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.

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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.

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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

Sonoma Mag Says You Should Be Drinking at These Wine Rooms

Discussions about US wine usually focus on Napa Valley.

Napa is known for its larger-than-life wineries and extravagant dining scene. The county often garners comparisons between France’s loveliest wine-growing regions—and for good reason.

Stately vineyards cover rolling hills that fade into mist, while grand villas welcome traveling groups interested in sampling some of the US’s best wine.

But Sonoma County is an up-and-coming contender to Napa’s longstanding popularity.

Guests like it for its more laidback and country roads-esque vibe. The wineries are smaller and more experimental, while their tasting rooms are cheaper and more varied. Guests trade glam for exotic new wines.

And it’s not only winos who are starting to take notice of Sonoma.

World-class winemakers and sommeliers dot the county, offering exciting new pairings for their farm-to-table cuisine. Even grocery chain varieties have nabbed respect from sommeliers. In fact, some prefer the Pinot Noirs, Zinfandels, and Chardonnays coming from Sonoma.

If you want to drink like them, you should be lining up at these Sonoma wine rooms. They’re recommended by Sonoma Magazine, one of the best authorities on wine in the region.

Looking for more than Sonoma wine rooms?

Best Sonoma wine rooms & experiences

Valley Bar + Bottle

Billed as one of Sonoma’s hottest wine bars by Sonoma Mag, this restaurant, wine bar, and bottle shop brings you the very best pairings from Kaz Khosrowmanesh, the on-site sommelier.

If you’d like to sample wines in a modern and chic tasting room, you’ll have dozens of bottles to choose from with an emphasis on sustainable, local varieties. You can also grab a bite to eat with a perfectly paired glass.

Learn more

Kivelstadt Cellars

Do you dream of sipping at Sonoma wine rooms underneath a lovely canopy? Kivelstadt Cellars offers a beautiful tasting lounge in Sonoma City that’s situated under a cluster of 100-year-old sycamores.

You can also order from their small but tasty menu, which locals rave about. Notably, Kivelstadt also welcomes children and pets.

Learn more

J Vineyard & Winery

Welcome to the chief of Healdsburg tasting rooms. J Vineyard & Winery is widely regarded as one of the county’s best wine operations. You’ve got options when you sample J Vineyard products, including the option to sample its signature releases, head to the bubbly room for some champagne, or set up shop in the legacy lounge where you can sample small-lot varieties. If you want a more austere take on Sonoma favorites, start here.

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St. Francis Winery & Vineyards

Speaking of austerity, I’ve got another top pick in the world of Sonoma wine tasting: St. Francis. Recently voted the Best of the Bay Area for Best Wine & Tasting Room, there’s plenty to soak up at its tasting events.

While the average tasting takes place on a lovely terrace, guests can also explore the vineyards with a tour and sample dishes with catered pairings.

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Coursey Graves

Renowned throughout Sonoma County for its vibrant and lovely tasting gardens, Coursey Graves is a top pick for many.

Its small pond and flowers display is reminiscent of Claude Monet—which fits well with the vineyard’s emphasis on all things French. Just remember that the garden is seasonal, running from May to October.

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Divorce & Vacation: Welcome to Modern Travel

Divorce and travel are becoming increasingly intertwined.

You might have heard of one new trend in this realm: Divorce getaways.

Over the last decade, the concept of the humble bachelor and bachelorette party has been revolutionized. Once upon a time, a long night of wayward partying was enough to usher in a great wedding. Today, however, groups are more likely to pack their bags for a multi-day getaway to a place like Nashville or Palm Springs.

The same notion has extended to divorce.

Newly single divorcées are ringing in yet another new chapter with their loved ones at their sides. And, just like those multi-day pre-wedding parties, some divorce getaways are elaborate and upscale.

They’ve started to generate chatter in the worlds of hospitality and culture. For example, hotels in places like South Florida are opening their doors to divorce parties seeking a bit of downtime, while publications like Marie Claire are challenging the idea altogether.

In reality, the drive to travel due to divorce isn’t actually new. It started back in 2012 when a Dutch entrepreneur launched a new hospitality brand called the Divorce Hotel.

Traveling for a divorce 101

In case you missed out on the zeitgeist, the Divorce Hotel is an actual company that simplifies the art of divorce.

Unhappy couples at the end of their marriage book a stay at a Divorce Hotel (which offers locations around the world) where qualified staff are available to mediate.

It might sound like a headline from The Onion, but Divorce Hotel is still up and running. While the idea sounded controversial and crazy at the outset, thousands of couples from around the world have contracted Divorce Hotel to help them mediate the complexities of their situation.

Couples check in (to separate rooms) and start meeting with their official mediator, who has been briefed on the couple’s background and goals. When things get heated, couples separate—to play a game of golf or head to the spa, for example.

When they’re calm, they meet again and get back to work.

By the end of the weekend, they check out with a more holistic view of what comes next in their divorce. No pricey lawyers or dragged-out deal-making.

Over a decade after the launch of Divorce Hotel, it looks like its nailed its formula. In the meantime, it seems divorce getaways have taken center stage.

The rise of divorce getaways

At their simplest, divorce parties and getaways allow burned-out ex-spouses to renew their lease on life. They often involve friends and family and are focused on opening a new chapter in life.

That being said, there’s plenty of variation.

