Beginning Sunday, air travelers in the U.S. without a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport, are subject to a new fee.

It isn't a penalty or a fine — it's payment for non-compliant travelers to use the Transportation Security Administration's new alternate identity verification option called ConfirmID. But the process takes extra time, and paying the fee doesn’t guarantee you’ll make your flight.

The Department of Homeland Security says most U.S. travelers are already compliant and that the fee is meant to encourage the rest — those without a star-marked REAL ID — to obtain one.

Still, the new fee may catch some passengers off guard, so here's a breakdown:

What is a REAL ID?

It 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 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 was repeatedly delayed.

The updated ID is indicated by a white star in a yellow circle in most U.S. states. It has been required since May, but travelers without it — and without another TSA-accepted ID — were still allowed through security with extra screening and a warning. That changes Sunday.

Who has to pay?

Travelers 18 and older flying domestically without proper identification on them will have to pay $45 to verify their identity at the airport through the ConfirmID process. If approved, the verification covers a 10-day travel period.

Paying the fee, however, does not guarantee access to U.S. air travel, and passengers whose identities cannot be verified may be turned away at airport security.

“This fee ensures that non-compliant travelers, not taxpayers, cover the cost of processing travelers without acceptable IDs,” said Adam Stahl, acting TSA deputy administrator.

How it works

The service fee is paid online at tsa.gov/ConfirmID. Travelers will have to enter their legal name and the start date of their travel. Accepted payment methods include debit and credit cards, Venmo and PayPal.

Someone other than the traveler can make the payment, according to TSA, but the traveler’s information must be entered correctly.

Passengers will then receive an emailed payment receipt from pay.gov.

At the airport checkpoint, show a government-issued ID and a digital or printed copy of the receipt to begin the verification process.

TSA recommends that travelers pay the fee before arriving at the airport to save on time, as the verification process alone could take up to 30 minutes.

Other accepted forms of ID

TSA accepts digital IDs through platforms such as Apple Wallet and Google Wallet at more than 250 airport checkpoints in the U.S.

The agency has a full list of acceptable IDs on its website. They include:

— Passport or passport card

— Permanent resident cards

— Trusted traveler cards, such as Global Entry or NEXUS

— Military IDs

— Photo IDs from federally recognized tribal nations

What sets Dahlonega apart as an emerging destination for queer visitors is its understated authenticity. Unlike flashier coastal hotspots, this inland gem combines historic allure with a supportive local ecosystem. Queer-owned accommodations and establishments create spaces where LGBTQ+ individuals can relax without fanfare, emphasizing person-first hospitality. The town's proximity to Atlanta—about 75 miles northeast—makes it an accessible weekend escape for urban queer communities, yet it retains a small-town intimacy that feels worlds away.

Local LGBTQ+ residents and business owners describe Dahlonega as a place where inclusivity is woven into the fabric of daily life. Many downtown businesses are LGBTQ+-owned and operated, contributing to an atmosphere of acceptance that extends to visitors. For instance, boutique shops and eateries along the main street cater to diverse tastes, with owners often sharing stories of creating safe spaces for queer couples and families. This grassroots support mirrors trends in nearby Blue Ridge, Georgia, where one of the state's largest populations of gay couples resides, suggesting a regional shift toward queer-friendly mountain living.

Travelers report feeling an immediate sense of belonging, bolstered by the absence of overt commercialization. Queer accommodations range from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to cabins overlooking vineyards, many explicitly marketed as LGBTQ+-friendly on platforms like OutCoast. Community insights highlight annual events that subtly celebrate diversity, such as art walks and wine festivals where local LGBTQ+ artists showcase work inspired by the Appalachian landscape. These gatherings provide low-key opportunities for networking and connection, appealing to queer travelers tired of crowded pride circuits.

The town's infrastructure further enhances its appeal. Pedestrian-friendly streets lined with 19th-century architecture invite leisurely strolls, while proximity to hiking trails in the Chattahoochee National Forest offers outdoor adventures tailored for couples or groups. Gay travelers particularly appreciate the wineries, where tastings often occur in scenic pavilion settings, paired with live music from local queer musicians. This blend of relaxation and subtle nightlife—think intimate wine bars rather than throbbing clubs—positions Dahlonega as ideal for multigenerational queer trips or romantic getaways.

