Clara Hogan

The world is a whirlwind these days, and it seems like everyone is busier than ever. If you find yourself craving a simpler way of life, an escape to a local farm to disconnect from technology and the outside world—and reconnect with nature—may be just what you need.  Agritourism has long been popular in Europe, allowing travelers to spend the night on working farms that grow everything from lavender and goji berries to apples. Across the United States, a growing number of farm stays offer travelers the same experience: a chance to slow down and get a behind-the-scenes look at day-to-day life, which usually includes some pretty adorable farm animals and activities like reading by the fire or savoring farm-fresh breakfasts. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a family adventure, or a hands-on agricultural experience, the best farm stays in the U.S. provide the best taste of rural living. RECOMMENDED: The 21 coziest cabins on Airbnb near NYC

When it comes to planning a family vacation, pleasing everyone is no easy task. Some families like to explore nature via America's best national parks or do some urban sightseeing in major metropolises. But if those aren't quite your family's thing, might we suggest some indoor, temperature-controlled family fun? While you might think of outdoor theme parks when you picture attractions like roller coasters or bumper cars, there are a host of amusement parks that actually take place inside. These massive playgrounds are ready to be conquered year-round, no matter the weather s. From roller coaster rides to escape rooms and classic arcade games (think skeeball and air hockey), there is fun for all ages. Another perk: these family-fun-packed venues often feature bars and restaurants on-site for parents in need of a break.

Lazy rivers are pretty much universally adored—after all, they are a perfect blend of relaxation and fun. Simply hop on a tube and glide gently along a meandering waterway, soaking up the sun and letting your worries wash away.  Often, lazy rivers are the star attraction of a water park or hotel pool, with features like waterfalls, greenery, and the occasional surprise to keep you on your toes, like mini rapids or water jets. From the mountains of Colorado to the glitz of Vegas, we've rounded up the best lazy rivers in the US. Whether you're seeking a quiet escape where you can be, quite literally, lazy or a fun-filled family outing, you'll find a lazy river on this list that anyone would love. 

There's something magical about hot air balloons—their bold colors, their graceful ability to float across stunning landscapes, and their spirit of adventure. And there's something even more enchanting about hundreds of them ascending into the sky at once—creating a kaleidoscope of colors and stunning backdrop. These mass ascensions are a hallmark of hot air balloon festivals around the world. In the US alone, many cities host events that bring people together enjoy the romance and beauty of hot air balloons. From the iconic Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta to lesser-known but equally captivating gatherings like the Chester County Balloon Festival in Pennsylvania, we've compiled the best hot air balloon festivals in the U.S. that will bring you a sense of romance, tranquility and exploration.  RECOMMENDED: The most romantic places in the USA—and they're all in the great outdoors

It’s normal to find yourself exhausted at the end of a vacation, wanting another vacation right away. Traveling can be stressful, to say the least—and sometimes, a regular getaway isn’t enough to help you unwind. For that, you’ll want to book a yoga retreat in the U.S. Not a yogi? That's ok! Yoga retreats relax the body and mind even if you’re not the bend-y type. These thoughtful escapes take place in some of the country’s most picturesque locations, from the lush landscapes of Hawaii and the majestic Colorado mountains to the tranquil Florida beaches. Your backdrop for daily meditation and exercise will be truly breathtaking. If that doesn’t put your brain at ease, then the fact that most of these yoga retreats are all-inclusive will. You won’t have to make decisions! Your meals and activities will be carefully planned to help you disconnect. Plus, retreats range in intensity and length, too—some recommend extended stays, while others accommodate weekend travelers simply looking to add some yoga to their itineraries. Whether you're in it for the mindfulness experience, to connect with nature or get a solid workout with help from professionals, the best yoga retreats in the USA offer a rejuvenating sanctuary for the mind, body, and soul.

