Celebrate winter at the best places to ski in North America

Here are the 2021 Readers’ Choice Award winners for Best Après-Ski Bar, Best Cross-Country Ski Resort, Best On-Mountain Restaurant, Best Ski Hotel, Best Ski Resort and Best Ski Town.

As winter approaches, we wanted to find the best places to enjoy skiing and snowboarding in North America. More specifically, we asked our readers to vote for their favorite ski hotels and resorts, ski towns, on-mountain restaurants, places to enjoy an apres-ski treat and go cross-country skiing. After four weeks of voting, the results are in.

Click on each category below to see the full winners list:

Best Après-Ski Bar: Double Diamonds Bar in Steamboat Springs, Colorado

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A true late night party spot in Steamboat Springs, Double Diamonds Bar is known for mixing some of the least expensive après-ski drinks in town. Brats and sandwiches satisfy hunger, and there’s a dance floor – perfect for late night antics – just across the street from the mountain base shuttle stop.

Full list of winners: Best Après-Ski Bar »

Best Cross-Country Ski Resort: Devil’s Thumb Ranch in Tabernash, Colorado

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Nearly 120 km of groomed trails at the base of Colorado’s Continental Divide make Devil’s Thumb Ranch a favorite for skate or classic cross-country skiing. Beginners can sign up for private or group lessons, while more advanced skiers can push themselves in advanced technique clinics.

Full list of winners: Best Cross-Country Ski Resort »

Best On-Mountain Restaurant: The Bavarian Restaurant in Taos, New Mexico

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The European-inspired Bavarian Lodge at Taos Ski Valley in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains has everything you’d want from a German biergarten, including lederhosen-clad staff, beer steins, a sundeck and a menu of hearty Bavarian fare. Its location at the base of Kachina Peak means the views are as good as the food.

Full list of winners: Best On-Mountain Restaurant »

Best Ski Hotel: Viceroy Snowmass in Snowmass Village, Colorado

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The Viceroy Snowmass, situated near downtown Aspen in the heart of Snowmass Base Village, offers ski-in, ski-out luxury lodging with amenities like a heated pool, spa pools, three on-site restaurants, full-service spa, fitness center and free shared transportation to Aspen/Pitkin County Airport.

In-room offerings like pillow-top mattresses, gas fireplaces and soaking tubs set the scene for a perfect winter vacation.

Full list of winners: Best Ski Hotel »

Best Ski Resort: Winter Park Resort in Winter Park, Colorado

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The 3,081 acres of terrain at Winter Park is divided into seven distinct territories – glade skiing in Eagle Wind Territory, bowls in Parsenn Bowl, jumps and jibs in Terrain Park Territory, steeps and deeps in Cirque, the bumps of Mary Jane, black diamonds of Winter Park and the powder stashes of Vasquez Ridge.

Skiers and riders have 166 named trails to choose from, accessed by 25 lifts.

Full list of winners: Best Ski Resort »

Best Ski Town: Red River, New Mexico

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Red River invites you to visit the “Ski Town of the Southwest” and take a skiing vacation in this community located in the Southern Rockies just north of Taos, New Mexico. Their ski schools offer learning experiences for everyone, and the ski area promises minimal lift lines and fresh powder that lasts days after a storm.

With an average annual snowfall of over 200 inches, over 50 trails for all skill levels and Saturday night torchlight parades and fireworks, Red River offers the perfect getaway for skiers of all ages and expertise.

Full list of winners: Best Ski Town »

Congratulations to all our winners! Remember to visit 10Best.com daily to vote in our Readers’ Choice contests.

10Best is a part of the USA TODAY Network, providing an authentically local point of view on destinations around the world, in addition to travel and lifestyle advice.

10 of the best things to do during Art Basel Miami Beach

The internationally renowned art festival returns to Miami this week and these are the best things to do during Art Basel.

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Whether you’re an artist, art collector or just lover of all things art, Art Basel and Design Miami are one of the best times to visit South Beach. The town is buzzing with events and open art galleries, and visitors from all over the world gather to celebrate both new and established artists. Here are some of the best things to do in Miami during Art Basel.

Check out Art Miami

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Art Miami returns for its 31st edition on the waterfront location of One Herald Plaza on Biscayne Bay. The modern and contemporary art fair showcases art from 17 countries and runs alongside its sister fair CONTEXT, which features up-and-coming artists in a series of special exhibits and solo presentations.

Art Miami consistently draws a crowd of serious art collectors, investors and museum directors, and it continues to be one of the longest-running contemporary art fairs in Miami.

Have a cocktail at Design Miami

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The internationally renowned fair Design Miami returns alongside Art Basel and features live fairs and experiences through vetted galleries. This year, Maestro Dobel is the official tequila brand of the fair launching the Artpothecary, a series of immersive experiences in partnership with Mexican-based creatives and artists.

The bespoke bar experience called “The Fruit Chemist” is curated by ​​Artpothecary Creative Director, Alejandra Martinez, and will feature rare and unusual Mexican fruits to complement the brand’s line of smooth tequila. The activation will be available for viewing from November 30 through December 5.

Maestro Dobel has also partnered with high-end furniture stores Dupuis and Solesdi for additional activations throughout the week.

Check out the Wynwood Walls

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The colorful Wynwood Walls are a series of curated murals located in the pedestrian-friendly Wynwood Arts District. Over 80,000 square feet of walls on warehouse buildings have been painted with street art making it one of Miami’s hippest neighborhoods.

This year for Miami Art Week, the theme is “Agents for Change” with 13 new installations going up from both emerging and established artists including David Flores, Bordalo ii, AIKO, Diogo “Addfuel” Machado and more.