Dahlonega's cultural richness amplifies its status as a hidden gem. The Dahlonega Gold Museum, housed in the historic Lumpkin County Courthouse, offers immersive exhibits on the 1828 gold rush, complete with original minting equipment and tales of frontier life. Queer visitors find resonance in these stories of pioneers forging new paths, paralleling modern journeys toward acceptance in conservative-leaning regions.

Art and history intertwine at galleries like the Dahlonega Arts Councul and Hancock Hall gallery, where LGBTQ+ artists display works inspired by the mountains'misty mornings and gold-veined rivers. Seasonal festivals, such as the annual Gold Rush Days in October, draw crowds for parades, mining reenactments, and artisan markets, with increasing participation from queer vendors. These events underscore the town's evolution, as noted in travel compilations praising its "welcoming vibe you can’t help but feel. "

For nature lovers, Crisson Gold Mine allows hands-on panning, evoking the thrill of discovery amid rustling leaves. Queer couples often cite these activities as perfect for bonding, away from urban hustle. Evening transitions seamlessly to fireside gatherings at queer-owned lodges, where stories of local LGBTQ+ resilience are shared over craft cocktails.

Dahlonega's rise stems from its perfect storm of factors: natural splendor, economic growth via tourism, and organic community building. Unlike saturated destinations, it avoids the pitfalls of overexposure, preserving an intimate feel. Sources consistently note its queer-owned businesses as a key draw, signaling reliability for LGBTQ+ travelers prioritizing allyship.

Practical tips abound: Visit in fall for foliage and harvest festivals, or spring for wildflower blooms. Book stays at LGBTQ+-friendly spots via OutCoast recommendations, and explore wineries. Safety metrics align with Georgia's improving climate, bolstered by local pride initiatives.

In essence, Dahlonega exemplifies how small-town America is redefining queer travel—authentic, enriching, and unpretentious. Queer travelers leaving its cobblestone streets carry memories of gold-tinted sunsets, shared wines, and unspoken belonging, marking it as a destination poised for discovery.

Starting Tuesday, customers on Southwest flights will have assigned seats and the option of paying more to get their preferred seat closer to the front of a plane or seats with extra legroom. The airline began selling tickets shaped by the new policy in July.

Here's what travelers can expect as Southwest does away with another of its signature features and becomes more like other airlines:

Goodbye, A/B/C groups

Under the open-seat system, Southwest customers could check in starting exactly 24 hours before departure to secure places in boarding lines at departure gates.

Early check-ins were placed in the coveted “A” boarding group, essentially guaranteeing they would find an open window or aisle seat. Others landed in “B” or “C,” the likelihood of only middle seats being available rising the longer they waited to check in.

The Dallas-based airline’s unusual seating process began as a way to get passengers on planes quickly and thereby reduce the time that aircraft and crews spent on the ground not making money. It helped Southwest operate more efficiently and to squeeze a few more flights into the daily schedule; the system also was a key reason Southwest remained profitable every year until the coronavirus pandemic.

The open-seating arrangement became less democratic over time, however, as Southwest also had starting allowing passengers to pay extra for spots near the front of the line.

Hello, assigned seating

An eight‑group boarding structure is replacing the find-your-own-seat scrum. Instead of numbered metal columns at departure gates, passengers will file through two alternating lanes once it's time for their group to board.

The airline said its gate areas will be converted in phases starting Monday night, a process that could take about two months to complete. Columns that remain standing past Tuesday will have their numbers removed or covered in the meantime.

Southwest is selling tickets at fares with different seating choices, including standard seats assigned at check‑in or paid preferred and extra‑legroom seats selected at booking. For certain flights, passengers also will have the option of paying for priority boarding beginning 24 hours before departure.

How it will work

Newly designed boarding passes will show seat assignments and boarding groups, according to Southwest. A reservation made for nine or fewer people, including families, will assign those passengers to the same boarding group.

Southwest says the boarding groups are based on seat location, fare class, loyalty tier status and the airline's credit card rewards benefits. Passengers who purchase seats with extra legroom will be placed in groups 1-2. Customers with premium fares and the airline's “most loyal travelers” will also have access to preferential seats and earlier boarding, the carrier said, while those with basic fares will likely be placed in groups 6-8.

Other changes

With the switch to assigned seating also comes a revision of the airline’s policy for customers who need extra room. Under the new rule — also effective Tuesday — travelers who do not fit within a single seat’s armrests will be required to purchase an additional seat in advance.

That represents a change from the airline’s previous policy that allowed passengers the choice to purchase a fully refundable extra seat before arriving at the airport, or request a free one at the gate. Under the updated policy, refunds are still possible but no longer guaranteed and depend on seat availability and fare class.

