Escape Election Stress With Easy Weekend Getaways in the Outdoors

Stress isn’t just a negative feeling—it also has a physical effect on our health.

Scientific studies demonstrate that stress can contribute to coronary health problems, inflammation, poor circulation, and more. Repeated exposure to stress is even more likely to ramp up negative side effects, which compound over time.

With election day approaching, Americans nationwide are living amid high tension.

That type of stress is bad for the mind and body, dragging down our physical and mental wellbeing.

In other words… it’s the perfect time for a weekend getaway.

Want to escape election stress? The best options out there are easy weekend getaways that take you into nature. Here’s why.

Nature is healing

As mentioned above, research has linked chronic stress to a handful of serious physical maladies.

But there’s a silver lining: getting out into nature has also been empirically linked to stress relief. And nature—unlike many other types of vacations—is cheap and accessible for most Americans.

Whether you’re feeling a little bogged down by personal troubles, uninspired, antisocial, or angsty, a quick jaunt through nature can relieve symptoms quickly.

On top of improving our mood, scientific studies have also found that getting out further into nature—such as visiting a nature reserve versus visiting an urban park—is even more beneficial for alleviating stress.

So, stress might be inevitable as the election approaches, but even doing something as simple as taking a stroll through a local park can lift that shroud of anxiety. But let’s focus on more immersive weekend getaways that can help you escape election stress.

If you’re looking to turn a short stroll into a nature-focused weekend getaway, here’s how to do that based on climate.

Weekend getaways to escape election stress—ideas for cooler climates

Get out of the city at a remote cabin. Renting a remote cabin is one of the best ways to escape the stress in a colder climate. You can stay indoors and cuddle up or venture into the unknown at your leisure. Whether looking for a cabin in the Berkshires or an A-Frame outside Seattle, there’s a home base waiting for you. Bonus points if you can’t see or hear anyone else.
Head to the beach. Beaches are usually empty during cold months. So if you’ve got a hankering to be alone and surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature, a beach excursion might be perfect for you. Just make sure to bundle up.
Get out on the water. Sure, you might not be taking a dip in colder climates, but water is known for its soothing and relaxing qualities. Whether kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding, you’ll benefit from the gentle sounds and sights of coasting along the surface.
Let the bonfire lull you to a peaceful state. Whether or not you can get away for the weekend, you might be able to put together a great bonfire. Bonfires also open up the chance to invite over friends, along with cooking over the open flames. I’m talking about desserts like s’mores along with savory favorites like bratwurst.

Weekend getaways to escape election stress—ideas for warmer climates

Camp it out. Get away from the noise and hustle at your favorite campsite. Alternatively, if you really want to escape the city and stress, get out of dodge by exploring a brand-new campground. Similar to beaches in colder climates, many campsites empty out during autumn with kids back in school.
Get out on the water. In a warmer climate, you can get out on the water however you’d like. Those with boats are particularly able to escape the noise by heading straight to the center of a peaceful lake or past the surf into the ocean. Once again, don’t forget about the soothing power of water.
Join a sports team/league. Ever wanted to pick up a strange new venture like frisbee golf or paddleball? Now is the perfect time. Playing sports in natural settings gives you the benefit of nature’s healing powers, along with the ever-beneficial rush of endorphins from exercise.
Create a scavenger hunt with your family. Depending on what sort of parks and public spaces you’re working with, creating a scavenger hunt can be a welcome distraction. Think of it like an Easter Egg hunt—just themed differently.

Medical Tourism for Americans: How to Get a Full Medical Check Up Abroad

Traveling for medical care isn’t the coolest reason to hit the road.

But it’s a growing reality for many Americans. As healthcare becomes more expensive and confusing, thousands of Americans are packing their bags and heading abroad.

Some are seeking out specialized forms of care that they can’t find in the United States, such as state-of-the-art oncology procedures or fertility treatments. Some are simply looking for affordable cosmetic surgeries, from hair transplants to BBLs.

Others just want a straightforward check up.

Over the last five years, as American interest in medical check ups increases, high-end hospitals have popped up around the globe. They’ve opened their doors to (at least partly) cater to foreigners searching for reliable medical care.

From blood tests to cavity fillings to kidney panels, these check ups offer comprehensive testing at affordable price points. Depending on where you go, that check-up might only cost a few hundred dollars.

If you’ve been considering a full medical check up while abroad, I highly encourage you look into one of the options listed here. While most doctors worldwide speak some English, I’ve also included an option from London

Get a medical check up at Memorial Hospital

Istanbul, Turkey

Want to know how much a comprehensive medical check up abroad will cost you at Memorial Hospital in Istanbul? According to previous American visitors, they received a full range of diagnostic and screening procedures for around $370.

That doesn’t include flights to and from Turkey—but it does include a blood test, heart test, dental check up, chest X-rays, reproductive check up, urine tests, cardiologist exam, abdominal ultrasounds, and complimentary breakfast.

There is one caveat. I’ve seen some visitors note that after the doctors discovered an issue, the treatments were more expensive than anticipated. However, procedures are still guaranteed to be cheaper than in the US for most citizens with basic healthcare.

Check out the check up

Get a medical check up at Bumrungrad International Hospital

Bangkok, Thailand

Want to experience a check up in the lap of luxury? I was stunned the first time I read reviews about Bumrungrad’s check up program.

First and foremost, it’s renowned for its comprehensive and thorough procedure lists, which come with optional add-ons for those with additional health concerns.

Additionally, Bumrungrad categorizes its check up options according to age and gender, allowing you to get more specialized care.

For a woman in her thirties, the cost of a full medical check up abroad at Bumrungrad is around $900. That includes just about every element of a physical exam that you can imagine—from urine, fecal, and blood exams to chest X-rays and abdominal ultrasounds.

Check out the check up

Get a medical check up at Harley Street Health Centre

London, England

If you’re heading to the UK anytime soon, consider adding on a day to visit the Harley Street Health Centre—this center has come highly recommended by a digital nomad friend of mine.

For around $900, visitors can get a full health check up that includes all the basics.

However, Harley Street offers a range of testing options and check ups that guests need to select themselves. That’s ideal for those who have specific questions and pains in mind. Those who aren’t sure what to focus on can first see a general practitioner who will then recommend additional services and tests.

Check out the check up

5 Economy Airlines That Offer Lie-Flat Beds

What if I told you that airlines are tightening their focus on projects that make long-haul economy flights more comfortable—and not only for elite flyers?

It’s not rumor or wishful thinking.

The future of lie-flat beds, which can be adapted for a three-row economy seat section, is almost here.

Surprisingly, lie-flat beds aren’t even a new concept in air travel. This novel idea was first covered back in 2010 when Air New Zealand released its novel sky-couch model.

The sky couch, which is still offered today, uses specialized panels that bridge the space between your seat and those in front of you to create a mini-bed out of the whole row.

Voila. A lie-flat bed at 35,000 feet.

And that’s not all Air New Zealand is doing. The airline has plans to revolutionize economy air travel even more with its insane-sounding bunk bed economy lie-flat plan, which recently launched for flights between New York and Chicago.

These unique sleeping pods are called SkyNests—and I’d bet a few pennies other airlines are going to take notes.

For now, let’s focus on those lie-flat beds. What began with an innovative new concept from Air New Zealand has since spread to other smaller airlines. No more missing out on better bookings. Here are the five economy airlines that offer lie-flat beds as of 2024.

Airlines that offer lie-flat beds

Air New Zealand

As the original creator and purveyor of the Skycouch, it doesn’t get much better than flying with Air New Zealand.

Its Skycouch extends your total sleeping space to 5’1, while also widening the makeshift bed enough for two adults to comfortably lie down. The smaller you are, the more comfortable you’ll be.

The Skycouch comes with other features like a specialized seatbelt that’s designed to be comfortable to wear while laying down. As someone who lives in fear of turbulence, I’m a big fan of Air New Zealand’s ‘cuddle belt’.

Azul Brazilian Airlines

Shortly after Air New Zealand launched its Skycouch, Brazil’s Azul Brazilian Airlines created its own Skysofa model.

This is distinct in that Azul’s airplanes use a two-four-two seating block arrangement—meaning passengers get even more space with the Skysofa.

Rather than solely focusing on passengers who want to catch some shut-eye, Azul’s Skysofa is also ideal for families traveling with small children. The Skysofa is a more comfortable and group-oriented way to travel.

Air Astana

Air Astana is an airline based in Kazakhstan that serves the Central Asia region. Solo passengers have the option to book an Economy Sleeper—which is actually a different cabin than the standard economy seats.

Unlike the Skycouch and Skysofa, Air Astana’s Economy Sleeper offers a flat sleeping surface without a leg-rest pop-out. That means it’s a narrow bed that’s suitable for solo passengers only.

But it comes with some unique features, like separate boarding and in-flight entertainment, that make it worth the price tag.

All Nippon Airways

All Nippon Airways, based in Japan, offers a stellar experience via its Sky Couchii options. Like the Skycouch, leg inserts pull out to create a wide and comfortable bed. This allows couples or families to fly in greater comfort.

Similar to Azul, some of the planes that offer the Sky Couchii have four rows, which adds even more space. Once again, that makes it a great option for families flying long-haul with mulitple children.

Airlines that offer similar solutions

Lufthansa

Next, we have Lufthansa’s Sleeper’s Row model. Unlike the options listed above, this isn’t a specialized setup. In other words, there are no panels that pop out to create a comfortable bed or sofa-like setup.

Instead, Lufthansa gives passengers the option to book the whole row on certain flights.

What I like about this option is that it’s offered according to availability. While that means they aren’t always bookable, it also means that Sleeper’s Rows are more affordable. You can add on this option for between $180-250 on a long-haul flight—which isn’t a bad deal.

Halloween Countdown: Spookiest Towns in the US

What makes a place spooky?

Some would argue that history adds a dose of fright. Ancient buildings and checkered pasts are two key ingredients of a haunting, after all.

Others might say that it’s about the atmosphere. From misty mornings to windy nights, weather goes a long way in curating a frightening setting.

Others might argue that a place’s spookiness can only be felt, like the feeling of being watched while alone.

And while we usually go to great lengths to avoid these types of bone-chilling feelings, that’s not always the case when October rolls around.

After all, who doesn’t like a little scare during the Halloween season? If you’re looking for nightmare fuel, I’ve disinterred the spookiest towns in the US for your perusal.

They might look quaint in the daylight, but their ghosts come out after dark.

Spookiest towns in the US

Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg is known for having one of the best-preserved old towns in the United States—one that stretches back to one of the very first English settlements on the continent.

That alone incurs quite a bit of spooky vibes. But aside from its atmosphere, this spot has a checkered past that makes for long-lasting hauntings.

Given its historic significance, Williamsburg played an important role during the Revolutionary War and Civil War. Soldiers have marched through its streets multiple times, infusing the taverns, hotels, and restaurants in old Williamsburg with ghostly remnants.

Want to cross paths with the local ghosts? Check out Williamsburg’s highest-rated ghost tour.

Thibodaux, Louisiana

Similar to Cahawba (below), the ghosts of the past are alive in this small town outside of New Orleans.

Thibodaux had a long history as a plantation town, which was home to the Laurel Valley Plantation and Ridgefield Plantation. The latter is now home to St. John’s History Cemetery… which is rife with ghostly sightings.

The main street cutting through downtown is charming enough—but beyond it lies many rundown structures that call back to a troubled past.

Here, we see a trifecta of the traditional American haunting, which includes land stolen from the Chitimacha to be worked by enslaved people from West Africa—then turned over to multiple colonial forces, starting with the Spanish, then the French, and then the English.

Dare to enter St. John’s Historic Cemetery? Join one of the official tours of the graveyard.

Charleston, South Carolina

If you’re desperate to cross paths with a ghost, I’d send you to Charleston. The city is renowned for its ghostly population.

Similar to Williamsburg, Charleston’s spook factor falls back to its long history, wartime significance, and traditional architecture.

Plus, there’s more than one ghost to keep a lookout for. The city is dotted with spooky locations with rumored hauntings. What’s more, you can even seek out ghosts by name, from Denmark Vesey to Blackbeard.

If you want to meet the ghosts of Charleston, I suggest you go on its highest-rated ghost tour.

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

There’s something about the cookie-cutter Victorian architecture of Eureka Springs, Arkansas that makes it spooky. While this destination is renowned for its charm, there’s something sinister lurking underneath—at least, at some hotspots.

The Crescent Hotel, for example, is thought to be haunted… by multiple ghosts.

There’s an Irish stonemason who fell to his death in 1885, a cat that lingers from the Netherworld named Morris, and multiple women in Victorian-era garb who never completed their checkout.

In fact, some paranormal believers think that the town’s hot springs play some role in its hauntings.

Get a closer look at Eureka’s ghosts with the help of an expert local guide.

Cahawba, Alabama

Cahawba is technically a ghost town. Though it once (briefly) served as Alabama’s capital, there’s little left behind aside from abandoned cemeteries, homes, and churches.

Unlike the ghost towns found in the high deserts of Arizona, Montana, and Utah, Alabama’s is decidedly spookier.

That’s partly thanks to the Spanish moss and bowed oak trees and cypresses lining the area. It hints at a tragic past that was wrapped in luxury—one that looks like a Hollywood movie set-type of scary.

