12 Unwritten Rules About How To Respectfully Visit Europe’s Concentration Camps

Having now visited six concentration camps throughout Europe, including camps in Poland, Germany, and Austria, I have developed a sense of unspoken etiquette and would like to share some of the unwritten rules that have served us well.

Many people may visit just one concentration camp in their life, so if that’s you, here’s how to get the most out of your tour while demonstrating the utmost respect. It’s a privilege to be granted access to these sites so that we can reflect, contemplate, and remember what happened there.

The bottom line is that nothing you do should impact any other visitors’ rights to experience the site with their own thoughts and emotions, and as little distraction and interruption as possible.

Here are my top tips to help make your visit more memorable.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp in Poland. — Cavit Gencturk / Shutterstock

1. Take The Right Photos

When traveling, especially around Europe, it’s only natural to want to take photos. That way you can remember what you visited and can share the images with your family and friends back home. However, the types of photos that are appropriate to take inside a concentration camp are worth noting.

This is not a place for smiling selfies, or any other kind of selfie for that matter. Nor is this the place for happy family photography. Save these for other European treasures like the Eiffel Tower in Paris, or the Trevi Fountain in Rome.

In Poland’s Auschwitz concentration, you will be asked to refrain from taking photos of the human hair that is piled up high, as this is deeply personal and understandably off limits.

When taking photos, be patient to allow others to finish reading and then move away. I have witnessed people rushing around taking photos and getting in the way of others.

2. Quietly Does It

These areas are akin to visiting a church, so there’s an unspoken code of silence, or at least low noise, at most of the concentration camps.

Whispers are more appropriate than voicing your opinions loudly for others to hear. Likewise, refrain from calling out to your friends or family from across a crowded room or open yard.

If listening to an audio guide, use the headphones provided, rather than playing it on high volume for everyone else to hear.

When accompanied by children, ensure they know to keep quiet and understand this isn’t a place to run around, play, or climb. Typically, children under the age of 12 are discouraged from visiting concentration camps as some of the sights could disturb them.

3. Pets Not Permitted

Unless you have a guide dog, these sites are not pet-friendly, so make alternative arrangements for your beloved four-legged family members. Guide dogs and assistance dogs are nearly always welcome as long as you can demonstrate the need for them.

Mauthausen Concentration Camp in Austria. — Karl Allen Lugmayer / Shutterstock

4. Dress Appropriately

Typically, when visiting churches or other sacred sites throughout Europe, women are expected to cover their bare shoulders and legs. Concentration camps are no different. I carry a pashmina in my backpack just in case I feel it is appropriate to cover up more.

Give consideration to what is written on your t-shirts. Is it appropriate and could it offend or distract other visitors? Any clothing with potentially offensive symbols or messages should not be worn, or should at least be covered up.

5. Eat Beforehand

These places are typically not set up with park-like grounds where picnicking is encouraged. So have a snack or meal before your visit. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited for obvious reasons.

6. Leave Your Luggage Behind

Particularly in the busy summer months, your luggage is likely to cause an issue and you will do well to leave it behind. The unsealed nature of the grounds does not make it easy to roll luggage and the noise can break the silence and annoy others.

Some sites do offer luggage storage at a small fee. At Auschwitz in Poland, anything larger than the smallest of backpacks was forbidden and had to be stored in the lockers. Sites like Dachau in Germany do not offer any luggage storage at all.

7. Looking Is Encouraged; Touching Isn’t

Think of these sites as museums for our generation and for those generations yet to come. Many of the items are displayed behind glass cabinets to preserve them, but for those that aren’t, it’s important that they are not touched. These items are of irreplaceable value.

8. Keep Inside Appropriate Boundaries

Some of these sites have regular reconstruction underway as well as other areas that are unsafe or not yet ready for public viewing. It’s best to refrain from venturing out of bounds so that you stay safe and the workers can carry out their duties without disturbance.

When visiting Gross-Rosen in Poland recently, there were a number of areas cordoned off due to reconstruction. This didn’t detract from our experience or hinder us from learning about the concentration camp’s overall history.

9. Plan Ahead For Wheelchair Access

If you require wheelchair access, do your research ahead of time to investigate whether the site is wheelchair accessible.

A visit to the Church of Reconciliation at Dachau, for example, requires scaling a series of stairs.

10. Respect Others

You will find people of many different European cultures and countries are also visiting these places. Please be conscious that their culture or belief system could vary from yours.

When visiting Treblinka in Poland recently, we shared the site with seven busloads of Jewish teenagers from Israel who obviously had a very emotional historical connection with this site where over 700,000 Jews were murdered. They carried out rituals which were meaningful to them and we observed these without getting in the way.

It is important to allow everyone the freedom to express their grief or other emotions in whatever way is appropriate to them, and without fear of judgement or interference from other visitors.

11. Rest In Peace

Allow those who perished in these places to rest in peace. Don’t stand on graves, and behave as though your best friend was buried there. Be respectful, mourn if appropriate, and leave only your footprints. When writing or talking about your experience, please do so in a way that is appropriate to what the victims and their families went through.

12. Understand Cultural Differences

Before taking photos recently at Dachau, we removed some autumn leaves that were partially obscuring a place where ashes from the crematorium had been buried. I almost removed a stone, thinking I was doing the right thing. However, I recalled — just in time — something we had been told in Poland. Jewish visitors throughout Europe often place stones on headstones as a symbol of respect. This stone, left in place, will be a reminder in our photo about this important cultural practice.