In May 2025, Southwest also ended its decades‑old “bags fly free” policy, replacing it with baggage fees for most travelers.

The changes mark one of the biggest transformations in the airline’s history, as it alters its longstanding customer perks to bring it more in line with the practices of other larger U.S. carriers.

Why all the change?

The shift comes amid pressure from investors to increase profitability.

“We have tremendous opportunity to meet current and future customer needs, attract new customer segments we don’t compete for today, and return to the levels of profitability that both we and our shareholders expect,” Southwest CEO Robert Jordan said last year.

When the Texas-based airline first announced plans in 2024 to switch to assigned seating, it said studies on seating options showed that customer preferences had changed over the years, with the vast majority of travelers saying they now want to know where they are sitting before they get to the airport.

Jordan said at the time that open seating was the top reason surveyed travelers cited for choosing another airline over Southwest.

What distinguishes walking vacations from a tour is intent, and recent industry data suggests that intent is translating into demand. According to the Adventure Travel Trade Association, more than 70% of adventure and active travel operators reported year-over-year revenue growth in its 2025 industry reporting, with walking, hiking and trekking consistently ranked among the most requested trip types. Market research from Fortune Business Insights estimates the global adventure tourism sector, which includes multi-day walking and trekking holidays, will be valued in the hundreds of billions globally, with continued growth projected through the decade.

Walking vacations are designed so that being on foot is the primary focus, not an activity added between meals or museum visits. Routes determine where travelers stay, how far they go each day and how they encounter local food, culture and landscapes. That model now spans continents and travel styles, from village walks and alpine routes to wildlife safaris and coastal hiking cruises.

Walk through village life in the Indian Himalayas

In the Kumaon region of northern India, Shakti Himalaya's Village Walks use walking to engage with daily life in the mountains. Routes link remote villages, farms and high-altitude landscapes, with time on foot guiding where guests stay and whom they meet along the way. The emphasis is not on distance or elevation, but on proximity to people and place.

"Many American travelers are drawn to Shakti's walking journeys for the opportunity to experience the Himalayas in a rare way that feels grounded and deeply human," says Jamshyd Sethna, founder of Shakti Himalaya. "Moving on foot slows the pace and sharpens awareness of the land, daily life in the villages and of one's own inner rhythm."

Moderate daily walks are paired with direct involvement in village routines, where seasonal, plant-forward Himalayan cooking plays a central role. "Walking creates the conditions for genuine exchange, whether through shared meals, conversations along the trail or time spent in homes that have long been part of these communities," Sethna explains. Guests visit farmers, forage for herbs and take part in cooking sessions that reflect how altitude and climate influence local food. The experience prioritizes immersion rather than exertion, offering a deliberate way to move through the Himalayas.

"These journeys are not about covering ground, but about giving space to connection, reflection and a more conscious way of traveling that resonates long after the walk itself has ended," Sethna concludes.

Village-to-village walk across the UK

Active England designs walking vacations across England, Scotland and Wales, where routes connect villages and rural communities over multiple days. Led by guides who live in the regions they cover, the itineraries rely on footpaths, terrain and daily distances to determine lodging, meals and access, rather than fixed sightseeing stops.

In the Cotswolds, for example, that approach leads travelers beyond the most visited villages and into quieter market towns, farmland and lesser-known paths. Meals and overnight stays emphasize local sourcing and long-standing relationships with regional suppliers. The trips appeal to travelers planning well ahead, including many in the 50-plus and luxury markets, who want walking to be central to the experience.

Where walking and food carry equal weight

Hedonistic Hiking offers guided walking holidays built on the idea that food is as integral to the experience as time on foot. Operating primarily in Italy, the company runs small-group trips that combine daily hikes with visits to markets, wineries, farms and family-run producers, often staying in locally owned hotels.

Walking routes are selected to support food encounters rather than compete with them. Days include vineyard walks, alpine trails and routes through lesser-known villages, punctuated by gourmet picnics, wine tastings, cooking classes and extended meals. The focus is on regional character as much as distance covered.

Walk the Adriatic by day, sail by night

Sail Croatia 's Luxury Hiking Cruise approaches walking vacations through a hybrid model, using a small ship as a moving base. Guests hike most days on islands and along the coast, with routes carefully chosen and distances outlined in advance.

