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Everything you need to know about different flight classes

When it comes to booking your next plane ticket, one of the first things you’ll need to decide is which of the flight classes to choose. That decision will be based on multiple factors: What’s your budget? How long is the flight? Do you have any points or airmiles you can use?

The list goes on. But whatever the reasons, it’s important to make sure you understand all the key differences between the various airline cabin classes, as well as the fare classes and what they mean.

In this post

• What are airline cabin classes?
• What are the different flight classes?
• What are fare classes and what do they mean?
• Tips on how to choose the best class and fare

1. What are airline cabin classes?

Air travel has changed a lot since the first, very basic commercial flight took to the skies in 1914. Now there’s a plethora of choices for customers, with most airlines offering four main cabin classes: Economy, Premium Economy, Business and First Class.

The main differences between these classes tend to be the cost of the flight and the extra perks and amenities you get on board – though it’s worth noting that all airlines offer slightly different options within their various classes.

Depending on the size of the airline, there may only be one single class available – Coach. Even then, an Economy seat on one carrier can differ hugely from a seat in Coach on another airline. If you’re not sure how many cabin classes your airline offers, it’s worth checking before booking.

2. What are the different flight classes?

While most airlines now offer the four main cabin classes , not all of them do, so it’s always worth checking in advance. And while certain airlines may have fleets that feature the same airplane models, many choose to design their interiors differently, so don’t just assume they’ll all be the same.

Look at the seating map for both the airline and airplane type you’re flying – doing your homework really pays off when it comes to picking the best class.

Economy seats are the no-frills option, great for travelers on a budget or those who make regular, short-haul flights and aren’t looking for luxury perks. Also known as coach, standard, or main cabin seats , this is the most affordable flight class and as basic as it comes on an airplane these days. The seats in Economy are narrower than in other classes, and you’ll also notice there’s much less legroom than in other classes. What’s included in an Economy ticket varies from airline to airline – on some flights, it doesn’t come with any extras, and things like in-flight food, Wi-Fi and luggage allowances need to be purchased separately. Other carriers might throw in complimentary snacks, drinks, and in-flight entertainment.

Premium Economy

Premium Economy offers a slight upgrade on standard Economy seats without ramping up the ticket price too much, making it a great option for frequent travelers looking for a slightly more comfortable option. The main perks in this class include wider seats and more legroom , though at a much lower price than Business or First Class. Premium Economy may be separated from other seats by a partition and often offers seats in a more desirable part of the plane (such as near the front), but they’ll usually be listed under the main cabin seats.

On domestic flights , the ‘Premium’ element usually just refers to the fact that they’re the better seats on an aircraft , but on international flights, Premium Economy may offer perks like better food, a larger baggage allowance and free amenity kits.

Those looking for a more luxurious option than Economy but who don’t want to stump up for first-class go for Business, which sits somewhere between the two. Business is definitely a big step up from Economy, offering much more comfortable seats that are wider and can either recline or lie flat, full, or multi-course meals (some of which are served on good China rather than disposable trays) and personal bar service . Naturally, offerings vary depending on different airlines , so it’s worth checking what each one offers before booking.

Lounge access is another great perk that comes along with buying a business-class ticket, particularly if you’re making a stopover on a long-haul journey. For the best deals, check out KAYAK’s handy guide on buying cheap business-class tickets .

First Class

It doesn’t get any better than First Class , which is the crème de la crème of flight classes. This is the most luxurious option available, and you can expect the price of your ticket to reflect that. Passengers in first class get to feel the benefits before they even get on board, skipping the long Economy check-in line and boarding first . The offerings vary vastly depending on the airline , but typically you can expect seats that flatten fully, plenty of personal attention from the flight attendants, special privacy features like your own door and a full meal service with the sort of food you might get in a nice restaurant. Some airlines, such as Emirates, really pull out all the stops, offering passengers their own suite with a double bed and a bathroom with a shower.

3. What are fare classes and what do they mean?

The various fare classes airlines use divide every seat on a plane into different categories, each of which comes with its own price and its own set of rules. These fare classes are identified by one-letter codes , which you’ve probably spotted on your boarding pass before without realizing what they mean (I know I have). While fare codes vary from airline to airline, there are a few that are generally the same, such as the first letter in the fare basis code that represents the fare classes:

• Y: Full-fare Economy-Class ticket
• W: Full-fare Premium Economy Class ticket
• J: Full-fare Business-Class ticket
• F: Full-fare First-Class ticket

The fare basis code (series of 1-8 alphanumeric characters) holds lots of key information, such as the price of your ticket, how many air miles you’ll earn for that flight, and the level of flexibility you have to make any changes. Airlines use fare classes to help control their inventory and determine how many tickets can be sold at a particular price.

4. Tips on how to choose the best class and fare

With so many factors to take into consideration, it’s important to make sure you know exactly what you’re looking for when booking a flight.

Once you’ve determined things like budget and whether you want to put airmiles towards a booking, you can start searching for the best deals in different flight classes and fare classes .

Use KAYAK’s Flight Search tool to track down the best deals. Here are a few tips and tricks to make sure you’re getting the most out of your next plane booking:

• Do your homework and shop around to make sure you’re getting the best deal on airline cabin classes.
• Fare classes vary by airline, so consult them directly to ensure you understand what each letter means before booking a flight with them.
• It’s important to know what fare class you’ve booked, as that will help you fully understand how it will affect your flight. For example, certain fare classes might prevent you from upgrading tickets or could earn you more points than others. Knowledge is power when it comes to making the most of airline deals and restrictions.
• Generally, the cheaper the fare class, the more restrictions will be associated with that fare.

How this guide was created

I’ve been a travel journalist for 15 years and during that time have hopped on and off more planes than I can count, experiencing everything from cramped long-haul stints in coach to ultra-luxurious trips in first-class and all-expenses-paid private jets. This guide pulls together all the knowledge I’ve gathered during those excursions, as well as extensive research into different airline cabin policies and fare classes.

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8 of the best Masterclasses for people who love to travel

By Olivia Morelli

We may not be able to travel right now, but that doesn’t mean we should stop dreaming and planning trips to take in future . Travel has always been a source of inspiration, whether it’s the sights and landscapes, sounds and languages, styles and cultures or the people we meet. From fashion and film to conservation and photography, Masterclass offers a wide range of skills taught by the leading experts in their industry. Fuel your travel dreams by discovering new talents while preparing for adventures to have once this is all over.

Yotam Ottolenghi teaches Middle Eastern cooking

The Israeli-British chef made his name with his bestselling cookbooks and must-visit London restaurants and delis. In this 26-lesson course, Ottolenghi covers the basics of what he calls ‘sunny cuisine’, which he’s now world famous for. Videos reveal recipes for dishes such as exquisite houmous, perfectly roasted aubergine and smoky marinated feta, as well as brilliant condiments and extras to pimp up any feast – all so you can recreate a supper that will transport you to the Middle East at home.

Book Yotam Ottolenghi’s Masterclass

Jimmy Chin teaches adventure photography

Professional climber, acclaimed photographer and Oscar-winning director Jimmy Chin teaches the skills required to take photographs while you travel. With detailed explanations and examples, you’ll learn creative approaches for capturing the best shots, techniques to use, and how to embark on passion projects. Having organised and led expeditions to China, Pakistan, Nepal, Greenland, Tanzania, Chad, Mali, South Africa, Borneo, India and Argentina, Jimmy has professional experience beyond any other adventure photographer.

Book Jimmy Chin’s Masterclass

Dr Jane Goodall teaches conservation

The future of our planet depends on the actions we take every day. Changing our lifestyle to include more sustainable ways of living can help protect the environment and everything that exists within it. Of course, some people go above and beyond in their efforts to help. In her first-ever online class, primatologist and anthropologist Dr Jane Goodall teaches how you can make a difference and help the environment. Learn about everything from her expertise on chimpanzees to climate change, industrial agriculture, organic farming and how to make changes within your daily life and for your travels ahead.

Book Dr Jane Goodall’s Masterclass

Frank Gehry teaches design and architecture

The Guggenheim Bilbao Museum, Walt Disney Concert Hall in LA, the ‘Dancing House’ in Prague, the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris... Frank Gehry’s award-winning buildings are scattered across the globe. Featuring on most travellers’ wish lists, his architecture is synonymous with groundbreaking design and global culture. Sign up for Gehry’s Masterclass, covering his more than 50 years of experience, to learn about his creative process and the thought behind his constructions, so you’ll be more knowledgeable when you next encounter one of his buildings.

By Jessica Puckett

By Lydia Bell

By Lanie Goodman

Book Frank Gehry’s Masterclass

Ron Finley teaches gardening

Travelling opens our eyes to the many wonders of the world we live in, whether it’s the bustling forests of Brazil or tumbling bougainvillea in Italy. Learning to stop and appreciate nature is the key to realising how necessary it is to protect it. Community activist and ‘gangster gardener’ Ron Finley teaches how to grow your own food, from root vegetables to herbs, and how to keep your plants alive . No matter if you have a fully fledged garden or a few indoor plant pots, take the first step towards understanding the value of the natural world, both close to home and when you travel.

Book Ron Finley’s Masterclass

Gabriela Cámara and Aaron Franklin teach international cooking

Food is at the heart of travel – it is said that you can’t fully understand a place without tucking into its best-loved dishes. And how better to learn to appreciate food than to master the ins and outs of how it’s made? Travel to Mexico from your kitchen with Mexican chef Gabriela Cámara to learn how to make tuna tostadas, tacos al pastor and traditional tortillas, or pretend you’re in Texas with Aaron Franklin as he shows you his techniques to make the best barbecued ribs, pork and smoked brisket.

Book Gabriela Cámara’s Masterclass

Book Aaron Franklin’s Masterclass

Find out more of the best online cooking classes to take now

By Sarah James

James Suckling teaches wine appreciation

With a reputation as one of the world’s most powerful wine critics, James Suckling has spent 40 years travelling the globe sampling more than 200,000 bottles. Learn about tasting techniques, discerning flavours and aromas, pairing and more as James takes you through Tuscan vineyards and explores the stories and histories behind different grapes. Soon you’ll be able to taste-test your way around the world’s best bottles with confidence.

Book James Suckling’s Masterclass

Chris Hadfield teaches space exploration

Travel is on hold for the foreseeable future, but that doesn’t have to stop you planning that trip of a lifetime. And while you’re at it, why not let your dreams take you a little bit further? In his Masterclass, retired astronaut Chris Hadfield takes students on a journey through outer space. Learn about the science of space travel, life as an astronaut and what the future of travel could look like. From how rockets work and commanding the International Space Station to what it’s like to walk in space, this class will spark inspiration and broaden your horizons.

Book Chris Hadfield’s Masterclass

Like this? Now read:

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The Top 15 Tour Operators in 2021

Scott Bay is a magazine editor specializing in travel, architecture, and gear. He was previously an assistant editor at Travel + Leisure . His work has also appeared in Wired , Architectural Digest , Wallpaper , Robb Report , Saveur , Daily Beast , and more.

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite tour operators .

This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

Linking up with the right tour operator can take an amazing trip and turn it into a trip of a lifetime . This might seem like magic, but their in-the-know expertise and long-standing relationships open the doors for the seemingly impossible — a private Jeep safari with a professional tracking team in the depths of Torres del Paine or one-on-one cooking classes from a chef that runs a Michelin-starred restaurant in the south of France. And if any group has traversed the world enough to discern the best tour operators out there, it's the readers of Travel + Leisure .

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city or resort based on their locations and amenities.

The companies that made the list have the skills and connections to create itineraries that reflect their clients' personal interests. No. 3 VBT Bicycling Vacations curates two-wheeled trips all over the globe . One reader said, "Their staff make all the difference." No. 2 Mountain Lodges of Peru puts together highly personalized trekking adventures to Machu Picchu. As another reader exclaimed, "This is the way to visit Machu Picchu!"

But at the top of the list is Quasar Expeditions. Though primarily known for its cruises (the company won the small-ship ocean cruises category this year), it also operates a roster of dynamic safari-style excursions in South America. Read on to find out what sets it apart and which other companies join it on this year's list of the best tour operators in the world.

1. Quasar Expeditions

Quasar Expeditions is for adventurers. The highly specialized itineraries are designed to make guests feel like they're James Cook or Charles Darwin. "Quasar Expeditions' guides are the ultimate, passionate gatekeepers to the Galápagos Islands," one reader said. "Their enthusiasm and love of the islands and the wildlife encourages you to share in their passion and desire to conserve the natural beauty and habitat of the area while still allowing low-impact tourism." Another raved, "Excellent isn't a high enough rating to describe our experience with Quasar Expeditions. Extraordinary in every way!" And while Quasar is best known for its Galápagos trips, it gets high marks for its Patagonia itineraries, which takes guests into the best parts of Chile's Torres del Paine and Argentina's Los Glaciares — two of South America's most spectacular national parks.

Score: 99.58 More information: quasarex.com

2. Mountain Lodges of Peru

Score: 98.93 More information: mountainlodgesofperu.com

3. VBT Bicycling Vacations

Score: 98.70 More information: vbt.com

4. Classic Journeys

Score: 98.60 More information: classicjourneys.com

5. TCS World Travel

Score: 97.55 More information: tcsworldtravel.com

6. Black Tomato

Score: 97.25 More information: blacktomato.com/us

7. Inside Japan Tours

Score: 96.84 More information: insidejapantours.com

Score: 96.72 More information: tauck.com

9. Wilderness Travel

Score: 95.71 More information: wildernesstravel.com

10. Trek Travel

Score: 95.71 More information: trektravel.com

11. Geographic Expeditions

Score: 95.70 More information: geoex.com

12. Thomson Family Adventures

Score: 94.89 More information: familyadventures.com

13. Greaves

Score: 94.74 More information: greavesindia.com

14. DuVine Cycling + Adventure Co.

Score: 94.64 More information: duvine.com

15. Odysseys Unlimited

Score: 94.39 More information: odysseys-unlimited.com

See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards for 2021 .

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The Best Business Class Airlines

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Table of Contents

Factors we considered when picking the best business class airlines

Best business class for amenities, best business class seats, best business class for travel rewards, best route network for business class flyers, best business class lounges, final thoughts on the best business class airlines.

Flying business class, especially internationally, is a great way to elevate your travel experience and start and end the trip with a bit of luxury. Business class seats are usually very expensive if you pay with cash, but there are plenty of opportunities to book them almost for free. You can redeem credit card points and airlines miles for the best business class flights.

Your business class experience can vary greatly across airlines, planes and routes. If you want to ensure you enjoy one of the nicest business class experiences, we'll dive into who has the best business class flights.

We used the following factors to choose the best airlines for business class:

Amenities: Food, service and amenity kits can add more value to your premium cabin flight experience.

Seats: Since you’ll be spending a large portion of your flight in your seat, a better business class flight will need to have both a comfortable and private seat so you can fully relax.

Ability to earn and use points: The ideal business class flight isn’t worth a lot if you aren’t able to afford to fly it, so being able to use points to book your flight is an important factor.

Routes: An expansive route network can open up a world of destinations for you to fly to in style.

Lounges: Whether you’re arriving early to the airport or on a layover, a great lounge can really add to your flight experience.

» Learn more: The best first class airline in the U.S.

Winner: Singapore Airlines

It’s difficult to talk about the best business class flights in the world without mentioning Singapore Airlines, which takes the top spot when it comes to airline amenities. If you have the option, we’d recommend flying in Singapore’s Airbus A380 business class, which offers amenities including incredibly comfortable bedding and pillows, a high-definition 18-inch screen with noise-canceling headphones, slippers and toiletries, and expansive food and drink options.

Our favorite amenity on Singapore Airlines' A380 business class is that if you’re traveling with a companion, you can ask the flight attendants to turn your beds into a comfortable double bed so you can enjoy the experience fully with your friend or partner.

Winner: All Nippon Airways

In late 2019, All Nippon Airways launched a new business class seat called “The Room” on select Boeing 777-300ER planes. ANA’s The Room offers everything you could want in an international business class seat — a door that closes for privacy, wide seats that turn into a lie-flat bed, aisle access for every seat and a large 24-inch 4K monitor to watch movies and shows.

