Room to Breathe: 6 of the Largest Resorts in the US

Want access to the largest resorts in the US? You’ll find them on the Strip and nearby in Las Vegas.

The Venetian & Palazzo has over 7,000 rooms spread across three massive towers, while the MGM Grand has around 6,850. That’s not counting the size of the resorts’ casinos and arenas, either.

Close behind Vegas’s casinos are Disneyland and Disney World resorts. The largest is Orlando’s Pop Century Resort, home to almost 3,000 rooms. It might not seem like much compared to the Venetian or MGM Grand, but the Pop Century Resort is the largest single-site employer in the country, with over 70,000 employees.

But what about horizontal sprawl instead of vertical reach?

If you’re looking for room to breathe (and stretch your legs) on your next vacation, you can find resorts across the country that feel like a world of their own. They’re purposefully off the beaten track to give you the keys to a perfect escape.

Ready to step into a new world? I’ve rounded up some of the largest resorts in the US by size and atmosphere—it’s time to start packing.

Largest resorts in the US based on trip type

Wildest pick: Paws Up, Montana
Rustic charm: Keweenaw Mountain Lodge, Michigan
Best activities: Skytop Lodge, Pennsylvania
Great for families: Primland, Virginia
Something unexpected: The Lodge at Blue Sky, Utah
Pure romance: Dunton Hot Springs, Colorado

Largest resorts in the US: a closer look

Wildest pick: The Resort at Paws Up, Montana

Technically a dude ranch, this massive resort is one of the largest in the country, spanning over 37,000 acres of untouched wilderness.

If you’re new to dude ranches, let me summarize: they’re ranches designed for hospitality purposes, letting wayward travelers play cowboy for a day. Many also include non-cowboy pastimes, like zip-lining adventures and shopping trips.

At Paws Up, you’ve got a handful of options for your stay. You can get a bit more rustic with a glamping tent, stick to a log cabin, head to one of the upscale vacation homes, and more. You can get your hands dirty with horseback riding and dog sleigh riding—or head to the spa to unwind in the lap of luxury.

The most important ingredient here is that pure Montana wild that surrounds you from all sides, giving you a sense of privacy and total rejuvenation.

Rustic charm: Keweenaw Mountain Lodge, Michigan

In case you haven’t heard, Keweenaw is one of the most scenic locations in the Midwest. Not only is it Michigan’s first dark-sky territory, making it ideal for stargazing, but it’s also one of the most jaw-dropping places to watch the fall foliage change.

Nestled in the heart of the peninsula is Keweenaw Mountain Lodge—a resort that’s perfect for your local adventures.

I should add a caveat: it’s ideal for your quieter adventures. In addition to being a dark sky reserve and covered in gorgeous forests, Keweenaw Mountain Lodge is also a part of the National Historic Register (founded in 1934) and has the Audubon International Green Lodging certification.

That gives you direct access to a historic hotel that’s also environmentally sustainable. Just beware that most of the cabins are very basic.

Best activities: Skytop Lodge, Pennsylvania

Speaking of history, I’m borrowing one of my favorite picks from Pennsylvania’s coolest historic hotels: Skytop Lodge. This grand, stately resort feels like something out of a Norman Rockwell painting. Since 1928, it’s hosted swanky guests on the hunt for lush treatment and plenty of space to roam.

Though you can expect a relaxing and upscale stay, Skytop Lodge is unique in that it hosts a massive gamut of no-frills activities. From pickleball to paintball to archery lessons, just about everything is on the menu.

And staff are highly trained (and practiced) at setting up activities that are just the right speed for your interests. I think the range of activities available makes Skytop Lodge great for families, too.

However, my top pick for family-friendly large-scale resorts is Primland. (Below.)

Great for families: Primland, Virginia

This highly regarded luxury resort takes you into the heart of Appalachia. At Primland, guests have 12,000 acres to explore the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains, which are accessible via hiking, horseback riding, and much more.

Similar to Skytop, there’s a long list of activities designed to capitalize on those mountain views. Families can choose between different accommodations, too. (There’s also a romance option for any couples out there.)

The treehouses, for example, are a top pick for kids, along with multi-room cabins. Uniquely, Primland also organizes kids-only events so that every generation can enjoy the experience at their own pace.