Between hikes, the ship eliminates the need for frequent packing and unpacking. Long port stays allow time ashore, while swim stops provide recovery after walking. With fewer than 40 passengers and itineraries that prioritize time on land, the experience suits travelers who want consistent walking paired with coastal access and onboard comfort.

Follow an ancient route between Kyoto and Tokyo

Walk Japan 's guided journey along the Nakasendo Way follows a historic route that once connected Kyoto and Tokyo. The walk passes through mountain towns, forests and preserved post stations, offering access to rural Japan often bypassed by high-speed travel.

Small group sizes and sustained days on foot allow travelers to explore villages rather than observe them from a distance. Nights in traditional inns and regional meals reinforce how geography and history continue to influence daily life along the route.

Self-guided walking with logistics handled

Inntravel specializes in self-guided walking holidays across Europe and the United Kingdom, providing routes, accommodations and luggage transfers while leaving pacing decisions to the traveler. The model appeals to those who want independence without the complexity of planning multi-day walks on their own.

Most itineraries move inn to inn through rural regions and smaller towns, combining full days on foot with time for local food and cultural stops. Detailed route notes, maps and GPS support replace group leaders, offering structure without group travel.

Experience wildlife on foot in Botswana

Natural Selection 's walking safaris in Botswana place time on foot at the center of wildlife encounters. On itineraries such as My First Botswana Safari, guests explore private reserves with expert guides, tracking animals and reading terrain at ground level.

Walking is paired with stays at small, remote camps connected by short flights, keeping the focus on exploration rather than transit. The approach offers a perspective distinct from vehicle-based safaris, emphasizing awareness and observation.

Lodge-to-lodge walking in Australia's wild places

Tasmanian Walking Company operates fully guided, multi-day walks across eight trails in Australia, including six designated Great Walks. Trips are built around light-pack walking, with guests staying in permanent lodges or private camps located inside protected landscapes.

In 2026, the company will launch the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Signature Walk, a five-day guided route between two of Australia's most iconic geological sites. The walk includes overnight stays inside the national park, chef-prepared meals and cultural sessions led by Anangu Traditional Owners, pairing access with sustained time on foot.

Supporting the walking vacation ecosystem

Beyond fully guided itineraries, a wider network supports walking-focused travel. Companies such as On Foot Holidays create self-guided trips built around specific regions and interests, while hotels, including Redcastle Hotel & Spa, offer walking and hiking programs that allow guests to explore surrounding landscapes from a single base. Digital tools, such as Polarsteps, help travelers plan routes, track distances and document journeys, adding flexibility for those building trips where walking remains central.

Walking vacations move into the mainstream

As walking vacations continue to evolve, the next phase is likely to focus less on novelty and more on how trips are structured. Operators are developing longer routes, building lodging and logistics that support travel on foot without requiring extreme fitness and integrating food systems, conservation access and local communities into the experience. Destinations are also beginning to view walking-led travel as a tool for managing crowding and extending travel seasons. Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, walking vacations appear positioned not as an alternative to travel but as a refinement of it, offering trips that are off the beaten path, so to speak.

Jennifer Allen is a retired chef turned traveler, cookbook author and nationally syndicated journalist; she's also a co-founder of Food Drink Life, where she shares expert travel tips, cruise insights and luxury destination guides. A recognized cruise expert with a deep passion for high-end experiences and off-the-beaten-path destinations, Jennifer explores the world with curiosity, depth and a storyteller's perspective. Her articles are regularly featured on the Associated Press Wire, The Washington Post, Seattle Times, MSN and more.

Cancun, with its flash and commercialism, has long been the go-to destination for Mexican beach vacations. The hotel zone is dense, energetic and familiar, with restaurants, clubs, shopping and resorts lining a narrow strip designed for constant movement.

The development of the Riviera Maya expanded that model southward, introducing mega-resorts and reshaping travel across the Yucatán Peninsula. Costa Mujeres represents the next phase of that evolution, but it moves in a different direction.

Where Costa Mujeres fits in

Playa Mujeres, a long stretch of white sand within the broader Costa Mujeres area, lies north of Cancun rather than along the Riviera Maya. It is close enough to feel accessible, yet removed enough to feel distinct. From the outset, the area was designed around large, self-contained resorts rather than nightlife districts or commercial centers, and that decision defines the experience.

This is a destination built around staying put.

Getting there sets the tone

Reaching Playa Mujeres reinforces that sense of separation. Access currently runs along a narrow, heavily trafficked two-lane road used by hotel shuttles, transfer vans and construction vehicles. During peak hours, the drive can feel congested, but at just about 30 minutes from the Cancun airport, the area is still very accessible.

