Rijeka’s queer‑friendlier environment did not appear overnight. It grew out of a longer local tradition of left‑leaning politics, worker solidarity, and experimental art that has often set the city apart from the rest of the country.

Rijeka sits on Kvarner Bay in the northern Adriatic, historically shaped by Austro‑Hungarian, Italian, and Yugoslav rule before becoming part of independent Croatia in the 1990s. This layered past is visible in the Habsburg‑era palaces along Korzo, the main pedestrian promenade, and in the remnants of heavy industry that once made Rijeka one of Yugoslavia’s key shipbuilding centers.

That industrial identity also fostered a strong working‑class culture and a tradition of protest. Rijeka was one of the first Croatian cities to see mass anti‑fascist mobilization during World War II, and later hosted important punk and alternative scenes in socialist Yugoslavia. Contemporary queer organizers in the city frequently reference this legacy of resistance and non‑conformity when explaining why they feel comparatively safer being visible here than in some other Croatian urban centers.

In 2020, Rijeka served as one of the European Capitals of Culture, a European Union initiative that highlighted the city’s experimental arts institutions, from the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art to a network of independent cultural centers housed in former industrial spaces. The official program included explicit LGBTQ+ themes and collaborations with local queer organizations, further legitimizing their presence in the city’s cultural mainstream.

For queer visitors, one of Rijeka’s most important assets is the presence of LORI Association , a local lesbian and feminist organization founded in 2000. LORI is one of the oldest LGBTQ+ organizations in Croatia and is based in Rijeka, where it has long provided counseling, educational programs, and public campaigns against homophobia and transphobia.

LORI has also been central in organizing Rijeka’s contribution to May 17th International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia , staging public actions, exhibitions, and discussions in city spaces. These events, often held in collaboration with the City of Rijeka’s Department of Culture, signal an official openness to LGBTQ+ visibility that is still uneven across Croatia.

While Croatia’s most widely reported Pride events happen in Zagreb and Split, Rijeka has hosted smaller but symbolically important queer public gatherings and community festivals over the last decade, including film screenings, panel discussions, and cultural programs under banners such as “Smoqua – Festival of Queer and Feminist Culture.” Smoqua, founded in 2017, combines workshops, performances, and exhibitions with regional and international guests; organizers describe it as a space for “feminist, queer, and artistic reflection” in the Adriatic context.

These initiatives mean that, although Rijeka does not yet have the density of commercial gay bars or clubs seen in larger European capitals, it offers a community‑based infrastructure where queer travelers can plug into local networks anchored by activism and arts rather than nightlife alone.

Croatia has made several formal advances on LGBTQ+ rights in the last decade, including the introduction of life partnerships for same‑sex couples in 2014 and subsequent provisions allowing non‑married same‑sex couples to foster children. However, rights organizations have documented ongoing discrimination, periodic anti‑Pride incidents, and challenges for transgender people in accessing legal gender recognition and adequate healthcare.

Within this national context, Rijeka stands out for several reasons:

Firstly, surveys and anecdotal reporting by Croatian LGBTQ+ groups describe Rijeka as having a relatively high level of everyday acceptance, especially among younger residents, compared to some inland and smaller coastal towns.

Secondly, city officials in Rijeka have consistently partnered with civil society on anti‑discrimination campaigns, including support for educational workshops in schools and cultural venues. This institutional backing gives queer cultural events a sense of security and continuity.

Thirdly, Rijeka’s identity as a historically multicultural port—with Italian, Slovene, and other minority communities still present—has contributed to a civic narrative that values diversity. Scholars of Croatian urban history note that this pluralism often translates into greater openness toward gender and sexual diversity as well.

For queer travelers, much of Rijeka’s appeal lies in its scale. The city center is compact and walkable, with Korzo at its heart, lined with cafés where couples of all genders can sit together without attracting undue attention. From here, side streets lead to the port, the main market, and cultural landmarks like the imposing St. Vitus Cathedral and the 19th‑century National Theatre Ivan pl. Zajc, which has hosted productions by openly queer and feminist directors.