Eating your way through Oakland is like eating your way across the world. The diversity of the city's population is reflected in its dining scene, where chefs embrace their personal heritages and put their own spin on nearly every type of cuisine you can imagine.  While San Francisco shines with its high-end culinary experiences, Oakland's restaurants offer a more down-to-earth vibe, deeply rooted in the local community. From incredible taco joints like Taco's Oscar to welcoming, buzzy spots such as Bombera and Parche, to refined dining experiences at Commis and Pomet, we've rounded up the best restaurants in the Town that truly capture the essence of Oakland. If you’re coming from San Francisco, there are plenty of ways to cross the bridge and make a day out of it by exploring all there is to do in Oakland, from scenic hikes in the redwoods to art galleries and boutiques. Oh, and don’t forget to stop by Jack London Square to find some of the best waterfront wineries in the Bay Area.  But enough about that, it's time to head on over to the sunny side of the Bay and get ready to savor cuisines from every corner of the globe—with a unique NorCal twist. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Oakland

Fishing remains an important American pastime—in fact, more than 50 million Americans engage in freshwater, saltwater, or fly-fishing activities. While humans have caught fish for food for thousands of years, now that we don't have to catch our own food to survive, why are so many still drawn to the activity? Not only does fishing provide solace from the hustle of modern life, but it allows you to get out into nature, whether alone or with friends, and of course, there's the thrill of feeling the tug on the line. While some fish for fun—releasing what they catch back into the water—there's also the option to clean and take fish home for the ultimate freshly caught meal.  Across the country, it's possible to find solid fishing spots in every state. But some locations are prime. From the piers of California to the lakes of New Yorkand rivers of South Carolina, we have rounded up the absolute best destinations for anglers in the U.S. 

One of the best parts of living in, or visiting, San Francisco is the access to so many amazing day trips within a few hours' drive. Yes, there are so many things to do in San Francisco itself—but beyond its 7x7 radius, plenty of Northern California adventure beckons. Iconic destinations that most people have heard of—such as Big Sur, Napa or Sonoma, and Carmel-by-the-Sea—are all doable in a day. But so are smaller towns that shouldn't be overlooked. Looking for a beach day? Nearby destinations, including Stinson Beach, Bolinas, and Half Moon Bay, are perfect places to catch rays. Is rugged coastal scenery more your thing? Keep driving up the coast north to the small town of Jenner. Want something a bit more off the beaten path? Check out the artsy town of Guerneville along the Russian River or Gold Country at the base of the Sierra Nevada foothills. From the beach to the redwoods, to wine tasting and art gallery hopping, the magic of NorCal awaits with these best day trips from San Francisco.  RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in the Bay Area

Dining in San Francisco is unlike anywhere else in the world. One reason: you can eat nearly every type of cuisine—both in the form of cheap eats and fine Michelin dining—all in this one dazzling city. From the vibrant streets of the Mission to the bustling Inner Richmond to the scenic Embarcadero, every corner boasts a mix of beloved long-standing eateries and exciting new hotspots. Aspiring chefs from all over are drawn to San Francisco to chase their dreams for a reason. Abundant local produce, a spirit of innovation, and rich cultural diversity all converge to craft truly one-of-a-kind dining experiences. With all this in mind, creating the list of best restaurants in San Francisco is no easy feat. While this list is by no means comprehensive, with it we aim to highlight the promise a gastronomic adventure like no other. From institutions like Zuni Cafe and Lazy Bear to buzzy new spots like Dalida and Copra, we are confident these 50+ best restaurants in San Francisco will give you an experience you won't soon forget.  RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in San Francisco🥑 The best brunch in San Francisco🍸 The best rooftop bars in San Francisco🛍️ The best thrift stores in San Francisco🎨 The best galleries in San Francisco

Life is busy, and when you finally get some time to book a trip just for you and your partner to get away and connect, you want to make sure you pick the right place. Somewhere serene and relaxing, yet with plenty to do. While honeymoon destinations focus on solitude and intimacy, our list of the best couples getaways in the U.S. leans more toward those looking to explore someplace new. From the vineyards of Sonoma to the shores of Kauai and the deserts of Arizona, there’s a perfect vacation for every type of couple. Want to hit the slopes? Aspen is calling. Looking for charming architecture and high-end dining? San Francisco is your spot. Want that New England charm? Woodstock, VT or Cape Cod are both great options for a couples' vacation in the U.S. Book a stay at one of the most romantic hotels in America or opt for a cozy Airbnb. No matter where you choose on this list, these domestic destinations offer a perfect blend of romance and adventure. RECOMMENDED: Most romantic getaways in the U.S.A.