Once inside a resort's gates, the shift is immediate. Noise fades, space opens up and the pace slows. The contrast between approach and arrival is striking and intentional.

Inside the resorts

Hotels continue to rise across Costa Mujeres, often at a visible pace. From the outside, growth is unmistakable. Inside the resorts, the atmosphere is controlled, tranquil and deliberately insulated.

All-inclusive properties such as SLS Playa Mujeres, Hotel Mousai Cancun and Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Cancun cater to travelers who value space, design and service over constant activity. Dining, pools, spas and beach clubs are designed to keep the experience contained, reinforcing the idea that the resort itself is the destination.

A clear shift toward wellness

Costa Mujeres distinguishes itself by emphasizing wellness as a defining feature rather than an add-on. The arrival of SHA Mexico underscores that shift. Known for its focus on preventative health, nutrition and longevity, SHA signals a broader repositioning of the destination toward intentional living.

That influence extends beyond the clinic itself. Nearby resorts have expanded spa programming, fitness offerings and wellness-oriented amenities, contributing to an overall atmosphere that feels quieter and more restorative.

Food with intention, not excess

Dining in Costa Mujeres reflects the same measured approach. Food programs increasingly emphasize execution and experience over volume, moving away from buffet-driven models toward more curated offerings.

At the center of that evolution is María Dolores, the signature restaurant at Atelier Playa Mujeres. Recognized by the Michelin Guide, María Dolores has become a culinary anchor for the area, showcasing contemporary Mexican cuisine with a strong sense of place and restraint.

Nearby, La Casa de las Mayoras offers a more traditional counterpoint, grounding the region's food scene in heritage and technique. Together, these experiences reflect a broader shift toward dining that feels deliberate rather than abundant.

Who Costa Mujeres is for

Costa Mujeres attracts a specific type of traveler. Couples, honeymooners, wellness-focused guests and repeat Cancun visitors seeking a quieter experience tend to gravitate here. It works best for those who plan to stay on the property, book spa treatments, linger over meals and allow the resort to define the rhythm of their stay.

Travelers seeking nightlife, shopping or frequent off-property exploration may find Cancun's hotel zone better suited to their preferences.

So, is Costa Mujeres better than Cancun?

Not universally, but it is deliberately different.

For travelers drawn to quieter beaches, design-forward resorts, thoughtful dining and a wellness-led approach to luxury, Costa Mujeres may feel like a natural next step. Cancun remains vibrant and busy. Costa Mujeres offers an alternative for those ready to trade energy for ease, and crowds for calm.

Jennifer Allen is a retired chef turned traveler, cookbook author and nationally syndicated journalist; she's also a co-founder of Food Drink Life, where she shares expert travel tips, cruise insights and luxury destination guides. A recognized cruise expert with a deep passion for high-end experiences and off-the-beaten-path destinations, Jennifer explores the world with curiosity, depth and a storyteller's perspective. Her articles are regularly featured on the Associated Press Wire, The Washington Post, Seattle Times, MSN and more.

What sets Binghamton apart? It's the seamless integration of its LGBTQ+ community into the cultural fabric. "Binghamton, New York is a place that’s different. It’s also a place LGBTQ+ travelers MUST have on their radar! The gay scene is very open in Binghamton with the LGBTQ community well-integrated in the culture of our community, "declares Pride Journeys, highlighting how queer visibility pulses through the city's veins without the performative polish of bigger destinations. Whether you're a queer couple strolling hand-in-hand past murals on Artists Row or a solo traveler sipping craft IPAs at a gay-friendly brewpub, the vibe is one of effortless safety—no side-eyes, just warm nods and invitations to join the fun. Sensory overload hits in the best way: the hum of live jazz from a converted warehouse, the tangy bite of farm-to-table pierogies , and the electric buzz of pre-show chatter at the historic Forum Theatre.

This isn't hype; it's a quiet revolution fueled by local queer entrepreneurs and allies who've turned Binghamton's post-industrial bones into a canvas for inclusivity. The city boasts over a dozen LGBTQ+-owned businesses, from cozy coffee shops slinging oat milk lattes to boutique clothing stores stocking gender-neutral athleisure. Dive into the Binghamton Pride Center , a hub offering everything from support groups for transgender youth to mixers for queer 40-somethings—spaces where you can exhale, knowing you're surrounded by folks who get it. Year-round events keep the momentum: think winter cabaret nights with drag performers channeling Liza Minnelli vibes, summer riverfront picnics with live folk bands, and fall art crawls where local queer artists showcase pieces that scream self-expression. For queer travelers craving that "seen"feeling, Binghamton delivers: baristas who remember your pronouns, hoteliers who stock travel-sized lube without batting an eye, and park benches where same-sex couples canoodle under starlit skies without a whisper of worry.

