The updated ID has been required since May, but passengers without it have so far been allowed to clear security with additional screening and a warning. The Department of Homeland Security says 94% of passengers are already compliant and that the new fee is intended to encourage travelers to obtain the ID.

REAL ID is a federally compliant state-issued license or identification card that meets enhanced requirements mandated in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Obtaining the ID — indicated by a white star in a yellow circle in most states — means taking more documents to the motor vehicle agency than most states require for regular IDs. It was supposed to be rolled out in 2008 but the implementation had been repeatedly delayed.

Beginning Feb. 1, travelers 18 and older flying domestically without a REAL ID and who don't have another accepted form of ID on them, such as a passport, will pay the non-refundable fee to verify their identity through TSA's alternative “Confirm.ID” system.

TSA officials said that paying the fee does not guarantee verification, and travelers whose identities cannot be verified may be turned away. If approved, however, the verification covers a 10-day travel period.

The fee can be paid online before arriving at the airport. Travelers can also pay online at the airport before entering the security line, but officials said the process may take up to 30 minutes.

The TSA initially proposed an $18 charge for passengers without a REAL ID, but officials said Monday they raised it after realizing the alternative identification program would cost more than anticipated.

Other acceptable forms of ID include military IDs, permanent resident cards and photo IDs from federally recognized tribal nations. TSA also accepts digital IDs through platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet and Samsung Wallet at more than 250 airports in the U.S.

The majority of Americans now prefer domestic getaways; just 1 in 4 plan to go abroad this year. It's part of a broader shift toward local exploration, a return to slower, more intentional travel that celebrates the landscapes and small towns just beyond our own backyards.

One destination that embodies this spirit is New York's Finger Lakes region. When winter settles over upstate New York, its rolling vineyards, quiet lakeside villages and candlelit restaurants transform into one of the country's coziest escapes. Known for award-winning wineries, farm-fresh cuisine and snow-covered scenery, the Finger Lakes is the perfect road-trip blend of comfort and discovery. For travelers seeking a wine-and-food-themed getaway without the crowds, it's an off-season journey that feels both restorative and distinctly American.

The Finger Lakes glow-up

Once known largely for sweet, approachable rieslings and hybrid, juice-style wines, the region has shifted gears. Thanks to the pioneering work by viticulturists who planted cold-climate European vinifera grapes, the focus in this U.S. wine region has moved toward sophisticated dry wines and refined styles.

Wineries across Cayuga, Keuka and Seneca lakes now embrace biodynamic and organic farming, using native yeasts, cover crops and minimal intervention to elevate the wines' story and style. In short, the Finger Lakes have leveled up from the region's roots in sweet riesling to becoming a serious player in terroir-driven, modern winemaking.

Lakeside luxury meets small-town charm

Start your winter getaway in the eastern Finger Lakes at Skaneateles Fields Resort & Spa, a newly built luxury retreat overlooking Skaneateles Lake. This 89‑room property, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, combines wellness, comfort and culinary craftsmanship into one beautifully designed experience.

The resort's food and drink program stays true to its farm‑to‑table ethos, sourcing much of its produce from the nearby Tap Root Fields Farm and serving a relaxed yet elevated dining experience at its signature restaurant. With pickleball and bocce courts, fire pits for s'mores, walking trails and an executive putting green on the grounds, guests have plenty to do between meals and lakefront strolls.

Once you've settled in, explore the village itself. Many travelers consider Skaneateles one of the Finger Lakes' most picturesque towns, with historic streets lined with boutique shops, art galleries and cafes.

Farm-to-table excellence at Fields

The crown jewel of your Skaneateles getaway is the resort's signature restaurant, Fields, where the philosophy is simple: from the fields to the table. Chef Esperanza Guzman, originally from the Midwest and raised in Mexico, has crafted a menu built on local partnerships and seasonal ingredients, with 85% of the produce sourced from the resort's own Tap Root Fields Farm.

Even in winter, when the farm slows down, preserved summer vegetables, hearty roots and fresh herbs form the backbone of the menu. The kitchen relies on grass-fed meats, and fresh fish arrives daily from Boston to ensure the highest quality. "Carrots and beets are one of my favorite things to grow. It's like a little present; you pull it out of the ground and every time it's a surprise," Jessica, head produce and flower grower, said.

Dishes at Fields are both comforting and refined, showcasing the chef's creativity and deep connection to the Finger Lakes. From hand-rolled pasta and perfectly cooked pork tenderloin to playful, elegant farm-to-table presentations, each plate shows thoughtfulness and balance. Breakfast continues this approach with farm-inspired classics, fluffy pancakes, frittatas and freshly squeezed juices or kombucha on tap.

Guzman's international experience, combined with a passion for sustainability, local farms and the region's seasonal bounty, makes every meal at Fields a memorable part of your Skaneateles trip.