Have dinner at MILA

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MILA is an energetic Asian fusion rooftop lounge and restaurant in the heart of South Beach that blends eclectic cuisine and vibrant nightlife. Signature dishes include the black rock lava grilled prime filet, shawarma-spiced wagyu gyoza, foie gras & uni diver scallop, and a bar cart that comes with a mixology performance.

Book a table outside to enjoy a front-row seat of the live entertainment which includes fire dancers throughout the evening.

SCOPE Miami Beach

The SCOPE exhibit returns for its 20th anniversary and will highlight over 125 diverse exhibitors including a new experiential program called “The New Contemporary.” Daily programming, musical performances and large scale installations, in addition to wellness activities including meditation and yoga, will take place during the day and will transform into an after-hours nightlife experience with live music.

Visit the new Museum of Graffiti exhibit at The Confidante Miami Beach

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The Confidante Miami Beach, a retro-glam South Beach hotel, is gearing up for a week of art events including the new Museum of Graffiti Beachside exhibit featuring a body of work called “10 outta 10” by Few and Far All-Female Graffiti Crew. The hotel has an ongoing partnership with the Museum of Graffiti which aims to bring awareness to the art form and will feature a quarterly rotating local art residency on the first floor of the hotel.

During Art Week, the hotel will host a variety of activations including skating demonstrations and a custom-made large-scale skate ramp that will be painted in the hotel’s backyard in collaboration with BABE Rosé. The week will end with an all-female panel discussion on the importance of art and corporate culture.

Dance the night away at Villa Azur

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It wouldn’t be a trip to Miami without at least one night of dancing. Villa Azur, inspired by the South of France, is an upscale restaurant lounge in South Beach that turns into a late night dance party. The chic, airy restaurant features an open courtyard, live entertainment including saxophone players and a lively atmosphere.

For dinner, the creamy pasta served tableside in a flaming cheese wheel is a must – and don’t forget to dress to impress!

Flagler Street Art Festival

Flagler Street Art Festival is a new initiative for Art Basel this year, put on by the Miami Downtown Development Authority, Mana Public Arts and Urban Impact Lab. Downtown Flagler District will be undergoing a $27 million transformation to turn the neighborhood into a walkable community for both locals and visitors alike. The upgrades include 15 new murals on Miami’s high-rise buildings that will remain on view indefinitely.

Flagler Street Art Festival is a week-long celebration for the community that will feature digital art installations and NFT workshops for both new and experienced collectors, as well as a guided tour of the Miami Mural Festival.

Enjoy dinner with a view at Zuma Miami

After undergoing a total revamp this past summer, Zuma Miami reopened its doors and introduced a new menu of modern Japanese izakaya from the robata grill. The downtown hotspot overlooks the Miami River and is the first U.S. location for the global restaurant brand. The menu features modern Japanese cuisine served on plates meant to be shared.

End Art Week on a high note

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Miami’s newest outdoor music venue, Oasis Wynwood, welcomes two world-famous DJs to close out Art Week with back-to-back nights of electronic music performances by DJ Zedd and Kaytranada, respectively. Advanced ticket purchases are required. The venue also has six premiere restaurant vendors including Buya, Los Buenos, Prince Street Pizza and Tower Bar.

10Best is a part of the USA TODAY Network, providing an authentically local point of view on destinations around the world, in addition to travel and lifestyle advice.

Enjoy a cozy winter retreat at these lodges in Washington

Wintertime is the best season in which to embrace lodge life in Washington. Here the towering evergreens and misty mountain-and-lake views feel custom-made for shorter days and longer stays at cozy spots scattered around the state.

It’s easy to get accustomed to the lodge life in Washington State, where the towering evergreens and misty mountain-and-lake views feel custom-made for cold month stays. At the time of year when the sun’s daily appearance is often short-lived, warm venues welcome guests to cozy up next to roaring fireplaces and outdoor fire pits.

Around the state, you’ll find accommodations ranging from modernized (a Tri-Cities wine country escape at The Lodge at Columbia Point) to charmingly rustic (Olympic National Park’s nature-based adventures anchored around venues like Lake Quinault Lodge, built in 1926). Though the list goes on, here are a few of our recently tested, most loved spots.

Alderbrook Resort & Spa

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Less than a two-hour drive from Seattle, propped on the edge of the Hood Canal, a nature-filled retreat beckons. Seals slide along the steely waters of the Alderbrook dock, playing a game of “Go Fish” with dive-bombing seagulls. As you sit on the swaying dock just minutes after arrival, you already feel transported to a more tranquil world. Waves lap below your feet; the sounds of laughter around a bonfire bounce your way from the lodge’s waterfront lawn.

This Union, Washington property proves a restful getaway in any season, yet chilly weather offers even more reason to simply savor downtime in comfortable lodge rooms or snug cottages that feature fireplaces and beautiful sea life-inspired creations by local artist Harro.

Slow mornings are best spent watching the fog roll in while sipping coffee and savoring a breakfast feast at the on-site restaurant. Try the veggie scramble, Hood Canal hash with crispy fried oysters or the yogurt with housemade walnut granola and fresh fruit.

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If feeling active, spend the day wandering among the pines on private forested trails, pick up local goods from Union City Market (the resort’s working marina located two miles down the road), arrange an Alderbrook kayak rental or take a dip in the resort’s indoor saltwater pool that’s enhanced by dreamy mountain views. (A rainstorm drumming against the pool building’s peaked roof brings unexpected joy.)

To fully unwind, relish spa services that play off your natural surroundings, from “Seaweed Surrender” wraps to healing hot stone massages.

Seasonal Alderbrook packages range from the festive NW Christmas tradition to Fido on the Fjord, ideal for guests not wanting to leave furry friends behind. Head back to the restaurant at dinnertime, where the local bounty shines in such items as the clam chowder, grand Marnier prawns, bone-in chicken breast with foraged mushrooms and seared halibut or King Salmon, served with black lentils, artichoke hearts, charred corn, piquillo peppers and brown butter and carrot puree.

On the way back to your accommodations, you may just get lured to the side of a perfect abandoned wood fire, crackling under a mighty night sky.

Suncadia Resort

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A mountain escape awaits just over the pass on I-90, 80 miles east of Seattle, at Cle Elum resort Suncadia. (Wintertime drives may require tire chains; carefully check forecasts for weather and road conditions ahead of time.) The resort’s annual Winterfest lasts through January 2, packed full of holiday celebrations (like deliveries from Santa’s Elves) and winter recreation, from sleigh rides, cross-county skiing and snow mobile tours to ice skating, axe throwing, snow bowling and snowshoe and brew tours.

Set on 6,400 stunning acres of forested land on the sunny eastern slopes of Washington’s Cascade Range, the property welcomes you to its grand, Northwest-style lodge. Settle into a spacious lodge room with sweeping panoramic views, or stay in a nearby townhome that boasts a full kitchen, fireplace and charming personal touches that make you question how you’ll ever leave this new home.

Up your morning heart rate by walking dozens of stairs that lead from the lodge down to a riverside path, afterward rewarding yourself with inspiring views and breakfast at Portals, one of several on-site eateries. Pair warm carafes of coffee with the steel cut oatmeal, smoked salmon hash or breakfast sandwiches featuring additions like candied bacon, Beecher’s cheese, maple syrup and cocoa dust.

Outdoor enthusiasts find adventure at every turn, along 40-plus miles of hiking and biking trails and on three championship golf courses. Those seeking rest may book healing treatments at the Glade Spring Spa, where the building’s LEED Silver Certification confirms the venue’s environmental awareness. After enjoying a decadent massage or facial, stay in sync with the natural surroundings by basking in the outdoor sauna and heated mineral baths.

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For a nearby field trip, leave time to explore charming, historic Roslyn – once the filming site for exterior scenes on TV show “Northern Exposure.” Get lost inside Basecamp Book & Bites, the perfect place to eat lunch or stock up on locally-sourced gifts, pick up a coffee or sweet treat (like Filipino specialty halo-halo) from Lemon Thyme Macarons and pop next door into the teeny, aromatic HQ of of Roslyn Soap Co.

For a memorable pub experience, enjoy a meal or regional pint at Brick Saloon, Washington’s oldest continuously operating bar (established in 1889).

As the sun begins to slink behind the mountains, and deer and elk emerge for dusk-hour strolls, head back to a fireside table at Portals. Standout dinner dishes include the crispy cauliflower, arugula and tatsoi salad; Stovehouse BLTA; and seared seabass with shrimp risotto and seasonal veggies.

Those who fall in love with the Suncadia lifestyle might consider becoming part of the property’s Tumble Creek, a gated neighborhood that offers indulgent amenities and a communal hub called The Great House. Here members hit balls on the outdoor course or inside with the TrackMan 4 Golf Simulator, play duckpin bowling and join social activities designed for the entire family. Or grab an intimate dinner in an exclusive dining room.

Willows Lodge

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Twenty miles from Seattle, this luxury inn is nestled into the hub of Woodinville Wine Country. Situated on five landscaped acres that border the Sammamish River, the Northwest-style lodge is within walking distance of more than 35 tasting rooms like Delille Cellars, Sparkman and, by early fall 2022, a brand-new tasting space for Mark Ryan Winery, Long Shadows Vintners, Fidélitas and Latta Wines.

A 1,500-year-old cedar greets you outside the lodge’s main doors; once you step in and away from the elements, inviting employees greet you by name, a fire crackles beyond the hearth and hot apple cider (or a splash of welcome wine) initiate your arrival with a celebratory air. Throughout the property, artwork showcases talented local artists, with Northwest Coast Native American art taking center stage; at the front desk, pick up a guide to the nature- and animal-inspired pieces beautifying the property at every turn.

Luxurious rooms seem to proactively attend to every need, thanks to stone-trimmed gas fireplaces, oversized soaking tubs, Italian Frette linens, complimentary Wi-Fi and Nespresso machines.

Couples wanting to fully indulge can book the Do Not Disturb Package, which comes with a DIY bath-and-bubbles amenity (Molton Brown bubble bath, Saltworks premium Epsom bath crystals, rose petals, Fran’s Chocolates, a bottle of Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Champagne and flameless candles), as well as a $100 dining credit to be used at award-winning Barking Frog, the Fireside Lounge or for in-room dining. (The Elfin’ Good Time is a festive and playful holiday-time package option, too.)

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Although you’ve not traveled far from the bustle of Seattle city life, it takes no time to sink into pampered, self-care mode at Willows, thanks to the 24/7 fitness room, a sauna, enticing outdoor jacuzzi, massage therapy and spa treatments. Additional amenities include bike rentals and concierge services.

At mealtime, walk just across the way to Barking Frog, a warm space with exposed beams, wood tones and circular seating around a central fireplace. Longtime Executive Chef Bobby Moore’s menu beautifully showcases relationships with local farmers and foragers. Don’t miss the mussels with coconut curry, bok choy and grilled naan, the sensational scallops and black cod or the egg yolk ravioli and house sausage (a perpetual crowd favorite). For your finale, we suggest the spiced dark chocolate ganache-beet chocolate cake.

For a very special occasion, dedicate many hours to savoring the extensive tasting menu offered next door at The Herbfarm.

Seattle-area retreats

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Salish Lodge & Spa is a scenic 30-minute drive from Seattle, bringing you to a rustic-chic lodge that melds Old World ambiance and modern elegance. Get out to enjoy the surrounding nature, whether hiking near the rushing 270-foot-tall Snoqualmie Falls or while trying activities like fly fishing and snowshoeing. Head to nearby North Bend for a slice of Twede’s Café cherry pie (of “Twin Peaks” fame).

