Want to Escape Election Stress? Book One of These Puerto Rican Resorts

What if there was a place where you could escape the election madness without fully leaving American soil?

What if I told you that place is also a tropical paradise—and you wouldn’t be paying thousands upon thousands of dollars to vacation there?

The better question isn’t whether or not you’d go but how long you’d stay.

Enter the magic of Puerto Rico, one of the most accessible options for Americans who want to escape the continental United States. (And election stress.)

Ready to drown your sorrows with a liter of piña colada while sitting on a peaceful beach beneath the golden sunshine?

Consider this your sign to book a flight to Puerto Rico. All you have to do before taking off is book a stay at one of the island’s affordable and high-value resorts.

I’ve already got some of the highest-rated and most affordable Puerto Rican resorts picked out for you.

No more election stress. No more fatalist news reports. No more cringe-worthy soundbites. Only piña coladas and palm trees.

Best Puerto Rican resorts for escaping election stress

Most affordable Puerto Rican resorts

Copamarina Beach Resort & Spa

Located in Guanica on Puerto Rico’s southwestern coast, the Copamarina Beach Resort & Spa is remote, all-inclusive, and highly affordable.

Not only is it spread across 20 acres of tropical gardens, but it also includes an isolated and private stretch of unspoiled beachfront. From on-site dining to babysitting services, you’ve got all the amenities you need to effortlessly escape election stress.

Book your getaway

Hyatt Vacation Club at Hacienda del Mar

Located near the capital city of San Juan, this affordable resort has all the standard fare of a great Caribbean all-inclusive getaway.

You can enjoy on-site amenities like the kids’ pool, whirlpool spas, tennis courts, restaurant, and rooms with fully stocked kitchens. Though it’s not quite as remote as other resorts, guests have raved about the lovely grounds.

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Mid-range Puerto Rican resorts

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel San Juan

Similar to the Hyatt Vacation Club (above), this selection puts you close to San Juan’s historic sites and vibrant establishments. That means you don’t need to choose between disappearing on a tropical beach and soaking up Puerto Rico’s unique culture.

The DoubleTree also offers more upscale amenities, from its unique art gallery to its full-service Cloud Spa. According to guest reviews, staff are also incredibly friendly and helpful—a great feature for anyone looking to escape stress.

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Wyndham Palmas Beach & Golf Boutique Resort

The title says it all—this Wyndham resort gives you everything you’ll need to loaf around on the beach between sessions at the golf course. Thanks to its location in the exclusive Palmas del Mar area, this resort is a bit smaller and more intimate.

Despite its boutique status, there are multiple dining and drinking options, from a well-kept wine cellar to wood-oven pizza. If you can’t find something at this resort, the surrounding area of Las Palmas is sure to have it.

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La Concha Resort & Spa

Only steps from Candado Beach in San Juan’s historic district, La Concha Resort & Spa takes you straight into Puerto Rico’s exciting atmosphere.

But don’t worry—you’ll also have plenty of opportunities to escape the noise at La Concha’s three pools, six dining venues, and gorgeous beach views. It also has one of the nicest spas in the city, in case you’re in need of a bit of TLC.

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Luxury option

Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Rainforest Golf & Beach Resort

Once again, the name of this Wyndham selection tells you everything you need to know. Thanks to its location near El Yunque Rainforest, guests are treated to a front-row rainforest experience—one that comes with a mile-long stretch of beach and a massive full-length golf course.

The scale here is pretty mind-boggling. The Wyndham Grand Rio stretches across 500 acres and is home to ten restaurants, a full casino, and two separate nature reserves.

Book your getaway

According to the FAA & TSA, You Should Avoid These Airports & Flying Dates During Christmas

As much as we enjoy visiting loved ones over the holidays, getting home can be a nightmare.

The holiday season sees plane tickets skyrocket in price, even for elite rewards members. On top of the hefty bill, airports are crowded, flights are often delayed or canceled, and there’s still plenty of uncertainty around how the US’s new Fly Rights program will actually pan out.

In other words, anyone brave enough to fly home for the holidays is in store for a few inevitable delays and headaches.

But that doesn’t mean passengers are thrown to the wolves. The more you know about savvy air travel, the better you’re able to plan your flight, helping you save money and have a better travel experience.

For now, let’s focus on how to nail your Christmas travel plans, from buying the right flights at the right time to choosing the right flight routes.

I’ve got advice from the FAA and the TSA. Here’s how to avoid busy airports during Christmas so you won’t dread that trip home.

When should travelers buy Christmas flights?

