Travelers can take advantage of record-low fares this September thanks to a new sale from low-cost Breeze Airways.
“$30 fares? Game on,” the airline wrote in an email about the promotion. “Go for the Golden Hour.”
The airline’s sale, which ends on Thursday, Aug. 1, at 11:59 p.m. PT, is available for travel between Sept. 3 and 17. No promo code is needed to access these discounted fares, which include government taxes and fees. Travelers can find the eligible routes on sale to book on Breeze’s website or app.
Travel + Leisure found these one-way deals ranging from $30 to $39:
Canton-Akron (CAK) to/from Orlando (MCO) and Myrtle Beach (MYR)
Charleston (CHS) to/from Cincinnati (CVG) and Louisville (SDF)
Orlando (MCO) to/from New Orleans (MSY) and Mobile (BFM)
Provo (PVU) to/from Phoenix (PHX), Dallas (DFW), and San Francisco (SFO)
Even cross-country routes are on sale at a significantly discounted rate. For example, passengers can book $89 one-way flights between Raleigh-Durham and San Diego or Richmond and Los Angeles as part of this promotion.
That said, these promotional fares are available in Breeze’s “No Flex Fare,” similar to a basic economy ticket on other carriers. Travelers are only allowed to bring a personal item and will pay extra to pick a seat and to bring carry-on bags onboard. For more flexibility, passengers should book “Nice” fares, which allow them to change or cancel their flights with no added fee.
Breeze Airways is still a relatively new carrier, having launched its inaugural service from Tampa to Charleston just over three years ago. Created by former JetBlue founder David Neeleman, the airline offers direct service to bring travelers from smaller airports to larger destinations with low-cost fares.
As a Chicagoland-based local and a seasoned travel writer, Deer Path Inn has long been on my radar. My first staycation at this impressive countryside-style guesthouse was with my youngest child in tow. We enjoyed a special mother-son overnight, which included eating intricate finger sandwiches, sweets, and scones and sipping flavorful brewed teas in the lovely English Room, snapping photos in front of the titan stag sculpture in the verdant courtyard garden, and wandering to the nearby town square on foot to see the fountain and marvel at the vegetables and flowers neatly displayed in tight rows down a brick alleyway. Later, we snuggled under blankets and watched a movie, eschewing an alarm for the following day.
I brought my husband to dine with me this time, but he didn’t stay long — someone needed to watch our brood at home. It’s a tough job to spend a night lounging in a king-sized bed with luxurious linens all to myself, but as a mom of three teenage boys, I was chomping at the bit for the most indulgent and pleasure-seeking escape of all: time alone.
The experience went just as well as you’d expect, and I promise you, the attentiveness and care of the hospitable staff were not lost on me. Stepping into my reserved elevator, I was delivered to the Cornwall Suite. A flawless spot to lounge with a novel, the light-filled living room had a marble fireplace and wine bottles lining the shelves. Still, it was the deluxe bathroom with a deep jetted infinity tub, which fills from a fixture on the ceiling, that caused me to gasp audibly. Oh, yes, this was the setting for me and that novel.
I’d later dine in The English Room and White Hart Pub and practice my mixology skills during a cocktail class in The Bar with the creative and joyful Jorge Centeno, the chief spirits officer. All of it would feel like a dream that was over too soon. This inimitable inn sets the bar high for unforgettable stays in the Midwest and around the globe.
For 95 years, Deer Path Inn, with its Tudor-style façade, nostalgic wood paneling, original artwork, and cozy interior, has been an indispensable landmark on Chicago’s North Shore. From the moment you step through the manor house doors and spot the wellies lining the wall, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time to an English countryside estate. Included on The National Register of Historic Places and the Historic Hotels of America lists, this boutique hotel, recently renovated in 2016, consistently earns a top spot for our World’s Best Awards. It’s easy to see why.
Read on for my full review of Deer Path Inn, an illustrious favorite that you just have to experience to believe.
Deer Path Inn
Tucked away on a peaceful neighborhood street, the 57-room inn is not only an exquisite sojourn for out-of-town guests but also an admired gathering place for Chicagoland locals.
The showstopping afternoon tea service, developed in collaboration with a British Master of Tea, presents savory and sweet delights on tiered plates alongside single estate teas — a transportive tradition not to be missed.
The understated luxury of the spacious and well-appointed accommodations creates a relaxing and elegant ambiance.
With nods to English-style innkeeping, guests are well looked after — whether reveling in The Bar or White Hart Pub or enjoying a respite in the flower-filled garden or the sitting room with the grand stone fireplace.
The Rooms
Courtesy of Deer Path Inn
The storybook rooms, ranging from 350 to 800 square feet, are graciously sized and designed with a gentle palette of pastels and neutrals. The décor is plush and classy yet understated, giving it a timeless style. From the upholstered and comfy furnishings to the luxurious drapery to the Frette linens, rich texture and home-like touches make you want to linger in bed longer than you perhaps should.
Deer Path Inn is known for its personalized care. “If someone tells us it’s their anniversary, we put a bottle of Champagne in their room at no charge,” says James Barnett, a global hospitality star and the new General Manager at the inn. “It’s purely for service.”
I stayed in the Cornwall Suite, which has a lovely open living and dining room floor plan with separate sleeping quarters. Fresh orchids brighten up each space, including the capacious bathroom stocked with Molton Brown toiletries. Everything is on brand, of course, including not only the bath products that are made in England, but also, the in-room Garrett popcorn, which as any Chicagoan knows, is a definitive Windy City staple.