Back at the cozy venue, dine on award-winning Northwest cuisine while enjoying romantic views of the falls. Take advantage of special seasonal feasts as well as holiday menus, and be sure to try honey from Salish’s on-site apiary.

Dreamy services at the spa help promote ultimate relaxation, and festive lodging packages include offerings like “Holiday Traditions” (with perks like Salish wine, $50 dining credit and movie voucher). Then there’s “Comfort and Joy,” a hygge-filled experience that includes an in-room cocktail-making kit, keepsake ornament, peppermint foot scrub, fuzzy slippers and 15% off shopping at The Country Store.

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Stay within minutes of Sea-Tac airport at Cedarbrook Lodge, a Seattle Southside property that’s tucked onto 18 acres of naturally restored wetlands. All Cedarbrook visits are enhanced by a complimentary airport shuttle, homey guest rooms, Northwest-inspired breakfasts, snacks found in airy living rooms and access to an outdoor hot tub.

Copperleaf Restaurant serves delicious, seasonal fare that’s been locally sourced (with many ingredients grown in the garden out back), and the lodge’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint is evidenced by such efforts as on-site composting and a reclamation pond.

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Travelers will love the Park & Fly package, allowing you to sleep in a Simmons® Beautyrest Black Georgetown Plush Pillow Top bed, before leaving your car at the lodge and hopping on the free airport shuttle. While the first night of parking is included, each additional day costs just $15. (The hotel will even charge the car for guests who have gone super-green.)

Holiday spa specials are another lovely way to pamper yourself or someone you love; book an Energizing Gemstone Facial, Warming Botanical Massage Enhancement or Pomegranate Spice Pedicure to brighten the season even further. Happy lodging!

10Best is a part of the USA TODAY Network, providing an authentically local point of view on destinations around the world, in addition to travel and lifestyle advice.

10 ways to enjoy Lake Como, Italy in the less expensive off-season

As the summer season fades into fall, tourists go home and Lake Como’s authentic charms come into focus, with cultural attractions and the scenic natural environment taking center stage. A vacation there isn’t cheap, but the low season offers discounted hotel rates.

Lake Como is one of Italy’s biggest and most beautiful lakes. In warmer months, it buzzes with aquatic activities and ‘dolce vita’ flair. A combination of stunning scenery and chic style are a magnet for Hollywood celebrities, including George Clooney, who can be spotted zipping around in his Riva boat, as sleek and speedy as a Ferrari.

It’s not just movie stars who flock here, though. Milan is only 90 minutes away, helping to explain why it’s such a popular escape for fashionable urbanites who crave a refreshing lake breeze when it’s steamy in the city.

As days turn cooler, crowds thin and pace slows. Cultural attractions and a natural environment of peaceful hillsides and serene woodlands draw attention. The pristine peaks of the snow-capped Alps add wintry allure.

Como is one of the many lovely towns surrounding Lake Como. With shops, restaurants, hotels and attractions open year-round, it’s an excellent base for explorations. Low season lasts from mid-October until Easter, presenting an authentic experience with plenty of elbow room. Hotel rates dip along with the thermometer, making it easy to score a discounted room.

Here are 10 ways to enjoy Lake Como in the off season.

Ride the funicular to Brunate

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With an eyeful of dramatic scenery, riding the funicular up the steep mountainside to Brunate is an attraction in itself. It only takes seven minutes to arrive in this picturesque village with Liberty style architecture, a lighthouse and breathtaking views of Lake Como and the Alps. While it rarely dips below freezing lakeside, Brunate’s elevated altitude brings a suggestive winter sprinkling of powdery white snow.

Catch a ferry

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Locals rely on an inexpensive network of year-round ferries for transportation. For tourists, ferries are a perfect perch for sightseeing, allowing ample time to soak in elegant lakeside villas built to blend with the natural scenery. Hop off where you please, stopping in storybook hamlets such as Cernobbio, home to Villa d’Este. This iconic hotel is closed in winter, though its imposing lakefront position, park-like grounds and architectural grandeur make it well worth a glimpse.

Gaze at public art

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Enjoy public art without a crowd. Daniel Libeskind’s contemporary sculpture “Life Electric” honors the legacy of hometown hero Alessandro Volta. Volta invented the battery, hence the word voltage. Made of stainless steel, “Life Electric” daringly juts into the lake, brilliantly reflecting water, sky and mountains, elements of Como’s striking landscape.

Snowy scenery

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Fresh air and a deep blanket of snow make Valsassina a favored spot with winter sports enthusiasts. Located east of Como in the province of Lecco, Piani di Bobbio-Valtorta has groomed trails for downhill skiers and snowboarders. Piani di Artavaggio’s mountain pasture is a fine spot to savor the frosty panorama and unspoiled tranquility, perhaps on snowshoes.

Sleep like a royal

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An overnight stay at five-star Vista Palazzo is an aristocratic immersion. Its 18 palatial guest rooms and suites are lavishly decorated with Dedar fabrics, Italian marble and soaking tubs. Guests are personally pampered by butler Alberto, who presents perks like a pillow menu. There’s a welcome drop in room rates during low season.

Head to the penthouse for an aperitif or a splurge-worthy dinner at Sottovoce, with sublime lake and mountain views. Barman Alessandro’s noteworthy cocktails range from classic to creative, while talented chef Stefano Mattara’s modern interpretation of Italian cuisine calls attention to seasonal products from nearby fertile fields and unspoiled valleys.

Shop to your heart’s content

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Como was once a major producer of silk. Today, production has migrated to nearby industrial areas, though a small amount of high-quality silk is still produced here. Family-owned A. Picci is boutique in the heart of town. One glance at its colorful window display of scarves, ties and assorted accessories crafted from Como silk, and it will take willpower to resist making a purchase.