If you intend to visit a European concentration camp — and I recommend everyone should at least once in their lifetime — I hope these tips make your visit more fulfilling.

One last but very important tip: Publicly saying that the Holocaust never happened or was far less horrific than all of the facts portray could land you in hot water, facing hefty fines or jail time in many countries! This is a serious offense, so don’t even do it in jest.

In addition to Europe’s concentration camps, consider these 10 World War II sites to visit in Poland.

Beyond Chichen Itza: Maya Ruins In The Yucatan Worth Visiting

Everyone who visits or has plans to visit the Maya Riviera in the Yucatan knows about Chichen Itza. Being a World Heritage Site and home to the Pyramid of Kukulcan, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this is no surprise.

Dominating the center of the site, the Pyramid of Kukulcan alone is worth the visit. Four identical stairways lead to the top, with the number of steps adding up to the number of days in a solar year (364+1 step leading to the temple on top).

The Pyramid of Kukulcan in Chichen Itza. — Jeff Fromm

Serpents, representations of the Maya God Kukulcan, adorn the stairways, and during the spring and fall equinoxes, the shadow of the great serpent seems to descend the stairs during sunset.

The famous pyramid is just the tip of the iceberg at this site. Chichen Itza is also home to the largest ball court in Mesoamerica, an ancient observatory, and a few other structures, including the Temple of the Warriors and the Mercado, that are worth visiting.

But because of all this, it is also one of the most visited and most crowded Maya archaeological sites. To protect it, you can’t get too close to any of the structures.

The good news is, the peninsula features many more Maya sites, where you can touch and even climb pyramids. Those who would rather not fight the crowds in Chichen Itza or want to explore structures they can get close to have plenty of alternatives. The following sites are just a few of them.

Coba

One of the largest and best-known Maya sites on the Yucatan Peninsula, the ruins of Coba in the state of Quintana Roo get plenty of visitors, but never feel as crowded as Chichen Itza. Part of the reason is the size and setting of the ruins.

Spreading over 30 square miles in a dense jungle off the main tourist road, the site can accommodate large numbers of visitors without feeling overcrowded. The ancient city is not so much one site, but a large group of multiple clusters of buildings centered around the main pyramid, Nohoch Mul.

Thousands visit the site to climb its famous pyramid at the end of a long trail through the jungle, but those who get there early enough can still be alone on its top, overlooking the rest of the site and the jungle canopy that covers most of it. The stairs are eroded, so climbing it is a bit dangerous, and strenuous (it has 130 steps) — so not for everyone — but a rope in the center helps, and with plenty of stops for rest, most people can handle it.

Xaibe, another Mayan structure in Coba. — Linsey Stevens

Other groups of structures in the archeological zone include the Coba Group, which features a pyramid called La Iglesia and a ballcourt; the Conjuncto Las Pinturas, which features a small pyramid with vivid paint still visible inside the temple from a certain angle (climbing this pyramid is not allowed); and the Macanxoc Group, with some of the most elaborate stelae (Maya writing and images on large stone slabs) of the Maya world.

While the trails between the structures are long, those who can’t walk that far or prefer to get there faster can rent bicycles or hire a “Maya taxi,” bicycles (operated by Maya locals) with two seats on the front for site visitors.

Uxmal

A UNESCO Heritage Site, Uxmal is one of the largest Maya sites in the state of Yucatan. Its main pyramid, the Pyramid of the Magician, dominates the site. According to legend, a dwarf magician, hatched from an egg, built it in one night. It is a great story, but in fact, the pyramid seen today was built on top of an older one, which was on top of an even older one, going back to five distinctive structures layered on top of each other. The result is one of the most impressive pyramids on the Yucatan. As spectacular as it is though, it is not the only building Uxmal is worth visiting for.

Built in the distinctive Puuc style, the city comprises ornate buildings adorned with carvings of serpents, elaborate latticework, and masks of the Maya rain god Chak. Two of the best examples that really stand out are the Palace of the Governors and the Nunnery Quadrangle. Both feature Chak masks, serpents, elaborate latticework, and columns.

The Mayan ruins at Uxmal. — Vadim Petrakov / Shutterstock

Though the Pyramid of the Magician is closed to climbing, visitors need not leave without getting on top of a large pyramid. The Great Pyramid has a good reconstructed stairway that makes climbing relatively easy and offers a panoramic view of the site from its top.

Though Uxmal is on the tourist track and gets crowded occasionally, it’s large enough to give any visitor a chance to be alone with the ruins.

Ek Balam

A compact site, Ek Balam is the spectacular home to the largest (though not tallest) Maya structure in Yucatan: its Acropolis. Excavations here started in 1997, so it is a relatively new-to-visitors site and features some of the most ornate motifs and statues found on the peninsula to date. The Acropolis adorned by these statues is open to climbing, allowing visitors to get close to them. The stairway is safe and sturdy and allows visitors to rest along the climb, admiring the statues and bas-reliefs. The highlight of the structure is halfway up the stairs, where a monster-like figure — the black jaguar that gave the site its name — guards the entrance to the Underworld. Its walls are decorated with some of the most impressive statues and carvings.