“The housekeeping team is incredible. The level of detail and consistency is impressive,” says Barnett. I concur: I was instantly won over by the hand-delivered lemony madeleine cookies dusted with powdered sugar.
Food and Drink
Courtesy of Deer Path Inn
With three award-winning dining options, you certainly won’t go hungry while staying here. The executive chef, Jeff Vucko, formerly chef de cuisine at Langham, Chicago, and executive chef at Pendry, is another bright and relatively new addition to the team.
“With people’s memories of a place, there are certain dishes they don’t want to see leave the menu,” says Barnett. “We are cautious about that and will update the menu where we can.”
The English Room is the beating heart of the culinary experience at Deer Path Inn. You’ll likely witness a pair clinking wine glasses while celebrating a special occasion—I saw a couple shake the hand of my server, George while gushing, “Thank you for remembering!”
Courtesy of Deer Path Inn
Adjacent to the main dining space is the light-filled Garden Room, where many enjoy afternoon tea, and if the weather is favorable, you can relish alfresco tea service on the splendid Courtyard Patio. A group of ladies with lacy multi-hued fascinators brightened up a long table next to where I was sipping cheery fig tea. “We do this every year,” one chic woman gushed.
The Bar is where you can enjoy a tipple, casual bites, or a full-on dinner. Ahi tuna nachos, burrata, cottage pie, wild mushroom risotto, and Scottish Salmon are on the menu. The wood-paneled setting is so relaxing and serene that it’s easy to whittle away the hours in this cozy, low-lit enclave.
Casual and traditional, White Hart Pub is a real treat. Try the bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, or fish ‘n chips. It’s like a vacation to the Old World.
However, for guests who want to unwind in the comfort of their own chamber, the in-room dining menu is available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Surprisingly, sushi is also available (on select days between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m.). My breakfast of avocado toast and fresh berries was delivered promptly and was delicious.
Activities and Experiences
Courtesy of Deer Path Inn
While there is no swimming pool on site, guests may enjoy easy access to Lake Forest’s private beach, situated just over one mile from the property. If you’d prefer not to walk, complimentary bicycles are available, or car parking passes are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
There’s a small fitness center, which is open at all hours if you need to work out. The neighborhood is gorgeous, so I suggest going for an outdoor jog if you’re a runner. The concierge can help you plan a route, but I recommend heading toward Market Square or the beach.
Be sure to take advantage of the special packages offered throughout the year. For example, you can enjoy the wellness and sleep-inspired package called “A Good Book & A Spot of Tea,” which includes tea service at bedtime, English snacks, a lavender mocktail, and a special “Sleepy Sips” curated playlist. Partnering with the Lake Forest Book Store, guests will receive a hand-selected book. The inn’s Chief Spirits Officer also presents a cocktail trinity inspired by English authors: The Charles Dickens, The Jane Austen, and The William Shakespeare.
For alcohol-free offerings, the Zero-Proof Experiences are tailor-made for sober-curious holidaymakers. Reserve a “Zero-Proof” hotel package featuring an in-suite DIY mocktail mixology kit and a private mocktail mixology lesson with the Chief Spirits Officer. If you’d like to visit The Bar at the Inn, you can also indulge in a rotating menu of alcohol-free cocktails — be sure to take a peek at the Inn’s Instagram page to see the bartenders in action.
Family-friendly Offerings
Courtesy of Deer Path Inn
As someone who travels frequently with her family, I greatly appreciate amenities like complimentary valet service, especially when a lot of luggage needs tending. Also, as Fido is a household member, small dogs are welcome at the inn.
Evening milk and cookies, presented in the hotel lobby, are an amenity that kids — and, let’s be honest, adults too — adore.
It’s also worth noting that Deer Path Inn is ideal for a multigenerational experience. It’s not uncommon to see grandparents who want to spend quality time with grandchildren enjoy afternoon tea together.
Accessibility and Sustainability
Deer Path Inn is known for its exceptional service and attentive care, and this ethos extends to guests with mobility challenges. From three different guestroom categories that offer accommodating functionality to valet or accessible self-parking to wheelchair ramps to an elevator with braille, this hotel has thought of everything.
“We’re adapting to be more eco-friendly, moving toward aluminum tubes or bulk dispensers for toiletries,” says Barnett. “It’s a conscious choice.”
Location
Just 33 miles north of the Windy City, Lake Forest is a charming village on Chicago’s North Shore, with an abundance of activities and marvels to experience. Within walking distance from the hotel, you can easily reach the historic Market Square, full of boutique shops, eateries, and local happenings. Gorton Community Center is also nearby — visit here to experience live musical events, cultural arts, and community fun.
The Lake Forest Train Station, which services Chicago, is within a half-mile of the inn, and Deerpath Golf Course and Lake Forest Beach are both just over one mile away.
How to Get the Most Value Out of Your Stay
For the best value, book ahead, especially since the inn tends to fill up fast during the peak seasons. “It’s a great place to visit in summer — we have all the amenities like the lake — but winter, January and February, is our slower period, which would be reflected in the rates.”
Another way to maximize your stay is to delight in the cozy nooks throughout the hotel’s public spaces. Bring a book, read the provided newspapers, or play a game of chess with your family — the Deer Path Inn is meant to be savored with loved ones. “It’s a flexible place where you can relax and tone it down, or you can plan your North Shore visit and go to the Botanic Gardens, take the train to the city, take a bike ride, or go down to the beach. You can fit all that in one stay or just slow down a little bit,” says Barnett.