Sample hearty local food

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Traditional valley cuisine dominates winter menus with fortifying dishes like polenta and meat stews reflecting Como’s northern position. At Osteria del Gallo, owners Giuseppe and Rosanna De Toma take pride in serving hyper-local products including rustic stoneground cornmeal, luscious wildflower honey and paper-thin slices of Valtellina Bresaola, air-dried beef.

Patrons order from a handwritten menu that changes daily. Hearty dishes are complemented by Terre Lariane, the local wine available in ruby red, golden yellow and blush pink.

Visit the Christmas Market

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From late November until January 6th, Como hosts Città dei Balocchi, an Old World Christmas Market. Buildings and monuments are illuminated with twinkling lights, hot mulled wine perfumes the air and live music rings out. An ice skating rink adds festive fun, food stalls offer the opportunity to sample traditional delicacies and handmade crafts present a fine excuse to shop.

Sightsee without a crowd

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Explore Como’s Old Town, its pedestrian-only cobblestone streets lined with retail shops and restaurants. Marvel at Cathedral Santa Maria Assunta, built starting in 1396 and taking over 300 years to complete. One of the most eye-catching cathedrals in Northern Italy, it’s an eclectic mixture of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles with an imposing dome, precious tapestries and an altar made of marble, onyx and bronze.

Legend says those who touch the tiny frog carved into the wall on the left side entrance will have good luck, adding a note of whimsy.

Museum of Silk

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A century ago, Como’s luxurious silk was in demand around the globe. A visit to the Museum of Silk highlights Como’s historic and pivotal role in silk manufacturing and trade. Visitors get an in-depth look at each stage of production, from silkworm rearing to loom weaving to finished fabric samples, as well as an understanding of the impact this industry had on Como’s economic and social development.

10Best is a part of the USA TODAY Network, providing an authentically local point of view on destinations around the world, in addition to travel and lifestyle advice.

9 gift ideas that celebrate diversity and inclusion this holiday season

This holiday, why not open your heart and mind to gifts that celebrate diversity and inclusion? From buying small to supporting BIPOC-owned small and large businesses to spending your money with companies that share your world vision, add mindfulness into this year’s buying season.

Why not add cultural heft and inclusion to your holiday gift giving this year? Giving to a meaningful charity is always a super option, but this list is more about an actual thing that can be wrapped up in eco paper and tied with a recycled bow.

Even if you’re buying mainstream presents, do a little extra digging. If there isn’t a diversity and inclusion statement on the shop’s website, consider moving into a kinder, more inclusive buying space.

Here are nine great gift ideas for this holiday season.

Lotteria de Comida

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This eye-popping bilingual card game combines bingo with traditional Spanish versos – riddles and poetic clues that follow a trail across the foodways of Mexico and South Texas.

With Mexican roots that date to 1891, Lotteria de Comida was created by San Antonio food photographer Tracey Maurer. Already being used in schools by language and nutrition educators, it’s also a regular game night at San Antonio’s hotel Estancia del Norte.

Little Muffincakes

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When her children were growing up, Debra Raney was frustrated with the lack of products that reflected what her children saw in the mirror. After her grandson Ashton was born, she decided to do something about that. She founded Little Muffincakes in 2017, with the emphasis on inclusive products featuring unique character art.

Positive imagery is the backbone of the Ashton and Zhara collections, where babies and kiddos of color can be anything they want, from superheroes to ballerinas to astronauts.

Etsy artists celebrate diversity

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Etsy is a platform for small makers and artists from all over the world – supporting any one of them over a mass market product makes a statement by itself.

Allyson Block Designs offers an affirming diversity mug, and Krayon Grid Sticks from the woman-owned Krayonshop has a line of oversized, handcrafted non-toxic crayons with blended colors and carved with positive words to learn and be (Amazing! Confident!).

We Are Fluide

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This beauty brand supports gender-expansive and LGBTQ+ people who are defying gender norms to express their authentic selves. We Are Fluide‘s line of vegan, cruelty-free and paraben-free cosmetics range from glittery gloss and nail polish to gems for facial bedazzling to Otherworldly Pride T-shirts and affirming candles.

The Sampler Set is perfect for any young person coming into their gender identity or sexual orientation. He, she and they will feel heard, seen and beautiful – and that matters. A lot.

Women of Resistance poetry and tote bag

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The many faces of feminism are celebrated in the book “Women of Resistance” edited by Danielle Barnhart and Iris Mahan. Published by OR Books, a small but fiercely progressive publisher based in New York, the tome will appeal to feminists of any gender or anyone who is curious about what women are mulling these days.

It comes with a tote decorated with Laura Breiling’s striking portrait of contemporary womanhood that portrays women of different races, religions, sexualities and ages. It’s an affordable gift that makes a statement – proceeds support Planned Parenthood and the Center for Reproductive Rights.

Museum shops that offer native art

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Museum gift shops are often a repository of interesting gift ideas. The handful that give voice to the native nations in the state of New Mexico do a terrific job of spotlighting local artists across cultures and nations. For instance, check out Albuquerque’s Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, a world-class museum and cultural center founded by the 19 Pueblo Indian Tribes of New Mexico.

Another museum to consider is the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe. It’s the country’s only museum for exhibiting, collecting and interpreting the most progressive work of contemporary Native artists. The state’s gift guide also has a range of options.

Gifts for children with exceptionalities

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Enabling Devices offers toys and crafts that help kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders soothe their impulses and stay calm. They also have sensory stimulating toys to help children develop their sensory awareness, as well as gift ideas for wheelchair users and light-filled presents for children with visual impairments.