Short answer: Late October

According to Google Flights, the best time to purchase Christmas flights is from 36 to 72 days out. That makes late October the sweet spot to find great deals on Christmas flights—but you can also do so into November if you’re a bit late buying tickets this year.

Which dates should passengers avoid during Christmas travel?

Short answer: December 21-23, December 26-30

Most travelers have limited days off of work, meaning they want to get home a day or two before Christmas, and then head back home in the days immediately after the holiday.

For this reason, the FAA and TSA advise not traveling from December 21-December 23. Airports turn into madhouses on these days.

Additionally, avoid booking return flights for December 26-27. Airports will once again be very busy. The same is often true for the rest of the buffer days between Christmas and New Year’s Day, including December 28-30.

What dates are the least crowded over Christmas?

Short answer: Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day

The best days to fly for Christmas travel are on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. Most US airports are ghost towns on the actual day of major holidays.

That being said, you can also purchase flights for December 18-20. Flights during these days come slightly before the big Christmas rush, letting you avoid the busiest and most hectic travel days.

Keep in mind that December 20^th usually kicks off the mad rush, so try to find early flights if you’re heading out on the 20^th.

In terms of return flights, consider flying back home on New Years’ holiday dates, either December 31 or January 1.

Which airports should passengers avoid during Christmas travel?

According to the TSA, these are the busiest airports during Christmas season:

Atlanta ATL
New York City JFK
Denver DEN
Dallas-Forth Worth DFW
Chicago ORD
Los Angeles LAX
Houston IAH
Miami MIA
San Francisco SFO

What if you can’t avoid busy airports and travel days this Christmas?

If you’re flying on a popular Christmas travel day at one of the busiest airports in the US, I highly suggest streamlining your travels with these hacks:

Book a trip through security
Download the airline’s app for the latest updates
Have a few spare backup plans for delays, including reroutes or alternative forms of travel, such as Amtrak
Give yourself plenty of time for layovers and connections

NYC Tours I Wish I Would Have Gone On When I Lived There

New York City is a magical place. Magically wonderful, magically smelly, magically hectic.

During my five-year stint living in Red Hook, Brooklyn, I stumbled upon quite a few gems. But most of those ‘gems’ were functional and based on survival, like knowing when to trust the G train, which dog parks to avoid, and where to get cheap cigarettes.

That being said, there are a few standout moments.

The most memorable is my first trip to Times Square. Two of my New Yorker friends covered my eyes in the subway station, carefully guiding me up the stairs and onto the street. Making sure I was facing the bright lights, they lifted their hands and I opened my eyes.

I remember my jaw dropping and my head tilting back as I looked from screen to screen to screen. I felt like I was in a scene from Blade Runner. (I’m from Missouri.) Though I haven’t spent much time in or near Times Square since then, it’s a memory I’ll never forget.

In honor of that day many years ago, I’m heading back in time to showcase the best tours in New York City that I wish I had gone on while I lived there.

By water, by sky, by bike carriage, by horse carriage—this is how you should experience the Big Apple.

Best tours in New York City

New York 90-Minute Cruise

The best way to see New York City is from a little bit of distance. This boat ride takes you around Manhattan and its neighboring boroughs so you can see the city’s greatest landmarks. But don’t worry—you’ll be close enough to the Statue of Liberty to get a good look. She’s smaller than you think.

Book the tour

New York Helicopter Tour

If you’re more interested in Manhattan’s most iconic buildings, then take a helicopter ride. You’ll get up close and personal with legendary spots like the Chrysler Building, Times Square, and the Freedom Tower.

Book the tour

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Experience

This wasn’t around when I lived in the city—but this highly visual experience is all the rage with friends and family who are still in New York. Be prepared for a few stunning photo ops and some mind-bending exhibits.

Book the tour

New York City Mafia and Local Food Tour led by NYPD Guides

In case you didn’t know, the mafia was to thank for much of Manhattan’s impressive construction boom from the 1960s and 1970s. Who better to paint a picture than a retired NYPD officer who remembers the legacy of this era? Also, you get to eat Italian food.

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Official NYC Horse Carriage Rides

Central Park is absolutely massive—and you should be experiencing it via horse carriage. As a bonus, you’ll also get to peek around the very illustrious streets of the Upper West and East Sides. This is a great choice for families and couples.

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Manhattan Architecture Yacht Cruise

Like I mentioned up top, the best way to see Manhattan (and Brooklyn and Queens) is from a slight distance. This yacht tour lets you take a pampered look at the skyline with a professional guide at your side and a glass of Prosecco in your hand.

