you’ll get free FRONTIER Miles Silver Elite Status with the pass, which gets you priority boarding, no change or cancellation fees and free bags. The Go Wild! Pass is available on both domestic and international flights. It’s great for travelers who want to be spontaneous, as bookings are confirmed just one day before a flight. Passholders may also encounter early booking fees and blackout dates, plus fees and taxes. But it’s a sweet deal for frequent travelers who have a bit of flexibility. Already have a Go Wild! Pass? You can take advantage of the deal too—you’ll have the opportunity to upgrade or extend your pass at the discounted rate. Find more info and get your pass before November 28 on the Frontier website. Photograph: Shutterstock

This U.S. city is the top place for Thanksgiving

This U.S. city is the top place for Thanksgiving

While many people head home for Thanksgiving with family, the holiday also offers an opportunity to travel. You might immediately think of NYC as the top spot for a destination Thanksgiving —the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade is a bucket-list event—but according to WalletHub, another U.S. city is top turkey when it comes to Thanksgiving travel. Based on several metrics, the personal finance site has determined that San Francisco is the best place for Thanksgiving in 2023. And it may come as a shock, but NYC didn’t even make the top ten. So, how did WalletHub settle on San Francisco? The rankings were determined by comparing the 100 largest U.S. cities based on 18 key metrics, including the cost of Thanksgiving dinner, share of delayed flights, volunteer opportunities per capita, forecasted precipitation and festive data points like number of pumpkin patches and holiday shops per capita. The study reveals that San Francisco has a wealth of highly-rated yet affordable restaurants for dining out on Thanksgiving Day. The city offers plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs after a big meal, from Golden Gate Park to the JFK Promenade. Best of all, San Francisco has the second-most charity organizations per capita out of the cities studied, and many nonprofits in the area host street dinners and other events to get into the giving spirit. Rounding out the top 10 places to celebrate Thanksgiving are San Jose, San Diego, Scottsdale, Raleigh, Atlanta, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Gr

The best (and worst) times to travel for Thanksgiving 2023

The best (and worst) times to travel for Thanksgiving 2023

It’s that time of year again, when plans are coming together for holiday travel. If you’re hitting the road for Thanksgiving, AAA has revealed some insightful data that could help you avoid a dreaded traffic jam on your way to a holiday gathering or vacation. According to AAA projections, about 55.4 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the Thanksgiving holidays. A whopping 88.7% of travelers plan to do so by car. This is a nearly 2% increase over 2022, partially because drivers could be paying less for gas than last Thanksgiving. While 4.7 million people are expected to fly over Thanksgiving—an increase of 6.6% compared to 2022 and the highest number of Thanksgiving air travelers since 2005—driving is still the preferred method. Using data from INRIX, a global provider of transportation data and insights, AAA expects Wednesday, November 22 to be the busiest day on the road. Average travel times are expected to increase up to 80% in certain metro areas. If you have to travel on that day, the best time to get on the road is early morning or after 6pm to avoid the heaviest congestion. The busiest drive time is forecast to be between 2pm and 6pm. “The day before Thanksgiving is notoriously one of the most congested days on our roadways. Travelers should be prepared for long delays, especially in and around major metros,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. “Knowing when and where congestion will build can help minimize holiday traffic frustrat

Road trips and Caribbean vacations are top travel trends this winter

Road trips and Caribbean vacations are top travel trends this winter

Tripadvisor released its Winter Travel Index for 2023, revealing travel trends for the upcoming winter season. Despite the high cost of travel, Americans are not deterred, as 58% of survey respondents say they plan to travel over the winter. International travel is on the rise, and road-tripping is set to be the most popular form of travel for Americans this season. Most respondents say they plan winter travel to coincide with seasonal events like winter festivals, winter sports, school breaks and holidays. While cost remains an important factor in travel planning, it has not hindered plans. 93% of Americans say they will spend the same or more on travel than last year, and 57% say they will travel as planned regardless of economic factors. As COVID-19 becomes less of a concern, 73% of respondents say that travel is extremely important to them. "This season, we're seeing Americans confident in taking bigger trips. About half plan to travel more than they did last winter, and they are more likely to take a long trip (5+ nights)," said Alice Jong, Senior Research Analyst at Tripadvisor. International travel continues to increase, with 32% of Americans planning to travel abroad. Las Galeras in the Dominican Republic, Fasmendhoo in the Maldives and Hong Kong in China are top trending international travel destinations. Mexico and the Caribbean continue to be popular winter destinations. Road-tripping is emerging as a preferred method of travel this winter. With air travel becoming