Umby makes a difference

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The Umby Be Sunshine umbrella is a sunny yellow bumbershoot to ward off the raindrops. But it’s more, thanks to founder Anuja Jaitly, a social change executive with experience across four continents in the areas of education, health, housing and microfinance.

Made from recycled plastic bottles, and packaged in an easy-to-tote waterproof case, every umbrella sold supports a family in need in Asia and Africa with one year of health, agriculture, life or disaster insurance.

The Curly Contessa

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Feeling underrepresented in the world of gifts, Kristin Farmer founded Curly Contessa in 2017, creating the curly girls’ guide to gifting that ranges from china and apparel to home goods, barware and garden.

Farmer is both the founder and artistic force behind the line. Her business empowers her, and illustration is a form of therapy that keeps her grounded. Farmer was diagnosed with depression and anxiety at 19, and at 29, with bipolar II with a borderline personality disorder. Her line celebrates differences with plenty of heart and soul.

10Best is a part of the USA TODAY Network, providing an authentically local point of view on destinations around the world, in addition to travel and lifestyle advice.

Help us choose the best new hotels, restaurants and attractions of 2021

Help us select the Best New Restaurant, Best New Attraction, Best New Theme Park Attraction and Best New Hotel by voting for your favorites. Voting ends on Monday, December 20 at noon ET, and you can vote once per day, per category.

As we begin to wrap up the year, we’re taking time to look back at all the new hotels, attractions and restaurants that opened this year. Our editors partnered with a panel of 10Best contributors to nominate their top picks for the Best New Restaurant, Best New Attraction, Best New Theme Park Attraction and Best New Hotel.

Now we need you to vote for your favorite and help us pick the 10 best.

Click on each category below to vote:

Best New Attraction

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From museums and performance spaces to skate parks and water parks, travelers were treated to a host of new attractions this past year. With the help of a panel of travel experts, we combed the country for the best new attractions of the year, and now we need you to help us select the 10 best.

Vote for your favorite once per day until voting ends on Monday, December 20 at noon ET.

Vote: Best New Attraction »

Best New Hotel

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Whether you’re traveling for work or enjoying a much-needed getaway with your family, a memorable hotel stay can make or break a travel experience. Each year, travelers are offered more options as new hotels open their doors. We asked a panel of travel experts to nominate their 20 favorite hotel openings of the past year, and now it’s your turn to crown a winner.

Vote: Best New Hotel »

Best New Restaurant

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After a tumultuous 2020, thousands of new restaurants have opened across the country. We asked a panel of food and travel experts to nominate their 20 favorite restaurants that opened in the past year, ranging from chef-driven fast-casual concepts to high-end dining with a focus on hyper-local and sustainable ingredients.

Vote: Best New Restaurant »

Best New Theme Park Attraction

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Each year, amusement parks introduce park-goers to a new lineup of attractions, from extreme thrill rides to themed areas that welcome us into whole new worlds. After a rocky 2020, theme parks across the country welcomed guests back with some of the most exciting attractions to date. What’s your favorite new theme park attraction?

Vote: Best New Theme Park Attraction »

Remember, you can vote once per day in each category. The 10 nominees with the most votes in each category will be announced on 10Best.com on Friday, December 31.

10Best is a part of the USA TODAY Network, providing an authentically local point of view on destinations around the world, in addition to travel and lifestyle advice.

7 fun ways to celebrate the holidays in Williamsburg, Virginia

Colonial Williamsburg might be more noted for its historical significance, but it also plays host to some wonderful yuletide festivities, so make your plans now to spend Christmas and the holidays here.

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Williamsburg and Yorktown, Virginia are noted for their vital part in U.S. history, playing a significant role in the American Revolution, but these days, they’re also excellent spots for a Christmas and New Year’s holiday getaway.

In 18th century Williamsburg, windows were traditionally decorated by a single candle, but today the light festivities abound, as do the opportunities to learn about Christmas Past, while fully enjoying a wonderful Christmas Present. This year features tons of family-friendly activities, and here are some of the best to get you started for your yuletide travels.

Grand Illumination

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Colonial Williamsburg kicks off its holiday season with three weekends of Grand Illumination. From December 3-5, 10-12, and 17-19, a lighting show extravaganza takes place, starting on Friday evenings at 6 pm, with a yule log procession along the Duke of Gloucester Street, holiday songs on Market Square, all leading to a bonfire at the historic Magazine.

On Saturdays, starting at 5 pm, there is an appearance by Father Christmas, as well as yuletide and 18th-century music, and this all culminates with a fireworks grand finale – an 18th-century inspired pyrotechnic show over the historic Governor’s Palace and Capitol Building.

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

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Over in Yorktown, the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is a tradition that dates back to 1945 when a cedar tree was decorated on the corner of Main Street and Ballard. For this modern day version, the Fifes and Drums of York Town start things off with some entertainment.

Then a procession makes its way from Victory Monument to the Riverwalk Landing, where the 20-foot artificial “Giant Everest Fir” tree is lit and the whole celebration is capped off by a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Busch Gardens Christmas Town

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Busch Gardens Christmas Town runs until January 2, and the theme park is transformed by 10 million twinkling lights, showing off one of the largest light displays in North America. In addition to rides and holiday shopping, Busch Gardens also features a “‘Twas That Night” ice skating show, a Santa’s workshop and a Christmas Town Express train.

Thrill seekers can jump on the Finnegan’s Flyer pendulum ride, giving a Rudolph-worthy view of the 10 million lights below. All aboard!

Mistletoe Market

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While Yorktown has a Farmers Market throughout the year, during the holiday season, it’s transformed into a winter wonderland on December 11th, when it becomes the Mistletoe Market. It features an annual Toyland parade, as well as rides on the Riverwalk Landing Polar Express to loop around the festivities.