Climbing the steps behind the city brings visitors to Trsat, a hilltop neighborhood crowned by a medieval fortress and a Franciscan monastery. The views over Kvarner Bay and the islands of Krk and Cres are a reminder that Rijeka is at once an industrial port and a gateway to some of the Adriatic’s most coveted beaches. In warmer months, local residents—queer and straight—head to pebble beaches along the city’s eastern shoreline and to nearby coastal towns like Kostrena and Opatija for swimming and sunbathing.

Rijeka’s food culture reflects its mixed heritage. Seafood risottos and grilled fish share menus with Central European comfort dishes and Italian‑influenced pastas. Independent cafés and bars in the center and around the artsy “Benčić” complex—home to the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and the Children’s House—often host exhibitions and DJ nights that attract a young, alternative crowd, including many LGBTQ+ locals.

Unlike major queer capitals where clubbing dominates the experience, Rijeka’s emerging appeal lies in its cultural programming.

The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art Rijeka has mounted exhibitions engaging with gender, sexuality, and body politics, including works by regional queer artists. Film screenings organized with local NGOs have featured documentaries on LGBTQ+ activism in the Balkans and beyond, often followed by discussions with activists and scholars.

During the European Capital of Culture year, several projects directly addressed queer histories and identities, such as performances exploring same‑sex desire in Yugoslav popular culture and installations highlighting the marginalization of LGBTQ+ people in post‑socialist transitions. Organizers report that these events drew mixed audiences and sparked public conversations about gender and sexuality that continue to resonate in the city’s cultural scene.

The Smoqua Festival of Queer and Feminist Culture has quickly become a key date on the local calendar, typically taking place in autumn. Programmes have included drag performances, zine‑making workshops, self‑defence classes for queer and feminist communities, and lectures on topics ranging from non‑binary identities to regional transfeminist movements. International guests from neighboring Slovenia, Italy, and Serbia underscore Rijeka’s position as a meeting point in the northern Adriatic for feminist and LGBTQ+ networks.

These culture‑driven spaces are particularly valuable for transgender people, non‑binary people, and other gender‑diverse travelers who may not feel fully at ease in more conventional gay nightlife environments. Workshops and discussions foreground intersectional experiences, including those of migrants, Roma people, and disabled queer people, reflecting a broader commitment to inclusivity.

From a logistics standpoint, Rijeka is accessible by bus and train from Zagreb and by ferry or catamaran from several Adriatic destinations, with a nearby airport on the island of Krk serving regional flights. Accommodation options range from small family‑run guesthouses to contemporary hotels along the waterfront.

Human rights groups note that while legal protections against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity exist in Croatia, the lived experience of LGBTQ+ people varies by region. In Rijeka, local activists emphasize that displays of affection such as holding hands are generally possible in central areas without major incident, especially during daytime and around cultural venues. However, they still advise caution late at night in less busy parts of the city, similar to guidance offered for many European destinations.

Transgender people traveling to Croatia may face particular challenges, including inconsistent understanding of gender diversity in medical and bureaucratic settings. In Rijeka, LORI and partner organizations sometimes facilitate referrals to LGBTQ‑affirming professionals and can offer up‑to‑date local guidance for those who reach out in advance via their website .

Rijeka rarely appears on mainstream LGBTQ+ travel lists, which tend to focus on cities like Berlin, Barcelona, and Amsterdam. However, some specialized travel features on “hidden” queer‑friendly destinations in Europe and the Adriatic region have begun to spotlight Croatia and the Kvarner area—often emphasizing the role of grassroots organizations and smaller festivals over large commercial Pride events.

Within this broader trend, Rijeka stands out as:

- Welcoming: A city administration that partners with LGBTQ+ groups, visible queer and feminist festivals, and cultural institutions hosting gender‑ and sexuality‑themed projects all contribute to a sense of safety for visitors.

- Emerging: Rather than a saturated party destination, Rijeka offers an evolving scene where new queer‑inclusive events and collaborations appear each year, many still small enough that visitors can meet organizers and artists personally.

- Culturally rich: From its European Capital of Culture legacy to ongoing experimental art, theatre, and music, the city offers depth well beyond sun and sea, with queer perspectives increasingly woven into this fabric.

For LGBTQ+ travelers seeking a European destination where they can explore both queer community life and local history without the pressure of a hyper‑commercial scene, Rijeka offers a compelling alternative. Cafés on Korzo instead of mega‑clubs, conversations at a feminist zine workshop instead of all‑night circuit parties, a swim in Kvarner Bay after a day at the museum: it is in these quieter combinations that the city’s appeal reveals itself.