Some groups like to treat divorce getaways like born-again bachelorette parties, as outlined above. Usually, the rockier the marriage, the greater the call for a full-on escape. In some cases, divorce getaways might even involve the same bridesmaids or groomsmen.

Other divorce getaways are focused on self-transformation. They might involve one or two participants who accompany their recently divorced friend on a meaningful adventure. Wellness retreats are a popular choice for shorter and more inward-focused escapes like these.

The rules of divorce getaways

Already have someone in mind for a potential divorce getaway?

As this trend becomes more popular—and as more hotels roll out divorce getaway programs—it might be helpful to know the basics of divorce party etiquette.

According to Christine Gallagher’s The Divorce Party Handbook: How to Throw an Unforgettable Divorce Party When “Divorce Do Us Part”, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Here’s what you need to know:

Anyone can throw a divorce party, from the divorcée to a good friend
Getaways and parties don’t need to be expensive or multi-day
Keep the guest list very small—only those who ‘understand’ should be there
If you’re hosting the event, you should be paying—many attendees already paid to be at the wedding
Be mindful of gossiping—it’s usually best to look ahead and celebrate rather than dwell

Only 3 Hotels Offer Views of the Golden Gate Bridge—Here’s Where to Find Them

The Golden Gate Bridge is at the top of the list when it comes to iconic US landmarks.

The Statue of Liberty takes the cake thanks to its historical appeal and location in New York City. Philadelphia’s Liberty Bell isn’t far behind, along with more rural feats like Mount Rushmore.

But there’s something about San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge.

It’s renowned for its elegant, grand architecture, along with its bright red color. Its larger-than-life towers and graceful cables seem at odds, giving this bridge a magical quality.

It’s almost like a yellow brick road, one that promises to take travelers to exciting destinations. (Technically, it takes you to Marin County—and who doesn’t love Marin?)

Unsurprisingly, many tourists heading to San Francisco dream of soaking up views of the Golden Gate Bridge. But if you’re a hardcore fan of this iconic structure, then it might not be enough to catch a glimpse now and then.

Looking for hotels with views of the Golden Gate Bridge? I’ve got suggestions. The best options are in the Presidio and nearby Sausalito —but there are other choices to pick from, including a handful of SF picks with partial views.

Hotels with reliable views of the Golden Gate Bridge

There are two hotels located inside the Presidio National Park; both offer the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge. While the area is prone to thick mist, the grounds of the Lodge and the Inn at the Presidio offer plenty of outdoor space and window views for you to gaze.

In other words, while mist is inevitable, you’re sure to catch a few jaw-dropping glimpses of the gate during your stay. The same is true across the bar in Sausalito, come to Cavallo Point.

Lodge at the Presidio

This stunning boutique hotel gives you the charm of an old-world-style hotel with all the modern luxuries of a contemporary design.

It also puts you smack in the center of The Presidio’s most popular activities, from hiking to lounging on the Main Lawn.

Best of all, guests get to choose between multiple room views. Along with forest and bay, you can select a Golden Gate Bridge view.

Book a room

Inn at the Presidio

The Lodge and Inn at the Presidio are differentiated by one main feature. The Lodge (above) is actually a new construction from 2018. Though its design is a callback to the area’s history, the Inn at Presidio is the ‘real deal’.

The grounds were first constructed in 1903 as military barracks and stand today as a National Historic Landmark. Visitors can kick back in a rocking chair as they gaze out at the Golden Gate Bridge, soaking up the storied atmosphere and fantastic views.

Book a room

Cavallo Point (Sausalito)

If you can’t manage a stay at either of the hotels in the Presidio, then pack your bags and cruise across the bay. Cavallo Point is a historic lodging in Sausalito that’s been a prime pick for fans of the Golden Gate Bridge

The grounds are sprawling, letting you soak up the views when and how you like. Plus, there are also top-tier amenities like a full-service spa, a healing arts center, and even a cooking school.

If San Francisco is a little too busy and hectic for your tastes, Cavallo Point is an excellent escape.

Book a room

Hotels with partial views of the Golden Gate Bridge

These hotels might not come with reliable and consistent views of the Golden Gate Bridge, but avid SF travelers and locals have pointed out that certain rooms offer great vistas. Just make sure to do your research before booking a room; you should be explicit that you’re after Golden Gate views.

Argonaut Hotel (San Francisco)

This is one of the most affordable options on this list. The Argonaut is located in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf, putting you straight into San Francisco’s action. There’s also a highly rated on-site restaurant called the Blue Mermaid.

Those who stay on one of the upper floors can expect views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Just be prepared to pay a bit extra for rooms with great visibility of the bay.

Book a room

Comfort Inn by the Bay (San Francisco)

Just like the Argnonaut, this Fisherman’s Wharf selection offers views of the Golden Gate Bridge from its top floors. This is a budget pick that puts you close to all the best action in the city.

If you’re a little hesitant to fork over hundreds for a hotel stay with direct views, reserve one of the uppermost floors at the Comfort Inn. Just make sure you’re facing the right direction.

Book a room

InterContinental Mark Hopkins (San Francisco)

On the other hand, if you’re in search of a more luxurious stay with great views, then head to the InterContinental Mark Hopkins.

This IHG selection offers incredible views of the city—including the Golden Gate Bridge, the Transamerica building, and more. Just make sure to ask for a room with the correct views when finalizing your booking.

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