‘Tis the Season for Festive Planning!

Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket offer a classic New England summer vacation. Shingled cottages, seafood shacks, and breezy beach days make it a laidback destination. Cape Cod has something for everyone, from family-friendly towns like Chatham to artsy enclaves like Provincetown. Martha’s Vineyard feels relaxed but refined, with scenic bike paths, small towns, and a strong local vibe. Nantucket is the most polished of the three, known for upscale boutiques, cobblestone streets, and postcard-perfect beaches. 

This region is great for couples, families, and groups looking for a coastal getaway with charm, character, and plenty of fresh seafood. Read on to learn where to stay, what to do, and how to plan a trip to the Cape and Islands.

Hawai‘i is more than just a gorgeous beach destination—it’s an entire archipelago of personality. O‘ahu blends city life with surf culture, where you can hike in the morning and shop in Honolulu by afternoon. Maui is great for both honeymooners and families, with scenic drives, whale watching, and plenty of resort options. The Big Island is where to go for adventure, from volcanic landscapes to black-sand beaches. Kaua‘i is where nature lovers feel at home, with canyon hikes and hidden waterfalls. And if you’re wanting to completely unplug, head to Lana‘i. 

Whichever version of paradise you’re after, Hawai‘i delivers, whether it’s a family trip, friend getaway, or romantic escape. Read on to explore where to stay, what to do, and how to pick the island that’s right for you.

Costa Rica’s reputation for impressive landscapes and wildlife is what brings most people here, but it turns out, that reputation is an understatement. Cloud forests dissolve into Pacific surf, volcanoes rise above Caribbean lowlands, and animals show up in combinations that feel improbable. You might spot toucans, tapirs, howler monkeys, and resplendent quetzals—all within a single morning. Each region has its own rhythm: quiet Central Valley mornings, long stretches watching wildlife from a canopy platform, and beach towns that wrap up the day early. 

The phrase pura vida gets repeated so often enough to feel like a cliché, but spend a week here and the philosophy’s ubiquity makes a lot more sense. The more you internalize it, the more likely you are to embrace the country’s easygoing spirit—and the less pressure you’ll feel to see everything in one trip.

Still trying to lock down your Thanksgiving plans? Don't worry—you've got time, and honestly, a last-minute getaway might be exactly what you need. Or maybe you're hosting this year and already fantasizing about next Thanksgiving when someone else handles the cooking. Either way, I've got you covered.

This edition of the Getaway Edit is packed with hotels and resorts that offer private home and condo rentals—think full kitchens (that you won't have to use), plenty of space, and way less stress. More time catching up with family, less time scrubbing roasting pans at midnight.

Not going anywhere for Thanksgiving? No problem. Bookmark these for your next trip. And if you want something closer to home or totally customized to what you're craving, just say the word—I'll make it happen.

Get your cultural fix in Washington, DC

There’s something enchanting about traveling in the fall. The air turns crisper, summer crowds diminish, and the breathtaking autumn colors come to life. Whether you're indulging in seasonal treats at a farmers' market or taking a picturesque hike, autumn is an ideal time to plan a getaway.

Here are 12 of the top destinations to explore in the fall. These locations are perfect for a long weekend trip (though I won’t blame you if you decide to extend your stay). I’ve also included some international options for unforgettable fall adventures.

photo by Mike Bird

Subscribe to The Newsletter.

New Year, New Travel to Plan