Stopping here is always a great respite from the Yucatecan sun, too, as you’ll be protected by a thatched roof. Those who make it to the top are rewarded for their efforts by a great panoramic view of the site and the surrounding jungle.

Other structures at the site include three palaces, a ball court, and the ancient entrance gate. Walking through the ruins is an easy stroll, and most of the path is shaded by mature trees.

Muyil

Though in ancient times Muyil, also known as Chunyaxche, was one of the most densely populated towns on the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, it is a smaller site, hidden in the jungle. Since it sits in the northwest boundaries of the Si’an Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, visiting the archaeological site also includes walking through a dense, protected jungle. The site’s largest reconstructed structure is the Castillo. Standing at 57 feet tall, it is the highest building on the coast. Though reconstructed (in 1998), the stairway is still not safe, so it is closed to climbing, but it is spectacular. On the east side of the pyramid, a replica of an original bas-relief sculpture of herons is visible close to the top. A few other structures, including smaller pyramids and a cave, are also worth a stop. The path through it all is well-maintained gravel and is flat, making it a pleasant, easy stroll for visitors, regardless of fitness level.

Don’t leave the archaeological site without a walk through the Si’an Ka’an Reserve, though. A path starting behind the Castillo leads to a small wooden hut, where for a modest fee you can enter the preserve and walk out to the lagoon. This trail, on a raised boardwalk, might be the highlight of your visit. Surrounded by dense jungle, walking above freshwater boiled up from cenotes, if you are quiet, you’ll likely encounter wildlife.

Mayapan

One of the last great Maya capitals before the Spanish arrived on the peninsula, Mayapan is like a smaller copy of Chichen Itza. In fact, its main building is an almost identical replica of the Pyramid of Kukulcan. Other than its size, the main difference is that visitors can climb this one and get a great view of the whole site.

Speaking of getting close to the structures, the Temple of the Painted Niches is open to walk through and you can enjoy the still-vivid colors of its murals, similar to those found in the central parts of Mexico. In fact, the murals are the only elements that differ from Chichen Itza. The Observatories, cylindrical buildings that are replicas of the Observatory of Chichen Itza, had the same astronomical use: tracking the planets. Carvings inside the Main Observatory show the tracking of the positions of Venus.

The Mayan ruins at Mayapan. — DroneHero29 / Shutterstock

The ceremonial center on the west edge of the site comprises the most important structures, including the residences of the noble class, and administrative, religious, and government buildings. Temples, shrines, and altars are some other highlights of the site.

Though a relatively large site, Mayapan is easy to walk through, and the structures are not too high to climb. Off the tourist track, few people know about it and even fewer visit it, so chances are you will only encounter a handful of others, or might even find yourself alone with the ancient stones.

Jaguar Heads at the Chichen Itza ruins. — John_Walker / Shutterstock

Tips For A Pleasant Maya Ruin Visit

When visiting any of the Maya ruins on the Yucatan Peninsula, make sure you have sun protection, sunscreen, and a hat, and wear lightweight clothes and comfortable walking shoes. Bug spray also goes a long way, especially in the wet season (winter months in the Northern Hemisphere). Don’t forget a water bottle.

To visit most of the above-mentioned sites, it is best to rent a car and drive to them, though public transportation is available for them, and some are part of tours from Tulum or Cancun. When driving on the peninsula, watch out for topez, or speed bumps, one on each end of any town or village. Just about everyone on the peninsula speaks English, especially the younger generation, but it might still be nice to understand and speak a few words of Spanish (or even Maya). Above all, bring your sense of adventure, and remember to have fun.

Also, why Maya and not Mayan? Scholars only use the adjective Mayan when referring to the family of Mayan languages (over 20 are still spoken), but simply use Maya for everything else, even as an adjective, including Maya civilization, Maya archaeology, and Maya ruins.

Still want to see the most famous ruins on the Yucatan? Here are seven tips for visiting Chichen Itza.

Traveling Solo Over 50: 7 Tips From The Experts

I took my first solo trip when I was 51. During five years of solo travel, I have met numerous female solo travelers along the way: There was the woman sitting next to me on the train from New Orleans to Tuscaloosa, buried under blankets most of the day because she had stayed up late playing cards in the observation car, who regaled tales of traveling to Japan and Thailand by herself. Then there was the retired schoolteacher I met waiting for a train in Colorado. She told me she lived on her retirement plan and then worked part-time teaching online courses. The money from the online classes was saved for one long trip each year. To alleviate any fears of traveling to a foreign country solo, she would first join an organized group trip for 10 days, then, once acclimated to the area with the group, stay on solo for a couple more weeks after it ended.

The reasons these women share for solo traveling are numerous: divorce or the children are grown, so they have the freedom to travel, a desire to meet other travelers — which isn’t always easy when traveling with another or in a group — or a way to challenge themselves.

My story is similar. I was single and my children out of the house when I decided to travel the U.S. by train. It was frightening at first as I had never traveled solo before. My mantra, to get me through the fear, became “Take the next step.” I found that my fears were based on what might happen rather than what actually was happening. So along each step of the way, like when I heard just minutes before detraining in Winter Park that there was a blizzard, instead of worrying about What if? I took the next step and got off the train. The empowerment I’ve gained from solo travel is measurable and people frequently comment that I have a newly-acquired inner strength.