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Gangsters and Ghosts Tour New York City

Did you know that there’s a mass grave underneath Washington Square Park? And that it’s just one of many dotting the city? If you’re into factoids like this, then head on this tour. You’re going to take a long, hard look at the Big Apple’s underbelly.

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Chelsea Market and High Line Guided Food Tour

You won’t be short on food tour offerings in New York City. I vote you bundle this one with a tour of the Highline, which is one of the coolest urban parks in the United States. (In my humble opinion.) The Chelsea Market is also quite famous.

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Secrets of Grand Central Station

Every time, without fail, my visits to Grand Central Station left me floored. Even when I was hastily running to the Long Island Railroad, I stopped to spare a glance at the magnificent architecture. I’m dying to know about Grand Central’s secrets.

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Harlem Gospel Live Music Concert

Even if your trip to New York City goes perfectly according to plan, you could probably benefit from a little spiritual respite. On top of that, Harlem is a fast-changing neighborhood. This experience lets you take a peek into its core.

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Central Park Celebrity Homes & Film Spots Tour

Anyone who lives in New York City for a solid chunk of time rubs elbows with celebrities. (I trampled Meg Ryan once by accident.) If you want to know where they live, too, this is a fantastic tour. It also gives you another way to explore Central Park without walking for miles.

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Harbor Speedboat Tour

For those who want to see New York City in a New York minute.

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Sunset Sail Aboard a Schooner

If speedboats aren’t your thing, head aboard this delightful schooner and grab a drink. Sunset is a fantastic time to experience any city—but in the Big Apple, you get to see that golden light reflect off millions of perfectly shined skyscraper windows.

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Wall Street and Financial District Walking Tour

Want to know another dirty little secret about NYC? The oldest streets in Manhattan are in its lower neighborhoods, including Wall Street. Some of the financial neighborhood’s streets are teeny-tiny and cobbled, taking you straight back to NYC’s earliest era.

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TriBeCa Architecture & History Walking Tour

Along with Wall Street, TriBeCa is another neighborhood that’s often forgotten in lieu of Soho, Greenwich, and other areas above Canal Street. But TriBeCa is lined with brick warehouses that have been flipped into the city’s trendiest shops, boutiques, and apartments. Fantastic window shopping.

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MET Guided Museum Tour

It’s a seriously massive museum—you’re going to get way more out of the experience with an expert at your side.

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Gilded Age Mansions Guided Tour

The Gilded Age was by far New York’s loveliest in terms of architecture. Dig deep into the city’s history and roots with this tour—and see some jaw-dropping mansions along the way.

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Limited Capacity & All-Inclusive: Resorts Made for Dropping Off the Map

All-inclusive resorts take the headache out of vacation planning.

Guests only need to show up ready to unwind—and that’s about it. With meals and some basic activities accounted for, the idea is that visitors can invest their time and energy into doing what interests them most. That might be napping on a beach under a parasol or horseback riding through the Rockies.

But there’s yet another layer to all-inclusive stays—one that makes them even more appealing.

Some all-inclusive resorts are small-scale and designed to host a limited number of guests.

And what’s more luxurious than a feeling of exclusivity?

If you’re searching for an all-inclusive option that’s far off the beaten path and geared toward privacy, I’ve got picks all across the United States. From Arizona to New York to Georgia, here are the best all-inclusive resorts with limited capacities—perfect for dropping off the map.

Disclaimer: Every all-inclusive package comes with distinct offerings—so be sure to read the fine print.

Best all-inclusive resorts across the US

Blackberry Farm

Walland, Tennessee

With multiple major accolades under its belt, Blackberry Farms is an unexpectedly classic and all-inclusive peek into farm life in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Set on 4,200 acres of a former blackberry farm, the grounds are now home to 68 distinct guest accommodations, from historic rooms to quaint cottages. There’s also plenty to do in the way of homestead-esque activities, including blackberry picking and fly fishing.

Book a stay

Riverview Ranch Retreat

Alberton, Montana

As one of the most authentic Western-style adventure resorts out there, Riverview Ranch Retreat is focused on getting guests into the wild.

And with only eight luxury suites dotting the grounds around a 12,000-square-foot lodge, visitors can expect privacy and comprehensive service. Along with farm-to-table meals, guests have full access to a spa, fitness center, and outdoor adventures galore.

The latter is particularly important here, as resort staff are ready to book experiences like snowmobiling, kayaking, hunting, horseback riding, and much more.

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Cedar Lakes Estate

Port Jervis, New York

Located in the heart of the lovely Hudson Valley, Cedar Lakes Estate offers a dreamy look back in time.