» Learn more: Best ways to book ANA business and first class awards to Japan

Winner: Swiss International Air Lines

If you want to both use and earn points for your premium cabin flight, Swiss International Air Lines is your best option. Swiss Air is a member of the Star Alliance — the largest airline alliance in the world. With 26 partner airlines, it makes it easy to earn and redeem miles for Swiss Air business class flights.

One of our favorite ways to book Swiss Air business class is by using Air Canada’s Aeroplan program , where a one-way business class ticket on Swiss Air from the U.S. to Zurich costs between 60,000 to 70,000 miles. Aeroplan is a transfer partner for American Express Membership Rewards , Capital One miles and Chase Ultimate Rewards® , giving you a number of ways to redeem your credit card points on Swiss Air flights.

» Learn more: Your guide to the Star Alliance

Winner: Turkish Airlines

It’s hard to compete with Turkish Airlines in terms of route network, as the airline flies to over 200 destinations in 120 countries.

If you’re starting or ending your journey in the U.S., Turkish Airlines has direct flights from Istanbul to Los Angeles; Washington, D.C.; Chicago; New York-JFK; Atlanta; Boston; Houston; San Francisco and Miami.

Turkish is also a member of the Star Alliance, so it's easy to connect to other destinations in the U.S. through United Airlines.

» Learn more: What you need to know about Turkish Airlines business class

Winner: Qatar Airways

Skytrax’s World Airline Awards ranked Qatar Airways’ Al Mourjan Business Lounge in Doha as the best business class lounge in the world lounge in 2021, and for good reason: It was designed to mirror a resort experience and offers a variety of dining options with food from around the world. The lounge also provides plenty of private and quiet areas to relax in, and the service and hospitality are top-notch.

If flight schedules allow, we’d recommend booking a flight that allows you at least one to two hours in the Qatar Airways business class lounge so you don’t miss out on one of the best parts of the Qatar business class experience.

» Learn more: The point collector’s guide to Qatar Airways

Flying business class internationally can be a luxurious experience depending on the airline, route and aircraft. Before you book, be sure to consider what you value most — whether it be a comfortable seat, delicious food or an opulent lounge.

Check to see if you can redeem your points or miles for the flight ( which can help you get out-size value ) so that you get an outstanding business class ticket without spending much cash.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

Are these airlines really the best and worst for business class travel?

From the ergonomics of tray tables to the types of cheese one can devour in an airport lounge, the small details matter when flying business class.

And why not? You want to make sure those carefully saved points go as far as possible.

Want more TPG news and travel tips? Subscribe to our free daily newsletter.

Luggage storage company Bounce recently decided to separate the best and worst experiences in the sky, ranking airlines across seven business class criteria including cabin and seat, cuisine, amenities and facilities.

These aggregated scores come courtesy of user reviews on online travel agent Business Class, with Singapore Airlines emerging as the overall champ with a total score of 9.57 across all categories, finishing just above Qatar, which managed an impressive 9.29. Egyptair is at the bottom of the list with a score of 5.71.

Which airlines performed well, which ones disappointed, and should you take these scores with a pinch of in-flight salt? Here at TPG, we've flown business (and more) with all of these airlines. Scroll down to see how each one measured up when we flew with them.

Note: amenities and seats can differ from plane to plane, and if some of the reviews appear to be two or three years old, there's a COVID-19 reason for that and we'll be sure to update with the latest reviews once they're in.

Now read on to see our thoughts on the best and worst business class services.

10 best-rated business class airlines

1. singapore airlines.

Average rating: 9.57

What tpg says:.

"After experiencing 18 hours of Singapore's legendary service, it was clear how this carrier continually wins awards for the best service of an airline though the biggest issue with the flight was the seat itself: though the seat is oversized compared to competitors, it's not comfortable for relaxing or sleeping, especially if you prefer a soft mattress or have trouble sleeping at an angle. Do whatever you can to select a bulkhead seat on this flight. If you can't, rest assured knowing that there's enough IFE content to keep you entertained for multiple trips from New York to Singapore."

Read our full business class review of Singapore Airlines A350-900ULR from Newark to Singapore (Originally published Jan 2020)

2. Qatar Airways

Average rating: 9.29

"Qatar Airways' business class on the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner offered a top-notch onboard experience, even though it wasn't the airline's signature Qsuite product. No matter where you sit, the seats feel comfortable and stylish.

"With a comfortable seat and ample privacy thanks to the sliding door, I didn't want the six-and-a-half-hour flight to end. Add in the plethora of amenities I was given and a delectable culinary experience, and I had an excellent experience in this new product."

Read our full business class review of Qatar Airways 787-9 Dreamliner from Doha to Ma drid (Originally published Dec 2021)

3. Cathay Pacific

Average rating: 9.00

"A stellar ground experience, fantastic seat, top-notch IFE and a near-unbeatable points redemption overshadowed the hit-or-miss food and inconsistent service that lags behind some East Asian and Middle East competitors.

The bed itself didn't disappoint, especially with the amenities Cathay provided. The mattress pad, while not out of this world, was appreciated. Meanwhile, the duvet and pillow were both quite comfortable (though it was no Saks Fifth Avenue bedding that you'd find on United)."

"On this flight, cabin crew members were courteous and generally pleasant, but they were generally not proactive or assumed everyone wanted to sleep the whole flight, often lacking the personal touches that make other carriers' business products really shine."

Read our full business class review of Cathay Pacific A350-900 from Hong Kong to Newark (Originally published Dec 2019)

4. Turkish Airlines

Average rating: 8.86

"Turkish operates two versions of the 777-300ER. Unfortunately, on my New York-JFK to Istanbul (IST) leg, I was on the older version, with a lower-resolution video screen and more dated finishes.

"While privacy is sorely lacking on Turkish's 777, these forward-facing, lie-flat seats do have one plus: a significant amount of legroom. With an open layout, there is no concern about the tight footwells you might find in such seats as Delta One suites or even Singapore's A350-900.

"I was a bit underwhelmed by the meal itself, from the single-tray service to the limited menu entries. I had just been expecting a bit more, pandemic or not."

Read our full business class review of Turkish Airlines Boeing 777 from New York-JFK to Istanbul (Originally published Oct 2021)

Average rating: 8.71

"Overall, the seat was very comfortable and I could have stayed far longer than this almost 7-hour flight. I also tested it out in its fully flat position. It was soft and wide enough around the shoulders for any type of sleeper, although the footwell felt a little small, and if you like to wriggle your legs in your sleep, you might find your range of motion hindered.

Related: Should you be worried about turbulence? Here's what the experts say

"Etihad's new business-class seat does indeed feel very similar to the British Airways Club Suite but I would consider this to be an upgrade due to the fabric upholstery, the cabin colors and the high-end finishes such as the marble effect on the seat's flat surfaces.

"Etihad's A350 is a beauty and, in particular, the new business-class product has a lot to make a passenger comfortable and happy."

Read our full business class review of Etihad Airways A350 Paris to Abu Dhabi (Originally published May 2022)

Average rating: 8.57

"Asiana's A350 is a comfortable way to get between Asia and the US. Pros: new A350 aircraft, solid hard product and attentive service. Cons: distinct misses in the food department and so-so choices for entertainment.

"While there are some things that Asiana could do to improve its product, like upping its catering to something more consistently good, I would absolutely fly this product again."

Read our full business class review of Asiana A350 from Seoul to San Francisco (Originally published Dec 2018)

7. Japan Airlines (JAL)

"Overall, I was impressed, but not blown away by this product. Sure, the quasi-suite was private and afforded me a good rest, but the lack of storage space was definitely noticeable. JAL continued to impress with its food-and-beverage program. All of it was delicious and much of it unique.

"Its business class remains a great points-friendly option for crossing the Pacific and connecting onward in Asia. Bring your own entertainment and know that you aren't stepping foot into a cutting-edge hard product, and you'll be set for a great flight."

Read our full business class review of Japan Airlines 777-300ER from Bangkok to Tokyo (Originally published Aug 2019)

8. All Nippon Airways (ANA)

"With the introduction of The Room, ANA has set a new gold standard for international business class. The cabin is stunning and the seat is simply the best in the skies, offering copious amount of personal space and tons of privacy. Everything about the seat is well designed, including the fancy new lighting and adjustable tray table.

"ANA didn't just hit a home run with the seat. The new product was packed with some top-notch amenities too. The most noticeable is the highest-quality monitor I've ever seen on a plane. The 24-inch 4K screen is so crisp that it made working on my MacBook Pro with Retina display feel like I'd gone back to the 2000s.

"As it stands, The Room is a phenomenal business-class product. If ANA were to improve the ground experience and modify the service flow, it would even compete with some international first-class offerings."

Read our full Business Class review of All Nippon Airways 777-300ER from Tokyo to New York (Originally published Jan 2020)

9. Air New Zealand

Average rating: 8.43

"I found the Air New Zealand business-class experience on this route to be perfectly comfortable, though definitely not at the top of the pack. I loved the bedding and the fact that I had a lie-flat seat, but the configuration is less than ideal, the seats themselves feel cramped and face away from the windows.

"Food and amenities were generally on par with a standard business-class offering while not offering any single thing that helped set the carrier apart from its competition. Where Air New Zealand's business-class offering really excels, though, is with its service. And because of that alone, I would consider flying with the carrier again on this fifth-freedom route."

Read our full business class review of Air New Zealand 777-300ER Heathrow and Los Angeles (Originally published Nov 2019)

10. Thai Airways

"I definitely think the airline deserves more credit than it gets. The passenger experience on the A350 is tough to beat: quieter engines, higher cabin-air quality and an overall smoother ride. What left the biggest impression, though, was Thai's phenomenal soft product. From the luxurious massage treatments on the ground to the delicious food and world-class hospitality in the air, the entire experience was nothing short of unforgettable.

"The main difference I noticed with Thai was the warm, family-like atmosphere that their incredible flight attendants bring on board. It felt as if I were being welcomed into someone's home rather than aboard an aeroplane — once again, a nod to their 'guest' rather than 'passenger' service mentality

Read our full business class review of Thai Airways A350 from Bangkok to Frankfurt (Originally published Aug 2019)

AND HERE ARE THE 10 WORST rated Business Class airlines

1. egyptair.

Average rating: 5.71

"EgyptAir has made a phenomenal choice in aircraft. This Dreamliner represents a huge leap forward, and there's no question that the carrier's hard product — the cabin and seat — is top-notch.

"But the awful Cairo lounge, the lackluster catering (though I understand the lack of booze), weird lavatory blocking and inconsistent service severely hurt the overall experience. That said, given the price, $1,216 for a lie-flat seat all the way from Egypt to New York plus the connecting flight from the Middle East, I'd almost certainly book EgyptAir's Dreamliner again."

Read our full Business Class review of EgyptAir 787-9 from Cairo to New York (Originally published Aug 2019)

2. Copa Airlines

Average rating: 6.71

"There's only so much you can do on a vanilla 737 with standard recliner seats, and Copa did the job well, with no obvious failings. Friendly crews made getting from New York to Guatemala the long way easy.

"However, a less impersonal lounge at Copa's Panama City hub — with warm food — and more options for the inflight entertainment would have made for a much better experience. That said, Copa proved it can win my business again for flights to Latin America. If nothing else, the introduction of lie-flat seats on its 737s should put it on your radar too."

Read our full business class review of Copa Airlines 737 from New York to Guatemala City via Panama (Originally published Nov 2018)

3. AIR China

Average rating: 7.14

"The food wasn't exceptional, there wasn't any Wi-Fi, and the dated seats could certainly benefit from an overhaul, but I walked away with a very positive impression of Air China and the 747-8.

"Of course, I can't discount the fact that I didn't have someone sitting next to me — with limited privacy, having a stranger so close by would have certainly impacted the experience quite a bit. If you do fly Air China's 747-8, I recommend a seat on the upper deck, and perhaps closer to the back. It seems that's your best shot at having a more enjoyable flight."

Read our full business class review of Air China 747-8 from Beijing to New York (Originally published 5 Nov 2018)

4. Royal Air Maroc

Average rating: 7.29

"The lounge, IFE and meal service won't leave you feeling disappointed, but you likely won't come away thinking it was the best flying experience you've had. If the airline invested a little more in the soft product and installed Wi-Fi on its aircraft, I think it could be a real contender for one of the better ways to hop across the Pond."

"For now, though, perhaps its best selling point is the fact that it's the only way to fly nonstop between the U.S. and Morocco, and it offers a slew of connections to many other destinations in Africa. And for that, it's a more than suitable option to get the job done."

Read our full business class review of Royal Air Maroc 787-9 from New York to Casablanca (Originally published in Mar 2019)

5. Ethiopian Airlines

Average rating: 7.43

"The weakest aspect of Ethiopian's product is surely the 2-2-2 business-class configuration, placing it a bit behind the standard for premium cabins today. That said, the seats are comfortable, and the duvet and pillow will serve you well.

"The lounge in Addis wasn't gorgeous and the Cloud Nine seats aren't what you'll get on some airlines like Qatar, but overall it was a good flight with excellent cabin crew and IFE, good amenities and decent food. Plus, considering the value, I really can't complain."

Read our full business class review of Ethiopian Airlines A350-900 from Addis Ababa to London (Originally published Jun 2019)

"Overall, this was a good flight with a comfortable seat, and I would definitely fly Iberia again. Relatively small enhancements to the ground experience (better directions and signage and allowing Iberia passengers to use the premium preflight dining service in a lounge maintained by the same parent company) as well as a warmer service, however, would make this flight more memorable than a typical business-class flight."

Read our full Business Class review of Iberia A350 from New York to Madrid (Originally published Dec 2019)

7. Kenya Airways

"Kenya Airways' flagship service should be on your radar, especially if you are a Delta/SkyTeam flyer. My experience on it was not flawless, but KQ got me to Nairobi in a flat-bed seat smoothly without any real issues, and demonstrated a willingness to compete for real — take the excellent customer service I got before departure. I would fly the carrier again without hesitation.

"What did bug me, though, was the bed length, not quite enough for my 6-feet, 2-inch frame. I would have loved an extra inch. The fleece blanket was lightweight, very warm and long enough."

Read our full business class review of Kenya Airways 787-8 from New York to Nairobi (Originally published Nov 2018)

8. American Airlines

Average rating: 7.57

"American Airlines has come leaps and bounds since the days of strangely angled rotating lie-flat seats in a 2-4-2 configuration and cheese cubes in the Admirals Club being considered appropriate premium food for international business class.

"I am a big fan of their new lounges and the food offering available, particularly outside of breakfast hours. The hard product, seat, bedding and cabin layout are now up to the international standard. On board, the inflight entertainment system is very good, as is the Wi-Fi. Food and service is decent.

"Still, it doesn't overly 'wow,' and maybe that's exactly what one would want from a business-class product. I am certainly not a fan of bling or gimmicks. The best word to describe it might be 'solid,' and I suspect a bit more personalized and attentive service could push this easily into 'very good'."

Read our full business class review of American Airlines B777-200 from New York to London (Originally published July 2020)

 9. Polish Airlines

"These particular seats offer little in the way of privacy, as I also experienced on Turkish's A330 and Air India's 787 . There isn't a slide-out divider, and they're exposed to the rest of the cabin. Seats 4A and 4F seem to offer the most privacy, since they're right up against the window with a bulkhead wall behind. I didn't find the galley noise to be disturbing either, even though that had been flagged on SeatGuru.

"Aside from the lack of privacy, I was also disappointed in the amount of storage space. Did I have the time of my life? No, not at all, but the friendly crew and interesting food and beverage selection did make up for my lousy boarding experience in Warsaw."

Read our full Business Class review of Polish Airlines 787-9 from Warsaw to New York (Originally published Jul 2018)

10. Royal Jordanian

Average rating: (7.57)

"This Royal Jordanian Crown Business flight experience wasn't anything special — I'm not sure how it could have been considering it was only a 45-minute flight, but nothing about it remotely justified the ridiculous cost. In fact, now that economy award availability has opened up, I don't see a good reason to book business class. Royal Jordanian has a monopoly on this route and prices it as such.

"The Pros: A spacious, open air lounge with fresh, delicious croissants. The Cons: High carrier-imposed charges on award tickets, limited economy award availability and no in-flight service of any kind."

Read our full business class review of Royal Jordanian A320 from New York to Amman (Originally published Sep 2017)

15 Fascinating & Free Online Classes For Smarter Traveling

Fun fact: There are a ton of free travel classes online!

Maybe you want to travel smarter using clever tactics.