A common theme I hear from solo travelers is that they learn and are inspired by the stories of fellow travelers, so I spoke with seven expert solo travelers so I could share their tips.

1. Be Prepared (But Stay Open)

Tami Al-Hazza is a 59-year-old traveler who has traveled both solo and with her daughter. Al-Hazza says the first time she traveled solo, it was a shock. “I was lonely, I felt awkward in restaurants, and I missed having someone to share my experiences with. While eating in restaurants, I learned to take a book or magazine with me, but I don’t bury myself in it, I only use it as a backup. Sometimes I ask to eat at the bar so I can talk to others. I also book local group tours so that I can meet other travelers, and I search for experiences with locals. With time, traveling alone became less awkward, and I began to enjoy getting to know myself in new ways. With every trip, I felt more empowered to depend entirely on myself. Solo travel strengthened me.”

Her tip for solo travel: “I advise women to be prepared but always to be open to spontaneity. I suggest that they research the destination so that they know all the cultural activities that are available at that location and the unique foods and drink that they might like to try. Plan for too many activities each day and then be willing to completely depart from their plans if a new opportunity presents itself. Always be willing to try experiences with locals.”

2. Carry A Paper Map

Lynn Smargis is a travel podcast producer, editorial writer, and avid traveler, traveling 12 weeks of the year for vacation and conferences, who has traveled on long-term trips solo, too.

On a trip from Santa Fe to Chimayo, New Mexico, I decided to take the less-traveled path, depending on GPS for directions. I lost cell service and wound up lost for an hour or so before finally coming upon a postal worker who gave me directions. Because of this experience, I can personally relate to Smargis’s tip:

“The best tip I would give for traveling solo is to always carry a paper map of the area you are traveling. I travel solo for the freedom to create my own adventure, meet interesting local people, and to reinforce my ability to be a female independent do-it-yourself traveler. My favorite solo trip was an 18-day road trip from So Cal to Olympia National Park in Washington state. My love of travel and food has converged into the creation of my podcast, Travel Gluten Free.”

3. Choose Your Accommodations Wisely

Diane Lee is a 50-something Australian writer, editor, and blogger who prefers slow and solo travel. She’s currently based in Hanoi, Vietnam, with her Australian cat.

Lee said, “Choose your accommodation wisely. Even though I want to travel alone because of the freedom it gives me, I am sociable and like to chat with other travelers, so I tend to book smaller boutique hotels that have a swimming pool and restaurant or cafe. The pool takes care of the social aspect, and because I rarely go out to dinner on my own, the hotel restaurant takes care of the dining aspect. I rarely stay in Airbnbs because they generally don’t provide me with the facilities I need.”

Traveling solo means freedom to Lee. “You can go where you want, do what you want — when you want. No having to compromise. You can set your own schedule. I tend to mix things up when I travel. I often book myself into full- or half-day tours and cooking classes, but I’m also completely comfortable wandering around on my own with my camera, visiting museums and main attractions, and checking out local neighborhoods. I love local supermarkets — they are so interesting!”

4. Find A Way To Get Outside Of Your Comfort Zone

Lisa Dorenfest is 57 years old and has been traveling full-time since 2013. “While the predominance of my travel is circumnavigating the world under sail with my partner, there have been numerous times I’ve traveled solo when we’ve been in port. Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Singapore, Malaysia, Sydney, Madagascar, and Colombia come immediately to mind. The tip I would give is ‘Push yourself out of your comfort zone one baby-step at a time.’”

Dorenfest’s favorite solo trip was 30 days she spent in North Vietnam in 2017. “At the beginning of the trip, circumstances found me being transported between hotels on the back of a motorcycle: a frightening yet exhilarating experience for me. I survived the ride, and through a series of follow-on baby steps and many local motorcycle rides later, I found myself touring Lao Cai and Lai Chau, Vietnam on the back of a motorcycle.”

She wrote an article telling about that trip.

5. Print Out All Important Papers

Dr. Cacinda Maloney worked as a chiropractic physician for 22 years prior to starting a travel website in 2012. She says, “Although I am married — 28 years — I think I have now officially traveled more solo than I have married: 47 countries in 2016!”

Her tip for a solo traveler is to have all your data printed out versus just looking it up on your smartphone. “I don’t know how many times I have not been able to find what I needed on my iPhone. I keep a file folder on every trip I take that has flight information, hotel information, and any other pertinent information I might need for that trip.”

6. Work With A Travel Doctor Before Departing

Melody Wren considers her age (over 60) a gift in her travels. She brings wisdom and experience and a major If not now, when? attitude with a heavy helping of humor, which she says is required in any kind of travel.

Wren’s number one tip for solo travelers comes from personal experience. She contracted Schistosoma while wading or swimming in freshwater in an island in the Caribbean. Wren suggests: “When you travel anywhere, get advice from a travel doctor before you go about the specific destination you are going to in order to prevent picking up parasites.”

She suggests taking particular caution in the Caribbean islands, India, Africa, and Thailand and shared that “30 percent of all travelers return with at least one parasite. Strongyloides and Schistosoma can be severe if not treated.” For more tips on how to avoid getting parasites, read Wren’s article in Fodor’s.

7. Be Indulgent

The month before Adrienne Hew, a certified nutritionist, turned 50, she traveled solo to Japan. She’s making plans to return again — solo — in the spring.