Something unexpected: The Lodge at Blue Sky, Utah

The Lodge at Blue Sky isn’t quite like other sprawling resorts. The luxury cabins are spread across 3,500 acres near the Wasatch Mountains—and it’s partly a working ranch, like Paws Up.

But there’s a twist. The Lodge at Blue Sky is also a horse sanctuary. Guests can get hands-on with rescued horses that have retired on the grounds.

Along with a full-service spa and two restaurants, guests can also take a whiskey-making course. The Lodge has its own High West Whiskey Distillery, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how liquid gold is made. Keep a lookout for discounts, too. The Lodge at Blue Sky sometimes offers discounts worth up to 25% off.

Pure romance: Dunton Hot Springs, Colorado

It’s pure romance at Dunton Hot Springs—so long as ghost towns don’t spook you.

Dunton Hot Springs is a full-scale resort set in the ghost town of the same name, which is located a short drive from Telluride. Set on a gorgeous mountainside, it’s like stepping into a more luxurious version of the past.

One that comes with fantastic hot spring offerings. On top of the warm waters, which are best experienced during the snowy winter months, you can enjoy a long list of outdoors activities. From ice climbing to dog sledding, there’s a unique list at your fingertips that you won’t forget anytime soon.

7 Best River Cruises in the World: Nile, Douro, & Beyond

When someone brings up cruises, we inevitably think about Caribbean adventures and Mediterranean escapes.

But river cruises, though less flashy, are also a perennial favorite for vacationers who like to get out on the water.

Compared to their sea-bound counterparts, river cruises stand out for a few reasons.

Scared of the open sea? You won’t lose sight of the shore on a river cruise. What about large crowds and resort-like setups? Most river cruises are small and intimate. Nervous about seasickness? River cruises stick to calmer waters, meaning rates of seasickness are much lower.

I could keep going, touching on topics like affordability, accessibility, and destinations, but I’m sure you get the point.

River cruises aren’t just a viable alternative to traditional cruises—they’re a separate, bona fide adventure all in their own right.

Most Americans stick to familiar rivers in Europe. Companies like Viking, Avalon, and AmaWaterways service well-known routes along the Danube, Rhine, Seine, and Volga Rivers.

If you’re interested in learning more about these river cruises, you can read up on topics like Christmas-market-themed river cruises, UNESCO sites along the Danube, taking day trips off the Rheine, and much more.

But what if you want to get a little bit further off the beaten path?

River cruises are available around the world, far beyond the reaches of popular European picks. If you’re ready to forge into new waters, check out the river cruises listed below.

Best river cruises around the world

The Nile (Egypt)

Felucca sailboats on River Nile, Aswan, Egypt, Africa (Getty)

The Nile is the world’s longest river—which is impressive enough. But there’s also a romantic edge to this river, which feeds 10 countries in East Africa.

It plays on our historical imagination, building on childhoods spent learning about Ancient Egyptians and the powers of the Nile to feed their irrigation canals.

A tour of the Nile will put you face-to-face with some of our world’s oldest manmade structures, from gorgeous and ancient temples to the grand Sphinx. To top it all off, many Nile River vessels are charmingly stylish with bright white sails.

Douro (Portugal)

Terraced vineyards in autumn in the Douro Valley along the Douro River in Portugal. (Getty)

Some smaller river cruises pass through France’s southern wine regions. If you’ve heard of the Douro, which runs through northern Portugal, you probably remember the name from a winery tour.

In fact, the Douro River feeds some of the country’s oldest and most prestigious wineries. (The Douro also passes through Spain.)

That’s the magic here: access to Portugal’s most high-producing wineries and their delectable products. But you’re also in for a dose of history, from exploring medieval fortresses to heading into small villages with stone-cobbled streets and homes. Rich culture, rich food, and rich wines.

Magdalena (Colombia)

beautiful flight of many egrets on the banks of the rio Magdalena river in the department of Bolivar (Getty)

If you’ve ever read Love In The Time of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia Marquez, you might recall the book’s ending: our elderly, star-crossed lovers finally find refuge on a small boat cruising the Magdalena River.

Sheltered in the exotic and wild jungles of Colombia, Fermina Daza and Florentino Ariza at last find solace with one another.

Though Garcia Marquez is a magical realist writer, the river from his book actually exists—and you can traverse the same waters on a Magdalena River cruise. You can visit spots like Cartagena and Barranquilla, along with smaller gems like Mompox and Palenque.

Mekong (Southeast Asia)

People boating in the delta of Mekong river, Vietnam, Asia. (Getty)

The second time I left the United States, I was heading to the Mekong. This river lives in my head as a larger-than-life, muddy, and powerful natural wonder—one that’s home to pink Irrawaddy dolphins.

The Mekong descends from China into Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Thailand. It weaves through lush jungles, agriculture areas, and is so large that its actually dotted with islands.

My time on the Mekong was spent in Cambodia around Kratie, but you can pick from routes that cover multiple Southeast Asian countries. Tours and cruises are also popular in Vietnam and Laos, with options for single-day and multi-day river adventures.

Yangtze (China)

China. Misty view of a sunset while cruising along the shores of the mighty Yangtze River. (Getty)

If you were a fan of geography, you might remember lessons on the Yangtze in China from grade school. The Yangtze is the longest river in Asia, providing important watersheds from dozens of unique ecologies.

That means one thing when you go on a Yangtze River cruise: expect variation.

The most popular portion of the river cruise is the Three Gorges section, which is home to dramatic gorges covered in lush greenery. Along the way, you can explore sites like the Fengdu Ghost City, Baidicheng Castle, and Shibaozhai Tower.

The Ganges (India)

Beautiful Evening Light near Ganga Ghat, Varanasi (Getty)

The Ganges is the most spiritually important river in the world. It cuts through Northeast India and passes through the holy city of Varanasi. In Hinduism, making a pilgrimage to Varanasi to bathe in the Ganges is an important rite of cleansing.

If you do make it to the Ganges in Varanasi, you’ll also notice bodies being cremated along the river—most ashes are heading to the Ganges as the final resting place.

A Ganges River cruise will take you around the Indian countryside, as well as through a few major cities, including Varanasi. Personally, I found the countryside more interesting during my stint in the country, as I’d already been exposed to India’s densely populated cities.

Mississippi (USA)

This view of the Mississippi river basin is from the “Great River Bluffs State Park” in Minnesota. (Getty)

Last, but certainly not least, the Great Mississippi. I grew up near the convergence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, along with the Meramec River, which has given me a healthy appreciation of muddy, rushing waters. (Yes, it floods a lot.)

Mississippi River cruises don’t just let you get out on our country’s greatest waterway—you can also stop along the way in some of the Midwest’s and South’s quaintest cities.

From Minneapolis to Saint Louis to Memphis to NOLA, you’ll be in good company.

4 Destinations Not to Miss on Ireland’s Western Coast

Though most visitors arrive in Dublin, some of Ireland’s greatest wonders will be found on the other side of the island.

That might sound like a problem for travelers who want to explore the Emerald Isle in its entirety—but it’s easier to get around than you might think.

When I visited Ireland, I had a tour guide who acted like a (Dominic Torretto-inspired) chauffeur, driving me and my mom from Dublin to Galway to Dingle to Killarney to Cork to Tramore and then back up again.

That trip, which lasted a little over a week, covered a pretty huge swath of Ireland’s central and southern half. I know it’s very short of a complete tour of Ireland; I’m using the example to highlight that you can get from Dublin to counties like Galway, Clare, Limerick, Kerry, and Cork without too much effort.

In fact, you might be missing out on some of the country’s coolest byways and sites by sticking to the eastern coast.

My favorite stop along the way was Killarney, a lusciously gorgeous town tucked away in the mountains. But I’m well aware that I only got the tip of the Gaelic iceberg during my short time in the country.

When I go back, here’s what I don’t want to miss on the western coast.

4 destinations on Ireland’s western coast—plus, what to do

Keem Bay on Achill Island

View of the picturesque Keem Bay and beach on Achill Island in County Mayo in western Ireland (Getty)

Surfing… in Ireland? Welcome to Keem Bay, one of the most gorgeous beaches in Ireland. It’s located on the western edge of Achill Island in County Mayo. You can lounge on the beach and watch surfers and dolphins ride the waves.