Home to some of the greatest theme parks in the country, there’s no shortage of things to do in the City Beautiful. Unfortunately, all this fun can rack up a high bill pretty quickly. While vacation costs can easily soar higher than fireworks, there are some ways to save money and make your dream trip a reality. Here’s what you need to know to plan a trip to Orlando on a budget.
How to Save Money on Flights
One benefit of Orlando being one of the most visited cities in the country is that many airports have direct flights to Orlando International Airport (MCO). If your home airport is a hub for an airline, consider opening up an airline-specific or travel-friendly credit card with a sign-up bonus to earn more miles or offset the cost of flights.
Utilizing Google Flights and other similar travel planning websites is another way to best decipher what airline, time of day, or even time of year is the most cost-effective to visit. You can utilize price prediction graphs and even set alerts for when fares change.
Affordable Places to Stay
Courtesy of Evermore Resort
You can stay on property at Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando without breaking the bank. At Walt Disney World, opt for a Value resort, such as Pop Century or Art of Animation, for helpful perks (like free transportation to the parks) at a much lower price point. While they are a more expensive option, booking Disney Villas can end up saving money as they provide guests with kitchenettes so that you can prepare meals yourself (rather than spending money dining out for every meal). Staying at a Deluxe Disney property will also give you exclusive after-hours entry to select parks on certain evenings. During these events, expect little to no wait times on even the most popular attractions. Neighboring properties Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin and The Swan Reserve are just a stone’s throw away from the parks and offer many of the same Deluxe resort benefits, but they are actually Marriott hotels, so you can use Bonvoy points and even free bonus nights toward a stay, rather than paying cash.
Universal Orlando has stellar options for travelers looking to stay on a budget at their Prime Value hotels. The resort offers several tiers of properties: Value, Prime Value, Preferred, and Premier. While the Premier properties will cost the most per night, they do come with some great money-saving perks, like free Universal Express Unlimited, which allows you to skip the regular lines at participating rides and attractions at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure. The rooms and family suites at both Universal Endless Summer Resorts — Dockside and Surfside — are an incredible deal for the price.
There’s no shortage of vacation rentals in Orlando on websites like Airbnb, Vrbo, and more. However, the newly opened Evermore Resort also offers all of the perks of renting a private home without the risks that accompany rentals, like last-minute owner cancellations or dirty accommodations. They also come with kitchens, allowing you to save money on dining costs if you prepare food at home.
Transportation Options
Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure
Orlando is the largest rental car market in the world, so with enough research, you can generally find a good deal on a car. However, some hotels do charge for parking, and those nightly fees can add up. If you’re looking to explore the area, consider renting a car for only a portion of your stay to cut costs. The city does offer public transit via the Lynx bus, as well as the I-Ride Trolley service and Brightline train. Both Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World offer complimentary theme park transportation for guests staying on property, and if you’re spending most of your trip at the parks, it generally makes the most sense to skip the rental and stay on site.
How to Save on Theme Parks and Activities
Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure
Theme parks often run promotions throughout the year, whether it’s multi-day ticket-only offers or bundling tickets along with rooms. For example, Walt Disney World currently has a four-day, four-park ticket promotion from $99 per day, and guests can save up to 30 percent off room rates through the holiday season. Universal Orlando also offers promotions throughout the year, like this two days free with a two-park, three-day ticket deal.
Visitors can also purchase Disney gift cards at retailers like Target, Sam’s Club, and Costco at discounted rates throughout the year. Paying for either the entire trip or just designating a certain budget for dining, festival foods, or souvenirs with a gift card allows you to stay on budget more easily. Some websites offer discounts on tickets, like Theme Park Frog, The Orlando Informer, Sam’s Club, and Costco. While these discounts don’t tend to be very large, any money saved can go straight to your Dole Whip budget.
Both Universal and Disney offer shopping, dining, and entertainment destinations that don’t require an admission fee. If you’re visiting Walt Disney World this summer, be sure to catch Disney Dreams That Soar, a new nightly drone show you can watch from Disney Springs. Parking is free at this outdoor entertainment complex, and you can find several top-notch quick-serve destinations for dining on a budget. Universal CityWalk has dozens of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options from mini-golf to a movie theater just steps from the gates of their parks. And for visitors looking to take a break from the theme parks altogether, there are several totally free things to do in Orlando, from birdwatching to botanical gardens.
Eating on a Budget
Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure
While Orlando is home to plenty of upscale restaurants, there are also quick-serve, casual options that are just as good. For fantastic food on a budget, be sure to check out some of the winners of the Bib Gourmand award. New-to-Florida Michelin Guide not only honors fine dining locations, but high-quality food that can be found at a spectacular value. This year’s winners in Orlando include some of my favorites like Domu and Norigami.
Even if you’re staying in a standard hotel room without a kitchen, you can stock up on some basics to save money. There’s no need for a rental car or a trip to the grocery store, as you can utilize services like Shipt or Instacart to order groceries directly to your accommodations. Even without a kitchen, you can order ingredients for easy-to-prep meals like peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwiches, granola bars, snacks for after a long day at the park, and my favorite — bottles of cold brew coffee. Iced coffee is one of my staples, and by ordering large bottles for a trip, I’m able to save some serious cash. Just keep in mind that some hotel mini fridges are technically coolers and don’t reach cold enough temperatures to safely hold items like dairy products.
