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The realest-looking fake country to ever exist

Have you heard about Listenbourg? Some people say it's a beautiful place to visit in the summer, others say their politics aren't decisive enough, and many others say the country doesn't get as much attention as it should. They are, of course, all lying! Listenbourg is a made-up country that started as a simple way to poke fun at a certain demographic of people, but which spun far beyond what anyone could have imagined—and all in a matter of days. Click through to learn everything there is to know about the realest-looking fake country that ever existed.

The Best Solo Travel Destinations in the United States for an Unforgettable Adventure

Whether you're looking for nonstop activity or total relaxation. While traveling with friends and family can be a lot of fun, going somewhere alone has its perks. You get to choose everything — the destination, the hotel, the itinerary, the restaurants, how much money you spend and beyond. Only one opinion matters...yours. It's also a great way to push yourself out of your comfort zone, meet new people (if you so choose), unplug, rejuvenate and bask in moments of reflection — or even just escape reality for a few days. Whether you're planning your first adventure on your own or are a solo travel veteran, choosing a destination can be overwhelming, especially if you still have a lot of places to check off your bucket list. The good news is, you don't have to go far for the adventure or relaxation you crave, because there are plenty of options across the U.S. Weighing variables such as walkability, safety, self care opportunities, number of historic sites and museums and access to nature, we've come up with a list of the best places in the U.S. for solo travelers — ranging from mountain and beach destinations to small towns and large cities. Time to book your ticket for one, plan your itinerary (or don't, remember, it's your trip!) and answer to no one except yourself for a few days.

"Appalling sabotage": an omen of Olympics full of danger and fear?

Friday will see the start of the Paris Olympics, and just Friday morning France faced sabotage on the TGV rail network. Some 800,000 people are feeling the effects of coordinated arson attacks. French Sports Minister Amélie Oudéa-Castéra spoke of an "appalling sabotage" which she said was probably linked to Friday's opening ceremony, on the Seine in Paris. "What happened was neither the first nor the last of the difficulties we'll face. This...

Strange and impressive lesser-known facts about Air Force One

There are quite a lot of things you might not know about the lives of American presidents, and Air Force One is a mine of fascinating facts just begging to be tapped into. So, keep your seat in the upright position, fasten your seat belt, and check out this gallery to find out everything you didn’t know about the White House in the sky.

Iconic places that (probably) never existed

There are plenty of stories about mythical places, many of which have never been found. Some of these places are so present in our imagination that sometimes we're not sure whether they actually exist or not. Sure, satellites and a quick look on Google Earth might provide us with some clues, but remember that our ancestors didn't have access to this technology. Despite this, the truth is that some of these places cannot be discarded as being fictitious...or can they? Browse this gallery and draw your own conclusions.

Forget the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre — here's what you need to do in Paris, according to someone who's been a dozen times.

The Montparnasse Tower and Les Catacombes are some of the best places to go in Paris after hitting the touristy spots, a frequent traveler says.

These Garden Arches Can Transform Your Backyard Into a Beautiful Oasis

Adding visual interest to your outdoor space has never been easier.

These Small Towns in California Are Bursting With Beauty and Charm

Nope, this isn't Italy.

30 things to do in Europe at least once in your life

One thing is certain, there's no shortage of things to do in Europe. It's a continent of diversity and history, filled with unique experiences and breathtaking scenery. From famous cities like Paris and Istanbul, to beautiful eastern European national parks and quirky Dutch architecture, everywhere you turn, there's something great to enjoy. And if you're lucky, you'll make multiple trips in a lifetime just trying to see it all. From island hopping in Greece to taking a train into the Swiss Alps, click on for 30 things you need to do in Europe once in your lifetime.

7 Costco Items To Buy for Your Carry-On Luggage

There's a fine line to tread when shopping for items to go in your carry-on luggage at Costco. While shoppers won't be able to find travel-size items for sale at $1 prices, certain bulk buys and...

