The National Park Service predicts peak bloom March 29–April 1, 2026.

Our firsthand guide covers the Tidal Basin walk, best viewing spots, festival events, and how to beat the crowds.

I used to think travel insurance was about lost luggage and delayed flights. The pandemic and recent violence at popular destinations have changed that.

In the past few years, Debbie and I have purchased standalone travel insurance, mostly for medical coverage, for trips to very safe countries like England and France.

If you’re traveling to Mexico, especially during periods of cartel violence or hurricane season, here’s what actually matters.

The New York Transit Museum is one of the few attractions where you can truly take a deep dive into the city’s history. You walk down the steps of what appears to be a modern subway station, but you’re actually stepping back in time.

The museum is a "living" archive housed inside the decommissioned 1936 Court Street station in Brooklyn. With admission at just $10 and an investment of about two hours, you’ll leave feeling like a "lifelong New Yorker."

Chihuly Garden and Glass museum and the Space Needle are a great combination for a fun day Seattle.

See the stunning glass sculptures of Dale Chihuly and terrific views of Seattle from the iconic Space Needle.

Churchill’s War Rooms is an intriguing and immersive experience that takes you right into the heart of history at Winston Churchill’s secret underground bunker from where he directed the Second World War.

London has one of the most extensive public transportation systems in the world. Combine London’s underground metro and the iconic red buses with the new easy-to-use tap-to-pay system, and visitors can easily get anywhere in the city. The Elizabeth Line is a great way to get from Heathrow to central London.

London also has river boats, famous black cabs, and Uber. So with Google Maps guiding your way, you should absolutely use London’s public transportation on your next trip.

One World Observatory is the observation deck located at the top of the World Trade Center in New York City. 

It is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and a symbol of resilience in the New York skyline. 

The observatory offers 360-degree panoramic views of New York City, and visitors can see up to 45 miles on a clear day. 

Westminster Abbey is a uniquely historic site in London and a fascinating place to visit.

A royal church with over a thousand years of history, the Abbey is probably the most famous place of worship in the world, and the center of many national events and celebrations.

When visiting the Tower of London, you’ll see much of what you came to London for: soldiers marching in red uniforms, 1,000-year-old buildings rich in history, and royal jewels.

Plus, the Tower of London is located right on the banks of the River Thames, close to other iconic sites such as Tower Bridge. 

If you are looking to get away from the hustle of New York City without ever leaving the city, then a quick subway trip to the Met Cloisters is the place to go. 

The building incorporates real medieval architectural elements imported from Europe and showcases tapestries, sculpture,  stained glass, metalwork, and medieval gardens.

I had fun trying out a trendy “toy camera” on a recent trip to London.

Its tiny size and retro design are charming - but does it take good photos?

The Houses of Parliament is an iconic building in London, and it was magnificent to visit the inside.

Also known as the Palace of Westminster, you can tour the House of Commons, the House of Lords, and Westminster Hall. There is also a tour of the Elizabeth Tower and Big Ben.

You can visit Parliament in about two hours, and it’s a memorable place to visit.

St. Dunstan-in-the-East is a picturesque oasis in the City of London.

The historic church that once stood here was mostly destroyed during the Blitz of the Second World War, and today it is a lush, photogenic public garden among the ruins.

The City of London is the oldest and most historic part of Greater London. It is the home of modern skyscrapers as well as the Tower of London and St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Join us on a walking tour of this iconic and photogenic district.

Shoreditch is London’s funky center of nightlife and street art. During the day, Shoreditch features busy markets and famous street art.

At night, the clubs and bars come alive until dawn.

We had a great time visiting Portugal during Christmas week and for the New Year.

Visiting the big cities of Lisbon and Porto in December and January, with the mild weather and festive atmosphere, creates a special kind of liveliness during the holiday season.

A range of Christmas fairs & markets, festive lights, decorations and holiday celebrations make for a memorable visit. 

Located on the south bank of the River Thames, Greenwich is best known for its maritime history and famous attractions like the Royal Observatory, which established the Greenwich Meridian line, and the Cutty Sark. 

Brighton is a vibrant, eclectic city synonymous with the beach, but it offers so much more such as the North Laine area and the Royal Pavilion. 

If you add the beach to all the other things to do, you’ll have an epic day in Brighton.

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is an unexpectedly delightful attraction in the heart of Boston. The museum celebrates an eclectic mix of art forms.

A walk along the River Thames is a great way to see and photograph many of London’s iconic attractions.