You’ll be able to buy holiday wreaths, candles and soaps for presents, as well as feast on homemade jams, jellies, cookies, cakes and much more, either to satisfy a Christmas present craving, or bring home as holiday stocking stuffers.

Lighted Boat Parade

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You’ll also not want to miss the illuminating Lighted Boat Parade in Yorktown, now in its 25th season. On December 4, from 6-8 pm, the waterfront is the scene for a beach bonfire, Christmas caroling, a performance by Fifes and Drums of York Town, as well as complimentary hot cider to keep away the chills.

All this is followed by a dazzling light show as dozens of twinkling boats make their way down the river. This free event has been a community tradition for over two decades, bringing neighbors and visitors together to celebrate the holiday season.

Christmastide

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Make sure to also check out Christmastide, an event at the historic Jamestown Settlement, where they show off Christmas customs and traditions of the 17th and 18th century (such as making figgy pudding), in addition to holiday food, live storytelling and musical demonstrations.

The history museum at the Jamestown Settlement, as well as the nearby American Revolution Museum are both decked out in boughs of holly, looking extremely photogenic. Christmastide runs from December 18-31, so come celebrate and learn about the past at this informative event.

Christmas Market on Main

While Christmas is all about tradition, family and celebration, it’s also about plenty of good cheer shopping, and Williamsburg certainly doesn’t disappoint, as Yorktown’s Christmas Market on Main serves as a one-stop location for all of your holiday shopping needs. This event runs December 4-6 and is one of Yorktown’s biggest annual events.

Over 100 local vendors and artisans line up along Main Street and offer everything from handmade soaps, holiday ornaments and much more. The market gets rung in by the town crier at 10 am, followed by a fife and drum performance, and then Kris Kringle shows up to personally greet everyone.

On Sunday, there’s also an ice sculpture carving exhibition set up to further enhance the atmosphere, so bring the whole family and prepare to spend the day.

10Best is a part of the USA TODAY Network, providing an authentically local point of view on destinations around the world, in addition to travel and lifestyle advice.

These are the best holiday gifts in 2021 for people who love to travel

Here are the results of our 2021 Readers’ Choice Award winners for Best Gifts Ideas for Adventurers, Best Gifts Ideas for Business Travelers, Best Gift Ideas for Families, Best Gift Ideas for Foodies, Best Gift Ideas for Road Trippers and Best Splurge-Worthy Gifts.

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With Thanksgiving just next week, there’s much to do – and that includes holiday shopping. To help us create our 2021 holiday gift guides, 10Best Editors partnered with a panel of our contributors to nominate their favorite items in six categories.

For the past four weeks, our readers have been voting for their favorites. Click on each category below to see the top 10 gift ideas for each category.

Best Gifts for Adventurers: MPOWERD Solar Lights

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This inflatable solar-powered lantern and charger is an ideal gift to bring on boating, hiking and backpacking trips or any outdoor adventure. Mpowerd’s Luci Pro Series solar light offers mobile charging, cool or matte white LEDs, and lasts up to 50 hours on a single charge. Perfect for cell phone charging and tent lighting while camping, this product truly puts “the power of the sun in your hands.”

Full list of winners: Best Gifts for Adventurers »

Best Gifts for Business Travelers: Rocketbook Core

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Rocketbook brings the pen and paper experience into the modern age with a notebook that feels like paper but connects to the cloud for endless reusability. A damp cloth erases the page to a like-new state.

Full list of winners: Best Gifts for Business Travelers »

Best Gifts for Families: Artsy Fartsy Drawing Game

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“This is NOT your parents’ drawing game,” says TwoPointOh Games about Artsy Fartsy. A family-friendly version of the well-known adult party game Drawing Without Dignity, this is a fast-paced game where artistic skills are not required.

Not much is off-limits in Artsy Fartsy – categories can be anything from “Don’t Get Caught” to “Animals That Leave Tiny Turds” and everything else you might imagine! Team up with family members to draw and guess from clues that will have everyone laughing out loud for hours. A perfect gift for families from four to twelve members and ages ten and up.

Full list of winners: Best Gifts for Families »

Best Gifts for Foodies: Nine Mile Hot Sauces

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Spice up your foodie gift basket this year with hot sauces from Nine Mile, the North Carolina-based vegetarian-friendly restaurant. This Jamaican-inspired collection includes Red-I with chipotles and habaneros, the tomatillo-based Hempress Rising with hints of thyme and garlic, and the Sun is Shining hot sauce with a touch of mango and ginger.

Full list of winners: Best Gifts for Foodies »

Best Gifts for Road Trippers: WompleBox Gift Box

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Womple Studios wants to ignite a passion for discovery and learning in kids through storytelling. Each month, your child will receive a WompleBox introducing new countries and cultures, including an illustrated book, maps, guides and activities to pique their curiosity. Soon they’ll be great, engaged travel partners in your family.

Full list of winners: Best Gifts for Road Trippers »

Best Splurge-Worthy Gifts: SUNFLOW Chair

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This isn’t any ordinary beach chair. The SUNFLOW Chair is compact and easy to carry without sacrificing comfort. Set it up in one of four positions for lounging, napping, reading or simply soaking up the sun. “This stylish and innovative beach chair is the ultimate way to enjoy a luxurious day on the sand,” says 10Best contributor Marla Cimini.

Full list of winners: Best Splurge-Worthy Gifts »

Congratulations to all these winning nominees! Remember to visit 10Best.com daily to vote in our Readers’ Choice contests.

10Best is a part of the USA TODAY Network, providing an authentically local point of view on destinations around the world, in addition to travel and lifestyle advice.

Solo travel to Las Vegas? Here are 10 fun things to do

With the glitz, glamour, casinos and world-class entertainment, Las Vegas is an excellent spot for a solo getaway. These fun attractions, relaxing experiences and interactive shows will help make the trip extra special.

