Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Deetz Residence Brought to Life by Airbnb

He might not be everyone’s favorite anti-hero Halloween ghost, but Beetlejuice (aka Betelgeuse) is certainly one of the most memorable.

When Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice first hit theaters back in 1988, Americans were delighted and terrified by Michael Keaton’s ‘bio-exorcist’ character. The film’s story, which focuses on a recently deceased couple who want ownership of their home from the afterlife, captured the attention of viewers bored with the same old ghost fare.

Thanks to Beetlejuice’s well-rounded cast, the iconic film has stayed in the public purview for decades, developing into a veritable cult hit.

And with a newly released 2024 sequel, there’s even more attention on Betelgeuse, famed bio-exorcist, and his escapades at the Deetz residence.

Despite the high stakes of launching a sequel set thirty years into the future, it looks like fans have given Beetlejuice Beetejuice a hearty stamp of approval.

And Airbnb is looking to give them even more fanfare to sink their teeth into.

Welcome to the Deetz Residence from Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, brought to life by Airbnb and open to visitors from across the world.

Here’s what you need to know about the Deetz residence experience, the house itself, and how to apply. [Ready to apply, sight unseen? Head here.]

The Deetz Residence

This faithful replica of the Deetz residence is designed to bring fans of the franchise closer to the greatest works of Delia Deetz. Naturally, most are shrouded with black mourning veils.

Aside from Mrs. Deetz’s famed artwork, there are also ghosts galore, an infamous portal to the Afterlife, and a ‘pesky trickster in the attic’.

The residence is located near Princeton, New Jersey, where selected applicants will meet and be dropped off for the experience However, tthe Deetz residence experience is designed for three-hour tours for groups of up to six people—not overnight slumber parties.

All selected applicants will be provided a separate Airbnb stay in Princeton for the night.

Wander through the Deetz residence (Airbnb)

The experience

Groups of up to six will be taken straight into the dark heart of Delia Deetz’s residence to explore her most pressing artistic endeavors. The residence is decked out with her grandest pieces—some of which might surprise you.

But that’s not all. Aside from Deetz’s work, there’s plenty of Beetlejuice fanfare.

Winners will find Winter River models in the attic, green-lit passageways into the afterlife, spooky hallways that empty into Dante’s Inferno, and workrooms where they can create their own terrifying works.

That lets fans experience some of the franchise’s coolest scenes and motifs first-hand. To top it all off, they’ll even have the chance to pour some of their ghostly creativity out with an art class.

How to apply for the Deetz residence experience

You can apply for this experience until the window closes on November 4^th.

Airbnb will select ten winning groups with up to six guests who will go on three-hour tours of the Deetz Residence.

All applicants must be over the age of 18 and all participants must be over the age of 13. Keep in mind that winners are responsible for travel to and from Princeton, New Jersey, and that all overnight stays will be hosted separately in Princeton.

Can You Name USA Today’s Top 3 Autumn Escapes?

With autumn in full swing, it’s easy to get the travel bug.

Whether admiring fall foliage with a long hike or setting up shop in a remote cabin to drop off the map for a bit, it’s a time when nature calls.

And the only way to answer is by getting comfy with all the staples of a great autumn experience.

Anyone with a car can hit the road on a scenic drive—but there are certain locales around the US that just feel made for fall.

Not only do they have fantastic foliage displays, but the best fall destinations also offer harvest and Halloween festivals with plenty of family-friendly fun. From pumpkin patches to costume parties, the list of activities never seems to end.

I’m sure you’re already imagining a few places close to home. But do you know what contributors and readers from USA Today have to say?

This year’s 10 Best Autumn Escapes from USA Today ranks unique spots from around the country, from Branson, Missouri to Cody, Wyoming to Lafayette, Louisiana.

But can you name the top three selections from USA Today’s Readers’ Choice 10 best Autumn Escapes? Let’s count down.

No. 3: Allegany County, Maryland

As part of Appalachia’s northern stretch, the hills of western Maryland come alive during autumn. In Allegany County, there are dozens of ways for locals and tourists to immerse themselves in nature, from Towpath to C&O Canal National Historical Park.

But the true magic might be the number of public festivals.

There’s the Allegany County Fairgrounds’ Fall Festival, along with unique community events in cities like Cumberland. Plus, historical festivals such as the Heritage Days Festival and the George Washington Whiskey Rebellion Festival (also held in Cumberland) run during autumn.