Hew’s tip is to be indulgent and do something just for you. She says to pick at least one activity that you would have trouble convincing others to do with you.

Hew’s reason for traveling solo? “I travel solo because I’m usually the one at home holding down the fort while my husband travels frequently for work. I need alone time to process where I am in life, what I want from the last half of my life, and to connect with others outside of my norm.” You can read more about her travels at Nourishing Journeys Japan.

Looking for a perfect place for solo trip number one? A day in Lake Como, Italy, will whet your appetite for elegant adventure.

9 Great Things To Do In Phoenix In The Fall

The subtle transition from the Arizona heat of summer to the more moderate temperatures of fall — typically warm and sunny with temps in the upper 70s — makes Phoenix an ideal fall destination, especially if outdoor activities are on your agenda.

Visit Phoenix invited me for a fall desert getaway. Although the weather was uncharacteristically wet and cooler than usual (days were in the upper 60s during my visit), it was still a great opportunity to get outdoors, explore the botanical gardens, and take a hot air balloon ride, or stay indoors to indulge in first-class dining that boasts seasonal ingredients, plus unique cocktails and a little spa-treatment pampering. Phoenix in the fall means plenty of outdoor fun, plus seasonal foods and flavors.

A pedal cab tour in Phoenix. — Jill Dutton / USAbyRail.blog

1. Discover Downtown Phoenix On A Pedal Cab Tour

What better way to immerse yourself in the sights of downtown Phoenix — sports arenas, Arizona State University’s downtown campus, the museums, theaters, art galleries, and of course the murals that highlight the culture and vibrancy of the area — than on a pedal cab tour? Billy Oxford, dressed in a Santa hat for our visit, owns Arizona Pedal Cab and takes visitors through the city giving narratives of history and sights, and offering suggestions for places to step off and visit on foot. The pace is perfect for viewing many of the murals of Phoenix.

2. Taste The Fall Flavors

The Phoenix dining scene, and the city is only recently getting the recognition it deserves for its cutting-edge creations. In the fall, chefs incorporate seasonal foods into their menus, creating vibrant salads and other unique dishes that utilize local produce.

Corn is a fall harvest, and The Gladly, one of Phoenix’s best new restaurants, utilizes this grain in its Original Chopped Salad and with its pan-seared scallops served atop sweet corn grits, belly bacon, sauteed pea greens, and a drizzle of cola gastrique. At Beckett’s Table, Thursday nights are the house-made pasta night, and the featured pasta during our visit was a corn pasta. Or try the award-winning fig and pecan pie made with locally sourced ingredients. You’ll want to stop by LON’s Restaurant for crepes made with mesquite flour or the seasonal pecan apple tart. No matter what you choose at LON’s, enjoy the fall weather in the outdoor heated dining room, voted one of the top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants on OpenTable.

The writer enjoying a spa treatment in Phoenix. — Jill Dutton / USAbyRail.blog

3. Relax With A Spa Treatment

The JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa may be Arizona’s largest resort, and it’s also big on luxury. The AAA Four-Diamond resort is set on 316 acres in the Sonoran Desert and features a spa. After your spa treatment, enjoy lunch at the Revive Spa Bistro overlooking the pool and cabanas. A perfect fall treatment is the Turquoise Blue Sage Body Ritual, during which you’ll be scrubbed with a desert salt body polish, then covered in a clay mask and wrapped in a cocoon, followed by a full-body massage using Turquoise Sage Massage Oil. I was so relaxed after the treatment, which uses Native American modalities to revitalize and refresh, that I took a long nap.

Another relaxing oasis awaits at Aji Spa and Salon. Just as the Pima and Maricopa people have used hot rocks to alleviate pain and soothe the soul, Aji Spa’s Gila River Rock Massage utilizes warm stones applied to the body and to massage muscles to clear toxins while restoring the body to its natural state of balance. Stay in your robe after the treatment and spend some time poolside. Relax in the hot tub or eat lunch at one of the outdoor tables.

4. Hike The Gateway Loop At McDowell Sonoran Conservancy

The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy is designed to protect 30,580 acres of pristine natural beauty and preserves 950-plus different types of plants and animals. It’s also home to 225 miles of trails. The Gateway Loop is a 4.5-mile loop that involves a moderately difficult hike. You can also consider one of these easy phoenix hiking trails to experience the desert environment if getting outside is a must during your fall visit.

A hot air balloon over Phoenix. — RaulCano / Shutterstock

5. Ride In A Hot Air Balloon

First, you’ll experience the majesty of watching as the Hot Air Expeditions balloons are inflated. Climb on board and take off for an approximate one hour flight floating at different elevations, up to 5,000 feet. View the Sonoran Desert from above, see local wildlife, plant life, and landmarks. After the adventure, enjoy a toast with chilled champagne and gourmet cuisine from the award-winning Vincent on Camelback, set up outdoors with tables, linens, and china. Hot Air Expeditions has been voted Best Balloon Flight in Phoenix by Fodor’s Travel for the past 24 consecutive years.