At the heart of Binghamton's queer allure is its Artists Row, a stretch of Washington Street transformed into a bohemian wonderland. Galleries thrum with the chatter of queer curators unveiling works that explore identity—think vibrant oil paintings of trans joy by local phenom Alex Rivera or installations of recycled factory scraps symbolizing queer resilience. Pop into the Bundy Arts Center , where monthly queer open mics draw crowds for poetry slams that leave you laughing, crying, and cheering for encores. The air smells of fresh paint and espresso, with fairy lights twinkling against brick walls, creating an intimate nook where nonbinary travelers can sketch in peace or flirt over charcuterie. "Whether taking in a Broadway-caliber show, visiting a gallery on Artists Row or grabbing a bite, you will feel welcomed and comfortable just about anywhere, "Pride Journeys affirms, capturing the sensory embrace that makes Binghamton addictive.

Binghamton isn't all urban grit; its rural fringes beckon with queer-friendly outdoor adventures. Just minutes away, Otsiningo Park unfurls trails where queer hiking groups trek through wildflower meadows, the earthy aroma of pine mingling with birdsong. Pack a picnic of local cider and cheeses for a shady picnic—perfect for couples stealing kisses amid ferns. For adrenaline, rent kayaks on the Chenango River; paddle past herons, feeling the sun warm your shoulders as allies wave from shore.

Binghamton's annual Pride—held in June explodes in color in Otsiningo Park.But the magic lingers year-round. For 2026, whispers of expanded youth programs promise even more visibility for transgender and nonbinary travelers. It's this forward momentum—small-town heart with big-city soul—that positions Binghamton as North America's next must-visit.

In Binghamton, queer travelers don't just visit—they belong. The laughter echoing off brick walls, the knowing smiles from bartenders, the freedom to be unapologetically you amid rolling hills. Pack your bags; this unexpected haven awaits.

The Chanler at Cliff Walk is, without question, one of the most exceptional boutique properties in Newport, Rhode Island. From the moment you arrive, the experience feels both intimate and elevated. The staff is welcoming, attentive, and highly professional, striking the right balance between warm hospitality and refined service. The property itself is exquisitely maintained, with beautifully appointed rooms that reflect distinct historical periods while still providing modern comfort. Waking up to ocean views along the Cliff Walk is an experience in itself—quiet, serene, and unforgettable.

The location is ideal, situated directly on the iconic Cliff Walk and offering immediate access to some of Newport’s most renowned attractions. The Breakers and Marble House are just a short and scenic stroll away. Touring these two spectacular Gilded Age mansions added depth and historical context to our stay, and returning to the Chanler afterward felt like stepping back into a more personal and luxurious version of that era.

Remy’s Loose is a dining experience that exceeded expectations, with excellent cuisine and thoughtful presentation that matched the overall experience. Executive Chef Jacob Jasinski will blow your tastebuds away with his French cuisine with Rhode Island influences. 

Murcia's capital city, also named Murcia, serves as the cultural heart. The old town's labyrinthine streets around the Baroque Murcia Cathedral buzz with tapas bars and markets where locals sip thick hot chocolate alongside churros. For queer visitors, the real draw is the subtle openness: same-sex couples stroll hand-in-hand along the Segura River without drawing stares, a rarity in more conservative parts of inland Spain. The region's progressive leanings stem from Spain's nationwide legalization of same-sex marriage in 2005, fostering pockets of acceptance that have quietly expanded here.

What sets Murcia apart for queer travelers is its year-round authenticity. Spring brings the Semana Santa processions—solemn parades of hooded penitents carrying ornate floats through flower-strewn streets—offering a culturally immersive experience that's welcoming to all. Nearby, the Mar Menor lagoon, Europe's largest saltwater lagoon, beckons with calm, shallow waters ideal for relaxed beach days. Queer-friendly beaches like Calblanque, with nude-optional sections, provide secluded spots amid pine forests and turquoise coves, perfect for couples or solo adventurers. Local insight from travel writers notes that while not overtly marketed as gay beaches, these areas attract diverse crowds in a judgment-free atmosphere.