Heading to Allegany County?

No. 2: Mackinac Island, Michigan

As an enduring tourist favorite, Mackinac Island is a great choice no matter the time of year. Even during winter, when the island largely shuts down, visitors can still soak up a scenic and charming American Dream-caliber small-town atmosphere.

Still, autumn might be the best time to visit Mackinac. Those Michigan falls are particularly crisp and lovely, while local establishments go all-out in decorating for the harvest and Halloween seasons.

It’s the kind of place where even adults dress up for the holiday—and who doesn’t like to be ushered into a delightful autumn wonderland that almost feels like a Hollywood movie set?

Heading to Mackinac?

No. 1: Gatlinburg, Tennessee

You might be wondering how any US city manages to pull the rug out from a picturesque spot like Mackinac. (Or is that just me?)

But Gatlinburg, USA Today’s No. 1 Readers’ Choice pick for best fall destinations, has the glorious Smoky Mountains on its side.

It’s hard to beat a Michigan fall—but it might be impossible to beat autumn in the Great Smoky Mountains. Incredible hiking and scenic drives aside, the area comes alive with unique festivals, including the Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival at Ober Mountain and Bear-varian Fall Festival.

Heading to Gatlinburg?

Romantic Rentals in the US’s Romance Capital, Carmel-by-the-Sea

Can you name the US’s capital of love?

You might be thinking about Philadelphia, but I’m talking about romantic love—none of that brotherly stuff.

I’ve seen Miami listed at the top of lists of romantic destinations, but I’d categorize Miami as sexy versus romantic.

I’ve also seen New Orleans listed as the most romantic city in the US, but I’d be too wary of its ghosts to get too cozy.

Even San Francisco, which fits the bill for great places to visit with a lover, has a misty, frigid dark side.

When I talk about romantic destinations, I’m looking for features like a cozy and small town, a list of homegrown restaurants, fairytale-caliber architecture, mild weather, and a few great views.

It’s a high charge, I know. But there’s one US destination that fits the bill.

Welcome to Carmel-By-The-Sea, one of the best-kept secrets on the West Coast.

With its delightful beaches (regularly ranked as some of the best in California), scenic and walkable downtown area, and an overarching focus on romance, it’s the best place to scurry off with your lover… or even elope.

Looking for the most romantic rentals in Carmel-By-The-Sea to host your lover’s retreat? If you’re heading out on a little escape, here’s where I recommend shacking up.

Most romantic rentals in Carmel-by-the-sea from Airbnb

Seascape Resort Ocean View Studio

This studio is located on the grounds of Seascape Resort, which gives you the benefit of hotel amenities. Couples looking for on-site dining and multiple outdoor pools can find all the added comfort of a resort stay here.

The beach views are also incredibly attractive. The Seascape Resort offers a sea-facing balcony that’s great for soaking up the sunset.

The only catch is privacy. Couples who want to really drop off the map might want to look for a stand-alone rental, as this resort is a popular one.

Explore the rental

Carmel-By-the-Sea Rustic Retreat

Want to get off the beaten path and into a lovely little cottage? This rustic retreat has some of the most romantic features couples look for, from a wood-burning fireplace in the living room to a skylight above the bed to a large clawfoot bathtub.

The rental is also tucked away amid plenty of greenery, adding to the sensation that you and your lover have just stumbled upon a hidden gem in the forest.

However, this rental is part of a home. Though it has its own private entrance, guests won’t be entirely alone. Once again, that might not be the best fit for those who want to disappear for a few days.

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Le Bijou at Tourjours Maison

The name of this rental tells you everything you need to know – it’s got French charm out the wazoo. The furniture and design are eclectic but homey, while it has those romance-centric features you want—including a jacuzzi tub and a large patio for spying on the sunset.

Just keep in mind that this studio is quite small. Despite its small size, it’s got all the basic amenities that guests need, from a fully functional kitchen to fast Wi-Fi to exterior security cameras.

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Your Carmel Destination Retreat

This spacious studio has all the charm of my last suggestion—plus a bit more. The rental includes a private entrance via an adorable stone patio with plenty of greenery, which gives guests a secret hideout.

Another important feature of this rental is its location. Guests are just a short distance from Carmel-By-The-Sea’s delightful village area, along with its beach.

Just keep in mind that, once again, this rental isn’t a stand-alone. You might run into the hosts now and then.