This Southwest city is a top trending destination for 2024

This Southwest city is a top trending destination for 2024

The new year is fast approaching, and many travelers are starting to plan their trips for 2024. For a bit of travel inspo, American Express Travel has released its annual list of trending destinations. This year’s list features off-the-beaten-path destinations, including one U.S. city: Santa Fe, NM. Travelers—particularly Millennials and Gen Z—increasingly seek new and more immersive experiences. Amex Travel released a Global Travel Trends report earlier this year that found 89% of travelers are interested in destinations they haven’t previously visited, while 68% of respondents are eager to visit places before they become popular. In response to this trend, Amex’s 2024 Trending Destinations list focuses on alternatives to more popular vacation spots around the globe. The destinations on the list were identified by global American Express card member travel bookings along with input from Amex Travel’s team of 7,000 travel consultants. The list aims to inspire travelers to think beyond the traditional hotspots and embrace adventure. Among the worthy alternatives that Amex Travel recommends for 2024 is Santa Fe, NM. While vacationers in the Southwest flock to Sedona, AZ, Amex recommends Santa Fe for its unique blend of history, culture and natural beauty. With a backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and adobe Pueblo-style architecture, the city is rich with inspiration. Explore museums, folk art and a vibrant culinary scene inspired by the bounty of the region. Other globa

Shake Shack is giving away free chicken sandwiches all week long

Shake Shack is giving away free chicken sandwiches all week long

What’s better than a Shake Shack chicken sandwich? A free Shake Shack chicken sandwich! The popular chain promised a free chicken sandwich for everyone if an NFL player did the chicken dance to celebrate a touchdown during Sunday’s game. ESPN reporter Adam Schefter announced the promo, and fans across the country crossed their fingers, hoping to see a post-touchdown dance. That didn’t happen, but Shake Shack is giving us the win anyway. Here's how to get your free chicken sandwich: Now through November 19, you can get a free Chicken Shack—featuring crispy fried chicken, lettuce, pickles and herb mayonnaise on a potato bun—by using the promo code CHICKENDANCE at checkout, at a Shake Shack kiosk or when you order online. The only requirement to get the freebie is a $10 order. So get out there and grab this tasty treat before the promotion ends. If you need more variety for your chicken fix, Wendy’s is also giving away free fried chicken, in nugget form. Through the end of the year, you can get a free six-piece chicken nuggets with any purchase online or through the app. These deals are so good, they may make you want to do the chicken dance yourself.

United could add nonstop flights between Houston and Tokyo-Haneda

United could add nonstop flights between Houston and Tokyo-Haneda

United Airlines has filed an application with the U.S. Department of Transportation for nonstop flights between Houston's Bush Intercontinental Airport and Tokyo's Haneda Airport. The new service would make United the first U.S. airline to fly nonstop between Houston and Tokyo, and would be a welcome addition for the region. The rapidly growing Houston area is home to 240 Japanese-affiliated companies, and Japanese-owned companies employ more than 70,000 workers in Texas. Nonstop flights from Houston to Tokyo would greatly expand the options for business travelers in the region as well as leisure travelers in 64 communities across the Southern U.S. United is already the world’s most comprehensive route network of any U.S. airline. It has worked to develop a Japanese network to promote competition and provide affordable and consistent service options. The airline’s current Tokyo service includes multiple flights to Haneda and Narita from all seven U.S. hubs, but Houston has just one flight to Haneda, operated by a foreign carrier. In comparison, New York/Newark has five, Los Angeles has seven, Chicago has three, and Washington, D.C. and Dallas/Fort Worth each have two. "Between its steadily growing population and its booming energy and innovation sectors, the Houston area has transformed into a critical hub for both business and leisure travel," said Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President, Global Network Planning and Alliances at United Airlines. "If awarded by the DOT, this ne