Murcia's queer community thrives in low-key venues that prioritize connection over spectacle. The city hosts an annual Pride festival in June, drawing large crowds for its community-focussed events. Unlike massive events elsewhere, Murcia Pride feels intimate, with locals and visitors mingling at pop-up bars serving regional wines from Jumilla vineyards. Puglia's nearby gay guide mentions similar regional saunas, but Murcia's stand out for their affordability and local flavor. For lesbians and queer women, the scene echoes smaller European nodes like Gazi in Athens: casual cafes by day morph into dance spots by night. Nonbinary travelers appreciate the city's gender-neutral facilities in newer spots, including public restrooms at the modern Victor Villegas Auditorium, which hosts queer film screenings.

Daytime explorations reveal cultural richness. Hike to the Lorca Castle, a Moorish fortress overlooking vineyards, or wander the Real Casino de Murcia—a 19th-century social club with opulent Moorish halls, now open to all, where queer history buffs can trace threads of hidden same-sex networks from the era. Foodies rave about Murcia's huerta gardens, yielding fresh produce for dishes like zarangollo , often enjoyed at communal tables where conversations flow freely. Travel experts position Spain highly on the 2025 Gay Travel Index for protections, with Murcia exemplifying safe, everyday inclusivity.

Emerging as a hidden gem, Murcia benefits from proximity to Alicante Airport , making it accessible yet undiscovered. Queer tour operators are eyeing it for bespoke itineraries, pairing wine tastings with sunset cruises on the Mar Menor. Local hosts via platforms like Airbnb often share insider maps to inclusive businesses, echoing Mallorca's just-for-us resources but on a quieter scale.

Community voices emphasize empowerment. A queer expat blogger describes Murcia as "where you can be visibly affectionate without the performance of Pride, "highlighting municipal pools and thermal spas as sober socializing hubs—much like Reykjavik's but warmer year-round. Transgender travelers note easy access to affirming healthcare via Spain's public system, with Murcia's university hospital praised for hormone therapy services.

For couples, romantic escapes abound: paddleboard on the Mar Menor at dawn or picnic amid almond blossoms in February. Solo queer women find safety akin to Iceland, with walking tours led by local groups exploring huerta trails. Families with LGBTQ+ kids enjoy the BioPark, a zoo with interactive exhibits on Mediterranean ecosystems, in a region scoring top marks for protections.

Getting there is straightforward: high-speed AVE trains from Madrid or flights to Murcia International Airport. Stay at boutique hotels like the queer-friendly Silken Saten in the historic center, with rooftop pools overlooking the cathedral. Budget €100-150/night for doubles; eat affordably at meson spots . Best times: spring for blooms, summer for beaches , fall for festivals.

Looking ahead, Murcia's queer scene is poised for growth. Plans for a dedicated LGBTQ+ cultural center near the riverfront signal investment in visibility. As Europe’s Gay Travel Index leaders like Spain evolve, Murcia positions itself as the next must-visit—welcoming, culturally deep, and perfectly under-the-radar.

But the country’s premier showcase for independent film is also in a time of profound transition after decades of relative stability. The festival is bidding farewell to its longtime home and forging forward without its founder, Robert Redford, who died in September. Next year, it must find its footing in another mountain town, Boulder, Colorado.

It’s no surprise that legacy will be a through-line at this year’s final edition in Park City. There will be screenings of restored Sundance gems like “Little Miss Sunshine,” “Mysterious Skin,” “House Party” and “Humpday” as well as Redford’s first truly independent film, the 1969 sports drama “Downhill Racer.” Many will also pay tribute to Redford at the institute’s fundraising event, where honorees include Chloé Zhao, Ed Harris and Nia DaCosta.

“Sundance has always been about showcasing and fostering independent movies in America. Without that, so many filmmakers wouldn’t have had the careers they have,” said “Mysterious Skin” filmmaker Gregg Araki. He first attended the festival in 1992 and has been back many times, including at the labs where Zhao was one of his students.

Quite a few festival veterans are planning to make the trip, including “Navalny” filmmaker Daniel Roher. His first Sundance in 2022 might have been a bit unconventional (made fully remote at the last minute due to the pandemic) but ended on a high note with an Oscar. This year he’s back with two films, his narrative debut “Tuner,” and the world premiere of “The AI Doc: Or How I Became an Apocaloptimist,” which he co-directed with Charlie Tyrell.

