Most Americans know little about the Setouchi region of Japan. Prior to my fam trip hosted by the Setouchi Tourism Authority, I didn't know much, either. However, it's precisely because it's not as inundated with foreigners as other parts of Japan that visitors have the opportunity to engage with authentic Japanese culture.

Haven’t heard of Saskatoon? Most people haven’t. Located about 300 miles north of Montana, it’s quickly rising in popularity thanks to landing the number 18 spot on the New York Times 52 Places to Go in 2018 list. In addition to the opening of the Remai Modern, the recently opened modern museum that’s put this obscure Canadian destination on the art map thanks to its impressive Picasso linocut collection, Saskatoon has a burgeoning culinary and craft drink scene.

Crop Over, the annual harvest festival celebrating the end of a successful sugar cane season in Barbados, has been around for a long time. But we can thank Bajan queen of fashion, Rihanna, for bringing it to a wider audience than ever before. For six weeks, Crop Over festivities take over Barbados. From Caribbean music, parades, and fêtes that rage on all day and all night (when one party stops, another one starts) to Bajan food fairs and sprawling arts and crafts markets, the rum-fueled fest is a partying marathon of epic proportions.

Dumplings are a magical, ubiquitous food that can be found almost anywhere in the world. From Germany's potato dumpling, kartoffelknoedel, to China's black sesame paste-filled dessert, tangyuan, most cuisines offer up their own unique version of the deliciously stuffed dough pocket. Whether sweet or savory, meat or vegetarian, filled with broth or bean paste, the options of what can be wrapped up in dough are endless. We've rounded up 25 different types of dumplings from across the globe to give you a sampling of how this type of food has managed to become an integral part of so many countries' cuisines.

California is an incredible state known for its sunshine, sandy beaches, incredible scenery, wine country and so much more. One of the often overlooked ways of traveling the Golden State? Through the exploration of its flourishing spirits scene! From an innovative distillery using cutting edge technology to produce unparalleled rums and whiskey to a distillery that incorporates San Francisco fog into its vodka, the opportunities to imbibe are endless.

If there’s one thing you can be sure of, it’s that people love a good party. Throughout the country, from Alabama to Wyoming, states put on annual events that draw crowds and plenty of excitement. Whether a state fair, music festival, sporting event or something else equally fun, people are usually aware of the best things to attend in their own state. But what about everywhere else?

Flight attendants and crew members are packing magicians. With hectic, unpredictable schedules that often times require flying around the world and back across the span of days, they have perfected what gives even the most seasoned travelers a headache: the art packing efficiently.

Lake Tahoe, California isn't just a winter wonderland for adrenaline junkies and snow bunnies looking for world-class slopes with killer views. The California heat transforms this destination into the ultimate summer retreat where air exudes the fresh smell of pine with a hint of barbecue and every outdoor activity is at your fingertips.

From wind-shaped caves and saguaro cacti to rocky canyons and incredible sunsets, Mesa, Arizona is known for its stunning desert landscape. What some might not be aware of, is how big its food scene is. With a bounty of locally sourced ingredients from nutrient-rich farm lands and an endless array of talented chefs pushing the boundaries of seasonal cuisine, this region serves as a culinary gateway to both Phoenix and Scottsdale, as well as the surrounding farms and agritourism attractions.

Traveling is stressful as it is without having to question what cryptic messages pilots and crew members are sending — whether it be over the microphone, PA system or even to your face. Make catching your next flight a little more pleasant with this handy guide to airplane talk. To help you, we’ve put together this list of top terms and phrases you’re likely to hear while in the air so that you’ll never be left confused again. Happy travels!

What is your definition of time well spent? Is it time spent honing skills to perfection? Time spent laughing with loved ones? Or perhaps it’s time spent reminiscing on past memories that bring a smile to your face, all the while making new memories you’re sure to cherish down the road. Embodying this idea of “Time Well Spent” is the premium spirits brand, Mount Gay Rum.

Situated in an 1884 brick mansion on historic Washington Park, Washington Park Inn is an enchanting property that combines modern comfort with Victorian charm. Located a short walk away from downtown Albany, the Capitol Building and Empire State Plaza, visitors have plenty to see and do. Moreover, visitors have easy access to the area’s acclaimed restaurants, galleries, bars and music venues.

History buff or not, most can recall the story of the Mayflower and the Pilgrims’ fight for religious freedom. 2020 marks the 400th anniversary of the Pilgrims leaving from England to America. In honor of this extraordinary voyage, an international partnership of thirteen American, Dutch and English communities lead by both Plymouth, Massachusetts and Plymouth, England has been created to celebrate the historic anniversary.

On average over 2,587,000 passengers fly in and out of US airports every day. Moreover, 2017 was the safest year on record for commercial air travel. Yet, despite air travel being as frequent and safe as it is in our society, many people still get freaked out by the idea of boarding a plane traveling hundreds of miles per hour at elevations of over 30,000 feet in the air.

Growing up nearby California’s famed Pacific Coast Highway meant I was spoiled with easy access to some of the most beautiful ocean views in the world. Now that I live in New York City, it’s the complete opposite scenario. I get to a beach maybe once, or twice a year, and that’s if I make it a priority!

Food and travel always go hand in hand. After all, don’t we all like to eat and drink well — and post pictures of the evidence — while we’re on vacation? Recent trends prove that foodie adventures are among the most popular activities when it comes to bookable travel experiences. Last year, spending in this category increased by 61 percent from 2016.

Thailand is one of those countries that you could visit ten times and each time discover something new. With 77 provinces, over 40,000 temples, a seemingly infinite amount of pristine tropical beaches, a rich history steeped in Buddhism, as well as, uber-modern cities that exude the same intoxicating atmosphere as any in the United States, it’s a country that caters to every traveler.

A stay at an all-inclusive beach resort doesn’t need to be something your body hates you for the week after. We all know the deal. All you can drink. All you can eat. Minimal exercise. Maximum tanning. But the Caribbean Tourism Organization is trying to change that in naming 2018 the “Year of Wellness and Rejuvenation”.

Since its opening in 2013, The Source has become an essential Denver destination for anyone who appreciates art, design and good food and drink. Located in the River North Art District, The Source is an artisanal food market housed within a former 1880’s brick foundry building.

Though China can seem like it's a world away from the U.S., my direct flight to Guangzhou from San Francisco was surprisingly painless. From a stress-free experience at China Southern Airlines' Business Class VIP check-in counter to my preflight complimentary tea and light bites at its VIP lounge to priority boarding access, complete with a private shuttle to the plane, the decision to opt for an upgraded ticket with this airline was well worth the extra cost.