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Charming Studio in the Heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea

This cottage is one of the best ways to experience Carmel-By-The-Sea’s charm. Aside from its beautiful exterior and cozy interior, I love that this studio is located on top of the Galante Family Vineyard wine-tasting center in the heart of downtown.

That central location puts you in walking distance of the area’s best dining and other attractions. While you might hear a bit of noise from the wine-tasting room, it only runs during regular business hours.

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Post Card Perfect

Want a bright and modern stay for your Carmel adventure? This renovated studio has all the white-washed features that you’d expect from a beachy rental.

Though small, the design is modern and fresh, giving the space a light feel, while most of its amenities are new.

The studio is also centrally located. If you want to walk, you can be in the center of town (and near the beach) in only twenty minutes. By car, it’ll only take you five.

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Most romantic rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea from VRBO

Barefoot Comfort

Here’s the perfect rental if you want to be right in the middle of the action, with access to the beach, galleries, shops, and restaurants.

This studio feels like pure California beach vibes. It looks like it was professionally designed with a beachy bohemian focus, letting you really soak up the area’s atmosphere.

This is by far my favorite selection thanks to its near-perfect design, location, and bright natural light. I can see why so many reviewers have dubbed it a ‘magical stay’… even if it’s missing those more romance-forward amenities.

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Quaint Carmel

This backyard studio is also smack in the center of Carmel-By-The-Sea’s top attractions. For couples who want to drop off the map with a cozy little escape to retreat to, look no further.

Like the Barefoot Comfort rental above, it’s got a stellar design that makes you want to toss your luggage down and breathe a sigh of relief.

Though small, it’s functional and handsome. Plus, it’s got a patio where you can soak up the local views. Trust me—downtown Carmel-By-The-Sea is worth the watching.

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Carmel Cottage by the Sea

You’ll be paying a pretty penny for this rental—and I think it’s worth it. This cottage gives you direct beach access. Plus, it’s on its own plot of land, meaning you aren’t likely to run into anyone during your romantic escape.

A firepit outside gives you the perfect place to soak up the climate and sunsets. The interior is a blend of midcentury modern and… plain midcentury. I’m a huge fan of both.

If you like quirky design and architecture, this is well worth the price.

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Most Beautiful Public Libraries in the US: Boston, Iowa, & Beyond

Over the last 30 years, many libraries have transformed into multi-media hubs.

They offer tools like free Wi-Fi and computer access, along with scheduled programs and classes geared toward kids, young adults, and adult learners.

They even serve as an important third space. For example, public libraries are often the first option for parents to meet with children as they navigate new custody arrangements.

The library is a safe space for the community—and a free one, at that.

But they aren’t always the most picturesque locations, especially not compared to classic libraries from the old world like Oxford’s Bodleian or Barcelona’s Biblioteca de Catalunya. The average US public library has no grand halls with towering shelves, polished woodwork, and stately tables with green-tinted lamps.

But that doesn’t mean there aren’t a few gems out there. While most of the US’s most beautiful public libraries can be found in major cities, you might surprised to learn what else is out there.

This time, we’re not judging a book by its cover—we’re judging libraries by their interiors.

Most beautiful public libraries in the US

New York Public Library

Constructed: 1895
Style: Beaux-Arts
Location: Manhattan, NYC

This famous library is the fourth-largest public library in the world—so don’t get lost. This iconic building stands out with its dominant Beaux-Arts style, which borders on Brutalism. It’s known as a local haunt for New Yorkers, who enjoy people-watching on its steps, perusing its shelves, and even getting hitched.

Boston Public Library

Constructed: 1848
Style: Renaissance & Beaux-Arts
Location: Copley Square, Boston

I can’t believe the Boston Public Library isn’t at the top of stunning library lists—and that it’s not as well-known as the New York Public Library. The McKim building looks like something out of a fairytale, calling back to Europe’s Baroque and Renaissance characteristics. Though its exterior is grand and cold, its interior is warm and stately.

If you’re in town, check out the tours offered by the library.

Los Angeles Central Library

Constructed: 1925
Style: Modernist & Beaux-Arts
Location: Downtown Los Angeles

From the outside, it almost looks like a citadel. This towering, cement structure defines part of Downtown Los Angeles… but it’s the inside that counts, once again. The Central Library has notable features like statues, sculptures, and murals, along with grand chandeliers. My favorite is the picturesque rooftop garden.