Shikoku: the best tourist attractions on the Japanese island

11 Under-the-Radar Resort Towns for Design Lovers

Get there before the tourists start taking them over.

Southwest ditching its unassigned seat policy shows how budget airlines' business models are getting upended

Low-budget airlines are rethinking their business models as they face an uphill battle for not following their high-priced peers' footsteps.

15 Things To Do In Gordonsville, Virginia

Make the trip and you might stay forever.

A sight to behold: the longest bridges on Earth

No matter where you are in the world, bridges are pretty important. They have connected small villages with sprawling cities, and provided links between countries and continents around the world. A stunning glass-bottomed suspended walkway in Vietnam has just been declared the world's longest bridge of its kind by Guinness World Records. Suspended approximately 492 feet (150 m) above ground and measuring 2,073 feet (632 m) in length, the Bach Long bridge, which opened in April, connects visitors to a popular mountain resort and offers impressive panoramic views of lush mountain rainforest in the rural highland region of Son La province in northwestern Vietnam, CNN reports. The previous record for world's longest glass-bottomed bridge was held by a structure measuring 1,726 feet in length in Guangdong, China. And if you're concerned about crossing a glass bridge, this one is said to be strong enough to support 450 people at a time, and even had an SUV driven over it to test its strength! If that piques your interest, let's move on and take a look at the longest bridges on Earth! Click through the gallery to get started.

Make a splash: Top water sports to enjoy this summer

Whether you prefer the beach or the countryside, there is usually a common element in both that we all love: water! There are many ways to make the most out of water during the warmer months. From favorites like surfing, to adrenaline-fueled water sports such as whitewater rafting, in this gallery you'll find a bit of everything. But it's not all about breaking a sweat. Easy, relaxing activities are also included. Click on and start planning your next water sport activity today.

National Geographic’s top 30 travel destinations in 2024

Whether you're looking to set your vacation in wildlife havens or urban escapes, National Geographic Traveler is the perfect companion in helping you decide. The magazine publisher curated a list of the most exciting destinations to visit in 2024, all with the purpose of showcasing a wide variety of worldly interests: culinary excellence, national parks, and even cultural landmarks. And the best thing? These are not only summer destinations! If you want to travel anytime this year and are unsure where to go, this list just might inspire you! Ready? Click through the following gallery to find out which places you should be booking a trip to for your next holiday.

American customs that are considered offensive in other countries

Even with the best of intentions, Americans occasionally reinforce negative views of the US by not paying attention to their actions, words, or gestures that are seen as offensive in other countries. If you're set to travel to another country, you'll definitely want to take a look through this list of customs that are considered rude and offensive in other places around the world.

The best beaches to chill out with wildlife

Tired of the same, generic seaside getaways? These locations will bring more than just a little wildness to your typical sunbathing and swimming routine! Home to beach bunnies, pigs, flamingos, marine iguanas, and more, they're guaranteed to spice up any sandy vacation. Curious? Then click on!

7 of the Most Ridiculously Long Interstates in the U.S.

Historic, iconic, impossibly long.

Discover the magnificent beauty of Brazil's plateaus

When you think about Brazil the first things that come to mind are beautiful beaches and lush forests, but the good news is that there's even more to Brazil when it comes to natural beauty. Those who enjoy practically untouched natural landscapes and a good adventure will love to learn about the Brazilian chapadas. These plateaus are rock formations with altitudes that range from 300 to 2,810 meters (985 to 9,219 feet) above sea level. The chapadas boast rich fauna and flora as well as breathtaking views! Click through the gallery for a tour of some of Brazil's most jaw-dropping natural wonders.