6. Tour The Desert Botanical Gardens

Take a walking tour of the collection of arid plants from the deserts of the world in a unique outdoor setting at the Desert Botanical Garden. With more than 50,000 desert plants on display, you’ll explore themed trails that illustrate topics like conservation, desert living, plants and people of the Sonoran Desert, and desert wildflowers. Afterward, peruse the gift shop and enjoy brunch at Gertrude’s, where they serve sustainable, refined American meals. Exhibits throughout the gardens change, but the current exhibit is the Wild Rising by Cracking Art, an installation of more than 1,000 animal sculptures made from colorful and recyclable plastic — showing that plastic does not have to fill landfills, but can instead be reinvented into something eye-catching and thought-provoking.

Mesquite malt liquor at LON's Last Drop. — Jill Dutton / USAbyRail.blog

7. Enjoy A Unique Drinking Establishment

Quirky, fun bars await in Phoenix. Enjoy the fall flavors at unique drinking establishments like Merkin Vineyards where regional, sustainable, and a sense of place are the goals. One of the owners, musician Maynard James Keenan (lead singer of the bands Tool and A Perfect Circle), created the vision with his wife, Jennifer. The fruits used in the wines are farmed by Randee Larremore and Maynard’s father, Mike Keenan, in their Verde Valley greenhouses, gardens, and orchards.

At UnderTow, you’ll walk inside Sip, a coffee and beer bar, then take the stairs down to the basement to find UnderTow. Set up like a 19th-century clipper ship, there are port windows to watch the view, scenery, and sound effects. It’s a small location that only seats about 18 guests for each 90-minute reservation. Enjoy one of their seasonal craft cocktails and learn the story it accompanies.

Or for a taste of the local prickly pear, stop by LON’s Last Drop bar to taste the house-bottled cocktail, The Stetson. Made using locally sourced ingredients and herbs from their garden, The Stetson includes El Silencio mescal, curacao, lime juice, prickly pear, and agave nectar. It’s red and tart and slightly sweet — a perfect concoction to sample this local taste.

8. Shop At An Outdoor Market

The Churchill is a unique shopping and dining establishment that is home to 10 small businesses, all start-up entrepreneurs. The focus is on collaboration versus competition, and the businesses find ways to benefit each other. Set in shipping containers, you’ll find restaurants, bars, and shops surrounding a covered outdoor 9,000-square-foot courtyard where you can socialize, drink, and learn. The courtyard is also a space for a curated speaker series, art classes, fitness classes, sports viewing, and pop-up artist galleries, creating a community-focused experience.

9. Sleep In An Artist’s Residence

The Hermosa Inn was built by the legendary cowboy artist Lon Megargee in the 1930s. Originally his home and studio, the Hermosa Inn now provides modern-day comforts while preserving the original charm and authentic touches. LON’s, located on site, is Arizona’s only remaining authentic hacienda. The elegant adobe dining room is set in the midst of stunning walking paths filled with flowers and desert plants. This luxury boutique inn has an intimate feel, with Lon’s original artwork hanging on the walls, a flourishing garden, an outdoor pool and hot tub — perfect for a fall swim — and upscale furnishings in the rooms.

Interested in Arizona Wine Country? Here’s what to know before you go.

8 Reasons To Make Tuscaloosa, AL Your Next Weekend Getaway

Whether your interests include history, college football, or barbecue, Tuscaloosa is a funky little college town invested in preserving and upholding its heritage. History runs deep in Alabama, and Tuscaloosa is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and telling its part of the civil rights story. Travel the Tuscaloosa Civil Rights Trail, view a tremendous collection of African American art, eat at iconic restaurants, tour the college and learn about the history there, or take a walk along the Tuscaloosa River Walk, all on a weekend getaway.

1. Walk In The Footsteps Of History On The Tuscaloosa Civil Rights Trail

The goal of the Tuscaloosa Civil Rights History Task Force, created on October 18, 2016, is to bring positive change and reconciliation in a city where much of America’s best-known civil rights history occurred. The Tuscaloosa Civil Rights Trail aids this endeavor through collecting, preserving, and telling Tuscaloosa’s civil rights history.

The trail memorializes the struggles for human dignity and citizenship and consists of 18 sites scattered throughout downtown. According to WBRC FOX6 News, “The Trail includes stops that call attention to stories of enslaved people, Native Americans exiled from their homelands, and racial violence such as First African Baptist Church and the Old Jail — but also to sites of cultural achievement, such as the Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center and the Paul R. Jones Art Gallery.”

The Foster Auditorium in Tuscaloosa. — Jill Dutton / USAbyRail.blog

2. Visit The Site Of The Stand In The Schoolhouse Door At Foster Auditorium

On June 11, 1963, Governor George Wallace, in a symbolic attempt to keep his inaugural promise of “Segregation Now, Segregation Tomorrow, Segregation Forever” and to stop the desegregation of schools, stood at the door of the Foster Auditorium to try to block the entry of two African American students, Vivian Malone and James Hood.

In response, President Kennedy federalized the Alabama National Guard General Henry V. Graham via Executive Order 11111, ordering Wallace to step aside.

Declared a National Historic Landmark on April 5, 2005, Foster Auditorium is known, in large part, for the incident at its doorway. A historical marker stands outside the building telling the story of the Stand in the Schoolhouse Door.

3. Explore Native American History At The Moundville Archaeological Park And Museum

Once the site of a powerful prehistoric community — at its peak it was America’s largest city north of Mexico — the University of Alabama’s Moundville Archaeological Park is a premier Native American heritage site. The Moundville site is the largest settlement of Mississippian culture on the Black Warrior River in central Alabama.

