Noctourism (or nocturnal tourism) historically involved traveling to dark-sky locations to experience the cosmos, see the Milky Way, and witness phenomena like the Northern Lights. But noctourism today can be just as much about culture, food, and atmosphere as it is about the night sky. And a number of destinations are leaning into this trend for good reason.

When it comes to European getaways, Portugal often sneaks under the radar—but it shouldn’t. This small European country offers a rare balance of affordability, sunshine, and variety that makes it easy to see why more travelers are putting it at the top of their list. If you’re looking for a destination that mixes charm with practicality, here are 10 smart reasons Portugal should be next on your list.

There’s something about Norway that is very different from any other European country you may visit. Tourism hasn’t spoiled Norway’s simplicity, rocky coastline, pristine fjords, or the quiet charm of its villages and cities.

Here’s what I discovered on a recent cruise there.

During berry season, there are frequent black and grizzly bear sightings in Banff NP and Jasper NP, Alberta. Know the difference before you visit.

When we first joined forces, I was taking a chance in choosing you. It turned out the decision at the time (and for many years) was a good one.

You kept me safe, and we had lots of fun. But, let’s be honest—our relationship wasn’t meant to last forever.

After years of friends saying, ‘You travel so much. Why haven’t you taken a cruise?’, I slapped a motion sickness patch behind one ear and took the plunge. Here’s what I thought about the service, food, stateroom, and more, and whether I’d take another cruise or stick with land-based travel.

Paris is at the top of many travel wish lists. Between iconic sites like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and newly renovated Notre-Dame (wow!), and the fantastic food at every corner, there’s a lot to experience.

Here’s how we made the most of our time while there.

Not to focus on the inevitable but…someday you’re gonna die. No matter how much you exercise or how much sugar you don’t eat. When that happens, will your life—how you lived and loved and what you prioritized—have an enduring impact on those you care most about?

What does leaving a legacy look like?

Given the current state of the world, couldn’t we all use a bit of diversion from reality? I know I’d like to escape—even if only through a beach read.

Here are a few titles I’ve enjoyed while on vacation, and a few ways to get them for FREE or at a very low price.

Hooray for Girls' Trips! Whether for a night, weekend, or week, they are essential for many of us for many reasons: emotionally, mentally, and physically. What makes them special? And depending on the vibe you and your besties seek, what destinations should you consider?

When life feels a bit nuts and you need to decompress, spend time in nature.

There’s a reason the U.S. National Park System is widely considered a national treasure. Here are 5 of my favorite Parks and why visiting them is always a good idea.

The US Healthcare System needs an overhaul. A recent ER visit and assessment of Medicare Part B premiums and payments has this author a bit ticked off. No wonder a recent comprehensive study ranked the US #10 out of 10.

What could we leverage to help the US healthcare system’s aches and pains? ‘Cause it’s a bit ‘ruff, ruff’ out there.

Why is Galena, a small town in the southwest corner of Kansas famous? What is the drive along the western border of Missouri like? If you visit Kansas City, what should you try to see? Join us in Kansas and Missouri—the final leg of our Middle America road trip.

Travel with us through the Quachita and Ozark Mountains region of Arkansas. Get the scoop on visiting Hot Springs National Park and Bath House Row, a National Historic Landmark District. Is this area of Arkansas worth a visit?

Oklahoma City was one of our favorite stops along a 2,200-mile road trip. We had the best time there, with good food, a great hotel, an impressive National Memorial and Museum, fun cowboy culture, and lots of positive interactions with a number of locals. It’s a great place to visit. Here’s why.

Spring is a great time to travel, as it often means warmer weather without the peak summer tourist crowds. It's a perfect combination!

Where could you go to celebrate this Spring (March 20-June 20)? How about one of these destinations?

Drive across the Panhandle Plains of Texas and you’ll feel the isolation and vastness of the region. This is small town America where ranching, farming, and renewable energy are the top employers. Some of the most famous Route 66 stops are found here too, and we stopped to see a few.

I like to describe Santa Fe as artsy but with a strong spine because of its complicated history. On our visit there, we immersed ourselves in art, learned about the state’s Native American, Mexican, and Spanish history, saw adobe architecture everywhere, and enjoyed a lot of New Mexican cuisine.

It’s a great place to visit. Here’s why.

Valentine’s Day is next week!

I’ve always considered V.D. one of those Hallmark-created holidays—a way for the card and gift industry to make some coin after the major holidays have passed. But with some research, I discovered the big ‘V’ has some weird history involving goats and gentle slaps. Take that, Cupid!

Are you looking to visit a few less-traveled places in Arizona? A road trip is a great way to combine a few quick stops with those that may require a day or half a day to experience fully. Using Route 66 to guide part of our route, we saw some American pop culture and impressive national parks.