And as local organizers continue to build festivals, alliances, and safe spaces, Rijeka’s position as a hidden gem on the queer map of Europe is likely to strengthen—still under the radar enough to feel intimate, but increasingly connected to a broader Adriatic and European LGBTQ+ network.

Chiang Mai’s reputation as a queer-friendly city is rooted in Thailand’s broader acceptance of LGBTQ+ people, which is deeply influenced by the country’s Buddhist traditions and lack of legal discrimination against homosexuality . The city’s residents are known for their warmth and hospitality, and public displays of affection between same-sex couples are generally met with indifference or even smiles, especially in tourist areas and the city center. In January 2025, Thailand officially legalized same-sex marriage, further cementing its status as one of Asia’s most progressive countries for LGBTQ+ rights .

Chiang Mai’s cultural landscape is a tapestry of ancient temples, traditional markets, and a thriving arts scene. The city is home to dozens of historic Buddhist temples, including Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, which offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets. The Old City, surrounded by ancient walls and moats, is a maze of narrow alleys, street food stalls, and boutique shops, many of which are run by LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs or openly queer-friendly .

The city’s queer community is particularly vibrant in the Nimmanhaemin neighborhood, known for its trendy cafes, art galleries, and LGBTQ+-friendly bars. Nimman is a hub for young creatives, expats, and locals, and it’s not uncommon to see rainbow flags fluttering from shop windows or hear Thai pop music with queer themes playing in the background. The annual Chiang Mai Pride Festival, held in May and June, brings together LGBTQ+ locals and visitors for a weekend of parades, performances, and community events, further highlighting the city’s growing visibility and inclusivity .

Chiang Mai’s nightlife is more laid-back than Bangkok’s, but it offers a diverse range of queer-friendly venues. Bars like Ram Bar, 6ixcret Show, and Blwo CNX are popular spots for LGBTQ+ travelers and locals, often hosting drag shows, karaoke nights, and themed parties. The city’s queer scene is also supported by a growing number of LGBTQ+-owned guesthouses and boutique hotels, such as Club One Seven Gay Hotel, which provide safe and welcoming accommodations for queer travelers .

For those seeking a more immersive experience, Chiang Mai’s LGBTQ+ community is active in local arts and activism. Organizations like the Young Pride Club work to promote visibility, support, and advocacy for queer rights in the region. The city’s annual Pride Festival is a highlight, but smaller events and meetups happen throughout the year, fostering a sense of belonging and connection for both locals and visitors .

Chiang Mai’s appeal lies in its balance of tradition and modernity, making it a destination that feels both authentic and progressive. Unlike the more commercialized queer scenes in Bangkok or Pattaya, Chiang Mai offers a more intimate and community-driven experience. The city’s relaxed pace, stunning natural surroundings, and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal destination for queer travelers seeking a deeper connection with Thai culture and a sense of belonging within a vibrant LGBTQ+ community .

For those looking to explore beyond the typical tourist trail, Chiang Mai’s hidden queer spaces, cultural richness, and progressive spirit make it a destination that is both emerging and deeply rooted in Thai hospitality. Whether you’re drawn to its ancient temples, vibrant arts scene, or welcoming LGBTQ+ community, Chiang Mai offers a unique and unforgettable experience for queer travelers in Asia .

In Iceland, geothermal heat rises from the ground, the air is clean and faintly smells of minerals, and nearly every town has its own geothermal spa.

Iceland has more naturally heated water than anywhere else on the planet, and daily “bathing” in local swimming pools (heated with geothermal water) is part of the culture. Now, more and more entrepreneurs are creating their own spas, and you can spend a week in Iceland and soak in a different spa every day.

You can visit an expensive and sleek lagoon or a pool of geothermal water with a few rocks around it to sit on. The choice is yours, and whichever you choose will be amazing.

Here’s how to experience the country one soak at a time.

Day 1: Blue Lagoon

There isn’t a more recognizable place in Iceland. In fact, photos of the Blue Lagoon are pasted all over Keflavik airport in case you hadn’t heard of the famous spa. Pictures of beautiful Icelanders with white silica masks on their faces in milky-looking turquoise water sell the place better than any brochure ever could.