Just 13 miles south of Tuscaloosa, the park consists of stunning views of ancient mounds that served as elevated platforms for civic and ceremonial structures and were the homes of nobles. The park preserves 326 acres where these mounds are arranged around a central plaza. Inside the museum, you’ll discover the treasures unearthed at the site, including tools and household items, plus interactive displays depicting life in Moundville. Also on the site, there’s a half-mile nature trail, picnic areas, a campground, and scenic views of the Black Warrior River.

The Paul R. Jones Museum and Gallery. — University Of Alabama – Paul R. Jones Museum

4. View History Through Art

Marvel at the murals of the Tuscaloosa Federal Courthouse Art Gallery. Located upstairs inside the Federal Building, artist Caleb O’Connor created 16 massive murals to depict Tuscaloosa history. O’Connor moved to Tuscaloosa to complete this three-year project and currently resides in Tuscaloosa and has a downtown studio.

You can also view the largest collection of African-American art at the Paul R. Jones Gallery. Paul R. Jones was considered, before his passing in 2010, one of the world’s top 100 art collectors. He started collecting art in the 1960s, driven by a motivation when he noticed the absence of African-American artists’ works in museums, galleries, and auctions. He collected art on a middle-class budget, eventually amassing his large collection.

In 2008, Jones donated a portion of his collection to the University of Alabama. The Paul R. Jones Collection contains more than 1,700 pieces that illustrate the importance of art in life.

Learn about Tuscaloosa native Dinah Washington and explore the art galleries at the Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center, too. Managed and maintained by The Arts Council, the center is named after Dinah Washington, a jazz and blues vocalist and pianist born in Tuscaloosa. The so-called Queen of Blues has been cited as the most popular black female recording artist of the ’50s. In 1993, Washington was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. — Ken Wolter / Shutterstock

5. It’s Home To The University Of Alabama

Take a tour of the UA campus. While you’re there, check out University of Alabama college football history at the Paul W. Bryant Museum. Then stroll the Walk of Champions at Bryant-Denny Stadium and take a stadium tour.

6. The View At The Black Warrior River On The Tuscaloosa River Walk

Near downtown Tuscaloosa you’ll find the Tuscaloosa River Walk, a paved trail that follows the southern bank of the Black Warrior River. The entire length of the trail is 4.5 miles, making for a leisurely walk with a view of trees, the river, and wooden bridges. The trail is well lit with street lamps and accesses a variety of park areas that are pet friendly.

You’ll find numerous restaurants and shops to stop at along the river walk, including the Tuscaloosa River Market, where there’s a Saturday farmers market where vendors sell local goods and produce.

While you’re near the river, enjoy a ride on the Bama Belle Riverboat. Take a weekend cruise with live music on Fridays, a sunset voyage on Saturdays, or a Sunday afternoon sightseeing cruise.

Archibald and Woodrow's B-B-Q in Tuscaloosa. — Jill Dutton / USAbyRail.blog

7. To Experience Legendary Barbecue Joints

Southern barbecue, and Alabama barbecue in particular, has a distinct profile steeped in its own history. It’s vinegar based, sandwiches are topped with coleslaw, and there’s the Alabama white sauce. The love of barbecue, like many foods, developed out of necessity. According to the Encyclopedia of Alabama, “During difficult economic times in the South, barbecuing was an inexpensive way for the working class to bring flavor and tenderness to even the most inexpensive cuts of meat.” This practical use grew into a savory favorite.

Two barbecue joints in Tuscaloosa carry on this rich tradition of slow-cooked and smoked meats.

At Archibald and Woodrow’s B-B-Q, they’ve been serving Southern barbecue in West Alabama since the 1960s. This unassuming barbecue joint was the only Alabama barbecue restaurant recommended as a place to stop in Southern Living.

You won’t find beef products on the menu, but pork and chicken are abundant. One Yelp reviewer raved, “We found this place by accident, getting off the freeway to dodge a traffic jam, and were we glad! Best barbecue sauce I’ve had outside of Texas — perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy with a nice bite to it. I had the pulled chicken plate with baked beans and corn on the cob, my partner had the rib plate with baked beans and salad, and we both had leftovers. That rib plate comes with four full-sized ribs! This is definitely on the go-back list if we’re in the area around lunch or dinner time.”

Dreamland BBQ was opened in 1958 by John “Big Daddy Bishop,” originally as the Dreamland Cafe. The ribs and secret barbecue sauce are legendary, but you’ll also find pulled pork, barbecue chicken, hickory-smoked sausage, plus a variety of sides. For dessert, be sure to try the Southern favorite: banana pudding. It’s a small location with just a few tables and booths and a pot bellied stove.

A reviewer on TripAdvisor relays the joys of their ribs: “The best ribs! The homemade potato salad and banana pudding are excellent also. The sauce has a little spice to it, but not overwhelming. Good service, clean restaurant. You have the choice of ribs or sausage … but when you have ribs that are this good, there is no need for anything else.”

