Few things feel as festive as holiday lights, and some displays rise above the rest. From Tokyo’s dazzling winter illuminations to intimate candle-lit festivals, these seven destinations stage unforgettable light shows that enchant locals and visitors alike. © Sihasakprachum | Dreamstime.com The Amsterdam Light Festival runs from December through mid-January, giving travelers plenty of time … Read more

Nairobi, a rapidly modernizing city of about 3 million and the gateway to East Africa’s safari country, offers more than just urban attractions. In addition to a well-regarded National Museum, its biggest draw for wildlife enthusiasts is Nairobi National Park ($40), a 45-square-mile reserve located just four miles south of the city center. Uniquely, this … Read more

Artist Thomas Cole, the 19th-century founder of the Hudson River School of Art, left a lasting visual legacy through the landscapes that defined his work. From Wednesday through Sunday during the summer season, the Thomas Cole National Historic Site is presenting an exhibition that explores the artistic relationship between Cole and his student Frederic Church. … Read more

Grand Universe Lucca has elevated Champagne tasting with the new Sommità Martin Orsyn Champagne Rooftop, a terrace that overlooks Lucca’s iconic skyline and surrounding rooftops. The rooftop offers a tailored tasting experience featuring four distinguished cuvées, each paired with a curated selection of culinary bites designed to highlight the Champagne’s flavors. The tasting menu includes … Read more

Amtrak passenger trains that operate on the busy Northeast Corridor and across the Midwest will soon feature refreshed, modern interiors. The update includes new seating, improved lighting, and redesigned café cars to enhance the onboard experience. Last month the passenger railroad announced a $16 million program to modernize coach-car interiors. Upgrades will include new seat … Read more

Now in its fourth year, the Sun Valley Harvest Festival begins Sept. 19 and runs through the afternoon of Sept. 22. This weekend-long celebration centers on outstanding food and wines, bringing together acclaimed chefs, winemakers and local food artisans. This year’s festival features cookbook author and Chaine des Rôtisseurs member John Beriker among the roster … Read more

British Columbia’s arts scene heats up in June as festivals and cultural events return across the region. The 25th season of Bard on the Beach opens June 12, running through Sept. 14. Set beneath performance tents in Kitsilano’s Vanier Park, the festival offers Shakespeare productions alongside talks, wine tastings and curated ticket packages that include … Read more

Don’t be deceived by their relatively small ears: Asian elephants are enormous. I remember standing beside my 10-foot-tall ride in Phuket’s Chalong highlands, wondering how I would manage to get into the seat on his back. As I studied his wrinkled face, his tennis-ball-sized eye met mine and, as if sensing my hesitation, he lifted … Read more

In the beachside town of Placencia on Belize’s Caribbean coast, the upscale Sirenian Bay Resort & Villas has opened the three60 Martini Bar for the first time. The new rooftop venue brings a fresh option for cocktails, small events and relaxed evenings in this popular seaside destination.   © Sirenian Bay Resort & Villas Perched … Read more

Bordeaux is France’s largest wine region, home to nearly 7,000 producers. Yet most consumer attention focuses on the 61 Grand Cru châteaux and a handful of names from Pomerol and Saint-Émilion. Those top estates often produce outstanding wines, and in exceptional vintages such as 2010 some bottles command prices of $1,000 or more. What drives … Read more