Mariana Zapata

Mariana Zapata is a Colombian-American travel writer. She has lived and worked around the world, focusing on sustainable tourism. You can usually find her at street food stands or falling victim to her non-existing sense of direction.

How to Explore Salar de Uyuni, aka the Bolivian Salt Flats

Here's why, how and when to visit Bolivia’s majestic salt flats (or Salar de Uyuni).

Best Caribbean Food Dishes You Have to Try

Caribbean food is fresh, spicy and ridiculously good.

15 Best Cities in Canada to Visit, Ranked

From the famous to the underrated, these cities in Canada are the ones you must visit at least once.

Best Foodie Cities in the World, Ranked

Your taste buds won’t ever get bored here.

Places Where Locals Hate Tourists — With Good Reason

Locals in these cities are sick and tired of tourists.

Europe's Best Airports, Ranked by Ease of Travel

Great amenities, on-time performance and customer satisfaction define these European airports.

5 Most Popular Cruise Lines in the U.S.

These are the cruise lines that people search for the most.

Most Affordable Caribbean Islands for a Dream Vacation

On this map of the Caribbean, you’ll find dream vacations that you can actually afford to take.

Most Beautiful Religious Architecture in the U.S.

Even non-spiritual travelers will want to see these beautiful sacred spaces.

Most Delicious Disney Parks Snacks, Ranked

Even Mickey Mouse would approve of these yummy Disney snacks.

Gorgeous Tropical Islands Americans Can Visit Without a Passport

U.S. citizens don't need a passport to visit these idyllic islands.

10 Best Colorado Ski Resorts, Ranked From Fun to Must-Visit

Here’s where to go to make the most out of your ski trip in Colorado.

Most Reliable Airports in the U.S. for Stress-Free Travel

These smaller airports rarely have delays or cancelations.

Hilarious Bad Reviews of the World's Best Museums

These museums have some of humanity's greatest treasures, but that's not enough for some tourists.

10 Worst Chain Restaurants in the U.S., Ranked

Some chain restaurants serve quality food — these are not them.

Travel Destinations You Should Avoid in 2024

Whether it's because of overtourism or environmental issues, you don't want to visit these places.

10 Fast-Food Spots With Surprisingly Cool Designs

Fast food is of questionable quality, but that doesn't mean it can't be served in glamorous locations.

These Deadliest National Parks Might Surprise You

National parks are one of America's greatest treasures — but nature can be merciless.

Most LGBTQ-Friendly Small Towns in America

These towns offer small community charm plus inclusivity.

I'm a Professional Travel Writer — and These Are the Places I'd Never Go Back To

Some places are not worth visiting more than once...or at all.

We Asked AI for Travel Recommendations and Were Disappointed

If you don't want generic, sometimes incorrect information, stick with human recommendations.

Most Magical Christmas Markets in the U.S.

No, Christmas markets are not just a European thing.

TikTokers Say It's Cheaper to Ski Abroad — and They're Right

Influencers are encouraging people to go international for their next ski trip. I did and it was way cheaper.

Highest-Rated Budget Hotels in the U.S.

These affordable hotels have the approval of Tripadvisor users.

These Affordable Vacations Will Help You Beat the Winter Blues

Whether you want a sunny escape or a snowy wonderland, these affordable destinations will make this winter vacation the best one yet.

Canada Is Weird, and These Maps Prove It

These maps of Canada show this giant country is truly fascinating.

Incredible Small Desert Towns With Fewer Than 10,000 Residents

Bisbee is a city and the county seat of Cochise County in southeastern Arizona, United States. It is 92 miles southeast of Tucson

These small towns are hot destinations — literally and figuratively.

America's Best Ritz-Carlton Properties Will Have You Dreaming

Ritz-Carlton is one of the best hotel brands in the world — and these are its best properties.

Most Visited Countries in Europe

Provence, Lavender field France, Valensole Plateau, colorful field of Lavender Valensole Plateau, Provence, Southern France. Lavender field. Europe. Couple men and woman on vacation at the provence lavender fields,

Millions of people visit these European countries every year — but, which are kind to your pockets and which will deplete your life savings?