Wendy’s is giving away free chicken nuggets every Wednesday

Wendy’s is giving away free chicken nuggets every Wednesday

Wendy’s has a sweet new deal that will make getting through Hump Day and the holidays a little easier. The fast food chain announced that it’s gifting customers a free six-piece chicken nuggets with any purchase throughout the holiday season. “Whether you like your nuggets classic or spicy, paired with one of our savory dipping sauces or perfectly plain, Wendy's Chicken Nuggets deliver with 100% white-meat chicken breaded to crispy perfection. Now this is some holiday cheer we can all get behind!” the announcement said. These “nuggets of joy” are only available on the Wendy’s app, online ordering or by scanning the digital Wendy's Rewards offer code in a restaurant. The deal started on November 8 and runs every Wednesday through the rest of 2023. If that doesn’t warm your cockles for the season, Wendy’s is also offering BOGO 10-piece nuggets to Uber Eats customers through November 12, and $5 off orders of $20 or more when you add a Dr. Pepper to your DoorDash order from November 16 to 22. The star on the top of this Wendy’s holiday tree is the news that the Peppermint Frosty will return on November 14. It’s a holiday combo you won’t want to miss.

Lyft now guarantees on-time pickup for airport rides—or they'll pay you

Lyft now guarantees on-time pickup for airport rides—or they'll pay you

Just in time for the busy holiday travel season, Lyft announced its new on-time pickup promise. With ever-increasing TSA wait times and other hassles at the airport, this new guarantee can make getting to the airport a little less stressful. The company promises that your ride will arrive on time, or they’ll make it right. “Every minute counts when you’re on the way to the airport,” said David Risher, Lyft CEO. “We’re so confident that we can get you there on time that if we’re more than 10 minutes late for your scheduled pick-up, we’ll give you up to $100 in Lyft credits to make up for it—even if you take a taxi or an Uber.” This new guarantee beefs up Lyft’s scheduled ride features, which allows you to book your ride up to 30 days in advance, lock in a price and schedule a preferred pickup time. To ensure these rides arrive on time, drivers can accept the ride in advance and earn more on scheduled rides than standard rides. If you’re not picked up on time for your scheduled ride to the airport, you’ll automatically get Lyft Cash Credit. Here’s how it works: If your driver is more than 10 minutes late, you’ll get $20 Lyft Cash. If you’re not matched with a driver 10 minutes after your scheduled pickup time, you’ll get $50 Lyft Cash. And if you need to use another service for your ride to the airport, you’ll get up to $50 more Lyft Cash—up to $100 total—even if you take a taxi or an Uber. You just tap ‘Help’ in the Lyft app and submit the receipt. Photograph: Courtesy Lyft

This airline is offering a record number of flights to Florida this winter

This airline is offering a record number of flights to Florida this winter

Florida bound for the winter season? United Airlines is now offering more flights than ever in its history this winter. The airline is adding 20% more flights to popular Sunshine State destinations like Miami, Tampa and Orlando. They’ll also be flying larger planes with more seats. Demand for travel to Florida is up significantly from last year, as United.com data shows that Miami and Orlando are two of the top five most-searched domestic travel destinations this winter. With more flights and more seats, United customers will have more options to get there, whether with a budget-friendly Basic Economy or upgraded to United First. One of United’s newest planes, the Airbus 321neo, will fly on select routes to Fort Lauderdale, Orlando and Fort Myers beginning in December. The airline will also nearly double the number of seats between Key West International Airport and several United Hub airports, including Chicago O'Hare, Washington Dulles, Houston and Newark/New York. "We know that November is when most people start their winter travel planning so we're adding these flights to give customers more options than ever," said Mark Weithofer, United's Managing Director of Domestic Network Planning. "We've already begun to see record-breaking demand for winter travel and whether customers are looking to unwind on the beach or hit the slopes, United is the clear choice for those planning their getaways." For travelers looking to embrace rather than escape the winter snow, United remai