Weekend: Columbus, Ohio

I didn’t expect to like Columbus, Ohio, as much as I did. But after a Labor Day visit for the Gay Softball World Series, I discovered a city full of colorful neighborhoods, great restaurants and cocktails, LGBTQ+ nightlife, and plenty of unexpected finds. From the Short North to German Village, here’s what surprised me about Columbus—and my tips for making the most of a visit.

One Week in Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne, Australia offers a unique blend of world-class restaurants, vibrant laneways, specialty coffee, hidden cocktail bars, and diverse neighborhoods. After spending a week exploring Melbourne, I found its rich food, drink, and cultural scene every bit as compelling as Sydney’s iconic sights.

OneWorld Business Class Showdown

Showdown might be an overstatement, but I’ve had the opportunity to fly business class on three OneWorld airlines in the span of a few months—plus Alaska partner Condor—so it only seemed natural to share my comparison in case others had the chance to pick among them for a future itinerary.

Three Days: Brussels

Brussels tends to get overlooked. But spend a long weekend in Belgium’s capitol and you’ll discover a city that’s equal parts grand and gritty, full of striking architecture, vibrant street art, great people watching, and good food.

One Week: Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a top European destination where equality, culture, and everyday queer life blend seamlessly. From historic milestones like the world’s first legal same-sex marriage to vibrant gay bars, canals, and museums, the city offers LGBTQ travelers a welcoming, authentic, and unforgettable experience—day or night.

Three Days: Anchorage

Planning a long weekend in Anchorage? Alaska’s largest city is the perfect gateway to stunning glaciers, abundant wildlife, scenic mountain views, and unforgettable outdoor adventures. From spotting moose in the city to exploring nearby national parks, Anchorage offers a mix of urban amenities and wilderness experiences. This three-day Anchorage itinerary highlights the best things to do, where to eat, and how to make the most of a weekend in Alaska’s most accessible destination.

Two Days: London

Let’s acknowledge the elephant in the room: London isn’t really a city to visit for only two days. It’s big enough and old enough and has had a central role in so many historical events that a couple days barely touches the tip of the iceberg travel-wise. But as one of the primary gateways to […]

Long Weekend: Havana, Cuba

Traveling to Havana offers a Caribbean experience unlike any other, blending vintage charm, rich culture, and a sense of stepping back in time. Beyond its beaches, Havana captivates with classic cars, historic streets, and the unique complexities of traveling under U.S. restrictions—making it an adventurous but rewarding destination, especially for American travelers.

Weekend Getaway: San Juan

Puerto Rico is an easy-to-reach Caribbean destination that blends stunning beaches, lush rainforest adventures, and vibrant city life. Visitors can hike through El Yunque National Forest, explore the historic streets of Old San Juan, and enjoy world-class rum and lively salsa nightlife—all in one trip. For travelers on the U.S. East Coast, flights to Puerto Rico are quick and often affordable with the right timing, making it a top choice for a Caribbean getaway, though prices can rival trips to Central America during peak seasons.

Chester vs. The Widget: Elite on Alaska vs. Delta

Whose status is best? Online forums are packed with debates over whether Alaska Airlines or Delta Air Lines offers the better loyalty program, particularly an the Seattle Tacoma Airport hub. Alaska maintains a long-standing dominance in the region, while Delta has spent the past decade aggressively expanding its presence, transforming Seattle into a key global gateway for international and domestic travel. Let’s dig into some key considerations: