How to Visit Bell Works (aka Lumon) from Severance

I haven’t seen Severance, and I only heard about it because everyone was suddenly talking about belly buttons. (Don’t judge me. I live in Europe—I’m outside the zeitgeist.)

Turns out, innies and outies are two sides of a bisected consciousness in Apple TV’s fictional world of endless workdays.

With my curiosity piqued, I finally looked into Severance as its second season launched—

Only to realize it’s filmed in one of my favorite buildings in the US: Bell Works.

I love Adam Scott and I adore heady, metaphysical content—but I loooooove Bell Works. Not only is it the site of major scientific research that saw American Steven Chu nab a Nobel Prize for laser-cooling, but it’s also a super-villain-caliber structure.

On top of that, Bell Works comes from architect Eero Saarinen, who also designed the TWA Hotel in New York City and the St. Louis Gateway Arch. Also, it looks like something fresh out of a postmodern vision board… even though the building is now over 60 years old, having been completed in 1962.

It’s an endlessly cool place to film an endlessly fascinating series like Severance.

Again, I have never seen the TV show—but I’m happy to entertain the millions of Americans who are suddenly interested in the visually dynamic and sprawling film set that is Bell Works.

Let’s gush over how to visit Lumon.

What is Bell Works used for today?

Bell Works isn’t a hub for scientific experiments today. After sitting abandoned between 2007 and 2013, it’s slowly been renovated and brought back to life.

As of 2025, it’s a massive event space that performs multiple functions. As the website puts it ‘there’s always a reason to visit Bell Works’.

With a ballroom, patio, workspaces, theatre, and more, it’s a dynamic setup that’s open to companies, individuals, and event organizers. There’s coworking areas, private office spaces, and even retail space. You can eat, you can dance, you can stare out over the water and think about eternal nothingness.

You might even see the Severance crew doing their thing, as the space isn’t shut down for filming. Given Bell Works is over two million square feet, there’s plenty of room for you to roam.

How can you visit Bell Works?

If you want to visit Bell Works, you can visit as a guest in a number of ways. (Or even join as a freelance worker.)

The space is open seven days a week, and the event calendar is packed year-round. There’s trivia night, doggy disco, karaoke, a women’s wine-tasting course, and more—and that’s just in the month of March.

Aside from attending a public event, you can also head to Bar Bella or the Bell Theater. If fine arts are your thing, check out the Art Space. Bell Works hosts month-long exhibits from local artists often.

Also… is there anything else to do in Holmdel, New Jersey?

Whether or not you’re a fan of Severance, Bell Works is definitely worth a visit. There’s just one catch… its location. Bell Works is located in Holmdel, New Jersey, which is located in central New Jersey.

Though it’s technically a commuter town to New York City, they aren’t exactly a stone’s throw from each other. The best way to reach Bell Works is to drive almost 50 miles for around an hour from the city.

If you don’t plan on spending too much time in Bell Works, you might want to visit nearby attractions. Fox Hollow Vineyards is a popular winery that’s around Holmdel, along with Pleasant Valley Lavender.

5 Tips to Find a Great Local Restaurant—And Avoid Tourist Traps

I live smack in the center of Barcelona, one of Europe’s most overrun tourist zones.

Overtourism is becoming a more prevalent problem around Europe, slowly expanding beyond hot zones like Barcelona, Venice, and Amsterdam. From tightly packed museums to exposure to scams to price gauging for basic goods, these destinations can feel like a minefield for travelers.

One of the more unique but pressing ways that overtourism can negatively impact your trip is by complicating the mission of finding a good meal.

My dad recently visited me in Barcelona. During the day, he had to fend for himself (so I could write these articles), which included finding meals. Like most Americans, he’s a huge fan of breakfast, so I gave him three recommendations for good brunch spots. (These are Cremat 11, Nonna’s Brunch, and Gringa, if anyone is looking for a solid brunch in Barcelona.)

But my dad can’t be penned in—not even by tried-and-true recommendations. He went off the reservation, so to speak, and came back complaining about overpaying for a subpar meal.

Though the restaurant looked like my other recommendations, the food was bland and pricey.

It’s a growing problem for high-traffic zones.

While nobody wants to pay for a disappointing meal, heading to the wrong restaurants can also destroy a trip for foodies who want to explore the local culture via dining.

Some restaurants are set up to look like a delicious option, luring in hungry tourists only to serve up disappointing dishes—usually, at high prices.

How to spot a trap—tips from a digital marketing expert

It’s easy to wander down the wrong (culinary) path when we travel because we’re purposefully drawn in via social media, Google, word of mouth, and even seeing long lines.

According to digital marketing expert Mark Baldwin of Baldwin Digital, the biggest culprit is the algorithm that dictates what types of restaurants we’re shown online.

Digital habits steer us toward certain restaurants, including tourist traps.

They have hundreds of alluring photos—but they’re overpriced to account for social status, they serve up food they think their international visitors want to eat, and they’re overcrowded and rushed.

If you want to spot one, look for signs like fancy photo shoots, menus that diverge from local tastes, and a notable absence of locals. These three factors combined often signal a tourist trap.

Here’s how Baldwin suggests avoiding these types of restaurants.

How to find a great local restaurant: 5 tips

Tip 1: Ask locals when you’re outside of tourist zones

Locals are the first and most important authority on your destination. Don’t be afraid to ask for suggestions, especially for those outside tourist zones. Usually, locals are excited to point visitors in more genuine directions.

Tip 2: Shop local at the market(s)

From farmer’s markets to fresh food stalls, there’s usually a tasty dining experience in the immediate vicinity of where ingredients are bought. These restaurants are usually casual, designed for locals, and delicious.

Tip 3: Research local food blogs.

Again, locals have the answers you need—and many of their suggestions won’t be listed high on your algorithm. Dig deeper when doing research to find local culinary voices, then uncover the spots locals are excited about. Most foodie experts use social media or blogs to get their voice out there.

Tip 4: Join a local food tour

Food tours aren’t a tough sell. I usually book a food tour (or a cooking class) in every city I visit. Just make sure that when you book a food tour, it’s being led by a local. Once again, they’ll be able to take you off the beaten path.

Tip 5: Learn to love a non-English menu

Depending on what type of smartphone you have, you might be able to point your camera at text and immediately translate it. If that’s the case, no menu is off-limits for you. Usually, a non-English menu is a strong signal that a restaurant is for locals.

7 Glamping Sites in California for Your Golden State Adventure

Waiting just beyond the city limits of San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego is a different type of Californian adventure.

You might be thinking about wilderness excursions in Yosemite National Park, Joshua Tree, Death Valley, Kings Canyon, or Redwood National and State Parks—but I’m talking about the middle ground.

Not the bright lights of a city or the rugged wilderness of a camping trip, but the near-perfect balance of modern amenities and nature that can be found at glamping sites.

Given California’s penchant for both glamor and outdoorsy pursuits, it’s no surprise that it is one of the premier states to find highly rated glamping spots. (You might be more surprised to hear that most glamping sites in the state are usually affordable.)

Ready to actually soak up the best in California? Don’t bother with a big city or a major park. Head to one of these glamping spots instead.

7 of the best glamping sites in California

The River Electric, Guerneville

The River Electric is a brand new property set to open up on Memorial Day Weekend, showcasing furnished tents nestled amid forested lanes. There’s also a gorgeous pool area that functions as an independent pool club, welcoming guests for the day.

Given its proximity to Sonoma’s vineyards, there’s also an exclusive wine blend program. That’s a combination that’s pretty hard to beat, especially when you consider The River Electric’s reasonable pricing.

Mendocino Grove, Mendocino

Perfectly situated between the beach and miles of hiking trails, Mendocino Grove is a truly state-of-the-art glamping site. But those canvas tents, sheltered under towering trees, are just the start of a fulfilling vacation. There’s also a coffee shop and game room, which adds the modern flair you want out of Californian glamping.

Safari West, Santa Rosa

Want a dash of African culture in your glamping experience? Head to Safari West in Santa Rosa.

This glamping spot doubles as a wildlife foundation, meaning you get to glamp near one of the state’s coolest outdoor drive-through parks. Animal lovers, look no further! Not only will you get a top-notch glamping stay, but you also get to sleep nearby nearly 1,000 exotic creatures, from giraffes to longhorns to zebras.

Beach Canyon Tipis, Topanga Canyon

Looking for a little kitsch with your glamping experience? The Beach Canyon Tipis site blends traditional Native American tipi design with modern amenities like hot showers, Wi-Fi, and continental breakfasts.

Located right off the Pacific Coast Highway, it’s one of the coolest glamping offers I’ve seen in the US—one that’s easily bundled into a road trip adventure.

Treebones Resort, Big Sur

Dreaming of ocean views? You’ve got options at Treebones Resort in Big Sur. Its highly unique autonomous tents span over 600 square feet with direct, and dramatic, ocean views.

It’s pure, upscale glamping that you would expect from a high-profile destination like Big Sur. Though the price points are a bit higher, it’s worth it—you also have access to seasonal whale-watching opportunities, yoga classes, and a pool and hot tub.

Desolation Hotel, Hope Valley

Don’t let the name confuse you. Desolation Hotel is an expansive property that offers a range of lodging options, including gorgeous yurts.

With multiple ski lodges in the vicinity, it’s ideal for winter adventures. Some lodging options even include ski-in access. You can also opt for more modern and upscale rooms, if you’re still on the edge about glamping.

Inn Town Campground, Nevada City

Inn Town Campground has a summer camp vibe in the best way possible. Along with glamping tents, guests can also choose from RV hookups and tent sites.

Though the glamping lodges aren’t exactly state-of-the-art, they’re still well-made, well-appointed, and give you the perfect pad to get into the outdoors at your leisure. (Plus, they have covered porches—perfect for lounging and listening to the croon of cicadas.)

7 Reasons to Consider a Skillcation

One of my favorite parts of being a travel writer is watching new trends take off.

Since 2020, I’ve seen sustainability-focused travel, solo travel, and women-only travel programs take off. I’ve watched hospitality trends shift from Airbnb slowly back to hotels—and boutique hotels, on top of that. I’ve watched travelers swap large companies and resorts for smaller, more locally-led experiences.

Are you ready to hear the latest concept emerging on the travel horizon?

Skillcations.

A skillcation combines elements of leisure and education. If you’ve taken a casual, two-hour cooking class on any of your recent vacations, you get the gist. Travelers are able to learn something new in a low-stakes, relaxed environment.

(They get bonus points if they’re learning about local traditions and customs as they do. Even more bonus points if the skill they’re learning relates to their profession.)

Even if you hated school, you might love a skillcation. Here’s why you should keep these opportunities on your radar.

7 reasons to consider a skillcation in 2025

Female tourists who came to Japan have a ninja experience (Getty)

Reason #1: It’s still tourism

A skillcation can be as brief or extensive as you want it to be. Like I mentioned in the introduction, those two-hour cooking classes are technically educational. On the other hand, there are dozens of companies that offer skillcation-based trips. So, if you want to take a more hands-on approach to learning a new skill, you can plan your whole trip around a multi-day course.

The sky is the limit. Just don’t get hung up on turning your whole trip into a skillcation if that’s not what you want. Remember—you’re still on vacation.

Reason #2: You’ll go home with a new skill

What’s better than a souvenir? Knowledge.

Having learned a new skill, whether that’s knowing how to shoot a bow and arrow, how to paint pottery in a traditional style, or how to weave a basket out of dried reeds, you’ll be leveling up with a skillcation.

In many cases, you’ll also leave with a few hand-made, artisanal goods in your bag… some of which you might have created yourself!

Reason #3: Casual courses are fun as hell

I’m a nerd who enjoys learning for the sake of learning. But if you’re a slightly less curious person, you should know that skillcation courses can also be a riot.

Of course, this depends on what type of group you’re joining; if students have linguistic or cultural barriers, it might be tougher to ‘read the room’.

But even if your lesson doesn’t involve a few belly laughs, I guarantee you’ll still make connections with students and/or instructors. Courses are also a great way to learn about recommendations, from bars to museums to day trips.

Wide shot of group of friends taking traditional Mayan cooking class while on vacation (Getty)

Reason #4: They also open doors to new interests

Skillcations let you walk away from vacation with a brand new skill in your back pocket—hence, the name. But they can also shake up your worldview and introduce you to new interests. My partner famously developed an interest in mixing his own cocktails after we took a mixology course.

Years later, he’s become a fantastic at-home bartender. He knows where the good alcohol shops are, along with all the best local bars. And we have an afternoon mixology course to thank for that.

Reason #5: You might not get the chance elsewhere

The aforementioned examples of cooking classes and mixology courses might not paint the best picture of just how hyper-local some skillcation experiences are. Some skillcation opportunities simply won’t be found elsewhere.