Though you’ll need to drive for a few hours to reach it, the drive itself is worth noting. Consider checking out Keel Beach, too. It’s known for its raw beauty.

Killary Fjord

Irland, County Galway, Connemara, Killary Harbour, Fjord (Getty)

Yes, there’s surfing in Ireland—and a fjord, too. Known as An Caoláire Rua, Killary Fjord is located on the border between County Galway and County Mayo.

The massive landmark spans almost ten miles, meaning you can’t simply show up for a photo opportunity. In fact, one of the only ways to get up close and personal with Killary Fjord is via boat tours in Leenane.

Personally, I’d love to explore the fjord and coastline here. During my trip across Ireland, I kept being reminded of Norway—both countries have lush stretches of greenery that blanket large, impressive peaks.

Kayaking in Connemara National Park

The hiking trail at the top of Diamond Hill in Connemara National Park, Ireland. Behind, the sun plays with the clouds reflected in the sea. (Getty)

My Irish tour guide zipped through Connemara National Park on my way to Galway, and it was one of the most impactful parts of the trip. When I go back, I’d love to spend more time in the rugged, gorgeous park—and definitely get out on the water.

I also wouldn’t mind taking a tour that’s specific to the park. Archaeologists have discovered remains of human settlements that date back 4,000 years, making this a hot spot for anyone who likes a dose of history and science with their travels.

Flaggy Shore

Speaking of nerding out, you might also be interested in Flaggy Shore. Located in the same geopark as the Cliffs of Moher, Flaggy Shore is better known for its limestone deposits, many of which contain fossils.

You can find scratches from glaciers that existed over 300 million years ago, along with something called ‘glacial erratics’.

Again, I recommend finding a qualified tour guide to point out what makes Flaggy Shore cool. But given its proximity to the Cliffs of Moher, it would be a shame for it to fly under your radar like it did when I visited.

Bonus pick: Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park, County Kerry, Ireland (Getty)

I heard many tales about fairies and sprites during my time in Ireland. As someone who loves mythology and folklore, my ears perked up anytime there were murmurs of ethereal beings.

But I didn’t actually feel the enchantment until I went on a short hike in Killarney National Park. Then, I felt it so much I got spooked—the same type of exciting, whispering spook that overcame me when coming face-to-face with the redwoods in Northern California for the first time.

Even if you don’t believe in that type of thing, I promise you’ll be swept up by the gorgeous views and atmosphere. There’s an ancient air thanks to all that bright green moss. Home to Ireland’s only wild red deer populations and some of its last native forests, it’s also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

5 (Semi) Hidden Gems in Sydney, Australia You Can’t Miss

If you’re flying all the way to Sydney, Australia, you can’t afford to miss out on the city’s best attractions.

From making the time to visit the famous sites and landmarks to finding the perfect rental, there’s a lot that goes into creating a seamless trip Down Under.

But given the distance from the United States and the cost of flying across the planet, it’s not likely a trip that you’ll repeat anytime soon.

Thankfully, Sydney is a large city—one that’s home to various counter-cultures, dives, and hidden gems. For the average traveler, it’s not hard to get lost in neighborhoods like Surry Hills and Chippendale. There, you can find more textured, surprising experiences that take you off the tourist track of Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach.

After all, the most memorable trips aren’t always the most predictable ones.

If you want to dig deeper into Sydney’s weirder side, check out these five hidden gems. You can easily bundle them into your existing itinerary to create a more pleasantly surprising trip.

5 hidden gems in Sydney

White Rabbit Gallery

I told you—Chippendale is one of the coolest neighborhoods in the world, not just the country or the city. There, you’ll find White Rabbit Gallery. This unassuming building is home to some of the most famous and impactful artwork from Chinese artists since the turn of the 21^st century.

If you’re a fan of fine art, especially of the Eastern variety, you probably already know about the gallery. If you don’t—and even if you’re not one for fine art—you’ll enjoy its exhibits.

At the moment, you can enjoy the space’s 32^nd exhibit called XSWL, which includes pieces from famed Chinese artists. There’s also a gorgeous tea house where you can rest your legs and eyes after all that staring.