Hidden Travel Gems for a Luxury Vacation in the Midwest

How many of these places have you visited? Discover the luxury and charm of the Midwest, where historic towns and serene landscapes offer unforgettable vacation experiences. From shopping local, tasty dining, to outdoor activities and unique hotels, these destinations provide the perfect blend of relaxation. Whether you're exploring the vibrant streets of Rapid City, or experiencing the Dutch heritage of Pella, these Midwestern locales promise to elevate your travel experience. Are you ready for your next adventure on the road less traveled? Here are our favorite hidden travel gems of the Midwest.

Heading to Milan? These Are the 21 Travel Essentials to Pack

Don’t leave the house without these jet-setter must-haves.

I walked, swam and kayaked over 200 miles down the River Thames - from its marshy source to the sea

Ed Pratt began his journey in Gloucestershire - where the river originates. Its starting point, known as Thames Head, does not have a fixed location, but arises from a group of shifting springs.

Go inside historic antebellum cottage built in the 1830s

Go inside historic antebellum cottage built in the 1830s

Tragic flights: Celebrities who lost their lives in air crashes

Sadly, plane crashes like this are more frequent than we would like to think, especially when it comes to the small private planes and helicopters often used by the stars. Many fatal flights have claimed the lives of renowned celebrities and public figures. Explore the gallery to learn about the stars who tragically died in air crashes.

I've lived in Alaska for over 35 years. Here are 6 mistakes I always see tourists make when visiting the state.

Having lived in Alaska for over 35 years, I've seen tourists make lots of mistakes, like trying to do too much in one trip.

America's most noteworthy swamps and bayous

Swamps and bayous count as some of the most compelling natural landscapes in America. Confined mostly to the southeastern corner of the United States, swampland is defined as forested wetland. Characterized by a broiling and humid climate, swamp habitats are quite unique for their variety of flora and fauna, examples of which include the iconic cypress and tupelo tree. Of stunning visual appeal, America's swamplands rank among some of the most fascinating ecosystems in the country. So, where are America's hottest swamps? Click through and be swamped by this list.

15 Countries Worth Visiting for an Epic Drive

Whether it's the awesome roads, incredible terrain, or lax driving laws, plan your next road trip with this guide to our international favorite driving spots.

Highway to hell: Spooky stories set along Route 66

For many people, a road trip down the Mother Road, the United States' iconic Route 66, is a dream vacation. From Illinois to California, the rolling and ever-changing landscapes, the small towns and big cities along the way, and the simple joy of cruising down one of the longest roads in the world make for a perfect adventure. Unfortunately, you can get more than just your kicks on Route 66. The iconic highway is notoriously haunted, and weaves through some pretty supernaturally shady areas. For some, that might make the trip even more enticing, but for others, it might be a dealbreaker. Whichever way you're leaning, read on to discover some of the creepiest and spookiest stories about Route 66.

20 of America's Best Historic Homes You Definitely Have to Visit

Yes, it's time to plan a trip!

Breathtaking UNESCO Heritage Sites in the UK

In 1975, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) began their mission of "the identification, protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity.” Today, there are over 1,000 around the world, with over 25 of them in the UK. In this gallery, click through for a look at the UK's most treasured sites.

These Dog-Friendly Hotels Will Pamper Your Pup in Luxury

Save this for your next road trip.

Dollywood Now Has The World's Largest Jar Of Duke's Mayo

The Smokies resort is in their mayo era and we’re here for it.

Cities being overrun by tourists

The great personal enrichment that comes from absorbing other people’s cultures around the world has no doubt led a huge number of individuals to be more tolerant, open-minded, and adventurous. The fact that such trips are so accessible is also something to be celebrated. But when it goes too far, real problems start to occur. Click through this gallery to find out what happens when cities actually suffer from “overtourism.”

The World’s 20 Most Beautiful Cities to Visit in Your Lifetime

Some standards and some surprises–all dazzling destinations to tempt you on your next trip.