Ah, Europe. With its incredible history, unmatched charm, delicious food and variety of enchanting cultures, it's no wonder a European vacation is so desirable. But an international trip isn't in the cards for everyone, be it because your wallet isn’t quite equipped, you don't have a passport, or you're not particularly excited about that long of an airplane ride. Luckily, if you want to enjoy the spirit of Europe but stay stateside, plenty of U.S. cities will make you feel like you've crossed the Atlantic. From the Danish-inspired town of Solvang, California to the German-style city of Helen, Georgia to a slew of New England hamlets that feel like...well.. Old England, you'll be (almost) as charmed at these destinations as the real thing.  RECOMMENDED: The 10 most underrated beach towns in America

If you’ve ever been to a Pride celebration, you know it’s a hell of a good time. If you haven’t, this year is the year to change that. While the fun had at Pride festivals is matched, these events held across the country are more than parades and fabulous dance parties—they are powerful symbols of love, equality, and resilience.  For the LGBTQ+ community, Pride festivals are affirmations of existence and belonging. They honor progress achieved, commemorate struggles endured, and inspire future generations to continue the fight for equality—especially this year as a crucial election looms.  To help you plan, we have rounded up the best and biggest Pride parades and festivals in the U.S. From the streets of New York City to the beaches of San Francisco, these events unite millions of people yearly in a colorful display of solidarity and joy. Join one! RECOMMENDED: The best gay bars and clubs in America

What is the Golden Gate Bridge? Built in 1937 to connect San Francisco with the Marin headlands, the Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most universally recognized landmarks and most photographed bridge in the world. Visitors stand in awe of its 746-foot tall towers and bold International Orange color, which is repainted year-round. Is the Golden Gate Bridge worth visiting? The Golden Gate Bridge is the number one landmark in San Francisco—don't miss a chance to witness its stunning architecture, be it heading across the bridge or taking in views from San Francisco or Marin. Whichever way you choose, just don't forget a jacket—Karl the Fog is often looming nearby.  What's the best way to see the Golden Gate Bridge? Visitors often choose to experience crossing the bridge by foot, bike or car. Bikes and cars are permitted access 24 hours a day, while walkers can cross using the east sidewalk between 5am-6:30pm (5am-9pm during Daylight Savings Time).  Looking for a good viewing spot instead? You'll have plenty of options, including Crissy Field, Fort Point, Baker Beach or our favorite, the brand-new Presidio Tunnel Tops. What's good to eat near the Golden Gate Bridge? There aren't a lot of options directly near the base of the bridge on either side. On the San Francisco side, your best bet is in the Presidio—try Il Parco for a casual option in the Presidio Tunnel Tops park or Dalida, a buzzy new Mediterranean restaurant. On the Marin side, we continue taking in the views from Farl

You can hear the Napa Valley Wine Train before you see it. Starting in Downtown Napa at the McKinstry Street Station, the train rumbles through towns like Yountville and iconic vineyards like V. Sattui on a 36-mile round trip journey to St. Helena and back. The cavalcade of railroad cars were built in 1951 by the Pullman Standard Company and  refurbished for the modern era with details nodding to the original time period such as plush booths and mahogany paneling. Passengers can choose from a variety of dining journeys, including the Gourmet Express (a multi-course meal), Romance on the Rails (dinner and wine in a private booth on the train's Vista Dome) and Murder Mystery (a murder-mystery– themed dinner). One of the most intimate option is the Champagne Vista Dome experience, which guarantees you a private table. This car features curved glass windows in the observation-style dining car that give even more expansive views of Napa's lush countryside.  The three-hour lunch and two-hour dinner rides generally stick to the rails, but if getting off and exploring the vineyards is more of your thing, opt for one of the winery tours; most go to a few wineries and include lunch or dinner on the train.

Since 1994, the old stone cottage in the heart of wine country that houses the French Laundry has stood among the holiest of holy grails not only for destination diners, but aspiring industry pros around the world. Chef Thomas Keller’s influence on the culinary world is inestimable; without him, there’d be no Noma, Alinea, Benu or Frasca Food and Wine, to name just a few iconic restaurants his mentees have gone on to open. The pilgrimage to this intimate, 17-table Napa Valley institution remains at the very top of foodies’ bucket lists. Reservations open a month in advance, with seatings occurring daily from 4pm to 8:15pm. Every meal begins with a crisp salmon tartare cornet paired with a glass of champagne. From there, diners select one of the two prix fixe menus (one for meat eaters and one for vegetarians) and are then promptly taken on a three-to-four hour culinary journey. Dishes consist of classic and refined, yet unstuffy, French cuisine that showcase California-fresh produce sourced from the culinary garden across the street. The French Laundry has served as the pinnacle of fine dining for 25 years, with hospitality as unwaveringly pristine as the food. The restaurant has been awarded three Michelin stars every year since the first Michelin guide to the San Francisco Bay Area was issued in 2007, making Keller the only American chef to have two three-star restaurants at the same time (the other being Per Se in New York.)  The restaurant recently underwent a stunning $1

Think of San Francisco’s largest Halloween pub crawl as trick-or-treating for adults. Thousands of costumed revelers take over Polk Street for drinks, music and dancing, and costume contests. This year, whether you show up on foot or via the San Francisco Party Bus, you’re sure to be in spooktacular company at 20 haunted watering holes including Mayes, Nick's Crispy Tacos, Del Mar, and Wonder SF. It’s free to join the festivities.     

Napa Valley’s BottleRock festival is back this year for its first “normal” event since 2019. The festival was canceled in 2020 due to COVID-19 and, in 2021, it was delayed until the fall and had pandemic precautions in place. This year, BottleRock is back in all its glory in its usual slot, Memorial Day weekend, with big-name headlining artists from Pink to Metallica and Luke Combs. Other performers include Twenty One Pilots, Kygo, Pitbull, Alessia Cara, Vance Joy, and Amos Lee. The event will also host a slew of other activities from famous chefs and celebrities on the culinary stage to an impressive food and drink line-up and a series of more intimate performances outside of the main event.  We’ve rounded up answers to all of your questions to give you everything you need to know about BottleRock 2022. We also have you covered on where to go, eat, and sleep in Napa Valley should you want to explore more.  What is BottleRock?BottleRock Napa Valley, presented by JaM Cellars, is a three-day music, wine, craft brew and culinary festival that started in 2013.  When is BottleRock? BottleRock 2022 will run Memorial Day weekend, May 27-29, in downtown Napa at the Napa Valley Expo fairgrounds. How do I buy BottleRock tickets? Three-day tickets are sold out, but one-day general admission tickets for Friday and Saturday are still available through the BottleRock website. You can also still buy sold-out passes through the official ticket exchange Lyte. How much are BottleRock tickets?

What is Alcatraz? Alcatraz was once host to the first lighthouse on the West Coast, but it is most famous for serving as a former maximum security federal prison from 1934 to 1963. A small island situated in the middle of the San Francisco Bay, the formidable fortress was home to some of the 20th century's most notorious criminals. Today, the site is run by the National Park Service, and you can visit “The Rock” on a reserved tour. After taking a ferry departing from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing, you'll receive a headset that allows you to take a self-guided audio tour of the prison.  Is Alcatraz worth visiting? A trip to Alcatraz is worth it both for the scenic ride out and back—where you can take in sweeping views of the bay and cityscape—and for the enthralling tour of the abandoned prison. Narrated by former inmates and guards, the audio tour will tell you stories of harrowing escape attempts, prison riots and the 19-month long occupation of the site by Native Americans demanding reparation for broken treaties in 1969. What's the best way to see Alcatraz? There is only one way to visit Alcatraz: book a tour (which often book up in advance, so look early.) The site is operated by the National Parks Service and only one ferry company — Alcatraz City Cruises — has a contract to transport people to and from the island. Tours are offered year-round, and ferries depart every half an hour throughout the day. To get a more creepy bang for your buck, opt for a night tour. Plan to spe

The local coffee scene across American cities has exploded in recent years — but which city loves its coffee the most? That would be the City by the Bay, at least according to one recent report. San Francisco is the number one coffee city in America, ranked by a survey from the personal-finance website WalletHub. The calculation compared the 100 most populous cities across the US using 12 key metrics, including the average spending on coffee per household, the share of homes with coffee makers, the number of coffee shops and manufacturers per capita, and the number of coffee-centric events.  After San Francisco, Seattle, Orlando, Honolulu, and Portland rounded out the top five coffee cities.  Source: WalletHub Coffee has played an important role in San Francisco's history: the first cup of restaurant coffee in the West was served there, large coffee brands such as Hills Brothers and Folgers started in the city, and the Italian espresso houses of North Beach were popular meeting spots for famous Beat poets. Today, the "third wave" of coffee shops has meant a coffee boom.  San Francisco's top coffee shops are independent, full of local personality, and spread throughout the city. Favorites include Ritual Coffee, Andytown Coffee Roasters, and Farley's. A few of the factors for SF's number one rating — it had both the highest number of affordable coffee shops and cafes rated 4.5 stars or above per capita, as well as the highest number of manufacturers. It also ranked number on

Add another must-do to your San Francisco bucket list: the Presidio Tunnel Tops, a project 30 years in the making. The new federal parkland is now officially open, offering 14 acres of space to play along the bay and take in stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge.  Tunnel Tops, located within the Presidio, a national park formed out of a former military outpost, debuted on July 17 to an outpouring of crowds eager to see the city's newest national park destination. It is a creative solution to creating usable green space in a densely packed city, located on top of the busy Presidio Parkway highway tunnels and connecting the center of the Presidio to the park’s Crissy Field waterfront. The unique design feat was a perfect fit for James Corner Field Operations, the firm behind New York City's High Line, which also found ways to connect urban streets to more peaceful, nature-focused settings.  The park is already a hit with locals and visitors alike, featuring picnic sites, a campfire circle, trails, native plant gardens as well as the Outpost, a sprawling two-acre, nature-inspired play area for children.    Photograph Courtesy of the Trust for the PresidioTunnel Tops   Getting to the Tunnel Tops is easy from most places in the city. Several of the city’s MUNI lines stop at the nearby transit center and there's a free PresidiGo shuttle from downtown.  If you get hungry, you can count on a variety of food trucks and carts nearby, in addition to a slew of eateries offered with