Fairy Bower Pool

Who doesn’t love an avant-garde pool? Located in the Marine Parade in Sydney is Fairy Bower Pool. This unique watering hole consists of a triangular-shaped slab of rock that residents created back in 1929.

As it nears its centennial, you can take a dip and enjoy the seaside views—and the sculptures that line the pool, which are reminiscent of nymphs.

Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden

For years, this gorgeous little cove has welcomed visitors and locals alike. Like the name suggests, Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden is tucked away from Sydney’s main drag.

As soon as you step inside, you’ll feel like you’ve exchanged the metro madness outside for a charming jungle escape.

You’ll probably also feel like you’re participating in something special—and it really is a touching project.

Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden comes from an artist (named Wendy) who sought refuge and solace after losing her husband in the 1990s. She planted the gardens at an unused railroad site near her home; though it was never her property, nobody stopped her, and she’s now the champion of one of Sydney’s coolest attractions.

Wildflower Brewing & Blending

You can make booze out of pretty much anything. At least, that’s what the great minds at Wildflower Brewery believe. They make beers from yeast and bacteria of native New South Wales flowers. (New South Wales = province where Sydney is located.)

The result is a range of light and unique brews that you (literally) won’t find elsewhere. Not only do they source their ingredients carefully, but they also participate in regenerative practices to support local fauna.

You can visit their ‘village’ location just outside Sydney in Marrickville.

Badu Mangroves

If you’re heading to Sydney Olympic Park, then make sure you set aside time to explore the Badu Mangroves. Previously overlooked, these unique wetlands and waterbird park are now a popular route for locals who want to hike and cycle.

The Badu Mangroves span over 56 hectares, stretching from the Olympic Park down to Homebush Bay. There’s a large boardwalk, along with smaller walkways that weave throughout the wetlands.

There’s even a massive shipwreck known as the Floating Forest thanks to the green blanket of plants and trees overtaking it.

Doctor Travel Tips: These 2 Supplements Will Save Your Immune System

Of all the popular travel topics out there, health is one of the most frequently covered.

I’ve covered health from many angles over the last year alone.

In terms of nitty-gritty physical health, you should watch what you eat and drink on the plane, along with at your destination. Then, there are topics like how to fall asleep on a plane and how to use tech to get ahead of jet lag.

You can rely on a balance of apps, old wives’ tales, and medical advice to get you through long-haul flights, letting you arrive at your destination refreshed and ready to go.

Personally, I’m a big fan of the regular-old Emergen-C packets. They’re part of my arsenal any time I travel, giving me the vitamins and supplements I need to stay healthy.

But if you’re strategically using supplements like me, you should probably be following a few golden rules, like knowing when to take them, for example.

I’m taking advice from Dr. Steve Burgess of CME Vacations, a doctor who organizes international trips for conferences related to continued medical education. He knows a thing or two about the immune system, which supplements kickstart it, and how to use them to travel in full health.

Here’s what Dr. Burgess has to say about taking supplements when traveling.

Travel tips: how to boost your immune system with two supplements

Vitamin C & zinc are your best friends

Don’t worry about delving into the world of mineral and herbal supplements—Dr. Burgess wants you to keep it simple. He recommends buying vitamin C and zinc supplements before your next trip.

Vitamin C boosts the immune system by supporting cell functions, meaning it will strengthen your immune system to work around the clock at full force. Zinc, on the other hand, prevents viral infections from spreading throughout the body.

Zinc is particularly helpful for your respiratory tract, where most infections start during air travel. According to Dr. Burgess, studies have shown that zinc can directly reduce the severity and length of a cold when taken early enough.

Lozenges are better than pills

The Emergen-C packets I mentioned above come in a powder form and are soluble. They include vitamin C and zinc, along with a bevy of other supplements, including electrolytes.

But you might want to consider lozenges in certain cases.

According to Dr. Burgess, zinc lozenges, in particular, help combat viral respiratory infections because they coat the throat and respiratory tract. It’s fighting the potential infection right where it starts.

However, if you can’t find lozenges in time, you’ll still benefit from pills or drinkable powders.

Take supplements two hours before arriving at the airport

Here’s the important part. Dr. Burgess’s advice of taking vitamin C and zinc supplements isn’t necessarily groundbreaking—but he has one genius piece of advice that you need to know: it’s all about timing.