10 Oldest Cities in the U.S.

Albany, New York, USA at the New York State Capitol at twilight.

These cities have landmarks that have been around for centuries.

Best Cities in the U.S., According to Gen Z

friends walking all together on venice beach

These are the places Gen Z travelers are dying to visit.

Most Spoken Languages in the U.S. (Besides English and Spanish)

You can probably guess some of the most spoken languages in America, but others will surprise you.

Biggest Hotel Chains in the World

Wherever you are in the world, you'll likely find one of these hotel chains.

Florida's 10 Most Dangerous Cities

While you shouldn't avoid these Florida cities, you'll want to take extra precautions in them.

Countries and Territories You've Never Heard Of (But Need to Visit)

Most people don't know these destinations — that's exactly what makes them so appealing.

Caribbean Islands That Are Perfect for Foodies

The Caribbean is one of the best culinary regions in the world.

Amazing Experiences That Celebrate Indigenous History and Culture

These North American tours and experiences offer an opportunity to learn about the continent's Indigenous cultures.

America's Spookiest Small Towns Will Give You Chills

Governor's Mansion in Colonial Williamsburg, VA during the holidays

The smaller the town, the larger the creeps.

A Local's Guide to Miami on a Budget

"South Beach, USA - February 14, 2011: South Beach, Miami, Florida is a neighborhood in the city of Miami Beach and a major tourist destination with hundreds of nightclubs, restaurants, boutiques and hotels."

Yes, it's possible to do Miami on a budget — if you know where to go.

Affordable Mountain Resorts for a Dream Vacation

You can have an idyllic mountain escapade for less than $400 per night.

Best Ice Cream Chains in the U.S.

You can count on these ice cream chains to make life sweeter, no matter the season.

10 Best Destinations for Architecture, Ranked

Stunning view of twin clock tower of the Basilica del Voto Nacional, Quito, Ecuador

If columns, arches and doors make you ohh and ahh, you'll love these incredible architecture destinations.

Popular European Landmarks Most People Don't Recognize

Only true experts get 10/10 on this European landmark quiz.

Things We Miss About Air Travel That We'll Never Get Again

Piano concerts and no baggage limits once were staples of air travel — and they'll always be missed.

Dreamy Maldives Hotels for Less Than $300 per Night

These Maldives hotels are easy on the eyes — and on your wallet.

New Yorker Memes That Will Make You Spit Out Your Bodega BLT

They say humor never lies, and these New Yorker memes are the best representation of the city we’ve seen yet.

10 Best Girls’ Trips to the Caribbean and Mexico

Gather the girls and head to some of North America’s best destinations.

Travel Experiences That People Over 70 Regret Skipping the Most

Seniors reveal the places they wish they had visited when they were younger.

America’s Favorite Fast-Food Restaurants

These are the fast-food restaurants that Americans search for the most.

10 Best Beaches in North America, Ranked

Is this the real life, or is this just fantasy? At these gorgeous North American beaches, it’s hard to tell.

Shortest Airport Runways That Seem to Defy Physics

Small plane landing at the "Tenzing-Hillary" Airport in Lukla on a cloudy day, Everest Base Camp trek, Nepal

You’ll need to put on a brave face when flying into these teeny tiny airport runways.

Travelers Say These Are America's Top 10 Local Experiences

tourist watching the landscape in the valley of fire

From seeing Hawaii’s volcanoes to doing a ghost tour in Savannah, Georgia, these amazing experiences have been voted the best in the country.

Amazing Boating Destinations for a Day Out on the Water

Whether you’re in the sea or at the lake, these destinations are perfect for a day out on a boat.

These Best Cruise Lines for Retirees Make Us Wish We Were 65

Spend your golden years exploring the world aboard these cruise lines that are made for retirees.