While the 500-acre estate is only open during winter over the weekends (it functions as an event venue during the warmer months), there’s a long list of curated and snowy activities for guests to enjoy—from snowshoeing to ice skating.

It’s been dubbed a winter wonderland. One that’s only an hour-and-a-half drive from New York City.

Book a stay

Lake Austin Spa Resort

Austin, Texas

Simplicity is at the core of this wellness-based escape just outside of Austin.

Guests are treated to spa access, yoga classes, steam rooms, and healthy treats galore as part of their all-inclusive trip. But the focus is on the healing power of water.

The lakeside resort showcases its location on the shores of Lake Austin, offering a Country Club-style and nature-based escape from reality.

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San Ysidro Ranch

Montecito, California

History meets luxury at this 550-acre Southern California legacy resort. Not only has it hosted names like John and Jacky Kennedy, but it’s also maintained the storied cottages and buildings that once hosted its most famous guests.

Uniquely, San Ysidro Ranch offers 38 curated and unique cottage rentals. The ranch also goes above and beyond for fine wine fans with its elevated Ty Warner Wine Collective, which gives guests access to an impressive 14,000-bottle wine cellar.

Listed as the No. 1 Boutique Hotel in the World by Boutique Hotel Awards, you can expect privacy, austerity, and leagues of lovely gardens at this charming selection.

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The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island

St. Simons Island, Georgia

Welcome to St. Simons, a private island off the coast of Georgia with 11,000 acres of undeveloped land—which makes this resort one of Georgia’s largest protected nature reserves. (Informally, of course.)

A grand total of 32 guests can occupy the lodge at a time where they’ll wander amid ancient Live Oaks and swim through saltwater pools. Given the remote nature of the Lodge, it’s fully inclusive—from spirits to meals to laundry.

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Castle Hot Springs

Arizona

Enter a Sonoran escape at Castle Hot Springs, a literal oasis amid Arizona’s sprawling desert. The main attraction is the area’s mineral-rich hot springs, ideal for medical-grade relaxation.

But guests also have access to secluded lodges where they can relax before heading out on e-bike tours and mountain hikes. There’s even a small farm where the resort’s chefs pluck their fresh ingredients.

Book a stay

Don’t Miss Out on These Affordable Houseboat Rentals in Georgia

Who doesn’t love a water rental—especially one in a southern gem like Georgia?

From the charming streets of Savannah to the lesser-known towns like La Grange, there’s always a wholesome adventure on the horizon.

Thanks to the state’s blend of history, natural splendor, and pure Southern charm, it’s a great option for visitors at any time of year.

But let’s circle back to my point about water rentals. Whether you’re planning to explore the island-dotted coastline or wander inland on a wide and slow-moving river, Georgia’s water adventures can’t be beaten. From spotting river otters to harvesting clams to floating without a care in the world, the options for worry-free downtime goes on and on.

Want to get out on the water in Peach State? Start with one of the best houseboat rentals in Georgia.

Best houseboat rentals in Georgia

Savannah Rae

Augusta, Georgia

The Savannah Rae is docked right at the 5^th Street Marina in Augusta, Georgia, which gives you the best of both worlds. Not only can you enjoy gorgeous views of the Savannah River (including spotting some wildlife), but you can also head into town on foot, exploring Augusta’s quaintest streets.

That being said, the Savannah Rae is a spacious and modern boat, meaning you might not be tempted to wander off the docks very often.

Reserve the Savannah Rae

The General

Augusta, Georgia

If the Savannah Rae is a little too casual for you, then book this iconic paddle boat turned houseboat instead. This grand and striking houseboat is also housed at the 5^th Street Marina in downtown Augusta.

After two years of renovations, The General is now open for rental, and with two wrap-around exterior decks, there’s plenty of space to kick back and enjoy the Savannah River. The interior, meanwhile, has benefitted from a few new upgrades.

Reserve The General

Diamond Drifter

Augusta, Georgia

The last Augusta offer on this list is the Diamond Drifter, a vintage houseboat with a beautiful and balanced setup. The interior includes bespoke design, like bunkbeds and reading nooks that feel reminiscent of the boat’s 1967 construction.

Meanwhile, the boat’s decks are spacious and furnished, letting you enjoy the Savannah River. As a bonus, it’s docked beside The General, letting you enjoy the view of the former paddle boat.

Reserve the Diamond Drifter

SS Minnow

Bainbridge, Georgia

This floating oasis is located on the Flint River in Bainbridge—but you’ll be farther off the beaten path given the Bainbridge Marina is farther removed from town. That makes this two-bedroom houseboat a dream for anyone who wants to fully disappear on a lazy river.