Skaneateles' must-try restaurants

For a casual bite in the village, Gilda's offers hand‑crafted artisan pizzas, small plates and desserts in a warm, inviting space, with inventive toppings and a thoughtfully curated drink list. Just a short walk away, Pâtisserie delights visitors with artful pastries, cupcakes and some of the best breads in the Finger Lakes region. The fresh-baked aroma alone is worth a stop, whether you're grabbing breakfast, an afternoon treat or something to enjoy lakeside.

You can also explore nearby agrotourism and wine experiences. Anyela's Vineyards, set on a hill above the lake, pairs easygoing wines with live music and cheese boards, making it a relaxed spot for an afternoon out. Families or those visiting in autumn can head to Beak & Skiff Apple Hill Campus and the 1911 Tasting Room, where apple picking, playgrounds and seasonal treats, such as apple donuts and cider frosties, add playful variety to the trip.

Cayuga Lake

From Skaneateles, venture west to Cayuga Lake, home to America's first organized wine trail, established in 1983 and designated an American Viticultural Area, or AVA, in 1988. Its sun‑soaked slopes and long growing season helped shape the region's premium winemaking. You can also stop at notable wineries like Heart & Hands for elegant pinot noir, Sheldrake Point for lakeside views and Hosmer for approachable wines in a welcoming tasting room.

Seneca Lake

Seneca Lake is the deepest of the Finger Lakes, plunging to more than 600 feet at its deepest point. Its remarkable depth and length create a microclimate that has made the region ideal for grape growing and has helped spawn more wineries here than anywhere else in the Finger Lakes.

Trestle 31

Start your wine pilgrimage in Geneva at Trestle 31. Founded in 2015 and helmed by Nova Cadamatre MW, the first female U.S. winemaker to achieve a Master of Wine certification, the winery sits in the heart of downtown Geneva as an urban tasting lounge with a luxury‑wine aesthetic.

"It's been a challenge to get people to realize that we're here. It's an unusual location for a winery. We don't have our own vineyards, and we're not technically on the trail," Nova said. She and her husband bootstrapped the venture, carefully balancing capital while renting production space and sourcing grapes from local vineyards, creating a less traditional but highly personal approach to winemaking.

Billsboro Winery

A short drive south along the lakeshore brings you to Billsboro Winery, a 60-acre property with a barn-style tasting room surrounded by walnut trees and terraced fields. As general manager and co-founder, Kim Aliperti shared, "We started offering a juice flight in 2020 during the pandemic, initially for kids because so many families were traveling, and it became hugely popular with all visitors."

Founded in 2000 and expanded in 2007, Billsboro produces about 4,000 cases a year. Kim explains, "Our wines are meant to be shared with food and people. We make food wines," highlighting the winery's focus on approachable, meal-friendly wines and the collaborative spirit of the region.

Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard

Next on your trail is Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard in Dundee, a true pioneer of the region. Founded in 1979, the estate helped prove that European‑style grapes could succeed in Finger Lakes terrain and climate. The vineyard emphasizes biodiversity, biodynamic practices, indigenous yeasts and minimal intervention. These help define the modern identity of Finger Lakes wine.

Forge Cellars

On the opposite side of the lake, don't miss Forge Cellars, another stellar option. Forge specializes in bone‑dry riesling, cool‑climate pinot noir and cabernet franc grown on the southeastern shores of Seneca Lake, with a philosophy of making wines that express place and narrative.

As founder Rick Rainey explained, "We're a French winery on American soil…we want to give the wines as much time as possible. Even in a small ZIP code, you can show so many different personalities of wine." Head winemaker Léana Godard adds, "We make wines for the table and encourage people to eat with our wine."

Other noteworthy stops

Also worth a quick mention are notable wineries that you may pass or choose to visit depending on time: Ravines Wine Cellars, Kemmeter Wines, Boundary Breaks Winery and Three Brothers Wineries & Estates. The latter is a larger venue combining three wineries and a brewery designed to appeal to a younger, hip audience.

Watkins Glen

If you want a change of scenery, take a day trip to Watkins Glen State Park at the southern tip of Seneca Lake. Even in winter, when the iconic Gorge Trail is closed for safety reasons, the park is still worth visiting for its scenic overlooks and peaceful, crowd-free atmosphere.

You can still explore the Rim and Indian Trails, which give you sweeping views of towering cliffs and icy rock walls above the gorge. The park's frozen waterfalls, like the majestic Rainbow Falls and the dramatic ice columns at Cavern Cascade, turn into a veritable winter wonderland. With fewer visitors around, you'll enjoy a more serene experience. Just remember to wear proper footwear and check conditions beforehand because ice and snow can make sections tricky.