Or possibly you dream of exploring the world luxuriously on a budget using miles and points,

Want to start a travel blog that allows you to make money by creating content while you’re on the road?

I’ve SO got you covered.

Below, check out some of the best free travel classes available online, no matter what your travel style or trip goals are.

Once you’re done reading, make sure to also check out these 27 Netflix and Chill alternatives for travelers . The list mentions a number of travel courses and fun livestreams to fuel your wanderlust!

Table of Contents

Top Free Travel Classes Online

1) the *new* strategy for profitable blogging email course.

Many intrepid travelers have toyed with the idea of documenting their trips on a travel blog.

And for those wanting to take their blogs to the next level — as in, turn them into profitable businesses —this free five-day course by Jessie on a Journey shows you how.

In fact, it takes you from branding your blog for success all the way through list-building and community building to monetization. By the end, you’ll truly know how to map out your blogging goals — and crush them!

After taking this course, you’ll spend less time wondering how to make money while traveling, and more time actually doing it!

2)  10 Powerful Ways To Make Money Travel Blogging

While we’re on the topic of blog monetization, I’d love to invite you to my free workshop: 10 Powerful Ways To Make Money Travel Blogging.

During the 60-minute on-demand workshop, you’ll learn:

• Myths related to monetizing a blog (that may be holding you back!)
• Strategies for creating profitable content (so those blog posts, emails & social shares lead to income!)
• Tips for earning recurring passive revenue as a blogger (so your income grows even when you’re away from your laptop!)
• How to create products that you know your audience will buy (so you don’t waste your time!)
• Advice for growing your affiliate income (with a strategy that truly works!)

Plus, your free ticket to this actionable workshop also includes a Q&A, limited-time replay, and special bonuses.

3) The Profitable Travel Blog Makeover

Looking for a crash course on running a blogging business?

If the previous option isn’t enough and you’d prefer something with video lessons, then this four-day online travel blogging course is for you.

Each video is less than 10 minutes, but teaches a vital travel blogging strategy.

A few topics that are covered include how to:

• Set up a profitable blogging foundation (including the vital step many bloggers skip!)
• Increase your website traffic (no tech required!)
• Grow your email list (with  targeted subscribers!)
• Nurture your subscribers into raving fans (who can’t wait to hear from you!)
• Monetize your blog (without being spammy!)

If you dream of making travel a full-time lifestyle or just want to start your own online business centered around something you’re passionate about, then you don’t want to miss this free blogging course.

4) Instagram Authority

The world is full of beauty to photograph.

One great place to share those photos is on Instagram.

For those that want their pretty trip pictures to go beyond views from family and friends, this free seven-day course by Alex Tooby demystifies the challenging arena of growing an Instagram following.

A few tactics you’ll learn include how to craft a follow-worthy bio, create a cohesive profile, and boost engagement through high-quality content and hashtags.

By the way, one you get savvy at Instagram you can use this skill to find easy ways to volunteer from home , as many nonprofits and projects are often looking for people who can help them spread their mission online.

5) Savvy Solo Traveler Email Course

If you’ve been thinking about taking your first solo trip but feel a bit apprehensive about this new venture, then this course by Jessie on a Journey is for you.

Learn how to stay safe and other essential information about traveling alone — including how to take the perfect selfie!

Additionally, you’ll learn how to overcome common solo travel fears, choose the perfect solo destination, tell loved ones you’re hitting the road alone, stay safe, and mentally prepare.

6) Travel Photography Demystified

Want to learn how to take better travel photos?

Check out Karthika Gupta’s online class — a free five-day video series with plenty of tips to help you improve your photography skills and take envy-inducing photos on your next trip.

Don’t worry if you don’t own a DSLR, as the course breaks down tips even iPhoneographers can appreciate.

7) Amplify Your Email List Challenge

Back to those travelers who are also interested in travel blogging, one strategy that will be essential to master is growing your email list.

Luckily, the Amplify Your Email List Challenge can help!

In this free challenge, you’ll learn how to increase your subscribers, nurture your community, and monetize an email list in just five days.

Throughout the challenge there will be a number of bonuses that will help you implement your list-building strategy easier and faster. Make sure to grab those before the challenge ends!

Best of all, each email is concise and clear, teaching a step-by-step tactic in the shortest way possible.

This means, you can spend less time reading emails and more putting learning into practice.

8) Travel Miles 101

The opening sentence of this free Travel Miles 101 course description is “learn how you can travel the world for pennies.”

I don’t know about you, but that sounds perfect  to me.

Inside, you’ll learn the art of miles and points hacking, so you can save your cash for memorable on-the-ground experiences instead of hotels and flights.

9) How To Travel Long Term / Full Time

Traveling for months at a time takes more savvy than knowing how to book a plane ticket; which this HighBrow course delivers.

It’s designed for people who want to travel long term or full time, but do not know where to begin.

It teaches you how to sort out your finances, find free accommodation and earn money while traveling, among other things.

Note: This course is free with a 30-day free trial on HighBrow. You can also create your own email course for HighBrow by clicking here . 

10) Travel Hacking Basics: How To Travel Longer and Better

UDEMY is one of my favorite platforms for online learning, whether travel classes or professional development education.

As the title suggests, this course covers the basics of cheap and safe travel.

Topics include planning your trip, finding cheap flights and accommodation, and avoiding common travel scams.

Oh, and one of my favorite lessons: how and where to find “error” fares.

11) Learn How To Fly Free To Hawaii

Have you always wanted to visit Hawaii, but haven’t yet been able to save up enough to afford the trip?

This free travel class by Go To Travel Gal shows you step-by-step how to fly to Hawaii with your friends and family using only miles and points.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”Free flights to #Hawaii?! Yes, it’s possible. Just check out resource #11 on the list! #TravelHacking” display_tweet=”Free flights to #Hawaii?! Yes, it’s possible. Just check out resource #11 on the list! #TravelHacking”]

12) How To Take Amazing Videos Of Your Adventure

Want to learn the secrets to capturing your special moments in amazing videos?

This course by Evergreen Lane Productions walks you through the main elements of shooting beautiful videos during your trips.

The course is perfect for adventurers who want to capture their trip of a lifetime without having to spend a lot of time playing around with their camera.

13) How To Plan A Vacation: Save Time And Money

Consisting of three units, this course by To The Nations Worldwide shows you how to plan an amazing vacation while saving time and money.

Lessons include choosing the right destination, creating an itinerary, and general travel tips and tricks.

Hint : I also offer a free Ultimate Travel Planning Kit  on Jessie on a Journey full of handy worksheets and resources for savvier trip planning beyond the guidebook.

14) What To Expect On Your First Disney Cruise 

This nine-day email course by Picture The Magic covers everything about going on a Disney cruise, including dealing with seasickness, avoiding unnecessary costs, tipping, amazing things to do during the day and more.

If you’re feeling a bit anxious about your first Disney cruise, this course will help you dispel any uncertainties and worries you may have.

15) How To Travel Full-Time In A Financially Sustainable Way

If you’ve often wondered how some people manage to travel full-time, this course by the Professional Hobo will show you how they do it — and how you can, too.

Packed with information, the course will teach you how to reduce costs on accommodation and transportation, earn money on the road and how to manage your finances, among other things.

What free travel classes would you add to this list?

Related posts:.

Hi, I’m Jessie on a journey!

I'm a conscious solo traveler on a mission to take you beyond the guidebook to inspire you to live your best life through travel. Come join me!

Want to live your best life through travel?

Subscribe for FREE access to my library of fun blogging worksheets and learn how to get paid to travel more!

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Excellent list! I’ve been looking on Udemy recently too for some inspiration, but with so many courses available there, it’s difficult to find the really useful ones. Now I have them – time to study! 🙂

This is some great stuff. I had always been wondering about how you guys get such mouthwatering photos on Instagram. Now I know the trick. Also, since I am going to start a new travel blog “The Vagabond Report” I think some of these will make very good help to me. Starting with that gram course of course. Thanks, ya!

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• Top Courses
• Online Degrees
• Find your New Career
• Join for Free

Learn Essential Travel Skills

Travel Courses: Explore travel and tourism for industry insights. Learn about travel planning, tourism management, and sustainable travel practices.

The language used throughout the course, in both instruction and assessments.

Choose the Travel Course That Aligns Best With Your Educational Goals

Johns Hopkins University

International Travel Preparation, Safety, & Wellness

Skills you'll gain : Leadership and Management, Culture

(419 reviews)

Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Università Bocconi

Management of Fashion and Luxury Companies

Skills you'll gain : Brand Management, Leadership and Management, Marketing, Retail Sales, Strategy, Business Analysis, Communication, Design and Product, E-Commerce, Product Strategy, Retail Store Operations

(5.7K reviews)

Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

ESSEC Business School

Hotel Management: Distribution, Revenue and Demand Management

Skills you'll gain : Business Analysis, Leadership and Management, Strategy and Operations, Market Analysis, Marketing, Strategy, Business Process Management, Forecasting, Media Strategy & Planning, Operations Management, Performance Management

(2K reviews)

Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Università di Napoli Federico II

English Lower Intermediate B1.1

Skills you'll gain : Writing

(61 reviews)

Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

University of California, Davis

Learn Spanish: Basic Spanish Vocabulary

Skills you'll gain : Communication, Writing, Culture

(3.6K reviews)

University of Arizona

Astronomy: Exploring Time and Space

Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Peking University

Chinese for Beginners

Skills you'll gain : Communication

(19K reviews)

English Intermediate B1.2

(39 reviews)

Introduction to Hospitality Management in the 21st Century

Skills you'll gain : Innovation, Strategy

(10 reviews)

The University of Edinburgh

Sit Less, Get Active

(1.8K reviews)

Arizona State University

Teach English Now! Teaching Language Online

(662 reviews)

Stanford University

Understanding Einstein: The Special Theory of Relativity

Skills you'll gain : Critical Thinking

(3K reviews)

Searches related to travel

In summary, here are 10 of our most popular travel courses.

• International Travel Preparation, Safety, & Wellness :   Johns Hopkins University
• Management of Fashion and Luxury Companies :   Università Bocconi
• Hotel Management: Distribution, Revenue and Demand Management :   ESSEC Business School
• English Lower Intermediate B1.1 :   Università di Napoli Federico II
• Learn Spanish: Basic Spanish Vocabulary :   University of California, Davis
• Astronomy: Exploring Time and Space :   University of Arizona
• Chinese for Beginners :   Peking University
• English Intermediate B1.2 :   Università di Napoli Federico II
• Introduction to Hospitality Management in the 21st Century :   Starweaver
• Sit Less, Get Active :   The University of Edinburgh

Frequently Asked Questions about Travel

What is travel ‎.

Travel refers to the act of moving from one place to another, typically by means of transportation such as air, land, or sea. It involves going to different locations, either within one's own country or internationally, for various reasons such as leisure, business, education, or exploration. Travel allows individuals to experience new cultures, environments, and activities, broadening their perspectives and providing opportunities for personal growth. It can involve planned itineraries or spontaneous journeys, and can be done individually, with a group, or through travel agencies. Overall, travel offers a chance to discover and learn about different places, people, and customs, making it an enriching and educational experience. ‎

What skills do I need to learn for Travel? ‎

Some of the skills you need to learn for traveling include:

Language skills: Learning the local language of the countries you plan to visit can be incredibly beneficial in terms of effectively communicating with locals, understanding the culture, and navigating your way around.

Geography and navigation: Developing a good sense of direction and having knowledge of maps, landmarks, and GPS usage can help you navigate your way through unfamiliar territories.

Cultural awareness: Gaining cultural competency and sensitivity is important for respecting traditions, customs, and norms of the places you visit. This includes understanding etiquette, religious practices, and social norms.

Organization and planning: Traveling requires careful planning, as you need to manage budgets, itineraries, transportation, accommodation, and more. Developing organizational skills can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Adaptability and problem-solving: Being adaptable to unforeseen circumstances and being able to find solutions to unexpected challenges while traveling is crucial. It helps you stay calm, think on your feet, and make the most out of any situation.

Basic first aid and safety: Knowing basic first aid skills and being aware of travel safety tips can help you effectively deal with minor injuries, illnesses, or emergencies that may occur while traveling.

Budgeting and money management: Being able to manage your finances while traveling is essential. Learning skills like budgeting, tracking expenses, and finding the best deals can help you make the most out of your travel budget.

Photography and storytelling: Capturing memories and telling stories through photography can be a great way to document your travel experiences. Learning basic photography techniques and visual storytelling can add an extra dimension to your trip.

Intercultural communication: Developing good interpersonal skills and the ability to connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures can lead to meaningful interactions and enriching travel experiences.

• Research and planning: Being proficient in conducting online research and efficiently planning your trips can help you find the best destinations, attractions, accommodations, and travel options that align with your interests and preferences.

Remember, these skills can vary depending on the specific type of travel you plan on doing (solo backpacking, luxury travel, adventure travel, etc.) and the destinations you intend to visit. ‎

What kinds of jobs can you get with Travel skills? ‎

There are several job opportunities available for individuals with travel skills. Some of the potential careers include:

Travel Agent/Consultant: With expertise in travel, you can work as a travel agent or consultant. This involves assisting clients in planning and organizing their trips, making reservations, and providing travel advice.

Tour Guide: As a tour guide, you can lead people on sightseeing trips, historical tours, or adventure excursions. This job allows you to share your knowledge of different locations and cultures with others.

Flight Attendant: If you enjoy travel and working in the airline industry, becoming a flight attendant might be an excellent option. With travel skills, you can excel in this role, ensuring a pleasant experience for passengers on flights.

International Aid/Relief Worker: Many organizations such as non-profits and charities require individuals with travel skills. You can utilize your knowledge to work in diverse locations, providing assistance and support during humanitarian crises or development projects.

Event Planner: Event planning often includes arranging travel logistics for attendees, especially for conferences, trade shows, and destination weddings. Your travel expertise can help in coordinating travel arrangements for guests and managing overall event logistics.

Travel Writer/Blogger: If you have a passion for writing and travel, combining both can lead you to a career as a travel writer or blogger. You can share your experiences, offer travel tips, and provide valuable insights to inspire others.

• Hospitality Manager: With travel skills, you can pursue a career in the hospitality industry. As a manager, you would oversee hotel operations, ensuring guests have a smooth experience and overseeing staff and services.

These are just a few examples, and there are numerous other job possibilities for individuals with travel skills. It ultimately depends on your specific interests, qualifications, and the industries you wish to work in. ‎

What kind of people are best suited for studying Travel? ‎

People who are curious, adventurous, and have a passion for exploring new places and cultures are best suited for studying Travel. They should have a desire to learn about different destinations, their histories, and the various aspects of the travel industry. Additionally, individuals who possess good communication and interpersonal skills, as well as a willingness to adapt to different environments, will excel in this field. ‎

What topics can I study that are related to Travel? ‎

There are several topics related to travel that you can study. Some of these include:

Tourism and Hospitality Management: This field focuses on the management and operation of travel businesses, such as hotels, resorts, airlines, and travel agencies.

Cultural Tourism: This topic explores the cultural aspects of travel and how tourism impacts local communities. It covers subjects like heritage preservation, cultural exchange, and sustainable tourism practices.

Travel Journalism: If you have a passion for writing, you can study travel journalism, which includes learning how to write engaging travel articles, blogs, or even produce travel documentaries.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for Travel: GIS technology plays a crucial role in travel planning and analysis. By studying GIS, you can learn how to effectively use spatial data to enhance travel experiences, map destinations, and analyze transportation networks.

Sustainable Tourism: This topic focuses on responsible tourism practices, including minimizing environmental impact, supporting local communities, and promoting sustainable development in travel destinations.

Event and Conference Planning: If you're interested in organizing travel-related events, studying event and conference planning can provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully plan and execute travel-related conferences, trade shows, or exhibitions.

• Travel Photography: For those who enjoy capturing moments and sharing travel experiences through visual storytelling, studying travel photography can help you enhance your skills in composition, lighting, and post-processing techniques.

Remember, there are numerous other specific travel-related courses and skills you can study based on your specific interests and career goals. ‎

What are the benefits of taking an online Travel course? ‎

Online Travel courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Travel refers to the act of moving from one place to another, typically by means of transportation such as air, land, or sea. It involves going to different locations, either within one's own country or internationally, for various reasons such as leisure, business, education, or exploration. Travel allows individuals to experience new cultures, environments, and activities, broadening their perspectives and providing opportunities for personal growth. It can involve planned itineraries or spontaneous journeys, and can be done individually, with a group, or through travel agencies. Overall, travel offers a chance to discover and learn about different places, people, and customs, making it an enriching and educational experience. skills. Choose from a wide range of Travel courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels. ‎

What Travel courses are best for training and upskilling employees or the workforce? ‎

When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Travel, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here . ‎

Other topics to explore

28 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the World

Written by Lana Law Updated Jan 12, 2024

Travelers are always looking for inspiration to guide their adventures. Coming up with a list of places to visit can be challenging when you're staring at a globe. What are the top tourist attractions in the world? The most iconic sites that all travelers have on their bucket-list of things to see around the globe?

Some destinations just stand out above the rest. Many are the type of places where you can take a photo, and it requires no explanation to identify the location: the Eiffel Tower or the Colosseum. But some places are less well known to new travelers or those who have not yet ventured out to the more exotic destinations. These can often be the most rewarding to visit.

For many of these attractions, it's what they symbolize and the destinations they represent that make them so significant. In other cases, it is the site itself that makes it worth visiting the country. Some of these are the more popular UNESCO World Heritage sites .

If you're looking to start your own checklist of places to visit during your life, begin with our list of the top tourist attractions in the world.

1. Eiffel Tower, Paris

2. the colosseum, rome, 3. statue of liberty, new york city, 4. machu picchu, peru, 5. the acropolis, athens, 6. the taj mahal, india, 7. pyramids of giza, egypt, 8. great wall of china, 9. angkor wat, cambodia, 10. petra, jordan, 11. grand canyon, usa, 12. stonehenge, england, 13. borobudur, indonesia, 14. niagara falls, canada & usa, 15. bagan, myanmar, 16. sydney opera house, 17. mount kilimanjaro, 18. the louvre, paris, 19. forbidden city, china, 20. prague castle, czech republic, 21. chichen itza, mexico, 22. corcovado and cristo redentor, rio de janeiro, 23. château de versailles, france, 24. mount fuji, 25. central park, new york city, 26. alhambra, spain, 27. buckingham palace, london, 28. ubud, bali, indonesia.

The symbol of Paris and one of the most photographed structures in the world, a visit to the Eiffel Tower is a must for all travelers. Few landmarks inspire such a passion for travel as this single iron structure.

Young travelers heading out on the road for the first time, couples looking for a special getaway, artists looking to spur their creativity, and romantics of all types are all drawn to Paris. This is a city where history and culture collide and where travelers of all kinds can find the experience they're after.

Head up the tower for spectacular views over the city, and don't miss a chance to see the tower lit up at night.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Paris

The most famous and largest structure still standing from the Roman Empire, the Colosseum is also the biggest attraction of modern-day Rome . It's been a bucket-list destination of travelers for generations. And it does not disappoint.

Set in the heart of the city, the Colosseum is an easy place to visit. Direct flights from around the world land in Rome daily, making it a destination you can visit in a weekend if you choose. Wander through Rome's ancient streets, tour the colosseum, and if time allows, plan a trip to other areas of Italy .

America is full of great sights and places to visit , but it's the Statue of Liberty that represents the United States like no other place. This symbol of freedom in New York City was gifted by the French to the American people in 1896.

Of all the attractions in New York City , this is one every tourist must see. The best thing to do at the Statue of Liberty is to take a ride up to her crown and soak up the view over the city. Access to the statue is via ferry, also a highlight of a visit.

If you don't have time for a tour, you can still see the statue without leaving Manhattan. Head to Battery Park for the best views. You can also see the Statue of Liberty on a free ride on the Staten Island Ferry. See our guide to touring New York City by water on the NYC Ferry System .

If you are planning to see only one attraction in South America, this is the place to come. The ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu is arguably the most impressive ruined city in the world.

Much of the attraction comes from its location, high in the jungle-clad mountains of Peru. Set on a high plateau with soaring green mountains, the setting is surreal. The sheer tenacity of the original builders to create this amazing place in what would have been impenetrable jungle, is, in itself, impressive.

Visitor numbers are now limited to a maximum per day, so the experience has been greatly enhanced.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Peru

Perched above present day Athens , the Acropolis draws you up and in. Follow in the footsteps of the ancients as you walk up the same steps that have been walked on since 438 BC - 2,500 years.

Views out over the city are incredible as you walk between the meticulously restored ancient buildings. Near the end of the day, you'll want to linger and watch the sunset from the stairs near the entrance. This is a nightly ritual in Athens.

The site is also impressive looking up at it from the city below. Spend an evening dining on a rooftop patio to soak in the view of the hilltop ruins lit up at night.

Read More: Visiting the Acropolis in Athens: The Essential Guide

The Taj Mahal is the one sight in India that all travelers need to see. The country is filled with incredible cities and fabulous places to visit, but the 17th-century Taj Mahal in Agra is the one place that says you've been to India.

This mausoleum, commissioned by the Shah Jahan for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, is known internationally as a symbol of love. This fantastic structure, made with inlaid precious and semi-precious stones, has to be visited to be fully appreciated.

Its riverfront setting, surrounding gardens, and reflecting pools are also what make the Taj Mahal so special.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in India

If you've visited places like the Colosseum in Rome or the Acropolis in Athens, built over 2,000 years ago, you may think you have a good handle on ancient sites. But the Pyramids of Giza take ancient to a whole other level. These were built over 4,500 years ago. Tourists were coming to see these magnificent structures literally thousands of years ago.

Located just outside Cairo , the pyramids, which is also where you'll find the Sphinx, are easy to get to, and tours are easy to arrange. A sunset camel ride around the structures is a wonderful experience.

In a land of modern cities and towering skyscrapers, the Great Wall of China, built between the 14th and 17th centuries, is a stark contrast but a striking image that all visitors to China should see.

A stroll along the top of the wall provides an incredible view of the structure snaking off into the distance. The wall stretches an astounding 21,196 kilometers, through some remote areas.

Many travelers seeing the sights of China choose to visit the wall on easily organized tours from Beijing, a relatively short motorcoach ride away.

Surrounded by jungle and, in some cases, overgrown with huge trees and roots, the ancient structures of the Angkor complex may look like a movie set to some visitors.

Wandering through Angkor Wat, the main centerpiece of the complex, it's easy to feel like you've entered another era. This is without a doubt, one of the most impressive sites in Southeast Asia and the main reason many people visit Cambodia .

The stone faces peering out over the buildings and gates are images that you won't soon forget.

Angkor Wat is located just outside the city of Siem Reap, a popular tourist center in Cambodia.

You may have an Indiana Jones feeling as you walk through a 1.2-kilometer-long narrow crack in the sandstone hills and emerge into a hidden city. First built over 2,000 years ago and lost to the outside world for 600 years, the city was only discovered in 1812.

Stunning buildings are carved directly into the red rock walls and are wonderfully preserved, just begging to be explored and photographed.

If you arrive early, an eerie silence, coupled with long shadows, give this abandoned city a special feel.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Jordan

The greatest natural attraction in the United States, the Grand Canyon is a key sight for all travelers planning their lifetime of adventures. Standing on the rim of the Grand Canyon, looking out over the carved landscape, will awaken your senses.

Several hikes in the canyon and along the rim offer unique perspectives. Walk even a short distance down the Bright Angel trail to gain additional views and to experience what the canyon is like below the rim.

For even more adventure plan a rafting trip down the Colorado River through the canyon.

The Grand Canyon looks different throughout the day and at different times of the year. One trip is never enough. If you are going to add this place to your to-see list, consider what you want to do here to determine the best time to visit.

Read More: Top Attractions at the Grand Canyon

Stonehenge is one of those places that makes you ponder what went on here over 4,500 years ago. It's long been a mystery to historians, and has captured the imagination of countless visitors. Despite the large number of tourists that descend on Stonehenge, the place still has a mystical feel.

At the site, giant stones, some standing, some fallen, are set in two roughly circular patterns that are oriented to highlight the summer and winter solstices. For a truly memorable experience, plan your visit during one of these times.

An easy day trip from London , Stonehenge can easily be worked into your UK itinerary.

Set in a steamy jungle with three volcanoes providing the backdrop, Borobudur is Indonesia's top tourist attraction .

Borobudur dates from the 9th century and is one of the largest Buddhist temples in the world. It's a fascinating place to wander about. Over 500 Buddhas are spread around the site, some of which sit under ornate stupas.

Try to visit early in the morning when you'll have the best chance of experiencing a bit of early mist, and the view to the volcanoes will be the clearest.

On the border between the United States and Canada, these great falls have been drawing explorers and travelers for centuries. Just over an hour from the city of Toronto, Niagara Falls is easy to get to, and the town is a fun place to spend a night or two.

Walk up to the edge of the falls, stroll along the paved walk lining the gorge for different views, or take a boat tour for a close-up look at the water pouring over the lip of the gorge above you. For a bird's-eye view, head up the Skylon Tower to look out over the falls.

At night, see the falls lit in different colors. If you're visiting in winter, watch the huge plume of mist rising into the sky above the falls.

Niagara Falls is easily reached from Toronto, Canada, or Buffalo, New York.

While this ancient site may not be on the average traveler's radar, it's another of Southeast Asia's bucket-list attractions.

Spread out over a lush plain are more than 10,000 sacred structures dating from 1044 through to 1287. Hire a bicycle and pedal your way from one amazing structure to the next, or take a tour. Some of the structures can be entered, but the real beauty is the sheer number that dot the landscape.

For an aerial view, consider taking a hot air balloon tour at dawn.

Like many other attractions around the world, the Sydney Opera House is one of those places that is easy to identify and obviously associated with Australia. A photo of yourself in front of the white sails screams Australia.

The Sydney Opera House was built in several stages and officially opened in late 1973. To fully experience the building, take a tour inside to see the unique shape and hear the exceptional acoustics.

Soak up the view from the Opera House area back towards the world-famous Sydney Harbour Bridge.

The highest peak in all of Africa, this majestic mountain – a dormant volcano – is one of the most recognizable symbols of the continent. The snowcapped peak is an impressive 5,985 meters (19,340 feet) and is often the backdrop to photographs of the wild animals that roam Amboseli National Park and other areas.

You can see this beautiful sight from afar or tackle the multi-day hike to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro for the fantastic views over the land, and to watch the sunrise.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tanzania

If there is one museum in the whole world that you absolutely must see in your life, it's the Louvre. Even if you are not a fan of museums, this one is worth the trip to Paris to see.

Although most people know it as the home to the most famous painting in the world, the Mona Lisa , this is just one of the reasons to visit the Louvre .

The museum holds countless masterpieces by the greatest artists that have ever lived. But even the building itself is an icon. The glass pyramids and the 18th-century building are recognizable to almost everyone, and have been shown in countless movies.

Like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, also known as the Imperial Palace, in Beijing is one of the top places to visit in China . The sprawling complex dates from the 14th and 15th centuries and is a spectacular example of historical China.

Over the centuries, the palace has housed 24 Ming and Qing Emperors. Inside the city, the Palace Museum holds over 340,000 artifacts showcasing the treasures of China's dynasties. In front of the Forbidden City is the massive Tiananmen Square .

Prague is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Sitting atop a hill across the river from the center of the city, Prague Castle casts an imposing aura over its surroundings. The castle is an incredible collection of buildings constructed from the 9th to 14th centuries.

Stroll over the ornate 14th-century Charles Bridge spanning the Vltava River and head up the hill to wander the narrow, twisty streets in the castle complex . The castle is one of the largest in the world, and around almost every corner is a historical building, church, or open square.

The ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza have been drawing curious tourists since they were first brought to light by a popular book by John Lloyd Stevens in 1843. Today the site, located near the center of the Yucatan Peninsula, is one of the top tourist attractions in Mexico and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

The 30-meter-high Pyramid of Kukulkán has been restored to its full glory along with many of the other significant buildings, including the Great Ball Court, the Temple of the Warriors, and the eerie Skull Platform.

Chichen Itza is located about 200 kilometers from Cancun and is easily accomplished in a day trip from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and other areas of the Mayan Riviera either on your own or as part of a group.

Keeping a watchful eye over the citizens of Rio de Janeiro from his perch atop Corcovado mountain is the stunning statue of Cristo Redentor. This huge 30-meter-high statue with its arms wide open in a welcoming gesture has been one of Rio's top tourist attractions since 1931.

The harbor of Rio de Janeiro is one of the 7 natural wonders of the world . The views from the top of the 709-meter Corcovado look out over this beautiful sight, including Sugarloaf Mountain and the city perfectly poised for beautiful photographs. The best way to get to the top is a ride up through the forests of the Tijuca National Park on the 3.5-kilometer Corcovado Rack Railway.

The wealth and grandeur of 17th-century France is on display at the incredible Château de Versailles. The château and the grounds are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and should be near the top of your touring plans when in France.

The Château de Versailles has an unbelievable 2,300 rooms housing some of France's most impressive interior design work, especially in the world-famous Hall of Mirrors. Other important rooms include the King's State Apartment and the Queen's Apartment.

The grounds of the château encompass 800 hectares, and one of the most impressive sights is the Gardens (Les Jardins). Geometrical pathways follow immaculately trimmed hedges past serene pools all surrounded by lawns cut to within an inch of their life.

Mount Fuji is the most well-known and highest mountain in Japan. Often pictured snowcapped, this dormant volcano is both a spiritual site and one of the top tourist attractions in Japan . Soaring 3,776 meters high, Mount Fuji is one of three Holy Mountains, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Hiking to the top of the mountain is a popular thing to do in Japan. Each year, nearly 300,000 people follow one of four routes to the top. One of the most popular things to do is time your hike so that you reach the summit just before sunrise.

Mount Fuji is located 100 kilometers east of Tokyo and is easily accessible via public transit and tours .

Read More: Exploring Mount Fuji: A Visitor's Guide

Loved by generations of New Yorkers and by people from around the world, Central Park is one of the most famous public spaces in the world. The backdrop to countless movies and television shows, the park's walkways, lakes, and historical sights have been drawing city dwellers and visitors since it was first created in 1858.

Some fun things to do in Central Park include taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the park, visiting the Strawberry Fields Forever area and Imagine monument dedicated to the late John Lennon, renting a row boat, or just strolling under the towering trees. If you find yourself in the park in the cold season, ice skating is one of the most popular things to do in New York in winter . Going ice skating with your sweetie is also a romantic thing to do in New York.

The stunning Alhambra is perched high on the hills above the Spanish city of Granada and is a testament to the wealth and power of the Nasrid Dynasty of the 13th Century. A huge complex full of ornate gardens, lush courtyards, bubbling water features, and spectacular buildings make it one of Spain's top tourist attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Count on a full day to explore the Alhambra with its incredible buildings which include the Palacios Nazaries consisting of the Palacio Real (Royal Palace), the Palacio de Comares (Palace of Ceremonial Rooms), and the Palacio de los Leones (Palace of the Lions). Views out over the city of Granada and the surrounding mountains from the ruins of the Alcazaba are among the highlights.

The stately palace located in the heart of London attracts millions of visitors every year. This iconic building and treasured monument is home to the ruling monarchy and its grand façade showcases the importance of the Royal Family in British society.

Highlights of a visit to Buckingham Palace include witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony where guardsmen with their red tunics and bearskin hats execute an intricate series of maneuvers.

If you find yourself visiting in the summer, try your best to get tickets for the tour through the grand State Rooms with their extensive and impressive collection of priceless art and period pieces.

A fun town with a Boho vibe, Ubud is high on the list of things to see and do in Bali . Located inland in a lush area, the town has a wide range of cultural and natural attractions. A must-see is the Sacred Monkey Forest , a dense site of towering trees, river gorges, historic temples, and of course, monkeys. Hundreds of monkeys live in this protected area and wander freely on the pathways providing non-stop entertainment.

Just out of town are the world-famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces . Descending from a ridge to the valley below, the terraces flow according to the landscape.

Ubud features prominently as a destination for shopping, many of Indonesia's best artisans have shops here selling everything from Batik fabrics to ornate jewelry.

Ubud is also known as a place to work on your inner well-being, countless yoga studios and wellness retreats are located here.

More on Cambodia

A traveling foodie shares 5 of the world's best cooking classes

Apr 20, 2024 • 9 min read

Food writer, Malia Yoshioka, shares her guide to the world's best cookery courses © Anna Ewa Bieniek / Shutterstock

A cooking class booked in the first few days of your trip is the best way to get acquainted with a new destination. 

You’ll whet your appetite and set yourself up for everything else you will see, taste and experience during your trip. You can get restaurant recommendations from an expert to avoid tourist traps and you may even be invited into a local home. If you’re traveling solo , you will meet like-minded travelers. It’s true what Julia Child said: “People who love to eat are always the best people.”

Get curious and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Is this dish eaten often or just for special occasions? Does your host have a special twist or substitution that they make to the classic recipe? What comfort foods did they eat growing up? Who was the best cook in their family? Where’s the best place to get coffee tomorrow morning?

I’ve made it a point to take cooking classes all over the world as a part of my travels, and I find that I usually come away with so much more than just the recipes. Here are a few of my favorites.

Learn layers of history through Turkish dishes in Istanbul with Cookistan

Before our cooking class with Cookistan , we walked through the neighborhood of Kurtuluş . Though it's off the beaten path for most visitors to Istanbul , it is a perfect introduction to shopping and eating like a local in the city.

Our guide, Aysin, weaved in details about the first occupants of the area – a Greek shipbuilding community – and the various multicultural inhabitants who still maintain shops there. We stopped in front of a butcher specializing in offal cuts, complete with sheep’s heads in the window, an illustration of how all parts of the animal are utilized – nothing here is wasted. She explained how people cook with the seasons in Türkiye  as we stopped in to pick up artichokes from two men cleaning off a huge mountain of fresh ones in their shop. We salivated over counters of meze, pickles, jams and olive oils and I realized my stomach was growling. 

The dishes prepared in the course give Aysin and her instructors a way to speak about various aspects of Turkish cuisine. Dolma (vegetables and grape leaves stuffed with rice and meat) are an example of Anatolian home cooking, for example. Zeytinyagli enginar (artichoke braised in olive oil) represents a popular style of braised olive oil dishes. Circassian chicken, one of my all-time favorite meze, allowed Aysin to explain Türkiye’s meyhane (tavern) culture and how drinks and food go together over a shared table.

Ready to explore Istanbul? Get to know the city one neighborhood at a time with our guide

Make sushi and have a tea ceremony in Tokyo with Yukiko

One of my most memorable classes was in a suburb of Tokyo with Yukiko , who generously opens her home to guests for a taste of true Japanese culture. Leaving our shoes at the door, we entered the cozy living room, complete with family photos, the household altar and traditional shōji (sliding rice-paper screen doors). I instantly relaxed into the invitation to leave the busy city outside, to slow down, be present and enjoy.

Over the course of the class, guests learn a variety of styles of sushi and the proper way to prepare and cool the sushi rice. When it comes to food, anyone who has been to Japan will know that presentation is of utmost importance. Yukiko is also a vegetable sommelier so the delicately cut vegetables really steal the show. We enjoyed playing with small details in color and textures, such as the crunch of a fresh radish, tangy pickles, strips of red cabbage, and the delicate shiso leaf placed under a rice ball. Being able to see the process behind each piece made it much more meaningful every time I ordered sushi after the class, both on my trip and at home.

Perhaps most special of all, you are invited to dress in traditional kimono and to take part in a Japanese tea ceremony, with Yukiko explaining the proper etiquette and meaning behind every step. She is such a calm presence in her style of teaching, always smiling and warm, and genuinely pleased to help foreigners learn about Japanese cooking and culture.

Tempted by sushi and tea? Here are Japan's best food and drink experiences

Follow pasta and tiramisu recipes in Milan with Pasta Pietro

With just 24 hours on a recent trip to Milan , when searching for a cooking class, I wanted to be sure that I was getting both a meal and some entertainment. This led me to the fabulous Pasta Pietro , born and raised in Milan! Pietro is a character, and you can see on his social media  his love for the pastas of Italy. You’ll also often see cameos by his adorable twin boys and his mother, who taught him the recipes for the pasta and tiramisu that we’d be making in class. 

The eight participants gathered around a long table with the supplies we’d need to be churning out our own masterpieces and the casual setting gave us the feeling of being at a dinner party with food-loving friends. I was tasked with making a simple dough, mixing in flour from the sides into the egg well and letting the dough come together. We rolled out sheets of the pasta and cut them into round shapes. Pietro came through doling out jokes and anecdotes, to adjust our technique or demonstrate the rolling for our cavatelli.

By the end of the preparations we were all laughing as we helped to clear off the dishes and set the table, pasta boiling away on the stove. Finally, we sat down to finish off our tortelli with fresh parmesan cheese and wash it down with a glass of prosecco and our individual cups of tiramisu. We left with recommendations for the next time, new friends and full bellies.

Want to buy some treats while in Milan? Check out these top independent shops

Learn how to make khinkali and khachapuri in Tbilisi 

One of the most interesting things you’ll notice about the Georgian capital of Tbilisi are the beautiful, intricately carved balconies and hidden courtyards that you’ll pass, especially walking through older neighborhoods. So I was thrilled to find a cooking class in the old Sololaki neighborhood where we were able to actually walk up through one of these courtyards and into our new Georgian granny’s home for the afternoon.

The dining table was set up and Irina put the four of us right to work, chopping up herbs and onions for the filling for our khinkali (meat dumplings). We were able to learn about the different styles of khinkali –  some don’t contain herbs as we were using –  and it was interesting to learn the variations for future reference when confronted with choices on a menu. We learned tips along the way like how to judge the amount of water to add to the ground beef filling to be sure that the dumplings would have “soup” once boiled. The pace of the class was great and we all enjoyed focusing on our own folding skills when it came to preparing the actual dumplings.

We were so proud of our handiwork with the dumplings that we nearly forgot that we still had another dish to make  – the famous boat-shaped Adjaruli khachapuri –  a cheesy bread topped with butter and an egg yolk that you mix in just before eating. Again, this was just one of the regional variations of khachapuri and learning about the differences allowed us to seek out and try the others during our trip.

Create delicious  khăo soi  in Chiang Mai with Baan Thai Cookery School

Before going to Thailand , my experience with Thai dishes were from the basic red, green and yellow curries that I’d tried in Thai restaurants, or the ubiquitous pad thai noodles. Once I actually found myself wandering the streets in Bangkok , where these dishes were daily fare rather than a special occasion restaurant, it was eye-opening for me and I became excited to try something new. 

We started off our Baan Thai cooking class with a market tour and despite her tiny frame and oversized smile, our guide’s sing-song voice carried over the busy market stalls as we gathered ingredients and took them back to the class. There, the scent of freshly ground spices, chiles, lemongrass, turmeric, and ginger danced together in the fragrant spice mix of the curry. It was my very first cooking class and I simply loved the practicality of it all. Not only would we get a delicious meal out of the experience, but spend time with a local chef and learn about the ingredients in our favorite dishes too.

My favorite from our course was a regional specialty called khăo soi , a coconut curry dish with egg noodles from northern Thailand that I probably wouldn’t have ordered otherwise, preferring to stick to the things that I knew before. It was this class that set me off on my love of cooking classes around the world.

Need more inspiration? Here are Thailand's top food experiences

How to make the most of your perfect cooking class

• Use your research to learn about what foods are popular or most representative of your destination and get curious about why. Look into the ingredients and spices, and take lots of notes! 
• Opt for companies that are indigenous-run when possible, or led by locals with a deep connection to the place. I often will read the background of the chef in the listing itself and/or the comments by past participants in order to get an idea of what to expect. A local will be able to give you well-rounded recommendations for the rest of your stay as well.
• Consider a tip if you’re pleased with the experience. I’ve often felt that the classes I booked were worth way more than what I paid, so I often try to leave an additional gratuity if possible.
• Connect and engage with your host on social media and ask them to point you towards other local food blogs, cookbooks or websites that you can follow to continue to learn about your destination. 
• If you’re a language lover, food is the perfect introduction to learning a bit of the language on your trip. At a minimum, learn how to say “thank you” and “it’s delicious,” but if you’ve got more time, you can learn words for vegetables, meat, and flavors that will help you decode restaurant menus or on a trip to the supermarket. I sometimes will even buy a cookbook in the language of my destination and use that to learn cooking verbs like “add”, “fry” or “bake,” or measurements like cups or teaspoons.

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The world's 51 best tourist attractions.

Organize your travel calendar to include these must-see places around the world.

(Getty Images) |

Fully experience and appreciate the most memorable spots on your next adventure.

Great Pyramid of Giza: Giza, Egypt

Eiffel Tower: Paris, France

Hollywood Sign: Los Angeles, California

Berlin Wall Memorial's East Side Gallery: Berlin, Germany

La Sagrada Familia: Barcelona, Spain

Grand Palace: Bangkok, Thailand

Mount Fuji: Shizuoka, Japan

Tower of London: London, England

The Strip: Las Vegas, Nevada

Neuschwanstein Castle: Bavaria, Germany

Ubud: Bali, Indonesia

Burj Khalifa: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Statue of Liberty: New York, New York

Oriental Pearl TV Tower: Shanghai, China

Colosseum: Rome, Italy

The Matterhorn: Zermatt, Switzerland

Blue Mosque: Istanbul, Turkey

Victoria Harbour: Hong Kong

Library of Celsus: Ephesus, Turkey

Times Square: New York, New York

Buckingham Palace: London, England

Leaning Tower of Pisa: Pisa, Italy

Forbidden City: Beijing, China

(Courtesy of The Trustees of the British Museum) |

Rosetta Stone, British Museum: London, England

(Courtesy of Disneyland) |

Disneyland Resort: Anaheim, California

Tulum: Mexico

Gyeongbokgung Palace: Seoul, South Korea

(Courtesy of Matt Stroshane & Disneyland) |

Walt Disney World Resort: Orlando, Florida

Iguazu Falls: Brazil and Argentina

Vatican City

Sydney Opera House: Sydney, Australia

Mount Everest: Nepal and Tibet

Petra: Jordan

Mona Lisa: Paris, France

Terra Cotta Warriors: Xi'an, China

Borobudur Temple: Java, Indonesia

Mount Kilimanjaro: Tanzania

Jemaa el-Fna: Marrakech, Morocco

Christ the Redeemer: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Great Wall of China: China

Taj Mahal: Agra, India

Meiji Shrine: Tokyo, Japan

Table Mountain: Cape Town, South Africa

Niagara Falls: New York and Ontario, Canada

Zócalo: Mexico City, Mexico

Angkor Archaeological Park: Siem Reap, Cambodia

Galápagos Islands: Ecuador

Tokyo Disney Resort: Urayasu, Japan

Acropolis: Athens, Greece

Golden Gate Bridge: San Francisco, California

Navy Pier: Chicago, Illinois

You might also be interested in:

• The World's Best Places to Visit
• The Most Beautiful Landscapes in the World
• The Most Famous Landmarks in the World
• The Best Tourist Attraction in Every U.S. State
• Vacation Ideas for Every Type of Traveler

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The Best Resorts in the World: 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards

By CNT Editors

Now in its 36th iteration, our annual Readers’ Choice Awards continues to capture the travel experiences our readers love best, from hotels and airlines to cruises , islands , and luggage . This year, you traveled farther and deeper; seeking out remote properties; sailing on smaller, more intimate ships; and prioritizing destinations you’ve been waiting years to visit. At least that’s what a staggering 526,518 of you told us in our annual Readers’ Choice Awards survey. Seventy-five percent of you told us that you used up all your vacation days, often to take longer, immersive trips—the kind that resorts on distant plains or stamp-size islands are well-equipped to deliver. Now, you can use the results to decide where you’re going next—these are the best resorts in the world, according to our readers.

View the Reader's Choice Award winners for best hotels in the world here .

Eden Rock - St Barths Arrow

You can become a little numb to beauty in St. Barts , but even after having been on island for days, I think I squealed when I pulled into Eden Rock. It’s just so perfect—so chic, so glamorous, but in this easy, island-appropriate way. It’s the type of place that just being there makes you feel like the most glam, sun-kissed version of yourself. The hotel is almost entirely surrounded by calm, gin-bottle blue water that’s heavenly for a swim. There’s a diving platform a little ways out, and you can take out rafts and paddle around the point, and there’s a reef if you want to snorkel. The rooms are lovely and elegant, with a subtle Carib-meets-nautical vibe, at once bright and airy. When it comes to the food, rockstar chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten is in charge of the menu at the main restaurant, and the resort’s breakfast spread is insane in scope and quality; don’t miss it. Sure, you could have a delightful breakfast by your private pool, but the people-watching here is too good—you’d be missing an opportunity if you stayed in. It’s a pretty diverse crowd in some ways, but the common denominator, to tell it straight, is money. This place is not cheap, but it’s one of the rare hotels that is absolutely worth it. The setting is unparalleled and the food, service, and design are top of the top. There is no way you’ll go and not dream (maybe nightly) about going back—it’s that special. From $1,554. —Rebecca Misner

Troutbeck Arrow

It's the country retreat you wish your multi-millionaire great aunt invited you to every weekend. This historic inn about two hours north of NYC has been pulling in the literati and politicos for more than two centuries, but it only just expanded and seriously stepped up the vibe. This is still a country inn (tick off the reading nooks: the fireplace, the bar, the library) but one you'll absolutely hate to leave on Sunday night.

Ulusaba Private Game Reserve Arrow

One of Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Limited Edition collection of retreats, this private game reserve has 21 rooms and suites spread over two lodges. At the Rock Lodge, enjoy a post-game drive cocktail with panoramic views of the Drakensberg Mountains. Just 500 meters away at the Safari Lodge, walk between treehouse-style rooms on swinging rope bridges or just watch the zebras and impala stroll by on their way to the nearby watering hole.

Nita Lake Lodge Arrow

Comfort is paramount at this lakeside property in British Columbia 's fun-loving mountain resort town: double-soaker tubs, basalt-rock fireplaces, and heated floors offer an intimate counterpoint to the town's sportier side. The lodge is a short jaunt from the Creekside lifts and offers free shuttles and ski storage lockers at the base of Whistler Mountain; come summertime, you'll have your pick of complimentary cruiser bikes, paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks. The spa makes use of the surroundings with rooftop hot tubs overlooking the mountains. When it comes time for meals, the Lakeside Restaurant serves modern alpine cuisine, while the Cure Lounge & Patio is the place to go for a chorizo-topped Caesar (this is Canada, after all), a barrel-aged old fashioned, or a local spin on a gin fizz made with spruce tip syrup.

Matt Ortile

Jessica Puckett

Todd Plummer

Lauren Dana Ellman

Wharekauhau Country Estate Arrow

This upscale Relais & Châteaux property, popular with Dutch and British royals, is worth the 45-minute drive southwest of Martinborough for the green setting alone. The luxurious farm stay sits on 3,000 acres abutting Palliser Bay's Pacific coastline in one direction, and soaring New Zealand mountainscapes in the other. Edwardian cottage suites and villas with beamed ceilings, private kitchens, and fireplaces give it a luxe lodge feel, while heated indoor and outdoor pools, a spa and gym, and flatscreen TVs keep comfort top of mind. The on-site farm-to-table restaurant offers a four-course degustation-style tasting menu powered by the wine country land around you, and activity options include horseback riding, wine tasting, archery, stargazing, and coastal e-bike tours.

The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina Arrow

You’d be hard-pressed to find a more elegant and well-equipped place to stay by the water than at the 92-room Beach Club , which opened in October 2016. Directly across the harbor from downtown Charleston on Patriots Point in historic Mount Pleasant, the resort is just a free, fifteen-minute trolley shuttle and seasonal water taxi ride from this Southern foodie haven. Modern meals are served in the Fish House, occupying the same building as the creatively-curated Marina Store, which sells everything from scented soaps to tomes on local history.

Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa Arrow

Set on a secluded private beach on seven acres of the Atlantic coast with breathtaking ocean views and lush tropical gardens, the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa is true Florida gold coast. Spacious accommodations offer a Capri-meets-Santorini-meets-Palm Beach vibe, and feature private balconies with hanging chairs to enjoy ocean views. The resort includes the Forbes Five-Star, award-winning 42,000 square foot Eau Spa, three Har-tru tennis courts, two pools, and outstanding child and teen clubs and programs. There are also four restaurants on site, and it's just minutes from lively Palm Beach nightlife and shopping.

Vermejo Arrow

Ted Turner’s Vermejo is the closest thing to a private national park. Roughly 550,000 acres draped across the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Vermejo is the largest privately owned ranch in the U.S., spanning two states (New Mexico and Colorado) and encompassing several early 1900’s coal-mining and saw-mill towns, as well as Anasazi-era cliff dwellings. The recently restored Casa Grande, a stone-walled, seven-bedroom mansion, is one of nine lodgings on the ranch, and its most storied. Built in 1909 for a Chicago businessman, it was sold after his death to Los Angeles Times publisher Harry Chandler in 1926, whose regular guests included Herbert Hoover, Cecil B. DeMille, Douglas Fairbanks and Mary Pickford. The grandeur of the mansion hearkens back to this era, from the marble-pillared great room’s dining room table outfitted in china and crystal to the grand piano. The property languished between several owners, and it was Turner who had the vision to turn the sprawling property into a modern-day conservation-minded ranch. Fly-fishing season is from May to September and the property offers endless amounts of hiking. Staying at Casa Grande gives you a taste of what Fairbanks et al. might have experienced back in the mansion’s heyday; rooms are impeccably done in European antiques and toiles, private dining room service is available if you don’t want to join the others at the main lodge (the bison burger, crispy buttermilk marinated quail, and fresh-caught trout are musts), and staff can bring you a G+T on the porch as you watch the wildlife creep out of the woods at sundown.

Sanctuary Olonana Arrow

This camp , named for a Masai warrior, sits on acacia-dotted plains and prides itself on its eco-friendliness, using solar power and recycled water. Watch hippos wallow in the Mara River from one of 14 luxury tents with canopied beds, writing tables, screened windows, and verandas with daybeds. For meals, expect dishes such as Malindi sole, prepared with ingredients picked directly from the camp’s garden and served on the main deck—or book a picnic meal in the bush. Available activities include game drives in specially designed jeeps that offer 360-degree views of the savannah (and its inhabitants), visits to a local Masai village, and hot air balloon rides over the plains for a bird’s-eye view of the migrating herds.

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay Arrow

Kauaui 's 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay has all the ingredients you might want to cook up a truly magical Hawaiian getaway—a swimmable beach right out front, a legendary surf break a short paddle away, a stunning main pool (and a sleek adults-only one), great onsite bars and restaurants, a cute town nearby for exploring, and easy access to excellent hiking. But what makes this property truly stand out in an archipelago dotted with luxe oceanfront resorts is that it’s also a legitimate wellness destination, with cutting-edge medi-spa offerings as well as serious fitness and mind/body programming. Guest rooms are a study in neutrals—sand-hued walls, reclaimed teak ceilings and furniture with rope and reed accents. Potted plants live in woven baskets and stag ferns are mounted on the walls, dried grass skirts are hung like pieces of art, the bathroom walls are lined with lava stone, and the island’s seafaring history comes through in the most subtle of ways—sconces that almost resemble fishing nets, or a single conch shell displayed on a shelf. The service on-site is casual but professional, and everyone from the concierge to the person helping you get set up at the pool is incredibly friendly and more than happy to share their favorite spots around the island. As for the Bamford Wellness Spa, I'm not exaggerating when I say the treatments are transcendent. Menu highlights include treatments that incorporate native Hawaiian medicinal plants like kava and noni, massages on a quartz bed (it’s like lying in warm sand while getting your kinks and knots worked out), and floats in the sensory deprivation tank, where you lose track of time and space in the best way possible: A single 60-minute session can be the equivalent of four hours of REM sleep. From $1,200. —Rebecca Misner

JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa Arrow

El Nido Resorts (Lagen, Miniloc & Pangulasian) Arrow

W Costa Navarino Arrow

A chug through Messinia’s olive-dotted countryside, past bare-chested octogenarians driving ancient tractors, brings you to this 32-acre waterfront property, designed in the form of a Greek coastal village. The first W hotel in Greece offers everything you’d expect from the famously fun, tongue-in-cheek brand—poolside DJs, geometric cushions, a central infinity pool begging to be Instagrammed—plus some added doses of wellness, eco-consciousness, and inclusivity. In line with the rather chummy W vernacular (staff quarters are labeled “Talent”), there are 246 Fabulous, Spectacular, and Wow! room options spread throughout the property—try to book one of the infinity swim-up rooms, which grants access to a shared ground-level 90-meter pool. Like the other hotels in the Costa Navarino collection, there is a true sense of warmth at the heart of the hotel from the 350 staff members—even though it is a big brand hotel, ultimately this is a family-run business, and that hospitable embrace is felt throughout.

Rosewood Miramar Beach Arrow

Arriving at Rosewood Miramar Beach, with its military-straight rows of white roses and pristine clapboard cottages, feels like landing on a postcard-perfect street in Cape Cod . If it all seems a little too perfect, well, there was time to get things right. The former Miramar by the Sea Hotel occupied these 16 oceanfront acres from 1889 until it closed for renovations in 2000. The hotel sat half-demolished for years, its second act tangled in red tape. It took SoCal billionaire developer Rick Caruso and the Hong Kong–based Rosewood Hotel Group to push the project through. And while it may have been tempting to scrap the past after such a treacherous road to reopening, the new Miramar deliberately throws back. Lemon-yellow-and-white striped umbrellas flank a rectangular pool where the Scoop Shop serves up fountain drinks, ice cream cones, and burgers. Overlooking the ocean, there’s Caruso’s, the type of place where you order a martini with your cacio e pepe alongside a heaping dollop of la dolce vita (the chef hails from Harry’s Bar in Rome )—and, in a state where “formal flip-flops'' are a thing, one that blessedly enforces a dress code. In case you start to feel too lost in the 1950s, an outpost from Malibu Farm and a Goop boutique remind you that this is indeed modern-day Cali.

Salish Lodge & Spa Arrow

Built in 1916 as a rest stop for travelers, this Cascade Mountains lodge is set above 268-foot-high Snoqualmie Falls. The setting for the TV series Twin Peaks , the mountain lodge offers rooms in blues, emeralds, and turquoises (to mirror the colors of the sky, the Snoqualmie River, and Puget Sound) with custom-built furniture. A honeybee apiary on the hillside by the lodge produces honey for the spa and the Dining Room, where local artisanal cheeses are also served.

Alila Villas Uluwatu Arrow

The striking latticework rectangles of Alila Uluwatu, an all-villa resort set high on a cliff on the Bukit Peninsula, has become an icon for contemporary Bali. This Indonesian island is less about the beaches, more about the balés—sure, you can find tempting stretches of sand, but you couldn’t do better than settling into a cabana by the infinity pool here to enjoy those Indian Ocean panoramas. And if you do need to dip your feet into the sea, it’s only 600 steps down the cliff-hugging stairway to get to it. Spacious stand-alone suites have inviting daybeds by floor-to-ceiling glass walls, which open out to private pools. Bathroom are outfitted with a large tub, his-and-hers toiletries, and all the amenities you could dream of. Service here is inspired; at check-in, you'll be asked whether you’d like it invisible or extra-attentive—categorized into "private," "discreet," or "indulgent." Your private butler is a tablet click away.

The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua Arrow

Winding along the entrance to the Ritz-Carlton, you’ll notice the topography looks different from the coastal scenery you’ve passed en route from Maui’s main airport. Kapalua is marked by lush, towering pine trees and windy weather; it might even be raining when you pull up to the hotel, giving the place a mountain-lodge feel. Indeed, if you’re aiming for seclusion and relaxation, rather than sunny beach days, the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua is just the spot. And if you’re staying a while or traveling with children, opt for a residential suite which has a full kitchen and up to two bedrooms. Just be sure to reserve your chairs in advance before you go to the pool. 

Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, Mexico Arrow

At this 1,500-acre hidden oasis north of Puerto Vallarta , no request is too outlandish—readers have shared stories of dedicated servers, like one who walked into the ocean, in his uniform, to bring them their drinks. Red-roof garden casitas are done in a sea-and-sand palette, with Mexican art and louvered doors. Meanwhile, the state-of-the-art 18-hole Jack Nicklaus course at Pacifico takes the game to the extreme: Be prepared to swing for a hole that's on an island 200 yards offshore.

The Point Arrow

There’s that moment, on every trip, when your mindset switches from “everyday, real life” to “blissed out, vacation life.” At The Point, it happens on the approach. You’ll turn off one country road, and onto another that takes you deeper into the woods. After a few minutes, you’ll come to a log gate, the words "The Point" spelled out (in all caps) in the archway in a tangle of branches. As the gate swings open and you slowly drive through, it feels like you’re entering another world. Or, at the very least, leaving this one behind. Built in the early 1930s as a private retreat for William Avery Rockefeller Jr. (John D. Rockefeller's grand-nephew), it was purchased in 2016 by two of its longtime guests, Laurie and Pierre Lapeyre, who set about refreshing—not redoing—the property. The kitchen (which has a 24/7 open door policy) is run by Chef Loic Leperlier, who spent time at multi-Michelin starred restaurants; and if guests get curious about what he's cooking up, they can even tag along as he forages nearby for Chanterelle mushrooms or birch syrup. A heads-up: There's no wifi on the property (you can only access it in the front office which houses the shop and gallery). But after a few hours, you're too busy taking hikes, kayaking, boating, reading books, and enjoying cocktail hour to even notice.

Blackberry Mountain Arrow

While every hotel now trades on its experiential offerings, only the very best have the talent to follow through with resonance and meaning. Blackberry Mountain, a ground-breaking adventure-and-wellness retreat in rural Tennessee, knows that experiences alone aren’t enough; experienced people are crucial, too. This property comes from the family behind the wholesomely ground-breaking Blackberry Farm , which transformed the U.S.’s foodie-escape scene. And like its sister hotel, this 36-room mountain retreat makes a point of hiring staffers who are extremely good at what they do, whether trail running or vinyasa yoga, mountain-biking or mushroom foraging. Naturalist Boyd Hopkins has traced every corner of the 5,200-acre Smoky Mountain wilderness—he takes guests scrambling up, up, up to Cat’s Paw Ridge in search of bobcat and black bear. Master potter Polly Ann Martin can teach even the clumsiest newbie to throw a near-perfect vase, while a deep-dive consultation with Dr. Jill Beasley, Blackberry’s naturopath, will have guests wishing they could get her on speed-dial for when they return home. Inside the stone-and-timber cottages are roaring fires and floor-to-ceiling windows for gazing at the misty blue peaks of the Smokies. But the most memorable part of this singular playground—even more than the unspoiled surroundings—are the unforgettable people who bring it to life.

The Ritz-Carlton, Orlando Grande Lakes Arrow

Rows of palm trees herald the entrance to the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, a towering, Italian-inspired resort where attentive staff greets you at the porte-cochère and welcomes you into the marble lobby with a glass of sparkling wine. Guest rooms are modern and subdued with private balconies and ultra-plush bedding, and the large, marble bathrooms have plush terry-cloth robes, oversize towels, and Asprey Purple Water toiletries. If you can fit it in, make time to check out the spa: The Ritz-Carlton’s massive, 40,000-square-foot space has 40 private treatment rooms, a cafe, and a serene outdoor pool. The Grand Citrus Escape treatment uses herbs and citrus grown onsite and honey from the resort’s bees to hydrate and soothe your skin from head to toe.

Elewana Elephant Pepper Camp Masai Mara Arrow

If you really want to be surrounded by nature on safari, this tented camp with just eight suites is the way to go. With no fences or boundaries, you’ll fall asleep to the sound of lions, leopards, and hyenas making their way across the Maasai Mara. (Don’t be surprised if you spot animals wandering through in the daytime from your tent’s veranda, too.) The experience here leans more towards the glamping side of safari lodges—but you won’t be without creature comforts, as the tents are fully furnished with indoor plumbing and hot showers. You won’t have to jockey for a view of the wildlife on game drives or bush walks either, since Elewana’s location and surrounding savannah is only accessible to the 11 other nearby lodges, keeping Land Cruiser traffic down.

Tetherow Lodges Arrow

Located just 10 minutes outside of downtown Bend, Tetherow is a complex of vacation rental homes, event spaces, and a golf course that has all the amenities and comforts of a larger resort, but the intimacy and personality of a smaller hotel—since the Lodges only contain 50 rooms. It's no secret that Tetherow attracts a particularly outdoorsy and active set, and especially golf fanatics. But if you're the type to just sit in the hot tub with a glass of wine while your partner hits the links, that's alright, too. Golf is the name of the game here, and Tetherow Golf Club is a 7,298-yard Scottish links-style course that has won numerous accolades and consistently lands at the top of critics' lists. The pros in the golf shop are happy to get anyone and everyone setup with the right instructor for a proper golf lesson. "Tetherow Sport," the property's new fitness center features the best in workout equipment, as well as a huge selection of group workout classes, activity gear, a year-round outdoor pool, hot tub, fire pits, and plenty of fabulous views. And being only 20 minutes from Mount Bachelor, there are ample opportunities for mountain sports at all times of year.

Cheval Blanc Randheli Arrow

It stands to reason that the Cheval Blanc Randheli , a relatively recent resort from luxury conglomerate LVMH (owners of Louis Vuitton, Céline, Dior, etc.), would set the bar high. The white sands and turquoise waters of the Noonu Atoll, in the northwest Maldives, are the backdrop for 45 one- and two-bedroom villas. As looks go, it doesn’t get chicer than this, but the whimsical touches—turtles drawn in the sand along the path to the villa, thoughtful little notes from your butler left alongside the pitchers of fresh juice—are what truly give this place its character.

Four Seasons Resort Lanai Arrow

The lush tropical paradise is akin to a real-life version of Fantasy Island. With everything you could possibly want in one oceanfront destination, it's a place you'll never have to leave, unless of course, you want to. Apart from the on-site fitness center with ocean views, a private beach, and an 18-hole golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus, there's no shortage of activities with up to 22 daily offerings. Complimentary classes include lei-making, a rancher's experience, and a resort cultural tour. There are 26 room types, including garden view rooms with modern-meets-island-style decor and private terraces, and Ohana suites that are best suited for families. The grande dame here is the two-bedroom Alii Royal suite with an open living and dining space, a formal seating area, a library, and three private balconies.

Hermann Bungalows Arrow

This is the place for ultimate Palm Springs mid-century luxury, designed with the most sumptuous details and suited for the natural landscape—including prime poolside San Jacinto Mountain views. It's also an uncommon experience: a resort within a resort. One is luxury while the other is “ultra-luxury.” The latter is Hermann Bungalows, a uniquely chic 24-suite lodge opened by designer-hotelier Steve Hermann in 2022. It’s adjacent to L’Horizon Resort & Spa (25 rooms), which Hermann opened in 2015 after a $10 million renovation of an existing mid-century property. Bungalow guests enter through L’Horizon’s lobby to reach their own fully contained hotel , whose design inspiration is rooted in the mid-century-modernism architecture of Richard Nuetra. Guests can stay in the privacy of the Hermann Bungalows, or access all of the amenities of L’Horizon Resort, including its pool, the Spa, and the elegant SO.PA restaurant.

Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort Arrow

This coastal getaway is located on sugar-sand beaches, and offers sparkling pools, delicious dining, and three championship golf courses. Located in the Palmetto Dunes beachfront community, several dining options are on-site and private balconies overlook the oceanfront. Rooms options feature sofa beds, kitchenettes, and additional living space for families. Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort provides 14,000 square feet of meeting space. The poolside Buoy Bar brings tiki vibes to the lowcountry, and famed Arthur Hills Golf Course is less than two miles away.

One&Only Mandarina Arrow

This glossy, globetrotting hotel group might pick up new destinations as if they were passport stamps, but each is uniquely rooted in place. Here, along the Riviera Nayarit on the wild Pacific coast, that means drawing deeply on Mexico’s magic, with considered references to the Indigenous Cora and Huichol people. Bedrooms, whether oversized treehouses or ocean-facing villas, are a celebration of local culture, from the traditional textiles and pottery to the robes by contemporary Mexico-based label Candor. The spa, set in a natural volcanic-rock garden, is based on ancient healing practices and offers treatments including temazcal sweat-lodge rituals. The hotel has also tapped the country’s top chef, Enrique Olvera—of Mexico City’s Pujol —for Carao, where feasts begin with fresh ceviche and end on homemade cinnamon buñuelos. Meanwhile Alma, an open-air, garden-to-plate spot helmed by French-Mexican Olivier Deboise, is centered around wood-fired, Pan-American-meets-Mediterranean dishes. It might be a step up from the surf hotels down the road, but one that still feels very much in step with Nayarit’s spirit. 

JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa Arrow

Two words: lazy river. Kids and kids at heart will fall hard for this multi-functional resort spread across 600-plus acres. During the day, 40 event spaces (capable of hosting more than 6,000 people) make networking easy, but once you’re off the clock, there’s a Pete Dye–designed golf course, expansive water park, adults-only spa, and high-tech sports bar. Not that you’d want to but if you ever decide to leave, the resort is within an hour drive of Natural Bridge Caverns, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, and the Lone Star State’s up-and-coming wine country .

Mohonk Mountain House Arrow

If you're looking to escape, come here. It's the purest form of relaxation, and you can make as much of everything it offers as you like. A secluded sanctuary, the hotel itself resides on a spectacular mountain preserve and looks out onto a large lake. Rooms are homey and classic, with porches outfitted with rocking chairs. Mohonk provides a daily schedule with something to do at any and every hour. Best of all, there's something for everyone, from yoga to golf, archery to horseback riding, and even wine tasting. Food is included in your daily room rate, and there's daily afternoon tea and cookies, as well as a library (complete with complementary reading glasses, just in case you've misplaced yours) where you can read the paper in front of a warm fire.

Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach Arrow

Two oceanfront pools, an expansive beach, and a restaurant and bar built up in collaboration with Michelin-starred chef Mauro Colagreco—these are the pillars of the Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach. While it’s no daunting task to beautify the Florida island ’s landscape (Mother Nature has handled that herself), this resort takes that perfection and compounds it with stunning design and an overarching aura of enchantment. Pool service is on point, as are the activities on offer for when lounging in the sun feels a little too intense. Water and beach sports, cooking classes, biking, and more: the six-acre spread has it all.

The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort Arrow

At this decade-old resort in a gated community along the Pacific, the tile-roofed casitas have Mediterranean-Mexican style with creamy whites accented by lime green and fuchsia tones and colorful handcrafted tiles. There’s a wide array of restaurants and bars, from the fine-dining Carolina to Sea Breeze for fish tacos and ceviche to the Avocado Vegan Bar. The staff here seems to work magic, whether that's charging taxi fares to your hotel bill or getting a doctor to make a house call to your room.

La Cantera Resort & Spa Arrow

Built atop one of the highest points in San Antonio , the resort boasts views that truly can't be beat, which is why we recommend booking a room with a balcony. In addition to an adults-only floor and luxe villas perfect for large groups, guests will delight in the exclusive spa treatments and memorable dining options—from a concept dedicated entirely to charcuterie boards to a juicery that offers mood-enhancing Lotus Wei elixirs. The star, however, is Signature, a restaurant that is a feast for the senses, serving up seafood and wild game in an old-world setting.

The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi Arrow

There are myriad reasons why The Ritz-Carlton Langkawi could be considered the ultimate luxurious hideaway to reconnect with nature. The resort's location—nestled in Malaysia's 10-million-year-old rainforest right on the beaches of the Andaman Sea; its spa—a collection of six overwater pavilions with a menu of treatments inspired by the island's generations of shamans and midwives; its four beachfront restaurants and bars, featuring classic Malaysian design elements right on the shores of the sea. But we think the magic lies in how the resort captures the island's character. Jungle flora and fauna beckon from the windows of each of the 90 suites and 29 villas (which also offer beachfront views). Guests can participate in traditional jewelry making or textile printing, or opt for more adventurous activities like a hike through the rain forest or water skiing on a nearby volcanic lake. Of course, flopping down on nearby Pantai Cenang Beach for the entirety of your stay is also an option.

Banyan Tree Veya Phuket Arrow

This resort, designed as a Thai village and built on rehabilitated wasteland, has "perfect, private luxury villas" that fringe a saltwater lagoon and the beaches of Bang Tao Bay. Each low-rise villa is set next to a private landscaped garden and has his-and-hers dressing areas, an open-air sunken bath, teak-framed floor-to-ceiling windows, and dominant colors of black, gold, and red. The 24 two-bedroom pool villas have private infinity pools along the lagoon, plus 24-hour butler and in-villa chef services and a separate check-in lobby. Multiple dining options include fresh fish served at the lagoon-facing Sala Terrace.

Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection Arrow

Cabo San Lucas is a town full of resorts that are either too fusty, too fancy, or too family-friendly, but Chileno Bay is the rare option that feels both sophisticated and hip. Follow the throng of weekending thirty-somethings to the resort's cool open-air restaurant, or to a little taco shack on the beach with an excellent selection of small-batch mezcal. The beach that the hotel is on is probably the only real swimming beach in Cabo—no small thing, since it can be kind of painful to be at a "beach resort" and not be able to take a dip in the ocean. (Cabo's waters are notoriously choppy, rough, and not swimmer-friendly).

Montage Palmetto Bluff Arrow

Never mind that Justin Bieber had his wedding here—Palmetto Bluff is nothing if not lost in time, and that’s precisely the appeal. Set on 20,000 acres of wildlife sanctuary on South Carolina’s May River, it’s a romantically haunting landscape of Southern oaks draped in Spanish moss, the iconic state palmetto, cranes flying overhead, and live gators sunning on the banks in the hazy early morning. (Cautionary note when fishing—gators also love large-mouth bass and will snap them right off your line). Technically, Montage Palmetto Bluff is a resort, with the archetypal Southern mansion or inn acting as its anchor, but in reality it’s a small, charming village—albeit one with multiple pools, restaurants, bars, and a spa that the resort manages. Kids play wiffle ball in the main square at dusk, couples walk their dogs with a drink in hand and say hello as you pass them; there’s even a daily late afternoon “porching” session with drinks and s’mores at the fire pits. It’s slow, languid living in the best possible way.

Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge Arrow

Nestled in the foothills of Mount Meru, 30 cottages are surrounded by one of Tanzania's largest coffee plantations for an ideal pre- or post-safari stopover near the town of Arusha. The aroma of freshly ground beans wafts over the rooms and suites' wood-beamed interiors. Don't miss the coffee-making experience—beans are cooked in a skillet to release their oils, and then ground using a massive mortar and pestle—to have fresh Tanzanian coffee with the local villagers and learn more about the area firsthand. A private swimming pool, garden terrace, and indoor-outdoor restaurant serving up meals and picnic lunches (or 24-hour room service if you prefer) make it a cozy stay with impeccable service.

JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes Arrow

The towering JW Marriott Orlando sits on 500 acres at the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. Step through the grand, marble-tiled lobby to the outdoor patio and relax with a glass of wine by the firepit. Rooms are spacious and serene, with neutral decor and pastel highlights. Business travelers will appreciate the large desk and ergonomic chair; the pillowtop mattress and superb bedding guarantee an excellent night’s sleep. The JW Marriott also happens to have one of the best hotel pools in Orlando; float past waterfalls and under bridges on the lazy river, or take a dip in one of the many onsite pools. Lounge chairs and shade umbrellas are plentiful.

Lolebezi Arrow

The Lower Zambezi National Park has long been a pilgrimage for safari-goers seeking natural drama on water as well as land. So when this new lodge was opened in 2022 on a formerly wild 12-acre concession on the banks of the Zambezi River, conservationists’ eyes were firmly turned. Owned by Dubai-based businessman Irfaan Yousuf for his wildlife-loving wife Shahida and son Lole (hence the name), Lolebezi is surrounded by game—which can be seen from kayaks (keeping a watch out for monster crocodiles and irritable hippo), sundowner cruises, walks and game drives. Built in partnership with respected African Bush Camps’ founder Beks Ndlovu, the six suites and double-height living space were designed by South Africa-based Fox Browne Creative and Jack Alexander Studio to feel like an indulgent contemporary boutique hotel, with curvaceous banquettes alongside calabash-strung art installations; reed ceilings above opulent green Italian marble. Considering the remote location, the food is remarkably inventive and fresh. There might be an Indian tandoori feast in the evening, Ottolenghi-style vegan tapas for lunch and spirulina- and baobab-spiked juices at dawn. With an Africology and Healing Earth spa set among giant leadwood trees (and, sometimes, wandering lions), a glass-walled gym, games room and velvet-seated cocktail bar, this is the most glamorous camp in Zambia. An instant classic on the African continent. From $1,375. —Lisa Grainger

Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection Arrow

For ages, Santa Fe has lured visitors with its rich history, cultural diversity, mystical landscape, and extraordinary art scene. All of these charms combine at Bishop’s Lodge, a century-old resort that reopened in the summer of 2021 after a $75 million renovation. It’s a high-end yet unpretentious place to immerse oneself in nature, adventure , spiritual healing, and local traditions, bundled in the signature comfort of the Auberge Resorts Collection. The Stream Dance Spa, with treatments rooted in ancient rituals and holistic treatments, like sacred sound therapy, is sure to be the highlight of any visit.

Cottar's 1920s Camp Arrow

On arrival at Cottar's 1920s Camp in your open-air Land Rover, you immediately feel you’ve stepped back in time. It was established by the grandfather of the current owner, Calvin Cottar, and today, it has the highest number of Gold Level guides of any safari property in Africa. The camp has great traditional interiors, full of campaign and colonial antiques and lined with kilims, cotton dhurries, and paraphernalia from decades of African safaris. There are nine tents in total (two honeymoon tents, four double tents, and three family suites), all with bathrooms, and some even have living rooms with fireplaces. 

Chatham Bars Inn Arrow

Eevery inch of the property’s 25 acres (CBI has quietly picked up more throughout the years) is intoxicating. There’s the cool Atlantic breeze hitting the bluff, a sand-swept wedding in the distance ( remember when? ), a private beach launch to a secluded sandy spot. Scattered atop a seaside bluff, the "charming New England–style cottages" have bay windows, fireplaces, and private decks or patios with views of the ocean, grounds, or golf course. There’s an oceanfront pool, downtown Chatham steps away, a lobby fireplace roaring upon your return. It oozes nostalgia, and that’s why guests return—kids a little older, parents a little wiser, grandparents in pearls taking in the view a little bit longer—to summer on the Cape. CBI has perfected the good stuff: views ( see the fishing boats at the pier, fog sitting on the water? ), a seaside spot to rest your head (nothing beats the ocean view cottages), and family fun. And that’s what the Cape is all about.

Elewana Elsa's Kopje Meru Arrow

Meru National Park has it all: lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, kudus, and even a sanctuary filled with black and white rhino. One of the best home bases to see it all? Elewana Elsa's Kopje, named after the real-life orphaned lion cub Elsa, whose rescue and return to the wild was dramatized in the 1966 movie Born Free . Built up on a hill with a full view over Meru’s savannah, the lodge offers game drives, fishing in Meru’s rivers, and bush walks for those looking to explore, as well as an infinity pool, private decks for each suite, and massages by appointment for those who don’t want to stray far from the lodge. You can also set up breakfasts out in the bush—and sundowners, too, before it’s time to turn in.

Londolozi Game Reserve Arrow

Even if you’ve never been, Londolozi exists in the imagination: a sprawling cluster of five thatched-roof safari camps, in varying sizes and shades of taupe and beige, built in an ancient riverine forest around waterfalls and tangled vines. Londolozi has been owned and run by the Varty family for nearly 100 years. The word  londolozi  comes from the Zulu language and means “protector of all living things”. Nelson Mandela, who recovered from imprisonment on Robben Island at the family camp, described it as “a dream I cherish for a model of nature preservation in our country”. The camps feel like deeply stylish African homes, layered in natural clay, khaki and sand-coloured linens. Each has its own communal open-air lobby, with plunge pools and various rooms and suites attached. All have wide views across the bush or river, some are wrapped around ancient trees, others flanked by granite rocks. Like on most top-notch safaris, you are fed well here, from the sunrise treats at early morning pre-game drives to the big breakfasts and suppers. The Varty family have been spearheading the emotional wellness trend in Africa, offering multi-day wildlife wellness retreats which involve silent treks and life-coaching sessions. Beyond just a game lodge, Londolozi sees itself as a platform to restore and heal the land. With a jovial family ethos and unbelievable wildlife (you’re pretty much guaranteed to see the waddle of big beasts and furry creatures), this is one of the world’s best safari outposts. From $1,060. — Chloe Sachdev

Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort Arrow

Hawaiian hotels may differ in size and price, but most have a pretty predictable common denominator, the beach . Which is why the opening of this hotel is such a major shakeup. For starters, it’s 1,800 feet above sea level and a 20-minute drive to the nearest sandy stretch. Then there’s the fact that it’s on Lanai, the smallest and least-visited of Hawaii’s inhabited islands. And it’s an adults-only wellness retreat, meaning the usual lounging in the sun while alternating between shave ice and spam musubi snacks doesn’t make it onto the daily schedule. All to say, Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort is about as niche as it gets. It’s also quite possibly the loveliest spot to give mind-body wellness a real shot. 

Wentworth by the Sea Arrow

Old-world luxury abounds at Wentworth by the Sea, a grand, nineteenth-century estate on the Atlantic. The coastal retreat has a red mansard roof and three towers, and looks out on granite outcroppings. If you're really interested in feeling like you've gone back in time, you're in luck: Interiors brandished with such details as traditional damasks, intricate woodwork, brass accents, and pinstriped wallpaper will make you feel like you've wound back the clock. The dining room at Latitudes, through which waiters navigate with platters of Prince Edward Island mussels and lobster rolls, overlooks the marina.

Twin Farms Arrow

Twin Farms, an 18th-century Southern Vermont farmhouse that once belonged to Nobel Prize–winning writer Sinclair Lewis, is the perfect spot to get away from the city and relax amid maple and pine trees. Our readers laud the first-rate service at this rural retreat. One of only a handful of Relais & Chateaux properties in New England, the food here is superb, with chef Nathan Rich putting together a highly seasonal menu drawn from Vermont produce, meats, and dairy. Beyond the dining room, there’s a guide readily available for walks through the surrounding woods, an on-call chauffeur for local outings, and even someone to bring you milk and cookies at any hour.

Uxua Casa Hotel & Spa Arrow

Surrounded by dense rainforest and teetering high on a ridge overlooking the powder-sand-fringed Atlantic, Uxua fits right into the post-hippie utopia of Trancoso . Working with local artisans, Dutch owner Wilbert Das (Diesel’s former creative director) has turned the hotel into a collection of rustic renovated casas, cottages, an intimate treehouse, and a tribal-inspired spa. All are cloaked by hummingbird-flecked tropical gardens and centered around a pool lined with green aventurine quartz, which, for those not up on their healing crystals, is said to be very therapeutic. Interiors are haute-boho: roomy indoor-outdoor sitting rooms and airy living spaces with dazzling-white walls and muslin-canopied beds, accented with lots of reclaimed wood, antiques, and vintage finds including brightly painted Virgin Mary statuettes. A decked path runs through mangrove forests to the beach, where there are enormous day beds for post-breakfast snoozing and a beach bar fashioned from an old fishing boat—just stay horizontal and another Caipirinha will soon find its way to you.

L'Horizon Resort & Spa Arrow

L.A.-based residential designer Steve Hermann spent two years (and millions of dollars) turning the historic William F. Cody–designed L’Horizon into a luxurious boutique hotel. He didn’t alter the footprint much—the main house and 25 bungalows were built in 1952—but he added an open-air spa and an alfresco restaurant and gut-renovated the interiors. Hermann wanted the decor to work with the mid-century architecture without creating a time warp. As such, each bungalow is a mix of modern (custom hair-on-hide rugs, industrial-chic machined brass lighting and fixtures) and vintage (furniture from Percival Lafer, Mullhauser, Knoll, and Katavolos). And while it is a fun hotel, more private club than frat party, it’s also a place for quiet indulgences: The pool is guests-only; unexpected treats are brought to your room every afternoon (could be a scoop of ice cream, could be a shot of tequila); and roaming poolside therapists offer complimentary foot and shoulder massages. Request a west-facing bungalow with an outdoor shower and watch the sun go down over the San Jacinto Mountains while shampooing.

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I’m a Travel Expert: 4 Luxury Vacations the Upper Middle Class Can’t Afford Anymore

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The family vacation used to be a hallmark of middle class life. Photo albums (aka the way of sharing your pictures with friends before the age of Instagram) attest to the great tradition of saving up and going to locations across the globe or even close to home that would be the sites of memories that would last a lifetime.

Unfortunately, many of the kinds of vacations that used to be affordable for the middle class have been subject to the same price increases that have impacted so many other areas of life. GOBankingRates chatted with Hollie McKay, vice president of communications for HotelPlanner, as well as Layne Tisdel Martin, travel agent and chief exploration officer of Wanderluxed , to learn more about the vacations that had their heyday in yesteryear. 

In contrast, here are four cheap vacations that feel luxurious .

Luxury Cruises

McKay defined luxury travel as anything that costs over $2,000 for a single weekend trip and she said that many Americans are increasingly priced out of trips that once would have been affordable — notably, luxury cruises. 

“Luxury ocean and river cruises, for example, now cost between $3,000 and $20,000 per person for trips lasting from 7 to 14 days, with lines like Regent Seven Seas, Crystal Cruises and Viking River Cruises offering all-inclusive packages that include gourmet dining and premium excursions,” she said.

Destination Vacations

Cruises aren’t the only luxury vacations that have become prohibitively expensive for the middle class. McKay said that high-end tours associated with European hotspots that include amenities like first-class accommodations, fine dining, private guides and exclusive access to landmarks can now range from $7,000 to $15,000 per person for a 10- to 14-day trip. 

Europe isn’t the only place that feels increasingly far away in terms of affordability. Even beach trips to unique locations have gone from a splurge to an impossibility money-wise.

“Exotic beach vacations, such as those in the Maldives or the Caribbean, also command high prices, with overwater bungalows in the Maldives costing between $5,000 and $20,000 per week and luxury Caribbean resorts ranging from $4,000 to $12,000 per week for two people,” she said.

Martin is more than just a seasoned travel agent and expert, she’s also a veteran world traveler who has seen the prices of some of her favorite vacations rise to the point that she can’t enjoy the same trips again. These trips included Antarctica, which she called “the dream trip of a lifetime for many people.”

Martin saved for years to take a 16-day Silversea Expedition cruise to Antarctica from Buenos Aires in late 2019, when her single passenger fare was $14,210. Now, she said that post-pandemic inflation has more than doubled the daily price of that already expensive cruise. “This year, a 10-day Silversea cruise to Antarctica for a single traveler starts at $20,850 and it’s six days shorter than mine was,” she said.

African Safaris

Unfortunately, sojourns to Antarctica aren’t the only luxury vacations that have become unaffordable to middle class travelers. Martin said that African safaris are also increasingly out of reach. 

“On top of the airfare to Africa and back, which costs about $1,000 per person in economy, there’s the cost of modern accommodation in some of the most remote locations on earth,” she said. 

While mid-range safaris can cost around $350 per person per night and you can find some budget options for about $150 to $200 per person every night, Martin recommended that you not pursue these. 

“[G]iven the substantial number of real health and safety concerns that come with traveling in Africa, I don’t recommend them,” she said. “For comparison, I spent five nights at Meliá Serengeti Lodge in October 2018 for $2,050. Rooms at the same lodge this coming October are currently booking for $1,400 a night.”

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The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20500

Remarks by Vice President Harris at United   States Air Force Academy Class of 2024 Commencement Ceremony

Falcon Stadium El Paso County, Colorado

10:19 A.M. MDT      THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.  Thank you.  (Applause.)      Good morning.  And congratulations to the cadets of Air Force Academy Class of 2024.  (Applause.)      AUDIENCE:  Roy!      THE VICE PRESIDENT:  To Secretary Frank Kendall, General Chance Saltzman, General David Allvin, Lieutenant General Richard Clark, and to all the friends and loved ones and sponsor families of these extraordinary graduates, thank you all for what you have done to support them in this journey.  And, again, I applaud all that you have done every day. In 2020, as a United States senator, it was my privilege to nominate five cadets to this class: Lynlee Davis, Elizabeth Deards, Kyle Moats, Noelle Mourani, and Jaricsa Vega.  (Applause.)   And as Vice President, I know firsthand the excellence produced by this academy.  With me here with me today is Lieutenant Colonel Debra Starkey, Class of 2009, the first Space Force guardian to serve as Military Aide to the Vice President; Lieutenant Colonel Zachary Fulton, Class of 2007; and Major Anthony Navaroli, Class of 2013, who flew me here on Air Force Two.  (Applause.)   And since taking office, I have flown nearly 400,000 miles, across continents, with the help of graduates of this very academy.  So, it is my firsthand experience that this academy produces some of the greatest pilots in the world.  (Applause.)  Indeed. Cadets, today you join generations of Americans who have graduated from this extraordinary institution.  And let us reflect, then, on what that has required of you.  You survived Beast and Recognition, Triple Threats and Core Astro, and many of you even made it through Sijan Hall.  (Laughter.)  Many.  Together, you also celebrated victories at Acceptance Day and Commitment, and at Ring Dance and Job Drops.  And, I am told, on occasion, you did some celebrating off campus as well at Parkway — (applause) — and at Dub House — (applause) — mostly, apparently, on Thursdays.  (Laughter.)

And I am informed that if you came back a little late and missed DI or if you were one of the cadets who decided to, quote, “borrow” the superintendent’s license plate that today you could still have some tours to march off.  (Laughter.)   Well, and I think your parents and family would be happy to know, you should know that I believe in the power of redemption.  So, to all whom this applies, listen carefully: I hereby waive any confinements and restrictions for minor violations of the cadet disciplinary system.  (Applause.)  You’re welcome.  (Laughs.) Class of 2024 — AUDIENCE:  Roy! THE VICE PRESIDENT:  — four years ago, you arrived here as strangers.  And today, you graduate as one class and one family, united in selfless dedication to service and to our country.  I believe there is no more noble work that one can do than to serve our nation in uniform.  On behalf of our Commander-in-Chief, President Joe Biden, and our entire nation, it is my honor to congratulate you on taking your place in the Long Blue Line.  (Applause.)   Today — today, you join the United States Joint Force, our sword and shield. Today, you join the ranks of the United States military, warriors who possess extraordinary skill, discipline, and dedication.  Today, you join the greatest fighting force the world has ever seen.  (Applause.) Next month, we mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day, that shining moment of Allied bravery and sacrifice made possible because of America’s air power. 

     In the months leading up to the landings, it was our pilots, our planes, and our air crews that knocked the enemy from the sky.  It was America’s forces in the air that bombed train tracks and fuel depots to prevent Nazi reinforcements from reaching the frontlines and helped defeat tyranny and fascism in Europe.  Eighty years ago, over the beaches of Normandy, America won control of the skies, and we have kept it ever since.  From air-to-air combat over the Korean Peninsula to providing close air support in Vietnam, from our dominance in Desert Storm and the Balkans to Iraq and Afghanistan, America’s record of air and space superiority has been unmatched and unbroken.  And today, around the world, our allies are in awe and our adversaries in fear of America’s dominance in the air.  We see it on NATO’s eastern flank, where our air patrols deter Putin from  extanding  [extending] and expanding his war of aggression.  We see it in Ukraine, where our weapon deliveries and missile warnings help the people of Ukraine defend their homes and homeland, their sovereignty and territorial integrity.  We see it in the Indo-Pacific, where our presence ensures a free and open region.  We see it in space, where America’s military watchful eye protects and supports our forces.  And we see it in the Middle East, where, last month, when Iran launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, it was our air and space forces that mounted an unprecedented defense along with our allies and partners.  More than 300 drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles were fired at Israel.  And thanks to our airmen and guardians, 99 percent of those threats did not hit their target.  Cadets — (applause) — as it has been for generations, America’s national security and global stability depend on our strength in the sky and space.  And as officers, our nation is counting on you to preserve and extend that strength, including, I will add, through your ability to innovate.  Since the days of Kitty Hawk, the United States has led the world in aerospace innovation: the first modern drone, the first GPS satellite, the first stealth aircraft.  And you are uniquely positioned to carry on this legacy of innovation.  Because, after all, your generation grew up online. 

     Technology that might be unfamiliar or intimidating — maybe to some people on this stage; I don’t know — but to previous generations is intuitive and even exciting to you. Here at the Academy, it is you that built aircraft designed to neutralize drones, you who learned how to use AI to protect military technology in space.  And as a point of personal pride, as Chair of the National Space Council, I was particularly proud to learn that, last November, you designed, built, and launched your own satellite, FalconS-X — -SAT-X.  (Applause.)  FalconSAT-X. And I am confident that as the nature of warfare changes, you will make sure that no one will ever match,  must  [much] less exceed, America’s military power.  As you innovate and shape our future, be guided, then, by the foundational beliefs that have defined our nation for centuries.   Today, is not only a graduation; it is a commissioning.  In a few moments, you will take an oath — not to a person, not to a political party, but to the Constitution; an oath to “support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic”; an oath to uphold our nation’s highest ideals of liberty, equality, and justice and to preserve and protect our democracy. This tradition goes back to the founding of our nation.  And even in a world of continuous change, this oath — well, it remains constant.  And I am confident that both in and out of uniform, this oath and the ideals it represents will guide you in all that you do.  Class of 2024 — AUDIENCE:  Roy! THE VICE PRESIDENT:  — I will conclude with this.  As 4 degrees, as has been mentioned, you chose an exemplar to inspire and guide you: Mayor — Major, excuse me, LeRoy Homer, Jr., a 1987 graduate of this academy and First Officer of United Flight 93 on September 11th, 2001. 

     As has been said, Major Homer was a true American hero who gave his life to protect our country.   And here today, as my honored guests, I’ve invited Major Homer’s wife, Melodie, and daughter, Laurel, to join us.  And, Melodie and Laurel, thank you for all your family has done to serve our nation.  (Applause.) So, looking out at these cadets, we know Major Homer’s vision and his spirit lives on.   And, graduates, then, finally, I will say: Wherever you go from here, you are ready.  You all are ready.  You have the skills; you have the knowledge and the strength of character to meet any challenge.  You are warriors.  You have dedicated yourselves to the service of our nation.  And America’s security relies on you.  I know you will make our country proud.  And as your Vice President, it is my profound honor to congratulate you on this tremendous accomplishment and to soon address you as graduates of the United States Air Force Academy.  God bless you.  And God bless the United States of America. Thank you.  (Applause.) END                 10:34 A.M. MDT

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Wisconsin a finalist for a top class of 2025 defensive line target, share this article.

Wisconsin football was named a finalist for class of 2025 defensive lineman Wilnerson Telemaque on Tuesday.

The Badgers made his final four list along with Florida , West Virginia and Georgia Tech.

Related: Where every Big Ten team ranks in ESPN’s 2024 College Football Power Index

The three-star defensive lineman is 247Sports’ No. 698 player in the class of 2025, No. 72 defensive lineman and No. 93 recruit from the state of Florida. He is set for an official visit to Wisconsin the weekend of June 7, which comes on the heels of a visit to West Virginia on May 31.

Of note, Telemaque’s list of final four schools differs significantly from his group of six finalists from April, which included Colorado , Florida, LSU , West Virginia, Missouri and Minnesota. Wisconsin and Georgia Tech have jumped into the mix, while Colorado, LSU, Missouri and Minnesota are no longer being considered.

Tuesday’s announcement also includes a decision date: June 18. He figures to make his commitment after visits to each of his four finalists.

Top 4️⃣ schools for four star DL Wilnerson Telemaque (‘25)! 👀 He will choose between WVU, Florida, Wisconsin, and Georgia Tech! Wilnerson will make his decision on June 18th. Where’s home for the standout out defensive lineman? 🏡 pic.twitter.com/M68NaYtMEZ — Leyton Roberts (@LeytonRoberts_) June 5, 2024

Wisconsin’s class of 2025 currently ranks No. 16 in the nation with 13 commitments. The program is off to a hot start to June with recent commitments from three-star CB Rukeem Stroud  and four-star OT Logan Powell .

Luke Fickell and his staff are working to grow the class with official visit season underway.

Contact/Follow @TheBadgersWire  on X (formerly Twitter), and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes, and opinion.

ESPN FPI ranks college football's top 25 toughest 2024 schedules

How far is wisconsin's camp randall from every other big ten football stadium, espn preseason fpi top 40 rankings, college football playoff projections, where every big ten team ranks in espn's 2024 college football power index, full list of wisconsin football's scheduled class of 2025 official visits, most popular, wisconsin class of 2025 soars up national rankings after additions of ot logan powell, cb rukeem stroud, first look at former wisconsin running back braelon allen in a new york jets uniform, post-spring big ten football 2024 power rankings.

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Xavier basketball recruiting: Muskies offer several prospects; Nyk Lewis schedules visit

While the Xavier basketball roster for the 2024-25 season has been set for nearly a month and practices are already underway at Cintas Center, the Musketeers brass still had a busy May, capped by a slew of offers to prep prospects over Memorial Day.

Here’s an update on some of the high school standouts Xavier has recently offered a scholarship to, plus an update on recent recruitments with visits scheduled and decisions looming. 

Winters Grady

Grady, a four-star recruit from Napa, California , grabbed an offer from Xavier, he announced on social media Friday night.

Grady, a 6-foot-5, 185-pound prospect, is ranked as a top-30 small forward in the nation for the Class of 2025 and a top-10 prospect in California. Xavier joins Grady's offer sheet that includes double-digit Division I programs from across the country, including California, Oklahoma and Big East rival Creighton.

Last summer, Grady transferred from Lake Oswego in Oregon to Prolific Prep in California, a squad that included three McDonald's All-Americans.

Shaw added an offer from Xavier on Saturday after the Las Vegas, Nevada prospect had a strong showing at the Nike's EYBL event in Kansas City. Shaw had offers from UNLV, Utah Tech, Southern Utah and Portland State heading into late May before Xavier and many others (Utah State, Iona, Santa Clara, Montana and Boise State) entered the fray.

Shaw is ranked as a three-star shooting guard and the No. 4 player in Nevada for the Class of 2025.

Bryce Heard

Heard announced an offer from Xavier on Friday. Heard, a 6-foot-5 combo guard, is ranked as the No. 1 player in Illinois for the Class of 2025.

Heard, a top-100 player in the nation, is a top-15 combo guard in the country and has picked up heavy recruitment interest with over 20 Division I offers that includes Big East members Georgetown, DePaul and St. John's.

Marquette offered Naz Meyer, a 6-foot-6 guard from New Hampton School in New Hampshire, on May 21. Xavier followed with an offer nine days later for the guard who is ranked as the No. 5 player in New Hampshire for the Class of 202 5.

Bruce Branch III

Branch, a 6-foot-5 small forward from the Class of 2027, received an offer from Xavier on Friday. Branch just finished his freshman year at Perry High School in Arizona and is a member of Compton Magic Elite.

Jayden Forsythe

Forsythe, a 6-foot-5 shooting guard from Westtown High School in West Chester, Pennsylvania, announced a Xavier offer on May 24.

Forsythe is ranked by 247Sports as a three-star recruit and a top-10 player in Pennsylvania for the Class of 2025. He holds 10 Division I offers, including from Butler, Northwestern, Penn State and Virginia Tech.

Washington D.C.'s No. 1 prospect will visit Xavier this month

Nyk Lewis, ranked by 247Sports as the No. 1 player in Washington, D.C. and a top-10 point guard in the nation for the Class of 2025 , will visit Xavier on June 17, according to a report from League Ready on X.

More: Who is Nyk Lewis? Four-star point guard from Washington, D.C. expected to visit Xavier

Lewis, a four-star point guard, has already taken an official visit to Marquette and holds offers from several Division I offers including from Georgetown, LSU, Michigan and Providence. With his Xavier visit schedule, On3 Sports' prediction machine lists Xavier as the favorite at 29% to land the coveted point guard, followed by Marquette (25.4%) and Oklahoma State (21.7%). Xavier offered a scholarship to Lewis in June 2023.

Jaylen Harrell decision loom

Harrell was one of Xavier's targets who played in the Nike EYBL in Kansas City over Memorial Day weekend. Harrell visited the Musketeers earlier this year.

The 6-foot-6 shooting guard from Cambridge Arts, Technology and Science Academy has Xavier in his final six along with Alabama, Kansas, Providence, Rutgers and Virginia Tech. He was originally scheduled to announce his commitment May 27 but delayed that decision.

Harrell is tabbed by 247Sports as the No. 1 player in Massachusetts for the Class of 2025.