International - Explore

The Seattle skyline with Mount Rainier in the background at sunrise

Chris Tharp

Tourists Should Watch Out For The 'Seattle Freeze' (Which Has Nothing To Do With The Weather)

Some travelers and locals alike agree that the "Seattle Freeze" is a real thing. Here's how you can handle it next time you take a trip to the Emerald City.

A waterfall drops into a swimming hole with mountains in the distance

Nikki Wentling

This Trail In Scotland With Unmatched Beauty Leads To A Secret, Clear Water Swimming Hole

Discover the unmatched beauty of Scotland on a scenic trail that leads to a secret, clear water swimming hole. Here's where to find this gem of the wilderness.

Beach in Spain with buildings in background

Lee Adams

The Unexpected Costly Mistake Too Many Travelers Make On Spain's Beaches

This common habit amongst beachgoers in Spain is frustrating locals and other tourists alike, so officials are introducing new rules (and costs) for offenders.

Porcelain coffee cup on a table at a Parisian style cafe

Anna Robinson

The Unspoken Coffee Etiquette Rule Tourists Often Overlook In France

There are a lot of travel etiquette rules in France that tourists should know. Here's what not to do when you're ordering a coffee at a Parisian café.

Nada Kabil

What Americans Often Get Wrong About Greeting Etiquette In France

It's common for Americans to misunderstand French greeting etiquette, leading to awkward first impressions. Here’s how to greet locals the right way.

Isabel OToole

Follow The Windswept Scottish Islands' Charming Folklore Trail, Narrated By A Local Storyteller

Let a local storyteller guide you through a windswept Scottish island. This narrated folklore trail excursion is one of the best ways to explore Scotland.

Isabel OToole

The Stunning Desert Town In Argentina Known For Its Mountainous Beauty

Escape to a remote town surrounded by mountainous landscapes in beautiful Argentina. This little-known destination could be perfect for your next adventure.

Aerial view of open market in France with people shopping

Christine Dulion

The Etiquette Rule Tourists Often Break While Grocery Shopping In France

It's always a good idea to watch one's manners while traveling, and at markets in France, you'll want to be extra careful to not break this etiquette rule.

Pena Palace landscape in Sintra, Portugal

Shelby Wilkerson

The Magnificently Colorful Palace Rick Steves Calls 'The Versailles Of Portugal'

Rick Steves calls this one magnificently colorful palace "the Versailles of Portugal." Discover the magic behind this one-of-a-kind travel destination.

Hands hold a large telephoto lens outdoors

Robert Isenberg

The Latest National Park Law Travel Creators Are Raving About

Good news for photographers and videographers, find out how new legislation just made creating content in national parks a whole lot easier.

An amateur brewer bottles his own beer at home

Chris Tharp

The Unexpected Alcohol Law Tourists Should Know Before Visiting Japan

Japan is renowned for its vibrant cuisine and tasty beverages. But before imbibing in favorites like sake or a cold Sapporo, make sure you know the laws.

Isabel OToole

How Madrid's Culinary Scene Transformed The City Into Europe's Must-Visit Food Destination

See how Madrid's culinary scene has transformed to turn the city into one of Europe's top must-visit food destinations. Plus, find the best things to eat there.

Daniel Feininger

12 Common Myths To Stop Believing About Italy Before You Visit

Shed all preconceived notions about Italy so you can enjoy its diversity, culture, and offerings freely. Don't know where to start? That's where we come in!

A man and woman smile while riding a cargo bike

Robert Isenberg

Don't Hop On A Bike In Denmark Until You Know The Local Cycling Etiquette

Riding a bike is more than just a pastime in Denmark. It's important to know the rules of the road if you want to get around easily while also staying safe.

Jen Ottolino

The Sweet Trick Rick Steves' Protégé Uses To Find The Best Gelato Abroad

Rick Steves' protégé has a sweet trick to help travelers find the best gelato while abroad. Here's what foodies should know to discover the top spots.

Swiss village with snowy mountains at night

Jen Ottolino

What Tourists Need To Know About 'Swiss Directness' Before A Vacation To Switzerland

It's not uncommon to have culture shock in a new place and many travelers note that "Swiss directness" is one of the most surprising aspects of Swiss culture.

Madison Scrivano

The Fairytale Village In France That Inspired 'Beauty And The Beast' Is A Storybook Escape

Several adorable small towns in France inspired "Beauty and the Beast," but only one offers travelers a storybook escape into a fairytale village. Find it here.

Bareerah Zafar

A Public Etiquette Mistake Could Make You Stand Out For All The Wrong Reasons In Japan

There are a few rules about how to be a considerate tourist in Asia, and you may be surprised to find that this common habit is a social faux pas in Japan.

remote worker works from a beach chair with his feet in the sand

Shelby Wilkerson

One Of The Best Tax-Friendly Destinations For Digital Nomads Is A Bustling Tourist Country

If you're a digital nomad but don't want to deal with the nightmare of double taxation, this Middle Eastern country is offering the perfect tax-friendly visa.

Eva Johnstone

The Common Italian Hand Gesture You Need To Avoid Using In Spain, Per Rick Steves

Some hand gestures can be offensive depending on which country you're in. For instance, this common Italian hand gesture might be an insult in Southern Spain.

A taxi crusing down the neon-lit streets of a Japanese city

Chris Tharp

The Unexpected Taxi Rule Every Tourist Should Know In Japan

There are a lot of travel etiquette rules to follow while in Japan, but there is one important thing to know if you're taking a taxi. Here's what it is.

Carnival Fantasy cruise ship pool area with passengers

Christine Dulion

Carnival Cruise Line Wins Over Passengers With A Rule To Stop 'Chair Hogging' Forever

Cruise vacations just got even better thanks to Carnival Cruise Line's new rule to stop 'chair hogging' forever. Here's why passengers love this change.

Madison Scrivano

Japan's Version Of Romeo And Juliet Still Captivates Visitors At This Historic Shrine

Immerse yourself in the tragic and romantic tale of this historic Japanese shrine. Plus, discover the legend of the site's very own version of Romeo and Juliet.

Two teenage girls sit with their backpacks.

Robert Isenberg

The Unspoken Etiquette Rules For Bringing Your Child's Friend Along On Your Family Vacation

Picture this: You're headed on vacation and your teen is begging to bring their best friend. Follow these unspoken rules to avoid awkward confrontations later.

An American passport on a visa application.

Bareerah Zafar

Travelers Can Apply For Passports Faster At These Special Fairs

There’s little worse than planning an overseas trip and realizing you don’t have a passport. These special fairs can ease the application process for travelers.

A couple looking at the Colosseum in Rome

Anna Robinson

The Beloved Romantic Tradition That Is Banned In Two Of Italy's Most Popular Cities

Couples vacationing in Italy may be disappointed that this trendy tradition is now illegal in the country's most popular cities. Here's why you should avoid it.

Aerial view of the coastal Port Vila, Vanuatu

Lee Adams

The Country Where Getting Dual Citizenship Is Simpler Than You Think

Looking to get dual citizenship? This stunning island nation makes it easy to get a second passport and enjoy benefits like tax exemptions and visa free travel.