For example, you can learn about glaciers in Iceland—a country home to a handful of the world’s largest glaciers. You can learn cheese-making in Switzerland, cochineal beetle dye-making in Mexico, pierogi-making in Poland, and more.

The best skillcations take you straight to the source.

Reason #6: It’s rewarding, and maybe even transformational

Along with opening doors to new interests, learning something new can give you a boost in novel ways. If you’re struggling after a period of poor health or a major life change, learning something new empowers you by activating your mind and proving that you’re still up for a challenge.

Will taking an ice sculpture class in China change your life in and of itself? No, probably not—but it will give you a chance to relate to yourself in a new way and see at least one small practice in a new light. In other words, it has the potential to transform your outlook.

Reason #7: You could develop professional skills

Some skillcations are more about learning than leisure. As a professional and creative writer, I’m always intrigued by writing, poetry, and arts courses. Even classes that revolve around calligraphy, for example, have piqued my professional interest.

If you’re working in a specific industry, consider a skillcation to breathe new passion into your work and explore new avenues. If you’re lucky, you might even convince your employer to buck up for part of the bill.

Solo, Women-Only Travel: What Is It & What Are Programs Like?

Solo travel is having a heyday—and so are women-only travel tours.

I’ve noticed solo travel take off in the last few years because it offers travelers a more intimate, flexible, and transformative experience. Without friends or family to entertain, solo travelers can delve more deeply into the types of tours that spark intrigue for them.

From Africa to Asia to the Caribbean, there’s a perfect destination for every person out there.

Women-only tours, by contrast, often focus on women over the age of 40. With added income and time at their disposal, they’re seeking out adventures that weren’t accessible to them in their twenties and thirties.

Many are looking for new connections with other women who are also in transitional life periods. Some might also seek out women-only experiences for cultural and religious reasons.

But there’s a new trend on the horizon—one that combines the personal focus of solo travel with the community-building element of women-only travel.

Welcome to a growing sector of solo, women-only trips and programs.

So, how did we get here? And what do these types of trips usually look like?

Why is women-only travel taking off?

Most women-only travel is focused on making personal connections with like-minded women. It’s really that simple.

As I outlined before, most of these travelers are over the age of 40 and are transitioning to a new life period—one that affords them more time, curiosity, and funds. (It’s a demographic that’s now called Queenagers. Love it.)

But age and freedom aren’t the only cases. Some women seek out gendered tours and trips because it’s culturally and religiously appropriate. They might not be comfortable spending time with men outside of their immediate families.

Though I’m not from a religion or culture that emphasizes that type of separation, it makes sense.

Let me paint a picture. On my last flight (a seven-hour trip from Atlanta to Barcelona), the man sitting next to me in our two-seater row decided to chat me up. He offered to buy me a drink, then found a way to start conversations with me throughout the flight before ultimately asking for my number and offering to take me out to dinner.

Was he a threat? I sincerely doubt it. Was it still really uncomfortable to be in that position for several hours? Yeah.

Let me paint another picture. Last September while heading out on a press trip, I hailed a cab at 7 am. A drunk man who was also headed to the airport at that time asked to hitch a ride, and I had to decide whether he was actually going to the airport, drunk enough to pose a threat to me, whether the taxi driver would step in, and what to do. At 7 am, while heading out on a work trip.

I think these two (very, very tame) examples from the last year paint a great picture of why women like to move in packs, even as solo travelers. You’re less likely to be derailed, and you’re less likely to hesitate to say no to someone who’s being pushy.

How can you find a women-only solo travel experience?

Women-only travel has been around for close to a decade. Intrepid Travel notably led the charge back in 2018 with its Women’s Expeditions program.

Last year, Insight Vacations joined with its women-only tours, which is followed by new programs from Geographic Expeditions.

This year, EF Go Ahead Tours is joining the women-only travel craze. They recently rolled out seven new women-only tours geared toward solo travelers on the hunt for connection, skills development, and meaningful transformation.

Priced between $3,000-4,500, they’re a little more expensive than Intrepid’s offer, but I’m recommending them because they’re very comprehensive. Not only can you expect a well-organized tour, but you can also expect to meet women tour guides, artisans, experts, and more while on the trip.