4 Ways to Donate and Help Victims of Hawaii's Maui Fire

Hawaii's Maui was devastated by a deadly fire in 2023. Here's how you can help locals — even from a distance.

U.S. Beaches With the Most Breathtaking Sunrises

Whether you get up early or stay up all night, these U.S. beaches are the most amazing spots to catch a sunrise.

Best Fast-Food Milkshakes, Ranked From Worst to First

Milkshakes are one of life’s biggest pleasures. But which fast-food chain makes the best?

The World’s Most Beautiful Beach Is in Africa

Beach lovers will regret not making the long trip to this remote beach at least once in their lifetime.

10 Most-Searched European Vacation Spots Travelers Want to Visit

Santorini island, Greece. Oia town traditional white houses and churches with blue domes over the Caldera, Aegean sea.

These are the European cities travelers are searching for the most to visit this year.

Best Hotels in Orlando for Less Than $300 Per Night

Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, these are the best hotels in Orlando for traveling on the cheap.

Most Peaceful Small Towns to Visit Along the Great Lakes

A lone kayaker exits a sea cave on The Apostle Island National Lakeshore in Wisconsin in Fall.

You can enjoy the beauty of the Great Lakes year-round in these gorgeous small towns with fewer than 10,000 residents.

10 Best Cities for a Long Flight Layover

These cities offer free tours to travelers with long flight layovers.

Best Starbucks Drinks You Can Order, Ranked

Starbucks has many, many drink options, but these are the top ones you can order off the menu.

All 28 Hyatt Brands, Ranked

Here's a guide to which Hyatt brands are worth your money and which ones you should skip.

America's Most Livable Small Towns Amp Up the Charm

With safety, a strong sense of community, beauty and plenty of things to do, these small towns rank high on the livability index while also attracting tourists.

10 Best U.S. Airports, Ranked by Their Food and Restaurants

You’ll eat like royalty in these airports, known for their quality food and restaurants.

Cheapest Countries in Europe for an Affordable Vacation

Yes, Europe can be expensive, but you can save money by going to the continent’s most underrated destinations.

Fast-Food French Fries, Ranked From Worst to First

Which French fry is king of the fast-food world?

Most Idyllic Small Towns on the Pacific Coast

Let the ocean air melt your worries away in these beautiful small towns dotting the coasts of California, Oregon and Washington.

Most Delicious Italian Chain Restaurants in the U.S.

It may not be authentic Italian food, but Italian-American cuisine is inarguably delicious, especially at these popular Italian chain restaurants.

Terrible U.S. Airports, Ranked from Bad to Worst

New York, USA - January 3, 2014: People sleeping on the floor at JFK Airport, New York. Thousands of flights were cancelled and delayed, all New York airports closed due to heavy snowfall.

You can’t always choose where you fly to and from. But if you have a choice, avoid these terrible airports at all costs.

Most Dangerous Small Towns in the U.S.

Ocean City, MD/USA - August 2, 2022: Tourists walk along the shops, attractions and food establishments on the boardwalk at Ocean City, Maryland in the summer

You may want to avoid living in — and traveling to — these dangerous small towns.

America’s Most Delicious Chinese Food Chains, Ranked

Whether you want fried rice, wontons or General Tso's chicken, these Chinese food chains will fulfill your cravings.

Worst Travel Destinations You Should Avoid

Every place has its charm, but if you’re looking for something with a soul, avoid these worst travel destinations.

10 Most Popular Rides at Disney World, Ranked

From Haunted Mansion to Splash Mountain, these are the Disney World rides people love the most.

10 Worst American Tourist Traps You Should Avoid

Cafe du Monde and the Hollywood Walk of Fame are among the attractions travelers think should be skipped.

These Cheap Airbnbs Are Equally Fun and Quirky

These fun and cheap Airbnbs in the U.S. cost less than $150 per night.

10 Best States for Happy Campers to Enjoy the Outdoors

From great campgrounds to gorgeous trails, these states will make any camping enthusiast very happy.