When you do want to eat out, there are plenty of great options that won’t break the bank at Orlando’s top parks. Rather than focus on table-service locations, consider ordering the majority of your meals from quick-serve restaurants to save money. That said, there are some reasonably priced table-service options as well. Some favorites at Walt Disney World are Bar Riva at Disney’s Riviera Resort, Polite Pig at Disney Springs, and Sebastian’s Bistro at Caribbean Beach Resort which offers an all-you-care-to-enjoy pre-fixe menu. For larger (or hungrier!) families, pick up a whole pie at the Boardwalk Pizza window at Disney’s Boardwalk Resort to enjoy either on the Boardwalk or back in your room.
Guests staying at Universal Orlando can find many quick-serve options like Blaze Pizza at CityWalk, the Leaky Cauldron inside The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Diagon Alley, and Illumination’s Minion Cafe. The cafeterias in the value resorts are also impressive, like The Bayliner Diner which cooks up made-to-order food at reasonable prices at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort.
Itinerary Ideas
Breaking up a busy week of theme parks isn’t just good from a budget standpoint — it’s also more relaxing. While there’s nothing like racking up thousands of steps and exploring a park from open to close, sometimes it doesn’t quite feel like a vacation. Most hotel pools in Orlando are truly stellar and deserve a day to enjoy. Additionally, when you kick back and relax, you can enjoy on-site offerings like nightly movies at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort or making s’mores and enjoying the Chip and Dale Singalong at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.
More Money-saving Tips and Tricks
Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure
When ordering quick-service meals inside the theme parks, consider selecting the kid’s meal. In general, the portion sizes are enough for an adult, and they come with your choice of side and beverage.
Order groceries so that you can have breakfast outside the parks. As long as your heart isn’t set on a daily Mickey waffle, a box of granola bars can net you some serious savings.
Don’t underestimate a rest day. While you obviously don’t want to miss a thing on your trip, some of the best memories I’ve had with my family are on our days off from the parks. Take the opportunity to explore the other resorts (and watch the Epcot or Magic Kingdom fireworks from outside the parks), or use a form of transportation you haven’t tried before.
While it may seem counterintuitive to purchase a ticket for an additional event, sometimes the shorter wait times and included snacks can mean that the extra cost pays off. The Orlando Informer hosts several meetups in Universal Orlando throughout the year, allowing ticket holders after-hours access, unlimited food, and generally shorter waits for all the top attractions in the park.
If your schedule is flexible, consider the time of year you want to visit and be on the lookout for discounts. “If you’ve got kids in school and don’t want to take them out, the best time to visit might be mid-to-late August. Summer vacation crowds will have left by then, and Disney often offers late-summer hotel discounts,” says Len Testa, co-author of The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World.
Spirit Airlines is moving away from its history of à-la-carte pricing by introducing new ticketing bundles that include options for premium seats, carry-on bags, Wi-Fi, and more.
Starting August 16, travelers can find the new booking options online at checkout. The base-level fare, “Go,” will remain true to Spirit as the most economical ticketing option, and travelers will be able to pay for trip extras after booking.
With the new update, passengers can upgrade to “Go Savvy,” “Go Comfy,” and “Go Big,” and these bundles will offer more perks than ever before:
Go Savvy: includes one carry-on or checked bag and a standard seat selection at booking
Go Comfy: includes a guaranteed blocked middle seat, carry-on and checked bags, priority boarding, one snack, and a non-alcoholic beverage. It is available for travel starting Aug. 27.
Go Big: includes Spirit’s Big Front seat, free snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, a carry-on and checked bag, priority check-in and boarding, and free Wi-Fi. It is available for travel starting Aug. 27.
As part of a recent policy change by the low-cost airline, all four “Go” ticketing options will include no change or cancellation fees.
“We’re unveiling a new era in Spirit’s history and taking low-fare travel to new heights with enhanced options that are unlike anything we’ve ever offered before,” said Spirit’s president and CEO, Ted Christie, in a statement shared with T+L. “We listened to our guests and are excited to deliver what they want: choices for an elevated experience that are affordable and provide unparalleled value.”
Spirit anticipates a larger net loss for Q2 2024 due to “lower-than-expected” ancillary revenue.
However, Spirit is not alone in the industry, as airlines are attempting to upsell premium amenities to make up for losses. Major low-cost competitor Frontier Airlines has introduced an “UpFront Plus” seating option with blocked middle seats, while Southwest recently announced plans to phase out its decades-long open-boarding policy.
From beach getaways to city escapes, JetBlue has marked down dozens of routes for August and September travel.
Dubbed the “See-ya, Summer” sale, the airline shared on its website that, “Summer’s flying by, but there’s still time to make the most of it with August travel on sale.”
The promotion, which ends on Thursday, August 1, at 11:59 p.m. ET, is available for travel on Tuesdays and Wednesdays between Aug. 13 and Sep. 25. There’s no promo code required, and travelers can head over to JetBlue’s dedicated promotion page to find the eligible routes on sale.