It’s women-women-women all the way around.

Here are EF Go Ahead’s women-only tours:

Italy (Rome, Tuscany, Italian Lakes)
Greek Islands (Athens, Rhodes, Crete)
Ireland, England, Scotland
Thailand (Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi)
Peru (Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, Machu Picchu)
Spain & Portugal (Madrid, Seville, Lisbon)
Egypt (Cairo & Nile River)

4 ‘International’ Destinations Where Americans Can Travel Without a Passport

Remember the days when you didn’t need a passport to enter Mexico or Canada?

Technically, Americans are still allowed to enter and exit Mexico and Canada via land or sea without a passport… with a NEXUS card, that is. However, given the vast majority of visitors fly, they still need a valid passport.

That’s not the most feasible arrangement, in my opinion. (If you’re going to go to the lengths of getting a NEXUS card, just go for the passport.)

Still, Mexico and Canada aren’t the end-all of passport-free travel. In fact, Americans have a handful of options when it comes to long-distance destinations that don’t require a passport—and I’m not talking about states like Alaska or Hawaii.

You can explore the world at these four ‘international’ destinations without ever nabbing a US passport. Here’s where to go.

First, let’s talk territories…

The US is composed of 50 states, each of which has its own constitution and lawmaking abilities. The same is true for our 574 federally recognized tribes—each is treated as a sovereign nation with autonomous rights.

The US also has unincorporated territories, which are partly regulated by the federal government but don’t have full representation at the national legal level. In other words, though they have established local governments that work under US law and all constituents are US citizens, they are not fully incorporated under the US Constitution.

I’m talking about Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, Guam, and the Mariana Islands.

Although these territories are officially unincorporated, you do not need a passport to visit them.

(The main exception is American Samoa; though it’s an unincorporated territory, you still need a passport or a US birth certificate to enter.)

4 ‘international’ destinations you can visit without a passport

Puerto Rico

I doubt I need to sell you on a trip to Puerto Rico. Not only is the island home to pristine beaches and tropical stretches of jungle, but the capital city of San Juan is also one of the oldest Spanish colonial settlements in the region.

Despite the focus on history, you’ll also find plenty of contemporary innovations, from food to music to the unexpected.

That gives you the reins the incorporate nature, history, and culture at your leisure. Best of all, Puerto Rico is still a solid option for budget travelers—which has made it a hotspot for honeymoon vacations.

US Virgin Islands

St. John, Virgin Islands, Caribbean (Getty)

Ever heard your friends raving about a trip to St Thomas, St John, or St Croix? They’re talking about the US Virgin Islands. Though USVI is home to around 50 outlying islands, the main hubs are the three I just mentioned.

From the capital of Charlotte Amalie (St Thomas), you can access other destinations via sea or air. Instead of the cultural and historical activities popular in San Juan, Puerto Rico, most Americans heading to the US Virgin Islands are looking for beachside resorts.

Though you can also find more remote and intimate rentals, USVI is a great choice for first-time international travelers who want a familiar setup.

Guam

Guam is the southernmost Mariana Island (which I’ll introduce below) and one of the larger islands in Oceania. History buffs might recognize Guam for its important role as a military hub during WWII—or its current US military base.

Previously, it was colonized by Spain after Ferdinand Magellan landed on the island in 1521. Today, indigenous Chamorro culture is seeing a major resurgence. Along with language preservation efforts, you’ll notice activities like plaiting, pottery, and even slinging (done with a slingshot) taking place around the island.

Similar to Okinawa, Guam has a tropical monsoon climate, meaning its coastlines are bright and beautiful. Just be careful not to plan a beach-centric trip during monsoon season. Heavy rains are expected between July and November.

Northern Mariana Islands

The Northern Mariana Islands are a commonwealth of the US, just like Puerto Rico. It consists of 14 islands that stretch north from Guam—and just like Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands have seen influence from Spain, Japan, and the United States.

However, the Northern Mariana Islands are much more sparsely populated. As of 2020, less than 50,000 inhabitants called the island home. Most live on Saipan, Rota, and Tinian.

Chamorro culture is prevalent, along with Carolinian culture—another Northern Mariana subset. With gorgeous beaches, healthy forests, unique cultural activities, and watersports, tourism is a major part of the economy.

However, you’ll notice that the majority of tourists come from China and South Korea—not the United States.