イギリスの金融商品比較サイト、Money.co.ukは新しい分析調査を実施し、LGBTQ+コミュニティーに最も友好的な世界の都市ランキング『The most LGBTQ+ accepting cities』を発表した。 分析に使われたのは、さまざまなデータ。例えばSocial Progressから入手した各国の受容度に関する世界的な指標、人口10万人当たりのLGBTQ+施設の数を示すTripadvisorのデータといったもの。出生証明書や運転免許証の性別表示変更が州相当レベルでどれだけ容易か、成人におけるLGBTQ+自認の割合、子育てをしている25歳以上のLGBTQ+成人数なども含まれている。 その結果、世界で最もLGBTQ+の人々を受け入れていのは、アイスランドのレイキャビクとなった。同地のLGBTQ+受容度スコアは満点の10ポイント。LGBTQ+専用のバーやクラブが最も多くあり、それらの質も高いことが結果に反映されたようだ。 2位、3位はオランダのアムステルダム、ロッテルダムが続いた。アムステルダムは、惜しくもレイキャビックにトップの座を譲ったが、スコアの差はほとんどない。受容度も9.8ポイントと非常に高く、ナイトライフについても数、質ともに大差がなかった。ロッテルダムは、LGBTQ+向けの施設の数が上位2都市に比べると少ないため、この順位になったようだ。 4位に入ったのが、アメリカのサンフランシスコ（アメリカの都市として1位）。同地は、人口10万人当たりのLGBTQ+施設の数が全都市中2番目に多く、それらのTripadvisorの平均評価も星4.2つと高い。サンフランシスコが高順位になったことは、この都市がLGBTQ+コミュニティーにとってリベラルで進歩的な避難所であるという長年の評判や、LGBTQ+運動の歴史を考えると大きな驚きではないだろう。 このランキングのトップ20を見てみると、、アメリカからはボストン（11位）、シアトル（12位）、ロサンゼルス（16位）、シカゴ（17位）の5都市がランクインしている。 ただ、同時発表されたアメリカの州別ランキングで1位になったのは、カリフォルニア州ではなく、ハワイ州だった。同州では人口の4.6％がLGBTQ+を自認。労働安全や出生証明書の性別表記を変更する手続きなどでも高い評価を受け、LGBTQ+コミュニティーで子育てをしている割合が30％と、上位5州の中で最も多い。ハワイに続く2位にはメイン州、3位にはバーモント州がランクイン。カリフォルニア州は4位となった。 ランキングと分析内容は、Money.co.ukの公式サイトで確認できる。 原文はこちら 関連記事 『ブライダル大手が同性婚のためのウエディングプランを紹介』 『東京、学びのクィアスポット6選』 『日本のジェンダー観や婚姻制度のあれこれ、もう一度社会の前提を疑おう』 『ニューヨーク歴史協会がLGBTQ+博物館の設立を発表』 『6年で日本は「ジェンダー平等」に近づいたのか、公平な制度の実現へ』 東京の最新情報をタイムアウト東京のメールマガジンでチェックしよう。登録はこちら

A new study shows which cities around the world are the most friendly toward the LGBTQ+ community, and we're not that surprised at the winners.  The study, conducted by Money.co.uk, analyzed cities based on a variety of criteria, including a worldwide indicator sourced from Social Progress on the level of acceptance in each country, Tripadvisor data showing the number of LGBTQ+ establishments per 100,000 people, as well as how easy it is at the state level to change the gender marker on your birth certificate and driver's license, the percentage of adults who identify as LGBTQ+, and how many LGBTQ+ adults over 25 are raising children, among other factors.  In the United States, San Francisco came out on top as the number one most accepting city in America, and fourth in the world. The city has the second-highest number of LGBTQ+ establishments per 100,000 people and has an average rating of 4.2 stars.  San Francisco coming in the first place isn't a huge surprise, given the city's long reputation as a liberal and progressive haven for the LGBTQ+ community and its history of LGBTQ+ activism. Out of the top 20 most accepting cities, five are based in the US: Boston ranked 11th; Seattle ranked 12th, Los Angeles placed 16th and Chicago came in at 17th. At the worldwide level, Reykjavik, Iceland was number one. That was followed by Amsterdam and Rotterdam in the Netherlands.  In terms of states in the US though, California wasn't number one. It came in fourth. Hawaii actually cam

Napa Valley is a bucket-list destination for every wine lover – the rolling vineyard hills, award-winning wineries, and gourmet California cuisine make it a foodie mecca that people around the world flock to. And one of the most magical ways to take in all that wine country has to offer is aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train.  The wine train is an iconic piece of Napa that’s been operating for more than 30 years, running directly through the valley on a rail line originally built in 1864. It was on a long hiatus during Covid, but officially re-opened in May. And now it's bringing back its popular Murder Mystery rides starting this month through October. The themed rides include 'Crime and Punishment,' 'Death of a Gangster' and a 'Wizards and Witches' tour that sounds perfect for Harry Potter fans (wizarding robes and hats are highly encouraged).  Photograph: Courtesy Napa Valley Wine Train While aboard the refurbished 1951 Pullman coaches, guests will have two hours to solve a murder (all while being served a multi-course fine-dining experience). On the Wizards and Witches tour – which takes place October 2, 9, and 16 – feel free to dress up as your favorite Hogwarts character and imagine you're aboard the Hogwarts Express!  Not into dress-up? The train offers a variety of other tours. Choose from various experiences and times, including daytime and evening rides, an intimate meal in the Champagne Dome, as well as those that includes stops at wineries and special ones like j