Travel + Leisure found the best one-way deals across the country starting at the lowest $39 price point:
New York (JFK) to Nashville (BNA): $39
Los Angeles (LAX) to Salt Lake City (SLC): $39
Orlando (FLL) to Washington, D.C. (IAD): $39
Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to Jacksonville (JAX): $44
Boston (BOS) to Presque Isle (PQI): $49
Boston (BOS) to Charleston (CHS): $49
Newark (EWR) to West Palm Beach (PBI): $54
New York (JFK) to Bermuda (BDA): $59
Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to San Juan (SJU): $69
These discounted flights are available in Blue Basic, which is JetBlue’s most restrictive fare class available. Recently, the airline announced a favorable change to Blue Basic tickets, allowing travelers flying on or after Sept. 6 to bring a carry-on bag onboard for no fee. However, Blue Basic passengers will still have to pay $65 for their first checked bag and will incur additional fees for modifying their flight, though this ticketing option remains the most economical.
Travelers with TrueBlue points can also take advantage of JetBlue’s latest sale, though award flights can only be booked in the higher Blue fare class. These one-way flights are discounted for as low as 3,600 points and $5.60 in taxes and fees, and Blue tickets even include free modifications and seat selection.
Travelers longing for a Paris getaway have a quick and easy way to experience a version of the “City of Lights” without leaving the United States.
Paris Las Vegas, the famed French-inspired casino and hotel, recently unveiled a $100 million upgrade to its Versailles Tower, featuring 756 renovated rooms and extra amenities. Best of all, guests can now book rooms with a Las Vegas strip-view balcony overlooking the famed Bellagio fountains. (Having a balcony attached to a Las Vegas Strip hotel room is rare, with only Paris Las Vegas and MGM Resort’s The Cosmopolitan.)
Travel + Leisure spotted availability for the new balcony rooms, with rates for under $249 a night on the Paris website throughout the fall. The balcony rooms span over 445 square feet and offer a king or double-bed configuration. Amenities in the room include a new 55″ television, sofa, and marble bathrooms with French-inspired art pieces. The most stunning amenity may be the views from the balcony of the Las Vegas Strip, and neighboring fountains.
“The rooms are inspired by an elegant Parisian apartment, and the renovation and redesign have transformed every detail – from the color scheme to the layout and furnishings – into a modern and luxurious space, all while still reflecting the resort’s identity,” Sean McBurney, Caesars Entertainment’s regional president of Las Vegas, told T+L.
The Versailles Tower was originally a part of the Horseshoe Las Vegas, which was previously known as Bally’s. After the brand change, the management invested $100 million into an interior and exterior renovation of the tower and merged it into the Paris Las Vegas.
The casino and hotel are themed as a French capital, complete with a half-sized replica of the Eiffel Tower, and a two-thirds-sized replica of the Arc de Triomphe. Having originally opened in September 1999, the new investment and upgrades may have guests saying, “C’est tres bien.” The hotel also features one of the most unique outdoor recreation areas in Las Vegas, with a two-acre rooftop pool that sits under the replica of the Eiffel Tower.
State-owned railways aren’t usually associated with upscale travel. So when I heard that Spain’s national rail system had a luxury sleeper-train route called the Costa Verde Express, my curiosity was piqued, and I signed up.
The six-day trip travels along the country’s “green coast” in the north, stopping in medieval towns, UNESCO-protected parks, and seaside villages. In October 2023, I boarded the train for its weekly journey between the industrial city of Bilbao and Santiago de Compostela: the final stop of one of Catholicism’s most sacred pilgrimages, known as the Camino de Santiago. While there would be overlaps with one of the pilgrimage routes, my itinerary would feature Champagne dinners, a private cabin, local guides at every stop, and even an onboard gala.
Visitors exploring the town of Santillana del Mar.
Day 1: Bilbao to Santander
I arrived at the Bilbao-Concordia train station at 10 a.m., just early enough to drop off my bags and grab a pastry and apricot juice before joining a tour of the old town and the Guggenheim Museum. When we returned, a porter escorted me to my cabin. It was smaller than I expected — barely big enough for a double bed and built-in desk — but stylish nonetheless, with wood-paneled walls, silky gold curtains, and a bijou bathroom with a glass shower and marble sink.
The train rolled out at 2:15 p.m. as glasses of Catalan cava were served in the Pullman dining car, which had more wood paneling, green velvet armchairs, and brass table lights. Over the next three hours, waiters in tartan vests and white gloves served a four-course lunch of French toast with foie gras and blueberry (better than it sounds), Basque fish stew, duck confit, and cheesecake. As vineyards and apple orchards blurred past the windows, I chatted with several of my fellow passengers, a group of about 50 smartly dressed travelers that included a flamenco dancer from Andalusia and a psychologist from Puerto Rico. “It’s so romantic, isn’t it?” said a flight attendant from Chicago who sat near me during lunch.
We arrived at the port city of Santander at 5:30 p.m., with enough daylight hours left for a guided coach tour of the coast. The bay was turning a cotton-candy pink as the tour ended, so I opted for a swim at El Sardinero, a wide beach fringed by Belle Époque buildings. The water was ice-cold, but the sunset was unforgettable. After drying off between two boulders, I joined my fellow passengers in town at Querida Margarita, where I enjoyed a butter-smooth Ibérico-pork shoulder.
For the evening’s entertainment, there was a magic show on the train, but I wanted to see more of Santander, so I explored the 13th-century cathedral and lively Plaza de Cañadío on my own. Besides, the train was stationery every night, so there was no rush. When I returned to my cabin, there was a square of dark chocolate on my pillow. I went to sleep to the rustling sounds of birds nesting in the station’s tiled roof.
Related: The Best Train Trips to Take Across America
From left: Replicas of cave paintings at the Altamira Museum; the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao.