Many travelers (including me) take supplements when they arrive at their destination or start to feel a sickness coming on.

In reality, our bodies need at least one or two hours to absorb vitamin C and zinc (amongst other supplements). According to Dr. Burgess, you should take them one or two hours before arriving at the airport. That way, you’re giving your body a perfectly timed immune boost.

Or other high-traffic zones

Dr. Burgess recommends keeping those supplements handy when you’re heading into other high-traffic zones aside from the airport.

While the plane and gate area are sure to be congested, you’re likely to find yourself in other high-traffic zones, from busy bars on weekend nights to popular sites like Times Square.

Best Hostel Chains for Solo Travelers: Top 3 Picks

A more insular solo traveler might prefer a regular old hotel room or rental—but many solo adventurers prefer a more dynamic lodging experience.

The main focus for solo travelers is safety. But once you’re certain that you’ve found a secure set of options, you’re probably changing gears.

When it comes to the best hostel chains for solo travelers, you don’t just need a safe room to sleep in at night—you also need helpful staff who can give you suggestions and point you in the right direction.

On top of that, you might also want social activities that let you meet other solo travelers straight from your hotel. Hotels that offer a calendar of things to do take a load off solo travelers who are tired of itinerary-building. On top of that, making a few friends can ease feelings of loneliness and nerves.

Here’s my point: Finding the right place to stay can make or break your solo travel adventure. To simplify the process, I’m recommending some of my favorite hotel and hostel chains that have locations around the world.

Whether you’re after a solo suite or a shared bunkbed room, you’ll find what you’re looking for below.

On top of that, the hostel brands listed below also offer something extra—from solo-traveler-specific packages to co-working spaces where you can clock in for a bit.

Best hostel chains for solo travelers

Moxy by Marriott (Global)

Coworking capabilities, social calendar, & options to scale up
Locations: 176 locations worldwide

Washington, DC, USA- January 12, 2020: Sign of Moxy Hotel on the building in Washington, DC, USA. Getty.

Billed as ‘stylish and playful hotels’, there’s a pretty straightforward premise here: Moxy gives you a safe place to rest your head at night while also handing you the keys to social hour after social hour. Show up ready for a good time—I mean it, check-in takes place at the bar.

When your social battery is drained, you can head back to your room for some shut-eye—or to the coworking space where you can log a few hours on the clock. The choice is yours.

Yotel (Global)

A simple setup, two brands to choose from, & solo traveler-specific packages
Locations: 18 locations worldwide (not including YOTELAIR)

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – DECEMBER 01, 2020: A person wears a face mask outside Yotel hotel. (Photo by Noam Galai/Getty Images)

Yotel was my go-to in New York City anytime I couldn’t stay with a friend. I was mainly using Yotel as a place to leave my bags and sleep between meeting up with friends across the city. It was reliable, secure, and located in a central spot—very useful for my utilitarian solo travel needs.

But Yotel has plenty more to offer. You can choose from two options: YOTEL, great for shorter stays, and YOTELPAD, which is ideal for longer trips and remote work sessions. (There’s also an airport option called YOTELAIR).

The cherry on top is the chain’s new MeDay package, which is designed to help solo travelers unwind.

Meininger Hotels (Europe)

Best of both hotels & hotels, pet-friendly, and long-stay ready
Locations: 36 locations across Europe

Germany Berlin Tiergarten (Mitte) – Hotel ‘M Meininger’ at the square ‘Los-Angeles-Platz’ at the main station (Photo by Schöning/ullstein bild via Getty Images)

If you don’t fit the bill as a socially-minded solo traveler, Meininger has a room for you. Unlike most hostel chains for solo travelers, you get both hotel-style and hostel-style amenities.

From family-style rooms to shared bunkbed setups, it’s a dynamic and affordable take on hospitality.

Plus, they give you the power to work from most of their locations, making this chain a great pick for digital nomads in their thirties and forties.

If you’ll be solo traveling as part of a workcation, Meininger has the tools you need to book a comfortable, long-term stay. You can extend your trip up to 30 nights and even bring a pet along with you. Additionally, you still have access to those hostel-style amenities, including a shared full kitchen.