The best way to learn more about Cahawba’s spine-tingling past is via its archaeological center, which offers highly-rated tours.

A Look at the Most Dangerous Travel Trends in Recent Years

We encounter many types of risks when traveling abroad.

The most common risk is tourist scams. Though problematic, distressing, and costly, most scams aren’t outright dangerous. In fact, some travelers consider getting scammed a right of passage.

But tourist scams aren’t the only danger out there.

While most travelers go to great lengths to avoid being scammed, others might actively put themselves at risk.

Thanks to viral social media trends and the desire to be seen, it seems like tourists are acting out in more creative ways worldwide.

Not all trends are outright dangerous—more so just ill-informed. For example, one of the latest TikTok trends is photographing aesthetically pleasing security bins at the airport. Influencers are actually taking the time to create picturesque arrangements in bins at airport security.

I’m sure I don’t need to point out why slowing down the security lines is stupid, at best. Still, it’s not dangerous.

But let’s take things to the extreme here… what about dangerous travel trends? What sorts of trouble are tourists getting themselves into—and why? Let’s dig in to explore some of the most dangerous travel fads from the last five years.

Mukbang

Mukbang is a social media trend that started in South Korea in the early 2010s. The goal is for streamers to eat as much as possible for a live, participating audience.

For the most part, mukbang videos are innocuous and/or intriguing, just like other niche trends like ASMR.

But some mukbangers are hitting the road, leading to a myriad of problems. There’s been a rise of mukbang videos filmed on planes, which isn’t necessarily dangerous as much as it is impolite and stinky.

The real danger is getting a fine for engaging in mukbang videos in certain countries. China, for example, is rolling out hefty fines for locals and visitors caught filming mukbang, as it violates food waste laws.

Renting motorbikes

Most Americans are focused on how to rent a car abroad, along with obtaining the appropriate licenses. But the real danger when it comes to transportation is motorbikes.

Each year, tens of thousands of tourists crash motorbikes—especially in areas like Southeast Asia where they’re easy to rent.

Crashing motorbikes has become such a problem that some regions are actually banning them. Bali, for example, passed a regulation in 2023 that seeks to restrict all tourists from accessing motorbikes.

Not only are irresponsible drivers putting themselves in danger, but they also risk hurting locals and damaging property.

Consuming drugs

Amsterdam is one of the best examples of overtourism—and one of the reasons the city became so popular is thanks to its liberal approach to drugs.

Until recently, Amsterdam’s coffee shops sold mushroom products to tourists alongside cannabis products. But regardless of the place, consuming drugs abroad is dangerous anywhere in the world.

Unfortunately, it looks like tourists are taking substances at higher rates than ever before. In areas like Amsterdam, tourists risk falling into the canals (it’s a serious issue) or being taken into custody until they sober up.

But in countries like Thailand, tourists can face criminal trials and even death for having or taking controlled substances.

Graffiti

And speaking of ending up in custody, graffiti is one of the most dangerous travel trends in the world. I consider it dangerous for two reasons: The degradation of historical property and criminal charges.

In places like Italy, for example, young tourists are consistently charged and fined for carving graffiti into places like the Coliseum. While damaging landmarks is nothing new, rates of defacement have skyrocketed over the last five years, especially in Europe.

Rawdogging flights

2024’s standout social media travel trend is the art of rawdogging long flights. The idea is to rely on as little entertainment and external stimuli as possible. Rather than read books, watch movies, or listen to podcasts, these passengers are instead staring out into the distance.

Some take the trend to the extreme, even avoiding food and water for the duration of their flight. That could put some passengers in danger of developing dehydration, while those with pre-existing conditions could suffer even more harmful effects.

Dark Tourism

Dark tourism is one of the most interesting and dangerous travel trends to come into focus over the last few years—even if it’s nothing new. As the world’s travel frontiers become less exotic and unknown, some tourists are swapping novelty for danger.

The idea is that traveling to countries facing instability adds to the thrill. Americans, in particular, have been opting to visit countries labeled as no-go zones by the Department of State, including North Korea, Iran, and Afghanistan.

Though many return home unharmed, they’re likely to face political, legal, and social risks during their travels.

Horror Shows: Best Haunted Houses in Pennsylvania

I swore off haunted houses early on in life.

It wasn’t the fear—it was the shame. As a young adult, I made the harrowing decision to go to a haunted house on a first date. Upon being chased by a man wielding a (chainless) chainsaw, I got turned around and rammed into a 114’ storm drainpipe.

I looked like an idiot. I don’t even remember if we dated after that. All I remember is the pain of hitting my knee on a storm drain and trying to play it off while still being chased by a man with a (chainless) chainsaw.