For accommodations, you'll find plenty of good options around Geneva and along the lake. For instance, the 41 Lakefront Hotel or Fairfield by Marriott Geneva provides comfortable stays, though neither property is especially historic.

Keuka Lake

Continue your journey west toward Keuka Lake, one of the smaller and most uniquely shaped of the Finger Lakes. Its distinctive Y-shape, with two arms extending from a single southern point, sets it apart.

Along its scenic shorelines, you'll find celebrated wineries that carry the legacy of innovation in the region's wine story. At Dr. Konstantin Frank Vinifera Wine Cellars, for example, the pioneer‑winemaker Dr. Frank planted the first vinifera vines in the Eastern U.S. in 1958 on Keuka, igniting what became known as the Vinifera Revolution.

Meanwhile, boutique gems such as Weis Vineyards have continued the spirit of craftsmanship, earning recognition as New York's Winery of the Year in both 2022 and 2024.

Canandaigua Lake

If you detour toward picturesque Canandaigua Lake, be sure to visit New York Kitchen, a nonprofit culinary center that showcases New York State's agricultural and craft beverage bounty. It runs hands‑on cooking classes, craft‑drink pairings, tastings and a full‑service restaurant with lake views.

For wine enthusiasts, Inspire Moore Winery is a must-visit boutique winery founded 18 years ago by Diane Moore and her late husband, Tim. Today, their son Nathaniel, one of the youngest winemakers in the region, leads the cellar, focusing on vintage-driven wines and natural fermentation.

As Diane shared, their pet-nat wines offer a unique tasting experience that evolves in the bottle after purchase. The winery produces around 2,000 cases annually across 15 to 20 varietals, including Austrian-inspired Blaufränkisch, Grüner Veltliner, cabernet franc and riesling. Its artisan series features collaborations with local artists, and the tasting room is a welcoming space to sample wines and attend events.

For dinner, stop at Nolan's, where the menu features steak, seafood, pasta and a strong selection of Finger Lakes wines and local brews. If you need a place to stay, the Hotel Canandaigua makes a comfortable base. It's a full‑service resort‑style hotel with lake‑view rooms, pool, hot tub and on‑site dining.

Your off-season retreat awaits

While many travelers associate the Finger Lakes with summer boating and fall colors, the region has plenty to offer in the off-season. Cozy resorts, charming villages and farm-to-table dining invite visitors to slow down and enjoy the quieter months. With careful planning, you can experience the area's charm, taste its local flavors and take in its dramatic landscapes, all without leaving the United States!

Ksenia Prints is a food and travel writer from Montreal, Canada. She blogs over at We Travel We Bond, writing about family travel off the beaten path.

In Wisconsin, utility crews worked to restore power to thousands of people, while the airport in Des Moines, Iowa, reopened on the critical travel day after a Delta Connection flight landing from Detroit slid off an icy runway. No injuries were reported, and passengers were transported to the terminal by bus.

Hundreds of churches in western Michigan told worshippers to stay home or watch services online. Up to 12 inches (about 30 centimeters) of snow had fallen since Saturday in areas close to Lake Michigan.

On Saturday, 8.4 inches (21.34 centimeters) of snow fell at Chicago's O’Hare International Airport, setting a record for the highest single calendar day snowfall in November at the airport, according to the National Weather Service. That broke the previous record of 8 inches (20.32 centimeters) on Nov. 6, 1951.

Over 270 flights into and out of O'Hare had been canceled by midafternoon, while over 1,200 had been delayed, according to the tracking site FlightAware. The Federal Aviation Administration said at one point on Sunday that departures to O’Hare were delayed on average by nearly an hour due to snow or ice, and that departures from the airport were delayed an average of 15 minutes.

Planes were being de-iced at several airports across the country on Sunday, including at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, according to the FAA.

On Sunday afternoon there were nearly 400 flights into and out of Detroit Metro Airport that were delayed and over 300 canceled, according to FlightAware.

In Wisconsin, We Energies reported more than 6,000 power outages, with more than half in Milwaukee and South Milwaukee. Mark Paladino said on Facebook that he was shoveling snow Sunday when his apartment complex lost power in Fredonia. Others said power lines were sagging under heavy, wet snow.

Elsewhere in Iowa, gusty winds Sunday were blowing snow back onto roads, extending hazardous travel conditions, the National Weather Service said.

“We did have areas of Iowa and Illinois that saw over one foot of snow,” including 15 inches (38 centimeters) in Fort Dodge, Iowa, said meteorologist Andrew Orrison.

He said snow in the Great Lakes region was tapering off, but a new storm was heading to the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, with up to a foot (30 centimeters) of snow by Tuesday.

“It's going to be the first snowfall of the season for many of these areas, and it's going to be rather significant," Orrison said. “The good news is that it does not look like the major cities at this point are going to be looking at any significant snowfall.”