“We’re going through a weird moment in the world … There’s something that strikes me about an institution that has been evergreen, that seems so entrenched going through its own transition and rebirth,” Roher told The Associated Press. “I’m choosing to frame this year as a celebration of Sundance and the institute and a future that will ensure the festival goes on forever and ever and ever and stays the vital conduit for so many filmmakers that it has been.”

Over the past four decades, countless careers have been shaped and boosted by the festival and the Institute. Three of this year’s presumed Oscar nominees — Paul Thomas Anderson, Ryan Coogler and Zhao — are among those the Institute supported early in their careers.

Jay Duplass, who first came to Sundance in 2003 with his brother, Mark, with what he calls a “$3 film” said it was the place where his career was made.

“I’d probably be a psychologist right now if it wasn’t for Sundance,” Duplass said.

While he’s been to “probably 15 Sundances” since, it hasn’t lost its luster. In fact, when a programmer called him to tell him that his new film “See You When I See You” was selected, he cried. The film is based on a memoir in which a young comedy writer (Cooper Raiff) attempts to process the death of his sister (Kaitlyn Dever). It's one of many films that finds humor amid grim subjects.

As always, the lineup is full of starry films as well, including Cathy Yan’s art world satire, “The Gallerist,” starring Portman, Jenna Ortega, Sterling K. Brown, Zach Galifianakis and Da’Vine Joy Randolph. The romantic drama “Carousel,” from Rachel Lambert, features Chris Pine and Jenny Slate as high school exes who rekindle their romance later in life. Araki is also bringing a new film, “I Want Your Sex,” in which Olivia Wilde plays a provocative artist (Araki described as a cross between Madonna and Robert Mapplethorpe) who takes on Cooper Hoffman as her younger muse.

“It's kind of a sex-positive love letter to Gen Z,” Araki said. “It’s a comedy. It has elements of mystery, thriller, murder — a little bit of ‘Sunset Boulevard’ … it’s fun, it’s colorful, it's sexy. It's a ride.”

Wilde also steps behind the camera for “The Invite,” in which she stars alongside Seth Rogen as a couple whose marriage disintegrates over the course of an evening. Olivia Colman is a fisherwoman looking to make the perfect husband in “Wicker,” co-starring Alexander Skarsgård. Zoey Deutch plays a Midwestern bride-to-be seeking out her celebrity “free pass” (Jon Hamm) in the screwball comedy “Gail Daughtry and the Celebrity Sex Pass.” And Ethan Hawke and Russell Crowe lead the Depression-era crime drama “The Weight.”

Pop star and noted cinephile Charli XCX will also be out and about, starring in the self-referential mockumentary “The Moment,” and appearing in “The Gallerist” and “I Want Your Sex” as well.

The 2026 festival features a robust lineup of documentaries too, which have a good track record of snagging eventual Oscar nominations and wins. There are a handful of films about famous faces, including basketball star Brittney Griner, Courtney Love, Salman Rushdie, Billie Jean King, Nelson Mandela and comedian Maria Bamford.

Others delve into newsy subjects past and present, like “When A Witness Recants,” in which author Ta-Nehisi Coates revisits the case of the 1983 murder of a boy in his Baltimore middle school and learns the truth. “American Doctor” follows three professionals trying to help in Gaza. “Who Killed Alex Odeh” examines the 1985 assassination of a Palestinian American activist in Southern California. “Everybody To Kenmure Street” is about civil resistance to deportations in Glasgow in 2021. And “Silenced” tracks international human rights lawyer Jennifer Robinson in her fight against the weaponization of defamation laws against victims of gender violence.

And some don't fit into any easy category, like “The History of Concrete” in which filmmaker John Wilson takes what he learned at a “how to sell a Hallmark movie” seminar and tries to apply it to a documentary on concrete.

There might be a bit of wistfulness in the air too, as everyone takes stock of the last Sundance in Park City and tries to imagine what Boulder might hold.

“It feels very special to be part of the last one in Park City,” Duplass said. “It’s just a super special place where, you know there are going to be movies there with giant stars and there’s also going to be some kids there who made movies for a few thousand dollars. And they’re all going to mix.”

Araki, like Redford, knew long ago that the festival had outgrown Park City. It will be strange to no longer have its iconic locations like Egyptian Theatre and Eccles and The Ray anymore, but it's also just a place.

“The legacy and the tradition of Sundance will continue no matter where it is,” Araki said.