From left: Toni Anzenberger/Redux; Getty Images
Day 2: Santander to Llanes
The wake-up bell rang at 8 o’clock, and the train jolted into action. I lay in bed, watching curly-horned cows graze on chartreuse pastures and children playing on swings as we glided through the rolling hills of the Cantabria region. A breakfast of smoked salmon and made-to-order eggs was served in the dining car as the train trundled toward Cabezón de la Sal, a salt-mining town. We arrived at 9:30, and a bus took us to the Altamira Museum, where we marveled at the replicas of Paleolithic cave paintings discovered nearby in 1879.
After a lunch of cocido, a bean stew with black pudding and chorizo, at Santillana Gil Blas, a traditional Cantabrian restaurant near the museum, we explored Santillana del Mar, a beautiful medieval village. “It’s like a living museum,” said our guide, Daniel Escudero. The shops on the main street sold Cantabrian anchovies, wild-boar sausages, and orujo, a local brandy. I met two pilgrims from Canada who were buying butter cake, the town’s signature treat. They had walked 186 miles of the Camino de Santiago — and had 300 more to go.
Like the pilgrims, we continued west to Llanes, the medieval port town built along rocky turquoise coves where we would spend our second night. Dinner — monkfish salad, beef loin, and tocinillo de cielo, a flanlike dessert — was served on board, followed by a gin-spritz master class with Nacho Capín, the train’s mixologist.
Day 3: Llanes to Oviedo
I woke up to the squawk of a cockerel and the smell of cow dung — the train was parked in the station in Asturias, Spain’s “natural paradise.” After breakfast, we boarded a coach to Picos de Europa National Park, a landscape of limestone peaks, deep river gorges, and wildflower meadows. Our driver navigated hairpin turns to reach the glacial Lakes of Covadonga, which sit more than 3,280 feet above sea level. These UNESCO-protected mountains are home to rare wildlife, including Iberian wolves and shrewlike desmans. We didn’t see either of those creatures, but we did spot a herd of horned Asturian cows, which roam the area freely, and a lone peregrine falcon circling over our heads.
We returned to the train for lunch and continued to Oviedo, the region’s stately capital. We arrived at 5:30 p.m. for a guided tour of the old quarter and the Gothic Cathedral of San Salvador of Oviedo, said to house the cloth that covered Christ’s face after his death. Dinner that evening was in the leafy courtyard ofLa Gran Taberna and included a delicate crab bisque and caramelized cheesecake. Before retiring to my cabin for the night, I had a nightcap at La Pumarada, a traditional pub where waiters in vests pour cider from bottles held above their heads.
From left: Hiking in Picos de Europa National Park, in the Asturias region; the main square and cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.
From left: Chris DoAl/iStockphoto/Getty Images; Peter Hirth/laif/Redux
Days 4 and 5: Oviedo to Viveiro
The three-hour ride between the fishing villages of Candás and Luarca was the most scenic of the route. The train passed turquoise bays lapping at limestone cliffs, rivers coursing through emerald hills, and wheat fields dotted with 16th-century hórreos — hut-size granaries made of chestnut wood.
On our last full day, we arrived at Viveiro, a port town famed for its fine beaches and Holy Week celebrations. We were touring the historic center when it started to pour. The rest of the group went back to the train, but I found an umbrella and continued exploring the city on my own, taking in the 16th-century glass verandas and well-preserved medieval walls, which seemed all the more beautiful in the rain.
The final dinner — black-truffle ravioli and seared sea bass — was served aboard the train. Afterward, at 11:30 p.m., the train manager invited everyone into the bar car, which had been decorated with green and gold balloons. Champagne flowed as we raised a glass to the crew. The flamenco dancer, wearing a sparkly red dress, led the way on the dance floor, tapping her heels and getting other passengers to join in. It was 3 a.m. when I finally got to bed.
Day 6: Viveiro to Santiago de Compostela
The train departed Viveiro at 7 a.m. for the city of Ferrol, where we said goodbye to the crew and boarded a bus for the hour-long drive to Santiago de Compostela. We met our guide, Manuel Mallo, at Plaza del Obradoiro, the city’s main square and the place pilgrims traditionally gather after completing the Camino.
Despite the incessant rain, the atmosphere was electric. (“If you don’t have a rainy day in Santiago, then you don’t understand Santiago,” the guide said.) Galician bagpipers played by the entrance to the plaza. Hundreds of pilgrims hugged, cried, and drank red wine from scallop shells on the granite steps of the soaring Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, a Romanesque complex that dates back to 1075 and is said to contain the remains of Saint James, one of the 12 apostles of Jesus. While I did not travel to Santiago on foot, I felt lucky to have met some pilgrims along the way — and fortunate for being able to see the green coast of Spain from the comfort of a plush train.
A version of this story first appeared in the August 2024 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline “Spain by Train.”
It’s my birthday, and just like last year and the years before that, I’m on an 80-year-old ferry making my way to a remote island 10 miles off the coast of Maine called Monhegan. It’s July, and we’re being followed by a small group of porpoises, pointed out to us by the captain over the loudspeaker. Only 20 minutes into our sea journey and the problems of the mainland are already beginning to fade away. Getting to Monhegan on my birthday is an annual tradition that welcomes the serenity of this isolated place, its ancient rocky cliffs, and sweet smelling wildflowers, allowing me to reflect on the year gone by.