The Blue Lagoon is an experience. Black lava fields surround the water, and a thick mist rises from the 100-degree water. It is the largest spa in Iceland, and even when it is busy, you can still find a spot for yourself.

However, the Blue Lagoon is one of the most expensive spas on the list, and it can be really crowded in the summer and early fall. I once visited in March, and it was pretty slow. If you want to be left alone with your thoughts and have some space to move around, this may not be your favorite. But if you have always dreamed of going, go; it is totally worth it once. You will find silica masks, swim-up bars, and tons of beautifully heated water.

Day 2: Krauma

In western Iceland, near Europe’s most powerful hot spring, Krauma is a soothing, minimalist retreat. The heat comes directly from Deildartunguhver, a roaring natural spring that produces water hot enough to cook with.

While Krauma is not the largest or most impressive spa, it might be the most relaxing. Quiet and modern, Krauma has five hot baths, one cold bath, and a sauna. There is also a relaxation room with a fireplace if you want to take a nap. Krauma is a good choice for relaxing at the end of a day of hiking, or a great way to start your day. Plus, the food at the restaurant is excellent and moderately priced.

Day 3: Laugarás Lagoon

The brand new Laugarás Lagoon is the country’s latest answer to the luxury-lagoon trend. With impeccably designed pools and mountain views, it’s stylish without being showy — an intimate retreat surrounded by some of Iceland’s most fertile landscapes. (The crops grown in the area are used in their restaurant.)

Two levels of pools give you plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the beautiful countryside views. Each level features its own swim-up bar where you can get a drink, and there is a waterfall and saunas to enjoy while you are there. One of the best things about Luagarás Lagoon is the Ylja restaurant run by Icelandic celebrity chef Gísli Matt. Slow-cooked cod is a speciality that I can’t recommend enough. Eat before or after your spa, and your day will feel totally complete.

Laugarás is very similar in feel and style to Forest Lagoon in Northern Iceland, so it is an excellent alternative if you don’t want to go too far from Reykjavik.

Day 4: Giljaböð Baths

For travelers who crave something a little closer to nature, Giljaböð Baths (Canyon Baths) may be the week’s most unforgettable stop. You can only reach the baths by bus, then walk down a steep hill to the most picturesque baths you have ever seen.

Stone-built pools capture the natural hot springs and overlook a moss-covered canyon where a nearby river meanders.

This is Iceland at its best — hot pools carved into nature, blending seamlessly into the valley. You won’t find luxury amenities; there are only two small changing rooms and a bathroom. What you will find is silence, solitude, and the sense of soaking in a place that hasn’t changed in centuries.

If you want to stay nearby, Hotel Hussafell is a beautiful hotel just up the hill from where the bus picks up people for the baths.

Day 5: Hvammsvík

Just outside Reykjavík, Hvammsvík Hot Springs flow into a private fjord, where tidal waters and the geothermal heat mingle in a series of pools. The depth of the water in the pools rises and falls with the tide, and so does the temperature. It feels wonderfully elemental: you get a front-row seat to the ocean and the mountains, and you get to do it in a spa. Next to the Canyon Baths, you can’t get much closer to nature.

There are eight separate pools of differing temperatures built on the slope that runs to the fjord. Some are very hot, and others mix in with the ocean during high tide, making a colder pool. In addition, there is a steam room, a swim-up bar, paddle boarding, and a lovely cafe. If you want a more natural approach to geothermal baths, you will love Hvammsvík. Spend more time in beautiful Hvammsvík by renting out one of the nearby artist lodges. There are eight cottages overlooking the lake and the fjord.

Day 6: Sky Lagoon

If you have a day or two in Reykjavik, you will want to visit Sky Lagoon. No need to leave the city, the spa is actually in downtown Reykjavik on a rugged shoreline overlooking the ocean. Sky Lagoon embraces modern Icelandic minimalism and seems like a more grown-up version of the Blue Lagoon. It is one of the larger geothermal baths in Iceland, and while a newer addition to the country, it seems to be growing in popularity.