In the last 20 years, more segments of the retail industry have vied for their own piece of the holiday shopping season. The travel trade has firmly joined the trend with another post-Thanksgiving sales push: Travel Tuesday.

On the same day as the nonprofit world's Giving Tuesday, airlines, hotels, cruise ship companies, travel booking platforms and tour operators get in on the annual spirit to spend by promoting one-day deals. Consumer advocates say there are legitimate savings to be had but also chances to be misled by marketing that conveys a false sense of urgency.

"People see ‘40 percent off’ and assume it’s a once-in-a-lifetime steal, without recognizing that the underlying price may have been inflated or that the same itinerary was cheaper last month.” Sally French, a travel expert at personal finance site NerdWallet, said.

She and other seasoned travelers advised consumers who want to see if they can save money by booking trips on Travel Tuesday to do research in advance and to pay especially close attention to the fine print attached to offers.

People hoping to score last-minute deals for Christmas or New Year's should double-check for blackout dates or other restrictions, recommended Lindsay Schwimer, a consumer expert for the online travel site Hopper.

It’s also wise to to keep an eye out for nonrefundable fares, resort fees, double occupancy requirements or upgrade conditions that may be hidden within advertised discounts, according to French.

Shoppers should be wary of travel packages with extra transportation options or add-on offers, French said. Instead of lowering fares or room rates, some companies use statement credits, extra points, included amenities and bundled extras as a way to tempt potential customers, she said.

“Many travel brands want to keep sticker prices high to maintain an aura of luxury, but they still need to fill planes, ships and hotel rooms,” French said. “Add-on perks are their workaround.”

Consumers who are prepared rather than impulsive and on the lookout for the up-sell are in a much better position to identify authentic bargains, consumer experts stressed. Knowing what a specific trip would typically cost and comparison shopping can help expose offers based on inflated underlying costs and whether the same itinerary might have been cheaper at other times, they said.

“Compare prices, check your calendar and make sure the trip you’re booking is something you genuinely want, not something you bought because a countdown timer pressured you," French said. "What gets glossed over is that the best deal might be not booking anything at all if it doesn’t align with your plans.”

Travel Tuesday came about based on existing industry trends. In 2017, Hopper analyzed historical pricing data and found that in each of the nine previous years, the biggest day for post-Thanksgiving travel discounts was the day after Cyber Monday.

The site named the day Travel Tuesday. The number of offers within that time-targeted window and the number of travelers looking for them has since expanded.

“Nearly three times as many trips were planned on Travel Tuesday last year compared to Black Friday,” Hopper's Schwimer said. “We continue to see growth in the day, year over year, as more travel brands and categories offer deals.”

The event's origin story is in line with the National Retail Federation coining Cyber Monday in 2005 as a response to the emerging e-commerce era. American Express came up with Small Business Saturday in 2010 to direct buyers and their dollars to smaller retailers, credit card fees and all.

A report by the consulting firm McKinsey & Company last year noted that November and December tend to be slow months for travel bookings, making Travel Tuesday a “marketing moment” that could help boost revenue.

Hotel, cruise and and airline bookings by U.S. travelers increased significantly on Travel Tuesday 2023 compared with the two weeks before and after the day, the report's authors wrote, citing data provided by the travel marketing platform Sojern.

While Travel Tuesday so far has been mostly confined to the United States and Canada, “European travel companies can anticipate the possibility that Travel Tuesday will become a growing phenomenon in their region, given that other shopping days such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday have spread beyond North America,” the report stated.

Vivek Pandya, lead insights analyst for Adobe Analytics, which tracks online spending, said consumers have more tools than ever this holiday season to help them determine if deals hold up to scrutiny.

“Social journeys, influencers providing promo codes and values, and generative AI platforms taking all that in - the prices, the social conversation, the reviews - and giving guidance to the consumer, that's a very different, dynamic kind of journey consumers are taking than they have in previous seasons,” Pandya said.

Both he and French emphasized that prices rise and fall based on multiple factors, and that the winter holidays are not the only major promotional period of the year.

“We now have dozens of consumer spending ‘holidays,’” French said. “Amazon alone keeps adding new versions of Prime Day. So if you don’t buy on Travel Tuesday, you haven’t missed your moment.”

The city's strategic location makes it an ideal gateway for LGBTQ+ travelers seeking something beyond the well-trodden Pride circuit. Unlike the massive, tourist-saturated celebrations of Berlin or Amsterdam, Antwerp offers an experience rooted in genuine local queer culture rather than commercialized spectacle. The community here is potent and creative, with a fashion-forward identity that reflects the city's historical significance as a cultural and economic powerhouse since the Middle Ages .