With plenty of windows framing the interior, you’ll feel like you’re fully immersed in nature anytime you pull the blinds up.

Reserve the SS Minnow

PondTune

Hazlehurst, Georgia

Part glamping, part houseboat adventure, the PondTune lets you stay on a private pond that’s full of fish—poles included. This tiny houseboat lets you sleep and live on the water where you can soak up delightful sunsets and slow mornings.

Though the PondTune is tiny, the owners have created other livable spaces, from a fire pit to a pavilion. Just beware that you’ll be heading to a separate bathhouse to use the restroom.

(As an added bonus, the PondTune looks to be a dog’s paradise. I’m a big fan of the black-and-white pup with the great haircut.)

Reserve the PondTune

Plattship

Oakwood, Georgia

This Lake Lanier selection lets you get right out on the water—with the possibility of cruising straight into the sunset. The Plattship is a private houseboat located on a private dock, which lets you fully take advantage of the lake.

If you want to stay docked, you can take your party onto land at the fire pit. Or if you want to spend a day out on the water, you can stock up the upper deck’s bar before leaving.

With four bedrooms, you’ll have plenty of space to stretch out. Just keep in mind that outings must be reserved and paid for as separate guided tours. A regular booking includes only a docked experience.

Reserve the Plattship

6 Airport Apps Proven to Simplify Air Travel

Every little resource counts when it comes to air travel.

Thanks to mobile technology, we have more options at our fingertips than ever before.

Still, with dozens of apps in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store promising to streamline trips to the airport, you’d think spotting the most important apps would be a breeze.

In reality, knowing which apps are worth downloading takes time and experience. I personally recommend downloading an airline’s app, for example. While some are more helpful and usable than others, having an airport’s app in your back pocket is one of the best options for navigating problems like delayed and canceled flights.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

If you want to ensure you’ve got your ducks in a row the next time you have a multi-leg air travel journey ahead of you, then download these airport apps. They’re guaranteed to help you out whether you’re in a bind or just looking to streamline your trip.

Want advice on other helpful travel apps?

Airport apps that make your trip smoother

#1: Priority Pass lets you locate airport lounges that offer day passes

Once upon a time, LoungeBuddy was the end-all in terms of finding great airport lounges open to non-members.

Unfortunately, LoungeBuddy will shut down for good in January 2025—which makes Priority Pass the best choice for locating airport lounges that allow non-members to purchase day passes.

You can shop around for lounges at over 1,600 airports worldwide.

Download Priority Pass

#2: TripIt lets you stay organized at 35,000 feet

Want a single place where you can upload and organize all of your travel documents? TripIt is one of the highest-rated travel apps in the world thanks to its clean design and functionality.

The app lets you easily sift through bookings, flight numbers, assigned seats, and more. On top of keeping track of your flight information, you can also use TripIt to store car rentals, tour bookings, train tickets, and more.

Download TripIt

#3: Flightly gives you the updates you need

Billed as a ‘ticket to stress-free flying’, Flightly’s goal is to stay hyper-focused on all the updates from your flights. Just upload the relevant information, then let Flightly keep you updated on the latest alerts, predictions, delays, and more.

What I like about Flightly is the immediacy of the app. It gives you immediate updates that let you know when something has gone awry, empowering you to rebook flights, contact customer service, and more straight from the jump.

Download Flightly

#4: MyTSA lets you check in on security waits

The goal of the MyTSA app is to alert American flyers about security. The app lets you look into airport security at all domestic locations, whether looking for information on potential delays at security or how to prepare to get through checks faster.

Though the design is basic, it’s easy to use and accurate.

Download MyTSA

#5: Mobile Passport Control gets you past customs faster

Mobile Passport Control is another app from the US government. While MyTSA lets you check on security lines at domestic airports, Mobile Passport Control is designed to streamline customs.

Mobile Passport Control lets Americans re-entering the country upload their customs forms digitally, which usually lessens the time they need to wait in customs lines.

But keep in mind that this is not the same as Global Entry. Anyone can download Mobile Passport Control without applying for enrollment.

Download Mobile Passport Control

#6: SpotHero lets you find a parking space at any airport

Do you often leave your car at the airport? SpotHero is designed to help frequent flyers find and book parking spaces.

Not only can you reserve a spot, but you can also use their handy maps to shop around for preferred parking spaces. Oh, and it works for parking concerns beyond the airport, helping you find parking whether you’re heading to work, a concert, or beyond.

Download SpotHero