Its signature seven-step ritual — a cycle of hot, cold, steam, and exfoliation — is inspired by ancient Scandinavian baths and leaves you feeling relaxed, even more than spas that offer heated water. Along the shoreline is the infinity-edge, allowing people to look out onto the North Atlantic while staying warm in the lagoon.

Day 7: Forest Lagoon

You will have to drive to Forest Lagoon, or perhaps get off one of the many cruise ships that go to Akureyi to experience this bath. Perched on a forested hillside above Akureyri, this spa feels like you are in the middle of the forest with pools framed in cedar and the smell of the forest around you.

The spa has two hot-water pools and a cold plunge pool for the most intrepid spa-goers. Plus a swim-up bar and a sauna. There’s a sense of seclusion here in this spa sculpted into the landscape rather than built upon it. Guests drift between hot pools and a swim-up bar, all surrounded by the hush of trees and the view of the fjord down below the hill.

Have More Time? Local Swimming Pools

After a week of designer lagoons and canyon retreats, you might be tired of geothermal baths. Still, you should add in one of the most authentic Icelandic experiences of all: the community swimming pool. Nearly every town, no matter how tiny, has its own geothermal pool complex, complete with hot pots, steam baths, and cold plunges.

These swimming pools are open to locals and tourists alike and are more authentic than any other spas in the country.

This is where Icelanders relax, chat, and warm up from the chilly winter. It’s affordable, simple, and part of daily life — and the perfect final chapter in a week dedicated to soaking.

Favorites include:

• Sundhöll Reykjavíkur — classic and atmospheric


• Laugardalslaug — Reykjavík’s most beloved local pool


• Selfoss Swimming Pool — family-friendly and beautifully maintained



• A Week of Icelandic Wellness


Spend a week soaking in Iceland’s geothermal baths, and you’ll understand something Icelanders have known forever — that warmth isn’t just a temperature. It’s a feeling, time to relax with friends, and a ritual that you might bring back home with you.

Iceland makes spa-hopping feel not just like a luxury, but a way of life. Each lagoon and bath will give you a different experience. All of them will make you want to come back to do it again.

Vegas sees opportunity in wellness travel, a welcome trend amidst an overall decline in tourism. Visitor numbers have been down year over year for nine straight months. The city has been buffeted by strained household budgets and a steep decline in Canadian visitors to the U.S. Local investment in wellness offerings continues unabated.

A new kind of fabulous

With alcohol consumption at historic lows and wellness spending growing at a healthy clip, Las Vegas introduced a new slogan in September. Gone are the days of "What Happens Here, Stays Here," which gave travelers tacit permission to lean into hedonism.

The new "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" campaign draws inspiration from the iconic sign and "is a reminder of how Las Vegas makes you feel, no matter how you choose to experience it," says Michon Martin, CEO of R&R Partners, who worked on the campaign. More and more, visitors choose wellness as their kind of fabulous.

As with many trends, Las Vegas leads the way in making wellness entertaining. Kate Wik, LVCVA chief marketing officer, highlights the circadian rhythm-inspired treatment at Lapis Spa inside Fontainebleau Las Vegas, which picks up on the sleep tourism trend.

When it comes to dining, the excellence that Las Vegas is known for now puts health on the menu, with fine vegan dining at Crossroads Kitchen at Resorts World. Wik says that these innovations have made Vegas "especially attractive for wellness seekers looking for more than just traditional entertainment. It's a destination where people can leave feeling better than when they arrived."

In a city known for its speakeasies, this kind of thinking marks quite a shift. Luxury travel writer Casandra Karpiak agrees that the city offers much more than gambling. "Lapis Spa at Fontainebleau delivers calm on a spectacular scale. Awana Spa's Art of Aufguss ritual turns heat into theater, and the F1-themed facial at the Waldorf Astoria Spa is the ultimate pre-race indulgence."

Indulgence takes on new meaning

At Lapis Spa & Wellness inside the Fontainebleau Las Vegas hotel, indulgence begins paradoxically with a forced detox. Spa attendants gently inform guests of the no-phone policy, requesting devices be left in the lockers. The provided robes have no pockets, leaving guests no choice but to comply.

With no distractions, spa goers are free to focus on the 55,000 square feet of wellness offerings. The spa excels in traditional services like massages, facials and body treatments, earning it the distinction of 2024 world's best casino hotel spa and Nevada's best hotel spa by World Spa Awards.

