Madrid through the year: the best times to visit

Visitors coming to Madrid for a bit of winter sun often get a surprisingly chilly reception.  This is because Madrid, perched at 657m (2155ft) above sea level, is Europe’s highest capital city after Andorra. This elevated position means that while it’s invariably sunny, in winter, temperatures are not much warmer than those in northern Europe.…

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The best times to visit Porto for sunshine and festival fun

The cultural dynamo that is Porto has a packed calendar of festivals, concerts, markets and countless other events throughout the year. There’s always something going on in the city, so weather and visitor numbers should be the prime considerations for planning your trip. Whether you’re seeking warm sunny days and open-air celebrations or budget deals…

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As I traveled through a remote Canadian national park, Inuit stewards led the way

Our landing gear touches down with a gushing wake in Goose Bay, Labrador – “Goose” in local parlance. The thundering downpours that surround us are the reason why we arrive a day early. Getting weather-bound is a common occurrence while waiting for the final leg to the ancestral lands of the Northern Labrador Inuit, over…

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11 things to know before going to Madrid

So you’re thinking about visiting Madrid? You’ve made an excellent choice. Spain’s capital is an extremely friendly destination that happily accommodates tourists while still retaining its unique identity. Duck down any side street, away from the souvenir stalls selling magnets and flammable flamenco frocks, and you’ll discover pretty little squares, dusty 100-year-old artisanal shops and…

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The 15 best things to do in Porto: art, architecture, and epic sunsets

Stretching along the sinewy curves of the Douro River, Porto is a city of hilly cobblestone lanes, avant-garde museums and grand architectural monuments that date back to the Middle Ages. It’s also a top city for culinary adventures amid northern Portugal’s finest restaurants and wine bars. You’ll find maze-like neighborhoods that are a delight (mostly) to…

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16 ways to explore Madrid on a budget

Compared to most European capitals, Madrid stands out as an inviting and affordable destination that even budget-conscious travelers can enjoy. From centrally located accommodations to exquisite wine and tapas to world-renowned art museums, you don't need to spend a mint to get a rich cultural experience from the Spanish capital. If you’re savvy with spending, you…

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The best things to do in Scotland with kids: wildlife, castles and outdoor adventures

Scotland is a stronghold of child-friendly favorites, and you’re here for superlative, soul-stirring experiences that ambush parents as much as itchy-footed kids. Take the road north from Edinburgh — leaving behind three fantasy brick-block castles and passing through a storied countryside home to tales of giant water spirits and a humped, ancient loch monster— and,…

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