I spent 2 nights at Honolulu’s new airline-inspired pod hotel — and my stay hit unexpected turbulence

There’s a unique new hotel option among the many accommodations in Honolulu — and it’s creating quite a stir in Waikiki: a Japanese, airline-inspired pod hotel with “first class,” “business class” and “premium economy” spaces available for rent by the night. Known as First Cabin International, the new location in the heart of Honolulu’s resort … Read more

The best U. S. mountain towns for an amazing weekend getaway

When you don’t have time for a weeklong vacation, a mountain town can deliver the perfect change of scenery in just a few days. Across the U.S., these destinations offer everything from scenic gondola rides and pristine hiking trails to cozy cafés, craft breweries and luxury resorts. Plus, many of them offer enough walkable charm … Read more

Gaylord ‘ice!’ reveals new themes and locations: Experience ‘Harry Potter,’ ‘Home Alone’ and more

My family kicks off every holiday season with a visit to Gaylord’s signature holiday event, “ice!” Each year in early November, all six Gaylord Hotels properties across the U.S., along with a handful of JW Marriott locations, transform into magical winter wonderlands. We decorate gingerbread houses, go ice skating, write letters to Santa and don … Read more

I just tried the TSA’s new e-gates: Here’s what it was like

Are you curious about what the future of airport security might look like? A visit to one of the busiest airports on the East Coast offers a sneak peek at one possibility. Earlier this summer, the Transportation Security Administration began trialing new “e-gates” at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT). And this week, I had the … Read more