Stay at These Famous Hotels Along America's Most Iconic Streets

From Chicago’s Magnificent Mile to L.A.’s Hollywood Boulevard, these iconic streets carry history — here’s where to stay to be at the heart of the action.

Welcome to Travel's Bronze Age: An Inside Look at the Industry's Big Money Problem

No one expects economy and luxury travel to be the same. But the widening gap in quality is infuriating people.

The Verdict Is In: These Are the Best Places to Visit in Mexico

Wondering where to go on your next trip to Mexico? Start with these 15 places.

These Small Towns Make Perfect Mother-Daughter Trips

Whether you want mountains, beaches or deserts, these small towns are ideal for mother-daughter trips.

Most Delicious Mexican Chain Restaurants in the U.S.

Go to these Mexican chain restaurants when you need good comfort food.

10 Safest Cities in Africa for Travelers to Visit

The safest cities in Africa are also some of the continent’s most exciting destinations.

Biscayne National Park Is Miami's Most Underrated Spot

Away from Miami’s glitz and noise, you’ll find a protected underwater paradise in Biscayne National Park.

Have the Ultimate Girls’ Trip in These Gorgeous Small Towns

The big city is overdone. Head to a small town on your next girls’ getaway.

California Memes That’ll Make You Say ‘Duuuuude!’

Sorry, Californians, but these California memes don't lie.

Immersive Hotel Experiences That Will Connect You to Nature

At these hotels, you won’t just be learning about nature. You’ll be rolling up your sleeves and digging your hands into the dirt — literally.

Lake Como Is One of the 10 Most Beautiful Lakes in the World

Take a dip in Lake Como or one of these other gorgeous lakes and then enjoy the quaint towns surrounding them.

America's Most Gorgeous Pools Worth Plunging Into

Some of these pools are natural. Some are artificial. They're all breathtaking.

This Washington D.C. Map Reveals the City’s Secret Spots

Once you’ve checked out the usual monuments and museums, head to these underrated and unusual attractions using our Washington, D.C., map.

Best Small Fishing Towns for a Waterfront Vacation

Whether you love the sport or simply want a getaway in an idyllic place, these small fishing towns make the perfect vacation spots in the U.S.

Best Cheap Hotels in Chicago for $300 or Less

A trip to Chicago doesn't have to break the bank or skimp on amenities.

Most Popular Languages Used for Word Tattoos, Ranked

Girl With Japanese Tattoo "Ai" meaning of Love in English.

Be it for aesthetic or cultural appeal, people love getting word tattoos in these languages.

What’s America’s Favorite Beer Brand?

Kar-Tr Getty Images

Of all the beer brands available, there's one that's beloved across the U.S. — and no, it’s not Bud Light.

Island Hopping in the Garden of Eden

Seychelles offers giant tortoises, breathtaking beaches and absolute seclusion.

How Many of These Iconic Places Can You Name?

If you consider yourself a knowledgeable traveler, you should be able to score 15/15 on this iconic places quiz.

Readers’ Choice: Key Lime Pie Is the Best Regional Food

The perfect marriage of tangy and sweet, Key lime pie is the best regional specialty the U.S. has to offer.

Bruce Peninsula Is Lake Huron’s Idyllic Hidden Gem

In Bruce Peninsula National Park, you’ll find cerulean water, shipwrecks and Canadian hospitality around Lake Huron.

Easiest Romance Languages to Learn, According to a Linguist

Learning a language is always hard work. But these romance languages are much easier to pick up than others.

A Visual Guide to Different Types of Pasta

All types of pasta are delicious, but this guide will help you tell them apart — and decide which ones to use for different meals.

Best Four Seasons Resorts in the World

The Four Seasons brand guarantees luxury. But these properties take it to another level.

This Virtual Tour of Mexico's Tulum Ruins Shows How the Maya Lived

You can see Tulum’s magnificent ruins, even if you can’t book a flight to Mexico right now.

10 Wildest, Coolest, Most Exciting Things to Do in Arizona

You’ll never run out of things to do in Arizona's gorgeous landscape.