8. To Grab A Bite In A Unique Venue

Enjoy fine dining in a historic train depot at 301 Bistro and Beer Garden. The building acted as the Louisville and Nashville (L and N) Railroad Company’s passenger station from 1912 through the 1940s, then was a Trailway’s bus station from 1950 to 1967. It later fell into disrepair. In 1978, a group of investors renovated and opened the building as a restaurant and bar called HaddCall Station. The location was home to several restaurants throughout the years, until Bill Lloyd opened it in 2005 as a private events facility. In 2015, Lloyd made additional renovations — the first major renovation since the 1970s, and opened as 301 Bistro, Bar, and Beer Garden. Visit for dinner or stop by on a Sunday for their jazz brunch.

Another unique venue is The Lookout Rooftop Bar, where you can watch the sun set on the rooftop of Hotel Indigo. You’ll find seasonal, locally inspired menus with a spectacular view.

Looking for other accessible weekend getaways? Consider the best things to see and do in Chattanooga, Tennessee, plus these five excellent weekend getaways in Ohio.

7 Things To Know About Portugal’s Monument To Overseas Combatants And Its Eternal Flame

Located on the west side of Lisbon on the shore of the Tagus, the Monument to Overseas Combatants is one of the world’s most compelling memorials. The monument’s magnificent architecture makes for an effective tribute to the people who sacrificed their lives for their country. It maintains a quiet, somber atmosphere, and visitors who stop by understand that they’re walking on hallowed ground.

Any trip to Portugal should include some time with this captivating cultural landmark. Here’s what you need to know about the monument, along with some practical considerations to keep in mind during your visit.

The Monument to Overseas Combatants in Lisbon. — GagliardiPhotography / Shutterstock

1. The Monument Addresses A Crucial Time In Portuguese History

Monumento aos Combatentes do Ultramar translates into English as “Monument to Overseas Combatants,” which leads some visitors to assume that the monument addresses all foreign wars.

However, the monument is intended to specifically address the losses suffered in the Portuguese Colonial War, known in Portugal as the Overseas War. During the conflict, the country’s forces fought in three African theaters from 1961 to 1974, and more than 9,000 Portuguese soldiers lost their lives.

2. The War Led To Major Changes In Portuguese Society

In Portugal, the wars took a heavy toll. As the fighting went on, public sentiment turned against the government of fascist leader Antonio de Oliveira Salazar, eventually resulting in the 1974 military coup of his successor, Marcelo Caetano.

That context helps travelers understand the importance of Monumento aos Combatentes do Ultramar; while it certainly acts as a tribute to the sacrifices of the country’s military, it’s also a monument of peace and a reminder of the true costs of war.

3. The Memorial Is Simple But Striking

Built in 1994, the Monument to Overseas Combatants is a fitting tribute. Two black-and-white pillars rise out of the clear waters of a public lake, forming an incomplete inverted triangle. An eternal flame sits under the point where the pillars would meet.

According to some interpretations, the lake symbolizes the oceans that separated many of the combatants from their homeland, while the pillars act as a metaphor for unity. The implication is that those who served came from different backgrounds and practiced different religions, but all made the same sacrifice.

An armed guard at the Monument to Overseas Combatants. — Uwe Aranas / Shutterstock

4. Armed Guards Stand Nearby

Visit the memorial during the day, and you’ll see an armed guard watching over the eternal flame. The presence of armed guards leads some Americans to draw comparisons between Monumento aos Combatentes do Ultramar and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Near the memorial, you’ll also see 180 bronze plates, which are engraved with the names of soldiers who lost their lives in the Portuguese Colonial War. While tourists are allowed to take photos of the monument, plaques, and even the armed guard, be sure to treat the site with appropriate respect if you get to visit.

The Military Museum in Belem, Lisbon. — Belikart / Shutterstock

5. The Nearby Military Museum Offers Additional Historical Context

Forte de Bom Sucesso contains exhibits related to important Portuguese conflicts, including the Overseas War. Stop by this small museum on your way to the memorial to view military equipment, historical documents, and more.

Constructed in 1780, the museum was once an important fort. It has undergone several restorations, and while it’s not the largest institution of its kind in Lisbon, it’s certainly worth a visit. It has a small entrance fee, currently around $3 USD for adults.

Monument Gago Coutinho e Sacadura Cabral in Lisbon. — Eugenio Marongiu / Shutterstock

6. Other Important Landmarks Are Within Walking Distance

After visiting the Monument to Overseas Combatants, consider stopping by Monument Gago Coutinho e Sacadura Cabral, a replica of the biplane piloted by Portuguese aviator Gago Coutinho during his 1922 flight over the South Atlantic Ocean that commemorates the first aerial crossing of the South Atlantic.

Belem Tower, also known as the Tower of Saint Vincent, is also within walking distance. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the tower was built on the Tagus river in the early 16th century, and it’s one of Lisbon’s most recognizable landmarks.

What else do you want to do? Here’s our advice for how to spend a day in Lisbon.

The Memorial to Overseas Combatants at nighttime. — posztos / Shutterstock

7. Travelers Can Visit At Any Time Of Day

Monumento aos Combatentes do Ultramar has no admittance fee and is open all day. When visiting, take care to show respect for the memorial. Avoid eating or drinking on the grounds and keep conversation to a low level.

The monument is a breathtaking sight and a must-see destination for Lisbon travelers. Standing near the eternal flame is an impressive experience, regardless of your cultural background, and the solemn atmosphere is almost overwhelming. If you find yourself in the city, make sure to include this extraordinary memorial in your itinerary.