Greece is a paradise beyond Santorini and Mykonos

The oldest photos of major cities

When you take a photo, the world stands still. The moment you captured stays the same forever, offering future generations a glimpse at what life was like at the time. Old photos of cities are specifically fascinating, featuring people, buildings, and society that has been lost to the past. From Tokyo's canal-riding past to Rio without Christ the Redeemer, here are the some of the oldest photos of the world's major cities.

22 Adults-Only Resorts for a Well-Deserved Vacation

These romantic retreats have everything you need—except children.

These are the most terrifying places in the world

Many of us possess a sense of adventure, a yearning perhaps to travel to places remote and untouched or destinations nearer to home that are unusual and set well under the tourist radar. But would you ever consider visiting anywhere that had a disturbing or terrifying reputation, or was imbued with a history so alarming and mystifying that few would ever dare follow in your footsteps? It takes an intrepid explorer to answer in the affirmative, but the rewards can be inspiring and actually quite educative! So, are you ready to be frightened? Click through and start mapping out a route to malevolence.

The Most Beautiful Small Towns In Every State

Why yes, we would love to reside in a place where we can pan for sapphires.

After a Night at These Luxurious New International Hotels, You’ll Never Want to Come Home.

Wanderlust is not a deadly sin.

The most romantic destinations in the world

The most beautiful cities in the world for couples lie within the next few slides of this gallery. Steeped in history and culture, these cities bring out the lovebirds in all of us. Get lost in the cobblestone streets and fall in love all over again amongst the character that lies between these city walls. What are you waiting for? Swipe through to discover the most romantic locations for couples.

Can you survive in the wilderness? Here's how

Hiking can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it can also be a hazardous one. Losing sight of a trail or veering off a footpath can have dire consequences, even for the most experienced outdoor adventurers. According to the National Park Service, 312 million people ventured into America's national parks in 2022. Most of these visits were uneventful, but every year hundreds of vacationers lose their way or go missing during hikes in forests, mountains, and other remote terrain. And, reports National Geographic, day hikers are the most vulnerable in survival situations. So, what should you do if you get lost in the wilderness, and how can you find your way out? Click through for some tips that could save your life.

13 Amusement Parks in the U.S. That Are Completely Free to Enter

A few even charge you nothing for parking and entertainment. Amusement parks are synonymous with so many wonderful things: fun in the sun, rollercoasters and carousels, games galore and delicious food. And all in a colorful, jubilant, family-friendly setting. The only issue? Joy like that does not typically come cheap. Or can it? Well, at these 13 amusement parks across the U.S., from the Golden to the Garden States, you can save on one very important front: entry. While the vast majority of amusement parks — including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and Busch Gardens — require tickets just to walk through the gates, these resorts and parks do not. Of course, if you want to ride the rides or snack on the snacks, you'll still have to open your wallet. (A good thing can only go so far!) But if you're someone who's more about the vibes than the rides, this is the list for you. Make sure you scroll to the bottom: There's one very famous park that's about to go "open gate" with its water parks for guests staying on property. (Hint: It's home to a special mouse!)

I've visited dozens of all-inclusive resorts, but there's one in Mexico I can't wait to return to

I've stayed at dozens of luxury all-inclusive resorts, but there's one kitschy, themed spot in Mexico, that really impressed me: Margaritaville.

The 28 Best Westerns of All Time

Saddle up for a trip to Hollywood's version of the Wild West.

These Stunning Treehouse Hotels Let You Totally Relax

Goodbye, cell phone beeps. Hello, birdcalls.

Northern Scotland’s Flow Country becomes world heritage site

The Flow Country, a vast and unspoiled blanket bog that carpets the far north of Scotland, has been made a world heritage site by Unesco. The planet’s largest blanket bog, the Flow Country covers about 1,500 sq miles of Caithness and Sutherland, and is the first peatland in the world to be designated by Unesco, after a 40-year campaign by environmentalists. One of the world’s biggest carbon stores, it joins sites such as the Great Barrier Reef...

Cape Tribulation: This Australian dream beach is deadly!