Antwerp's appeal lies partly in its architecture and history. The skyline is dominated by distinctive medieval buildings and houses, including the 400-foot spire of the ornate Cathedral of Our Lady, completed in 1521 . Yet this historical grandeur exists alongside contemporary creative industries that have made Antwerp a fashion capital. The combination creates a unique atmosphere where centuries-old cobblestone streets lead to cutting-edge design studios, vintage boutiques, and queer-owned cultural spaces.

The city has long been a hub for LGBTQ+ artists, designers, and creative professionals. This isn't accidental. Antwerp's fashion schools and design heritage have attracted queer talent for decades, creating informal networks of community and belonging. Unlike destinations where LGBTQ+ culture feels grafted onto existing tourism infrastructure, here it's woven into the city's economic and cultural fabric. The fashion industry's historical embrace of LGBTQ+ people has created a foundation of acceptance that permeates daily life.

What distinguishes Antwerp from other European LGBTQ+ destinations is its approachability. Brussels, while undoubtedly queer-friendly, can feel bureaucratic and formal. Amsterdam's canal-side charm comes with significant tourist crowds and premium pricing. Antwerp, by contrast, maintains what locals describe as a warm, welcoming, and unpretentious atmosphere .

The city's queer venues are concentrated and easy to navigate. Unlike sprawling metropolises where LGBTQ+ spaces are scattered across multiple neighborhoods, Antwerp's gay scene is concentrated in accessible areas where visitors can genuinely encounter local queer people rather than exclusively other tourists. This creates organic opportunities for connection and community engagement.

Transportation is straightforward. The city center is walkable, and the train system connects seamlessly to other European destinations. For LGBTQ+ travelers accustomed to navigating complex public transit systems in larger cities, Antwerp's human scale is refreshing. You can experience the full breadth of the city's queer culture without extensive logistical planning.

Antwerp's queer cultural scene is experiencing notable growth. While the city doesn't have the legendary mega-clubs of Berlin or the canal-side Pride spectacles of Amsterdam, it's developing distinctive cultural offerings. The city hosts regular LGBTQ+ events, exhibitions, and performances that reflect both international queer culture and local Flemish identity.

The arts scene particularly welcomes LGBTQ+ creators. Contemporary art galleries, independent theaters, and music venues actively program queer-centered work. This creates opportunities for travelers to engage with living queer culture rather than historical monuments or commercialized entertainment. You might encounter a queer film screening, a drag performance by a local artist, or an exhibition by transgender photographers—experiences rooted in authentic community rather than tourist packaging.

The nearby presence of Brussels, with its legendary La Demence party and rich LGBTQ+ history, means that Antwerp travelers can easily access larger-scale Pride celebrations and events while maintaining a home base in a more intimate setting .

Antwerp's queer-friendly character extends throughout daily life. LGBTQ+-owned cafes, restaurants, and shops operate throughout the city, and many mainstream establishments actively welcome queer customers. This normalization—where being queer is simply part of the urban landscape rather than something requiring special accommodation—creates genuine comfort for LGBTQ+ travelers.

The city's food scene reflects Flemish culinary traditions while embracing international influences. LGBTQ+-owned dining establishments offer spaces where queer travelers can eat, socialize, and connect with local community members. These aren't specialized "gay restaurants" but rather beloved neighborhood spots that happen to be owned and frequented by queer people.

Antwerp's café culture is particularly welcoming. Sitting with coffee or beer in a local café, watching the city's diverse population move through medieval squares, offers a distinctly European queer experience. The pace is slower than in larger capitals, allowing time for genuine conversation and connection.

Several factors are driving Antwerp's emergence as a queer destination. First, oversaturation in traditional LGBTQ+ travel hubs has created demand for alternatives. Travelers seeking authentic experiences rather than commercialized Pride events are actively seeking cities like Antwerp. Second, improved transportation infrastructure and digital connectivity make smaller European cities increasingly accessible. Third, the growing recognition of LGBTQ+ friendly countries—with Belgium consistently ranking among Europe's most inclusive nations —has expanded awareness of destinations beyond the "big three" of Berlin, Amsterdam, and Paris.

Antwerp also benefits from Belgium's legal framework. Belgium was among the first European countries to recognize same-sex relationships and has comprehensive anti-discrimination protections. This legal security creates genuine safety for LGBTQ+ travelers and reflects broader societal acceptance .

Antwerp appeals to various segments of the LGBTQ+ community. Solo queer travelers find a safe, walkable city with genuine opportunities for connection. Couples appreciate the romantic medieval architecture combined with contemporary queer culture. Older LGBTQ+ travelers value the slower pace and accessibility. Transgender and non-binary travelers benefit from Belgium's progressive legal recognition and the city's cultural openness.