So began my villain’s journey.

Just kidding. I get the allure of haunted houses—I even ventured into one last year in Barcelona, Nightmare Horror Museum.

But it wasn’t nearly as hands-on or terrifying as my experience in Missouri. (The haunted house in question is called Creepyworld if any St. Louisans want to relive my nightmare.)

That begs the question… where in the world can you get a top-tier haunted house experience? According to publications like USA Greatest Haunts and FrightFind, you need to head to the home of the peace-loving Quakers: Pennsylvania. According to locals, these are the very best haunted houses in Pennsylvania.

Best haunted houses in Pennsylvania

ScareHouse

Want a seriously robust take on Halloween frights? Welcome to Pittsburgh’s ScareHouse. Similar to Hundred Acres Manor (below), the basics aren’t enough.

Along with a terrifying basement haunted house, guests can book experiences like The Chipped Fang and the Stalked By A Killer Escape Room. The Chipped Fang is a great option for those who don’t want to scream and have nightmares later.

Buy your tickets here

Hundred Acres Manor

Sometimes haunted houses aren’t enough to get the adrenaline pumping. That’s certainly one of the thoughts behind the more terrifying exhibits at Hundred Acres Manor, including its buried alive simulation.

This beloved Pittsburgh institution includes other worthwhile offers, from its Scream Bar (they serve actual booze) to its five-minute escape room challenge.

Buy your tickets here

Pennhurst Asylum

Pennsylvania’s Pennhurst State School and Hospital is considered one of the US’s most haunted destinations—no gimmicks involved.

This real-life school and hospital housed mentally and physically disabled children for almost 80 years before being shut down for a myriad of controversies.

So why not launch four haunted house exhibits near the same grounds as part of Pennhurst Asylum? You might not even be able to tell the real horrors from the simulated ones.

Buy your tickets here

Bates Motel

Voted as the best haunted house by travel and horror publications in the past, the Bates Motel can’t be missed for hardcore Halloween fans. Like many haunted house establishments, its exhibits are refreshed each year.

At Bates, you can expect a detail-oriented and high-value production. You can also enjoy other activities like a haunted hay ride and even axe throwing.

Get your tickets here

Field of Screams

This Pennsylvania favorite doesn’t have anything to do with cornfields. Instead, guests can choose between four different distinct experiences: the haunted hayride, the den of darkness, the frightmare asylum, or the latest addition—the nocturnal wasteland.

There are also slightly less frightening experiences like pumpkin picking, corn maze, and escape games. But beware. The Field of Screams seeks to live up to its name.

Get your tickets here

Fright Farm

Similar to Fright Factory (below), Fright Farm has been around for a while—and it’s well-known across the state. Thanks to decades of experience, guests can expect a well-rounded haunted house experience.

Along with its haunted house exhibits, you can enjoy things like a haunted hayride and spooky bonfire—or even go all-in with a VIP group tent experience.

Get your tickets here

Fright Factory

This Philly favorite is a top choice by locals. It’s a massive haunted house experience that’s located inside a 25,000-square-foot and 120-year-old warehouse. It’s been featured on Fox News, Travel Channel, and more over the years.

Guests wander through the Fright Factory’s three separate sections inside, each of which includes terrifyingly realistic exhibits from highly trained and passionate horror actors. Even the website is creeping me out.

Get your tickets here

Reaper’s Revenge

As one of Pennsylvania’s largest haunted houses, Reaper’s Revenge offers choices. For example, there are daytime attractions that are more geared toward younger visitors.

At night, however, the ghosts come out to play the exhibits like Delirium, Pitch Black, Sector 13, the Lost Carnival, and the Haunted Hayride. Not for the faint of heart.

Get your tickets here

Ravenwood Manor

Want a bit of historical edge amid your terrified screaming? Ravenwood Manor is a high-production haunted house that’s located inside an estate dating back to the 1860s.

Guests wander through 27 highly ornate and skin-crawling rooms. To top it off, guests can also request real-world information about Hegarty Mansion’s original inhabitants, Samuel and Josephine Hegarty.

Get your tickets here

Ghost Lake

Want to acquaint yourself with distinct horrors? Ghost Lake lets you do just that with its unique range of hauntings.

There are unique exhibits titled the Cannibal Carnival, St. Lucien’s House of Evil, Death Sentence, and something called the Tilt-a-Whirl—which looks like a standard carnival ride. For less haunt-hungry people like me, rides like that are a great compromise.

Get your tickets here