Monhegan is not your usual birthday destination. The small island in Muscongus Bay is about a square mile in area and accessible only by boat — in my case, the 80-year-old Laura B on the Monhegan Boat Line leaving from Port Clyde, about 1.5 hours north of Portland. The island has a population of 119, many of whom escape for the winter. From May to October, Monhegan comes alive with locals and visitors looking to breathe in the charm and crisp coastal air, exploring the art galleries, hiking trails, and beaches of what still feels like a secret getaway. Oh, and no cars are allowed.
Margot Mazur/Travel + Leisure
Since the 1800s, Monhegan has been an art haven, welcoming artists like Rockwell Kent, Aaron Draper Shattuck, and Andrew and Jamie Wyeth, among others, as well as investing in newcomers with artist residency programs. The island is flooded with art — the dusty flower-lined walking trails wind by the aptly named Lupine Gallery, which hosts work from more than 45 artists, and the Monhegan Museum of Art & History.
It’s easy to see why artists gather inspiration from the island’s breathtaking scenery. Monhegan’s 12 miles of well-maintained hiking trails meander through shady old-growth forests, by the eternally still Ice Pond, up to the 174-year-old Monhegan Lighthouse, and past the rusty hull of the D.T. Sheridan shipwreck at Lobster Cove. Every turn yields spots of lupines, coneflowers, hawkweeds, black-eyed Susans, and buttonbush. Hot days pull kayakers and swimmers toward the chilly waters of Fish Beach, laden with colorful sea glass and shells brought in and out by the measured tides.
By golden hour, my fiancé and I take our backpacks, stuffed with ice packs, pasta salad, pickles, potato chips, and half a bottle of Champagne, and make the 40-minute, 1.5-mile trek up Whitehead Trail, pointing out mushrooms growing on the forest floor. We reach the top of the cliff and set out our picnic, pouring Champagne into camping mugs. We watch the sun start to set, spying seals fishing off the coast below. I close my eyes and breathe it in — the auspicious start to the next year of my life.
Related: I’ve Lived in Maine My Whole Life — and These Are My Favorite Hidden Gems in the State
Where to Go Hiking
Margot Mazur/Travel + Leisure
Monhegan’s 12 miles of hiking trails offer diverse terrain for all levels. About 350 acres of the island are conservation land, thanks to the quick thinking of Thomas Edison’s son, Ted, who purchased much of the area to protect against development in the 1920s and ‘30s. Purchase a $1 trail map from your ferry service in case you find yourself yearning for exploration.
Whitehead Trail
The can’t-miss Whitehead Trail starts at the western edge and moves across the island through town, woods, and up to the top of the cliffs, overlooking the rugged coast. Bring your New England mushroom identification guide for the forest section and some snacks for when you reach the summit.
Cliff Trail
The challenging Cliff Trail showcases the different personalities of Monhegan’s wild coastline. Taking travelers around the entire island, the trail’s steep and rocky terrain boasts incredible views of the Atlantic, local harbor seals at Pebble Beach, loons, cormorants, and seagulls, plus it ends with a cold one at Monhegan Brewing Company.
Lobster Cove Trail
History buffs move along the Lobster Cove Trail toward the D.T. Sheridan shipwreck, witnessing the rusted hull of the tugboat run aground in 1948 as a result of the distinctively thick Maine fog. Take your camera and watch out for poison ivy nearby.
Where to Explore the Art
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Lupine Gallery
Immerse yourself in Monhegan’s deep history and culture of art with a visit to the Lupine Gallery on the main village road, home to more than 45 artists, many of whom lived on the island and depicted its surroundings. The gallery showcases paintings and sculptures of Maine’s rocky coast, peaceful meadows, bright wildflowers, and native fauna.
Edison Studio
Founded by Ted Edison’s wife, Anne, Edison Studio on Lighthouse Hill features collections like “Women Artists of Monhegan Island,” which displays paintings, pottery, jewelry, and sculpture from local makers.
Monhegan Museum of Art & History
The Monhegan Museum of Art & History focuses on art made on or about the island, and features pieces from Rockwell Kent, Aaron Draper Shattuck, Wilson Irvine, Andrew Wyeth, Maud Briggs Knowlton, Alice Kent Stoddard, and other inspiring creatives.
Where to Eat and Drink
Kathryn Masterson/Chicago Tribune via Getty Images
Monhegan’s food scene is small but mighty, focusing on the local maritime cuisine. There are plenty of opportunities for visitors to try specialties like lobster rolls, locally roasted coffee, and even beers brewed right on the island.
Monhegan Coffee Roasters
Take a load off from your hike and stop in Monhegan Coffee Roasters for a cappuccino made from beans roasted on the island. This little cafe offers shelter from the sun, excellent espresso beverages, teas, and even bagels and pastries to bring you back to life on a hot day.
Monhegan Brewing Company
The atmosphere on Monhegan Brewing Company’s outdoor patio is always lively. Tables are packed with Kölsch, ales, IPAs, and stouts, plus piled high with baskets of fried haddock, scallops, and french fries from the on-site food truck.
The Fish House
Lobster rolls, crab rolls, oysters, mussels, and steamed clams — The Fish House focuses on unfussy but lovingly made local seafood, served Maine style on paper plates and picnic tables overlooking the water.
Where to Stay
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One of the most magical ways to take in the island’s essence is to wake up early to catch the sunrise on the water. To do that, you’ll want to spend the night at one of Monhegan’s inns. Camping is not allowed on the island.