The city's fashion industry connection also creates particular appeal for LGBTQ+ creatives. Designers, artists, and cultural workers find community and professional opportunity in Antwerp's established creative networks. For LGBTQ+ travelers interested in design, fashion, or contemporary art, the city offers both cultural engagement and community connection.

Antwerp's trajectory suggests continued growth as a queer destination. The combination of authentic community, historical significance, cultural richness, and genuine accessibility creates sustainable appeal. Unlike destinations that rely primarily on Pride events or party scenes, Antwerp offers year-round reasons to visit.

For LGBTQ+ travelers seeking European experiences beyond the established circuit, Antwerp represents an emerging gem. It's a city where queer culture is neither novelty nor afterthought but integral to contemporary urban life. The medieval streets and modern creative energy, the fashion-forward identity and genuine community welcome, the historical grandeur and human-scale accessibility—these elements combine to create something distinctive.

Antwerp invites queer travelers not as tourists visiting a gay destination but as visitors to a genuinely queer city where history, culture, community, and creativity intersect.

Perth’s Northbridge district is the city’s undisputed epicenter of queer culture. By day, rainbow flags flutter above art galleries, indie bookstores, and cafes owned and operated by LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. By night, Northbridge transforms: The Court, Perth’s iconic LGBTQ+ venue, bursts with drag performances, silent disco nights, and themed events that draw a cross-section of the city’s diverse queer community .

The Court’s reputation extends nationally, offering everything from rooftop cocktails with city views to mechanical penis rides—a cheeky nod to the venue’s playful spirit and open embrace of all identities . Connections Nightclub, another Northbridge staple, hosts drag royalty, queer DJs, and immersive club experiences, making it a cornerstone for both locals and visitors .

What sets Perth apart is its blend of urban energy and natural beauty. Swanbourne Beach, just a short drive from the city center, boasts Australia’s only nudist beach on the west coast, popular among queer couples and singles alike for its laid-back, body-positive ethos . Rottnest Island , accessible by ferry, offers secluded bays, snorkeling adventures, and the chance to spot the region’s famous quokkas—a favorite selfie subject and a local symbol of inclusion and joy .

Throughout the city, LGBTQ+ travelers will find a growing network of queer-owned businesses, from vegan restaurants to vintage clothing stores, all reflecting Perth’s eclectic and affirming spirit . Tiki as FK, a rooftop bar with panoramic views, is renowned for its welcoming environment and signature cocktails, often enjoyed by a diverse spectrum of the queer community .

According to local activists and community leaders, Perth’s queer scene is defined by its warmth, resilience, and a commitment to intersectionality. The city’s PrideFEST, held every November, brings together LGBTQ+ people from across Western Australia for parades, film screenings, art exhibitions, and family-friendly events . Unlike the mega-festivals of the east coast, Perth’s PrideFEST is characterized by intimacy and approachability; newcomers are welcomed as friends, not just tourists .

Local organizations such as Pride WA play a pivotal role in advocacy, education, and support, offering resources for transgender people, non-binary individuals, and queer youth navigating Western Australia’s evolving cultural landscape .

Several factors are driving Perth’s emergence as a queer-friendly destination.

- Legal protections for LGBTQ+ people in Western Australia have expanded significantly, offering travelers increased safety and peace of mind .

- The city’s affordable, boutique accommodations—many LGBTQ+-owned—cater to a range of travelers, from solo backpackers to couples and chosen families .

- Outdoor lifestyle is central; visitors can enjoy hiking trails in Kings Park, sunset picnics on Cottesloe Beach, and cycling adventures on Rottnest Island, all within a supportive environment .

Unlike the high-energy party scenes elsewhere, Perth offers a slower, more intentional pace. Here, connection is prioritized over spectacle, and the city’s queer community is highly visible in everyday life—from activists organizing workshops to artists exhibiting queer-themed work in local galleries .

Perth’s cultural calendar is packed with events that celebrate LGBTQ+ creativity and identity. The city’s Fringe World Festival includes a growing slate of queer performances, cabaret, and experimental theater . The Art Gallery of Western Australia frequently showcases works by queer artists, while local collectives host regular poetry slams, zine fairs, and storytelling nights centering LGBTQ+ voices .

With its unique blend of urban flair, natural wonders, and a community-driven approach to inclusion, Perth is fast becoming a favorite for LGBTQ+ travelers seeking something beyond the ordinary. The city’s welcoming attitude, coupled with its affordability and access to stunning landscapes, sets it apart from more crowded, tourist-heavy destinations .

The city’s transformation is evident in its expanding Pride calendar, new queer-run businesses, and the growing visibility of transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse people in public life . For those looking to experience Australia through a fresh lens—one defined by authenticity, community, and celebration—Perth is the place to be.

For queer travelers seeking a destination that combines vibrant nightlife, outdoor adventure, and a truly welcoming community, Perth is ready to be discovered.

The announcement declaring “America-first entry fee policies” comes as national parks deal with the strain of a major staff reduction and severe budget cuts, along with recovering from damage during the recent government shutdown and significant lost revenue due to fees not being collected during that time.

The fee change will impact 11 national parks, including the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone and Yosemite, according to the U.S. Department of the Interior.

As part of the changes, which are set to take effect Jan. 1, foreign tourists will also see their annual parks pass price jump to $250, while U.S. residents will continue to be charged $80, according to the department's statement.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said in a post on the social platform X that the changes make sure U.S. taxpayers who support the park service “continue to enjoy affordable access, while international visitors contribute their fair share to maintaining and improving our parks for future generations!”

A White House post on X laying out the increased fees ended with the phrase, “AMERICANS FIRST.”

The announcement follows a July executive order in which President Donald Trump directed the parks to increase entry fees for foreign tourists.

“There’s a lot to unpack in this announcement, including many questions on its implementation – all which NPCA will raise with the Department of Interior,” Kati Schmidt, a spokesperson for National Parks Conservation Association, said in an email.

The U.S. Travel Association estimated that in 2018, national parks and monuments saw more than 14 million international visitors. Yellowstone reported that in 2024, nearly 15% of its visitors were from outside the country, which was down from 30% in 2018.

The money made off the new fees will help support the national parks, including with upgrading facilities for visitors and maintenance, according to the statement.

The “resident-only patriotic fee-free days” next year include Veterans Day, which was one of the parks' eight free days open to everyone in 2025. The Department of the Interior had announced those days by saying they wanted to ensure that “everyone, no matter their zip code, can access and enjoy the benefits of green spaces and our public lands.”

Florianópolis, the capital of Santa Catarina state, spreads across a large island and a mainland peninsula. While the city is known nationally for its natural beauty—crystal-clear lagoons, dramatic sand dunes, and lush Atlantic rainforest—its social fabric is equally striking. Local residents, known as “manézinhos,” usher visitors into a culture defined by warmth and open-mindedness. This spirit is reflected in everything from the city’s vibrant gastronomy to its lively beach gatherings, where queerness is not just tolerated but quietly celebrated .

Unlike Rio’s world-famous Pride, Florianópolis offers a subtler embrace. Here, queer travelers mingle with locals at sunset on the sands of Praia Mole, a beach that has organically become a safe haven for LGBTQ+ people. The sense of security is palpable—same-sex couples walk hand-in-hand, trans women pose for photos against the crashing surf, and rainbow flags flutter discreetly from beach kiosks. The city’s relaxed ethos means there’s little of the overt commercialism that can sometimes overshadow queer spaces in larger cities .

Though not as internationally renowned as São Paulo or Rio, Florianópolis has steadily developed a dynamic queer nightlife and social scene. On weekends, the city’s bars and clubs pulse with queer energy—Jivago Social Club and Conca Club are favorites, drawing a diverse crowd for nights of dancing that spill out onto the streets . While the venues may be smaller, the sense of community is tangible, and visiting travelers report feeling genuinely welcomed by both staff and regulars.

The city’s queer community is also visible beyond nightlife. Coworking spaces across the island host queer digital nomads and remote workers, many of whom are drawn to Florianópolis for its combination of affordability, natural beauty, and safety. LGBTQ+ locals and expats alike organize informal meetups, beach picnics, and art collectives, weaving queer presence into the island’s creative and social fabric .

What sets Florianópolis apart from more commercialized destinations is the blend of tradition and progressiveness. The city’s Azorean heritage is celebrated in local fêtes, and the annual Festa do Divino Espírito Santo fills the streets with music and dance. Yet, there is space for new stories: LGBTQ+ artists exhibit at local galleries, drag performers headline open-mic nights, and queer-friendly yoga studios offer classes that center inclusivity.

Nature is a constant companion. Many queer visitors cite Praia Mole as a spiritual home—a place to sunbathe, swim, and simply be. Less crowded than Rio’s Ipanema or Copacabana, Praia Mole’s vibe is both social and serene, making it ideal for LGBTQ+ travelers who want to connect with others or enjoy solitude without fear of harassment .

For those seeking adventure, Florianópolis offers hiking in the rugged hills of the Serra do Tabuleiro or sandboarding down the dunes of Joaquina. The island’s eco-conscious ethos attracts queer travelers interested in sustainability—numerous hostels, surf schools, and tour operators are outspokenly inclusive, a reflection of the city’s progressive streak .

Community members describe Florianópolis as a place where queerness can exist openly but without spectacle. “It’s not about rainbow capitalism here,” says Lucas Menezes, a local activist and artist. “We create our own spaces, and everyone is welcome—if you bring respect.” . Social media groups—such as Instagram: @floripagay—connect newcomers with long-term residents for advice and friendship, reinforcing a sense of belonging.

