Marisa Méndez – The News Desk

3Apr

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Travel

St. Mark’s Basilica & More

Known for its canals, waterways, bridges and other historic attractions, Venice, Italy, offers travelers everything from centuries-old history to unparalleled beauty. Some of the best Venice tours take you to the quietest areas of the city – away from the crowds – to discover Venice's cuisine, wine and culture, while others showcase the city from the water by gondola or kayak. Consulting both traveler opinion and expert input, U.S. News identified the tours below as the best Venice has to offer.Avventure Bellissime – Venice in 1 Day TourPrice: Adults from 109 euros (about $120); kids from 95 euros (about $104)Duration: 3 hoursIf you're short on time, consider this three-hour tour that hits multiple of Venice's top attractions. You'll enjoy skip-the-line access to St. Mark's Basilica, as w...

The 11 Best Toiletry Bags, According to Reviews

2Apr

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Travel

The 11 Best Toiletry Bags, According to Reviews

Toiletries are an indispensable item on a traveler's packing list. But throwing those creams, liquids and pastes into your luggage haphazardly surely spells disaster – we've all had that one shampoo bottle leak and make a mess of things. Toiletry cases not only keep potential messes contained, but also keep your on-the-go essentials at your fingertips. U.S. News has determined the following toiletry bags are some of the best available to suit all your needs. (Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to supply chain issues.)Best Toiletry BagsBest Overall Toiletry BagCourtesy of Peak DesignPeak Design Small Wash Pouch: This water-repellent pouch is small but it packs a punch. It has four internal mesh pockets, a zip pocket and a dedicated pocket for your...

7 Best Chicago Boat Tours of 2024: River & Lake Cruises

2Apr

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Travel

7 Best Chicago Boat Tours of 2024: River & Lake Cruises

If you're hoping to see as much of Chicago as you can in a short amount of time, you may want to sign up for a boat tour. During each tour, you'll learn the historical significance of the skyline's iconic buildings while enjoying breathtaking views of the Windy City. Considering traveler reviews and expert opinion, U.S. News selected the best Chicago boat tours, ranging from an architectural boat tour on the river to a thrilling speedboat ride on Lake Michigan.Tall Ship Windy – Chicago Skyline SailPrice: Adults from $49; kids from $39Duration: 75 minutesTall Ship Windy's Chicago Skyline Sail introduces you to the beauty and splendor of Chicago's world-famous buildings aboard the company's four-masted schooner. On the sightseeing tour, you'll learn interesting facts about the history of th...

The 23 Best Christmas Lights Displays in the U.S.

9Nov

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Travel

The 23 Best Christmas Lights Displays in the U.S.

Holiday lights – whether they be Yule logs or candles – have been around for centuries, but it wasn't until 1882 that electric lights arrived on the scene. It took several more decades before such lights were widely (and cheaply) available. Today, homes and businesses regularly deck their halls, trees and exteriors with lights, some creating enormous spectacles that draw crowds year after year. To help you decide which to prioritize, U.S. News rounded up the top Christmas light displays across America. Whether you prefer small displays that pack a festive punch or flashy shows full of glitz and glamour, the colorful exhibits on this list are sure to bring you plenty of holiday cheer.The Best Christmas Lights Displays in the U.S. Gardens Aglow at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens Dyker Hei...

30Aug

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Travel

The 10 Best Swamp Tours in New Orleans

Read on to discover the best New Orleans swamp tours across a variety of categories. Based on recent traveler reviews, all of the recommended tours include transportation.Note: many of these excursions are at least a 30-minute drive outside of the city. And if alligators are your top reason for trekking to the swamp, plan for a spring or summer tour, as alligators enter a state of brumation (a modified period of hibernation) during the cold weather months.Best Kayak Tour: New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours – Manchac Swamp Kayak TourPrice: From $75Duration: 2 hoursNovice kayakers will appreciate this two-hour paddle in Manchac Swamp as it is especially suitable for beginners. During the tour, you'll wind your way through the swamp's calm waters and take a gander at the local wildlife.For an eve...

24Aug

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Travel

21 Top Romantic Getaways in Texas

Couples looking for a romantic daytrip, weekend getaway or weeklong vacation should look no further than the many top destinations in Texas. The Lone Star State offers something for every duo, whether you want to reconnect over dinner in a chic city restaurant or disconnect from the rest of the world in a remote cabin. To help you and your partner pick the right destination for a romantic escape, U.S. News found some of the best big cities, quiet parks and luxurious hotels throughout Texas. Pack your bags and grab your honey; it's time to take a much-needed break together.(Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Check...

The Best Antelope Canyon Tours (Upper and Lower

5Jul

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Travel

The Best Antelope Canyon Tours (Upper and Lower

Known for its labyrinthine, seemingly undulating sandstone walls and the beams of sunlight that shine into them, Arizona's Antelope Canyon is a magnet for photographers and tourists traveling through the American Southwest. It's a slot canyon, meaning it formed from water carving it out over millions of years. Its walls stand up to 120 feet above the streambed, while the canyon itself sits approximately 3,700 feet above sea level. Antelope Canyon takes its name from the herds of pronghorn antelopes that once resided in it.The canyon forms part of Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park in the LeChee Chapter of the Navajo Nation. The Navajo Nation limits visits to either the Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon to two hours and requires all visitors to be led by authorized guides. The Navajo-approved gui...