The Island Inn
Monhegan’s largest stay, The Island Inn was originally built in 1816 and consistently upgraded, hosting 32 rooms overlooking the ocean. You won’t find TVs or high-speed Wi-Fi here; instead, each room invites guests to put aside their modern lives and get on island time. Breakfast is included; The Barnacle Cafe provides lunch sandwiches, chowders, and drinks; and the tasteful dining room serves local seafood, meat, and vegetarian dishes for dinner, paired with wines and cocktails.
Monhegan House
A working guesthouse since 1870, Monhegan House has 27 rooms with ocean and lighthouse views. Accommodations vary in size and are airy and minimalist, with comfy beds and antique furniture. A delicious three-course breakfast is included with every stay, and The Novelty store/cafe provides hikers with sandwiches, drinks, and other staple snacks and takeaways.
Shining Sails Bed & Breakfast
For those wanting a bit more space, Shining Sails provides year-round apartment rentals, including studios and single bedrooms equipped with kitchens, Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. Travelers seeking a traditional bed-and-breakfast can grab a room and indulge in the homemade breakfast, featuring eggs laid from their own hens and fruit from their gardens.
If you have ever watched a sunset along the pristine coastline of Fort Myers, then you know how easy it is to want to make this stunning Gulf Coast city your permanent home. And as it turns out, many people have.
Every year, U.S. News releases its prestigious ranking of the best places to live in America based on multiple categories, including population growth, which is part of each community’s desirability score. And while this year’s overall winner is Naples, Fort Myers took the prize for the fastest-growing place in the nation.
“Fort Myers is the fastest-growing of the 150 major cities in this year’s analysis, seeing a population increase of 6.73 percent between 2021 and 2022 due to net migration,” U.S. News stated, noting that this is the most recent complete data set by the U.S. Census Bureau.
The city now has 109,595 residents, with a median age of 45. U.S. News also highlights Fort Myers’ affordable real estate — the median home price is $273,214, though current Zillow estimates are $361,966. During that period, the median household income was $71,154, higher than Florida’s on a state level.
So, what are Fort Myers’ other major draws? According to U.S. News, the city’s “vibrant downtown,” plethora of outdoor recreational activities, warm weather, and natural beauty are magnets for newcomers.
Sound economic prospects are another factor. In May, the Cape Coral-Fort Myers area had an unemployment rate of just three percent, an entire percentage point lower than the national average. Earlier this year, WalletHub identified Fort Myers as the third best small city to start a business, pointing out that it has one of the country’s highest numbers of investors per capita, making it a hub for start-ups. And while office vacancy rates in large metropolitan areas are the highest they have ever been, the current national rate is 18 percent and in the Fort Myers/Naples area, it is just below five percent.
Killeen, Texas, is second on U.S. News’s list of the fastest-growing places in America. The city’s population has grown 6.57 percent, and the median home value was $161,449 with current values at $229,154).
Another coastal Florida community, Port St. Lucie, is third. It saw a 4.93 percent increase in full-time residents in 2021-2022.
U.S. News’s ranking is dominated by cities in the Sunshine State, with seven Florida communities making it to the top 10. You can see the full report on usnews.com.
Thinking ahead to travel later this year and into early next? American Airlines has launched one of its best fare sales with major discounts on numerous flights across its network.
“Book a trip for the fall time with great fares for one-way and round-trip travel,” the airline shared about the promotion on its website. “Explore our latest offers for flights in the U.S. and flights to Europe, Japan, Mexico, the Caribbean, Latin America, Australia, and New Zealand.”
The sale, which ends on Sunday, August 4, has discounts on domestic flights for Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday travel, while international flights are available for all days of the week. However, the blackout dates will vary greatly depending on where you’re headed:
Domestic flights are discounted from Aug. 7 to Nov. 20, with blackout dates from Aug. 29 to Sep. 3, and Nov. 21 to Dec. 1
Mexico, Caribbean, and Latin America flights are discounted from Aug. 7 to Dec. 17, with blackout dates from Aug. 29 to Sep. 3, and Nov. 21 to Dec. 1
U.K. flights are discounted from Oct. 1 to March 8, with blackout dates from Nov. 21 to 23, Nov. 30 to Dec. 2, Dec. 13 to Jan. 8
Europe flights are discounted from Oct. 30 to March 8, with blackout dates from Oct. 31 to Nov. 5, Nov. 21 to 23, Nov. 30 to Dec. 2, Dec. 14 to 23, and Dec. 26 to Jan. 8
Japan flights are discounted from Aug. 1 to Feb. 28, with blackout dates from Nov. 21 to Dec. 3 and Dec. 12 to Jan. 13
Australia and New Zealand flights are discounted from Oct. 26 to March 29, with blackout dates from Dec. 5 to Jan. 27
The American Airlines Fall Flight Deals page details all of the eligible routes for this promotion, but Travel + Leisure found some of the best round-trip flights on sale:
Chicago (ORD) to New York (LGA): $128
Nashville (BNA) to Miami (MIA): $128
Miami (MIA) to St. Thomas (STT): $169
New York (JFK) to Anguilla (AXA): $337
Charlotte (CLT) to Belize (BZE): $358
Philadelphia (PHL) to Lisbon (LIS): $597
Los Angeles (LAX) to Buenos Aires (EZE): $696
Dallas (DFW) to Auckland (AKL): $773
The fares shown above include all U.S. government taxes and carrier-imposed fees. However, these offers are available in basic economy, so travelers may want to upgrade to Main Cabin to pick a seat assignment and modify their flight without any penalties.