State Library of Iowa’s Law Library

Constructed: 1886
Style: Victorian
Location: State Library in the Capitol Building, Des Moines

This stunning library is part of Iowa’s State Library, located in the capitol building in Des Moines. This library is open to the public but, given the focus on law books, is most often used by lawyers and students.

Personally, I wouldn’t be too focused on the books in this library. It isn’t quite like anything I’ve seen before with its ornate, Victorian design that’s both colorful and playful.

It’s a marked departure from the austerity normally found in libraries, especially those focused on law.

Harold Washington Library Center

Constructed: 1991
Style: New Classic Postmodernism
Location: South Loop, Chicago

Who says gorgeous architecture can’t be modern? While dozens of municipalities around the US have constructed modernist libraries, Chicago’s former mayor opted for a more classic design for the 1991 rebuild of the city’s public library.

It’s absolutely gorgeous, having overemphasized those classic postmodern design features that many Americans love. It touches on many of the features of older libraries while offering a more daring, modern composition. The building also employs brick—a classic Midwestern choice.

My favorite part is the winter garden with a glass ceiling, located on the ninth floor.

Tourism Etiquette 101: How to Be a Good Tourist

If you ever felt like a graceless fool while traveling, you aren’t alone.

Travel can get uncomfortable, even when we’re doing our best to follow the unwritten rules of our destination.

But knowing how to fit in while obviously standing out is an art form—one that requires mindfulness and bravery in equal measure.

I can help you take a few shortcuts. Not only have I lived and traveled abroad for well over a decade, and graduated with a degree in Global Studies, but I’ve also made many, many blunders in my day.

Want to learn from my academic background and ample mistakes? I’ve got the down-low on tourist etiquette 101 for my fellow Americans. Here’s how to be a great tourist no matter where in the world you decide to wander next.

Tourism etiquette 101: the basics

The golden rule: be observant

Being oblivious as a tourist is never a good idea. On a more obvious level, walking around with your head in the clouds makes you a prime target for pickpockets.

However, being oblivious can also lead to miscommunication and outright blunders.

The golden rule of fitting in as a tourist is simply to observe your surroundings. It’s easy to feel like the world is our oyster and museum as a tourist—but unless we’re at an all-inclusive resort, we’re actually stepping into someone else’s home.

If you aren’t sure how to act or feel like you’ve overstepped, take some time to observe what’s happening around you.

Learn about your destination

A little effort goes a long way when it comes to doing research. The best thing to do as an American? Just Google it. No big mystery here.

If you’re heading to Thailand, for example, you can Google things that Americans should know before traveling there. It’ll help you avoid problems like touching someone’s head. (Yes, it’s taboo.)

You don’t need to take a course on the history, language, and culture of your destination, but it’s never bad to seek out a bit of insight before leaving home.

Knowing yourself helps, too

The more you understand yourself and your cultural cues as an American, the less uncertainty you’ll face abroad.

One thing most Americans know is that we have a penchant for speaking loudly and acting boisterously. When we travel, it’s important to watch the noise.

But knowing our other cultural habits is helpful, too. For example, Americans tend to smile at strangers, if not instigate full-on small talk. In many places, that’s viewed as either strange or outright suspicious.

Obviously, you can and should smile at others! But the more you know, the more comfortable you’ll be… and the less hurt you’ll feel when no one returns your smile.

Be gracious as you learn

Here’s the last—and possibly most important—rule of tourism etiquette: Plan for failure.

I have offended people around the world despite my efforts to be a good visitor. Even with a background in intercultural studies, I still mess up. It’s not because I’m ignorant or unwilling. It’s because the world is large and diverse, and I only have one brain to take it all in.

The same is true for you.

I’ve found that being gracious and humble goes a long way when doing the wrong thing. The best way to make up for a mistake is to avoid nervous laughter, convey your apology in the most culturally appropriate way you know how, and try to help correct the mistake.

Everyone makes them, after all.

Tourism etiquette—the nitty-gritty

The tourism etiquette discussed above is more general and designed to teach you the ideas behind positive cultural exchange.

But if you want the hard-and-fast of how to be a good American tourist, here are my direct suggestions:

Learn a few local phrases. It doesn’t need to be perfect, but the effort will go a long way. Try to learn five or six short phrases that you think will be the most applicable to your trip. Bonus points for attempting local dialects.
Engage with locals at their pace. Everyone loves to get a nod of approval from locals, but let them come to you. Be mindful when you enter ‘their’ spaces and try to give them priority when possible. This might be as simple as letting a parent with children pass on the street.
Ask before taking photos. Don’t assume that it’s okay to take photos, and avoid photographing people without their permission. It tends to make people feel like they’re living inside a museum exhibit.
Support local as often as possible. Try to spend your hard-earned money at local shops, restaurants, and bars whenever you can. Avoid spending all your funds at mega-chains.
Use sustainable operators. If you’re exploring natural wonders, focus on tours that meet sustainability standards. Usually, you can find a company’s sustainability outlook on its website.
Slow down and be flexible. Americans are renowned for our hustle, but moving too quickly is sometimes viewed as a negative. It’s always a good idea to slow down while traveling and to be flexible—who knows what sorts of experiences this approach will open up?
Always say hello. You might not get a greeting back, but that’s okay. The gesture isn’t for nothing.

Musical Journeys: The Best Music Venues in Memphis

Memphis is one of the US’s musical capitals.

What New Orleans is to jazz, for example, Memphis is to blues and rock. And while Nashville might take the cake in terms of musical cities in Tennessee thanks to its booming country music scene, that doesn’t mean Memphis doesn’t have great venues and nightlife.

In fact, it’s home to many legacy bars and music halls.

In the 1960s and 70s, Memphis steered genres like blues and soul with a gritty and textured approach to lush arrangements and profound vocals. Even to this day, Memphis’s Beale Street is the US’s epicenter of blues and soul music.

The city has also left its mark on genres like hip-hop, rock’n roll, and gospel—and you can feel it all during the city’s live shows.

Assuming you know where to find them, that is.

If you’re heading to the city to catch some great live shows, these are the best music venues in Memphis.

Best music venues in Memphis

B.B. King’s Blues Club

Start where it all began. B.B. King’s Blues Club is located in the heart of Beale Street, giving you a sneak peek into the past. This legendary venue offers live music every night from B.B. King’s Blues Club All-Star Band.

Want to get a feel for Memphis-style R&B? Go to B.B. King’s.

Lafayette’s Music Room

Want some soul food with your live music? Lafayette’s Music Room offers live shows every night along with a Memphis-centric menu. You can hear live performances from local legends like Steve Forbert, Ingram Hill, and Jason D. Williams.

Minglewood Hall

Minglewood Hall is a historic venue that focuses a bit more on Memphis’s jazz influence. But this venue doesn’t offer nightly shows. It’s a massive 13,000-square-foot venue, meaning you’ll need to look at the lineup before buying tickets.

Still, it’s a great place to catch a range of local acts, from modern R&B to hip-hop to country.

Overton Park Shell

Want that same large-scale experience, except outdoors? The Overton Park Shell is an outdoor amphitheater that regularly hosts free shows for locals and visitors. The venue’s Shell Yeah series also brings on food trucks, while also allowing guests to bring their own picnic supplies.

Handy Park Pavilion

Want to keep things home-grown instead? The Handy Park Pavilion is located smack in the center of Beale Street. The informal setup sees performers take the stages almost every night, which established acts claiming the larger stage and up-and-comers doing their thing on the smaller stage.

Feel the pulse of real Memphis music at Handy Park Pavilion.

Newby’s

This venue is one of Memphis’s lesser-known musical venues. Most visitors don’t hear about it because it’s largely a college haunt. Despite its young demographic, its acts draw in crowds from around the city.

For example, the experimental jazz band Mojo Possum is known to perform at Newby’s regularly. If you like jam bands with Memphis flare, start at Newby’s.

Mr. Handy’s Blues Hall (aka Blues Hall Juke Joint)

This Beale Street staple is known for its funky and beloved reel of performers. Locals usually head to the bar when their favorite bands and performers are playing. Like many other Beale Street venues, Mr. Handy’s Blues Hall offers a lineup of weekly shows that let you sample some of the city’s coolest sounds.

Center for Southern Folklore

If you want a homegrown and grassroots look at music in Memphis, it doesn’t get any more local than the Center for Southern Folklore.

Like the name suggests, this spot sees dozens of local artists come in to do their thing—whether poetry, painting, or music. Unsurprisingly, you can hear some of the area’s most promising up-and-coming performers musical chops.