However, it's the extras that make the experience memorable. Lapis Spa & Wellness offers guests a near-endless variety of treatment options. Most guests start in the giant hot tub. The adventurous then move to the cold plunge before exploring one of the saunas. Some engage in herbal inhalation, a sauna-like space where fresh botanicals are heated to release their essential oils.

Guests with respiratory problems can visit the salt mist chamber. A salt brick wall provides a striking visual, and a salt dispensing system circulates salty air to reduce inflammation and clear toxins.

At the end of all the heat treatments, the spa recommends a quick trip to the snow shower, which feels like standing under a shaved ice machine as it churns out slushy snowflakes. In a city known for excess, this spa fits right in.

Well-rounded wellness

Whatever your health goal, the wellness corridor of the Fontainebleau is equipped to deliver. Steps away from the spa is the fitness center, where 14,000 square feet of exercise space greet visitors who want a more active kind of wellness.

Next door, those wanting a more clinical route to wellness pop into NutriDrip, where there is an IV concoction for every goal from longevity to increasing fertility. The hotel-exclusive Fontaine of Youth drip combines NAD+, vitamin C, glutathione and other vitamins and minerals to achieve detoxification, replenishment and cellular respiration for an eye-popping $1,000.

For those looking to achieve wellness through nutrition, Fontainebleau is home to the only wellness bar by supplement brand Cymbiotika. Staff wearing T-shirts with the slogan "longevity is the new luxury" serve $11 oat milk lattes with liposomal longevity mushrooms that give the drink a distinctly earthy tang. For an additional $3, patrons customize $21 smoothies and acai bowls with supplements like Irish sea moss, liquid colostrum or something called golden mind.

Wellness is big business

These unusual offerings make up part of the functional nutrition space, a fast-growing segment of the $500 billion wellness industry in the U.S. Half of all consumers and two-thirds of Gen Z and millennial respondents say they purchased functional-nutrition products last year.

Up to 60% of global consumers in the same study report that healthy aging is a top or very important priority for them. Those consumers are also travelers, and McKinsey & Company highlights travel as a top area for growth in the wellness industry.

The global wellness tourism market hit nearly $1 trillion in 2024 and is expected to reach more than $3 trillion by 2034. North America accounts for 40% of spending. Amidst this growth, Las Vegas has quietly amassed nine spas with a Forbes four or five-star rating.

Fontainebleau recently received the city's only MICHELIN key, the company's new hospitality equivalent to its prestigious star system for restaurant ratings. The city has never been better situated to serve up both longevity and luxury.

Something for everyone

Off the strip, new businesses rise to meet the demands of both locals and travelers. Pause Studio, a wellness franchise, opened its first Nevada location in Las Vegas in October. Visitors choose from offerings like cold plunge, infrared sauna, flotation therapy, compression therapy and IV vitamin drips.

Another newcomer, RAEYA, opened a luxury women's wellness sanctuary in November. RAEYA offers a science-backed wellness membership experience with select a la carte services. It focuses on personalized wellness, longevity-focused treatments and products by Laurel Skincare, a farm-to-face pioneer.

Nearby, Life Time, a luxury health club chain, broke ground on a new location scheduled to open in late 2026. The 130,000 square foot space will include standard fitness classes and sports courts, but also a hydrotherapy suite with a sauna, steam room, whirlpool and cold plunge.

For those who prefer to reconnect with nature, Las Vegas is an easy drive from several national parks. Red Rock Resort sits at the gateway to Red Rock Canyon, offering guests access to wide open spaces as well as the Red Rock Spa by Well & Being.

An unlikely pairing

Economic headwinds lead to lower visitor numbers, but wellness offers opportunities for tourism growth. Las Vegas meets the moment with award-winning spas, new business openings and collaborations in functional nutrition. Despite a reputation for overindulgence, Las Vegas proves that fabulous can also mean well.

Ashley Wali is a Seattle-based travel journalist and curator of Wanderlux, specializing in luxury family travel, sports tourism and wellness travel. Her work has appeared in The Seattle Times, Boston Herald, The Philadelphia Tribune, Orlando Sentinel, and many more. Recent assignments have had her slurping oysters on Cape Cod and cruising the fjords of Norway.

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.