Several local projects center the needs of transgender people and other marginalized identities. The NGO Associação em Defesa dos Direitos Humanos com Ênfase na Sexualidade offers legal and psychological support, and its events calendar features queer film nights, workshops, and roundtables on intersectionality .

Florianópolis’s rise as a queer destination is driven by factors both practical and personal. Safety is consistently ranked high by visitors, with low rates of anti-LGBTQ+ violence compared to other Brazilian cities . The cost of living remains accessible, particularly for longer stays, and the city’s digital infrastructure supports remote work and community building.

Perhaps most importantly, Floripa offers a rare balance of celebration and contemplation. It is a destination where LGBTQ+ travelers can feel visible without being spotlighted, free to participate in island life as their authentic selves. As global queer travelers look for alternatives to crowded “gayborhoods” and high-priced resorts, Florianópolis’s blend of natural splendor, cultural depth, and quiet inclusivity is putting it firmly on the map.

How to Experience Florianópolis as a Queer Traveler

- Visit Praia Mole for its natural beauty and welcoming queer crowd, particularly on weekends and holidays .
- Check out Jivago Social Club and Conca Club for a taste of the city’s inclusive nightlife.
- Connect with local LGBTQ+ organizations such as ADEH for community events and resources .
- Explore the island’s many coworking spaces—many are explicitly queer-friendly and offer regular meetups .
- Experience the island’s festivals, from traditional Azorean celebrations to contemporary art and drag shows.

Florianópolis stands as proof that queer joy can flourish off the beaten path—anchored in community, surrounded by natural wonders, and vibrant with possibility.

Local tourism planners say the hills are no longer just a British secret. Rising interest from American travelers looking for more relaxed alternatives to the Cotswolds has helped drive new overnight stays, pushing the area's visitor economy past $262 million and supporting more than 4,000 jobs. When I visited, the footpaths were busy even on a weekday afternoon, with both tourists and locals shopping, dining and exploring.

A hillside restaurant changes the game

The Malvern Hills National Landscape covers about 40 square miles of grassy summits and ancient woodland, rising from the flat Severn Plain. The highest point, Worcestershire Beacon, offers views stretching across 13 counties on a clear day; a panorama far removed from Britain's usual tourist routes.

High on the hillside sits The Cottage in the Wood, a former Georgian villa built in 1919. The hotel has long attracted notable guests, including Thatcher, but its increasingly strong culinary reputation is reshaping why people seek it out.

When I visited for dinner, the staff described how the restaurant has become a destination in its own right, bringing guests who once overlooked the area. Its 1919 Restaurant earned three AA Rosettes in 2024, placing it among a small cohort of U.K. dining rooms recognized for high standards and creative menus. For a rural setting known more for walking trails than white tablecloths, the distinction has made the property an unlikely fine-dining stop.

The restaurant's rise has made the hotel a stop for travelers who plan trips around food as much as scenery, a habit increasingly common among American visitors. Inside the tasting room, miniature gas lamps, a nod to Lewis's lamppost, tie the area's literary lore to its modern focus on food.

Rural destinations draw the crowds

Britain's broader tourism rebound is shaping what happens on the hillside. The United Kingdom welcomed 5.6 million U.S. visitors in 2024, a record year in which Americans spent $9.56 billion, averaging approximately $1,700 per trip. Many were repeat travelers looking beyond major cities for smaller towns, scenic stays and food-led itineraries. Global market data show rural and heritage destinations are among the fastest-growing parts of the tourism industry, a trend planners say is helping push the Malvern Hills, and its standout restaurant, into the spotlight.

For visitors exploring the area, part of the draw is how easily the landscape, food and stories connect. Great Malvern's surviving Victorian gas lamps, more than 80 remain, still glow along the town's steep lanes, a link to Lewis' fictional world. Hikers cross open commons and wooded slopes before stopping at St. Ann's Well or continuing to restaurants and hotels overlooking the valley.

A hidden corner waiting to be seen

Whether Americans embrace the Malvern Hills in large numbers remains to be seen, but planners say growing interest is already shaping the district. They argue that careful, steady growth will help the area keep the peaceful atmosphere that once drew Lewis and Thatcher while letting the 1919 Restaurant play a larger role in its future.

Mandy is a luxury travel, fine dining and bucket list adventure journalist with expert insight from 46 countries. She uncovers unforgettable experiences around the world and brings them to life through immersive storytelling that blends indulgence, culture and discovery, and shares it all with a global audience as co-founder of Food Drink Life. Her articles appear on MSN and through the Associated Press Wire in major U.S. outlets, including NBC, the Daily News, Boston Herald, Chicago Sun-Times and many more.