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Las Vegas is a vibrant, dynamic city that you can visit a hundred times without having duplicate experiences. It’s the perfect spot for solo travel with its 24-hour entertainment options, fun restaurants and luxurious spots to stay.

While you’ll probably want to stop by at least one casino while you’re in town, explore the city a little deeper. Try these fun and festive things to do for a trip you won’t forget.

Ghost Donkey

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Located on the famous Las Vegas Strip, the Ghost Donkey is a vibrant lounge in The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. Since it’s a speakeasy, you won’t see advertisements or signage for it. Instead, go to the second floor of the Cosmopolitan’s Block 16 food court. Head to the back and find a door with a white donkey on it. Open the door, and you’ll find yourself transported to a bar with a festive vibe.

Ghost Donkey has a large selection of mezcal and tequila, and you can indulge in a tasting flight if you don’t want to try just one. The specialty cocktail menu is unique and extensive, too, and you can choose from authentic, traditional Mexican spirits and artisanal brands. Cocktails range from the frozen Stealth Margarita to the mezcal Negroni.

Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit Las Vegas

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Prepare to see art in a whole new way at the Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit Las Vegas. Located at the Lighthouse Immersive at the Shops at Crystals, it’s a great place to get lost in the beauty of Van Gogh. In fact, there are things you can appreciate here that you might miss if you go with others who might distract you.

The exhibit lets you step into some of Van Gogh’s most beloved paintings and some lesser-known ones. It helps increase your understanding of the artist’s work, too. There’s an AI experience where you can write Van Gogh a letter and receive a personalized one in return, thanks to their technology that has analyzed the many letters Van Gogh wrote in his lifetime.

Also be sure to stop by the pocket gallery where you can utilize your smartphone to help bring colors and paintings to life.

Mt. Charleston

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Mount Charleston, which is formally considered the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, provides an easy escape into awe-inspiring nature with waterfalls and a “sky island.” It’s only a 45-minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip, so you can come here for a few hours during the day and return to your Vegas hotel at night.

Find 60 miles of maintained trails throughout Mount Charleston. Some of the more ambitious hikes culminate with the 11,916-foot Charleston Peak. Keep in mind that you’ll be hiking in high elevation here, so bring plenty of water to avoid dehydration. And, if you’d prefer not to hike, you can take scenic drives where the views are still spectacular, and you never have to leave the air-conditioned comfort of your car.

The Neon Museum

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If you’ve ever seen an old movie or television show that’s set in Las Vegas, you probably identified the city by its bold, eye-catching neon signs. The Neon Museum is a special place that’s dedicated to preserving those historical signs. You can take a tour to learn all about them or explore the place on your own time.

Don’t miss seeing the now-defunct signs in the Neon Boneyard, a fascinating outdoor exhibition space that is part of the museum’s 2.27-acre campus. Also watch the innovative show “Brilliant!” for an immersive experience that takes you into Las Vegas history as 40 monumental signs are reanimated before your eyes.

Bellagio Spa & Salon

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Some of the best parts of a solo getaway include the chance to pamper yourself and indulge your every whim without worrying about someone else’s schedule and preferences. The Bellagio Spa & Salon is the ultimate Las Vegas spa destination where you can get lost for a day in deep relaxation and restorative treatments. Beauty treatments like nail, hair and makeup services are also available if you want to come here to prepare for an exciting night on the town.

The Bellagio Spa & Salon offers nature-inspired holistic treatments that are focused on harmony and regeneration. Choose from facials, massages and body treatments. Poolside spa services allow you to get a massage or other restorative treatment in the relaxing environment of the pool area. The spa has a steam room, a sauna, a pool and four whirlpools.

Rail Explorers

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Rail Explorers is a high-energy ride that lets you see the beauty of the Las Vegas area in a whole new way. You climb aboard a pedal-powered vehicle that rides on railroad tracks for the first part of the journey. Then get ready to pedal your way through a four-mile downhill ride where you’ll see amazing sights that are part of the Nevada desert, the Eldorado Valley and the River Mountains.

Once you get to the end of the initial ride, you’re invited aboard a historic train that takes you back uphill to where you began at the Nevada State Railroad Museum. A free pass to the museum is also included in every Rail Explorers adventure.

Wynn Golf Club

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Located on the Las Vegas Strip, the Wynn Golf Club is a picturesque golf course that’s a great option whether you’re an experienced player or a first-time golfer. The club was designed to welcome and challenge all levels of play. It has rushing streams and lush greenery that will transport you to another world, and you just may forget you’re in Sin City.

The Wynn Golf Club is a 6,722-yard, par-70 championship golf course with dramatic elevation changes. Over 8,000 trees line the gorgeous grounds, and many of them are over 60 feet tall because they’ve been flourishing for over 70 years. The course also has three scenic lakes, meandering streams and two marshland areas, too.

Myron’s Cabaret Jazz

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Myron’s at the The Smith Center for the Performing Arts is a show like no other in Las Vegas. You can relax with a meal and a drink while taking in world-class jazz music. Choose a table on the floor or mezzanine balcony seating.

The shows at Myron’s are designed to provide an intimate experience where musicians, singers and the audience connect over timeless jazz music. Performers have included Sammy Miller and the Congregation, Vonda Shepard, Duncan Sheik, Pasquale Esposito and Cheyenne Jackson.

AREA15

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AREA15 is a uniquely Las Vegas attraction that’s a whole district of fun, immersive experiences all in one place. It offers shops, bars, restaurants, groundbreaking art installations, live events and other immersive experiences. You can spend the day here as you explore all the attractions that look like fun to you.

AREA15’s Emporium Arcade Bar has pinball games, video games and arcade games that guests can enjoy while dining and imbibing. “Wink World: Portals into the Infinite” is a mix between a carnival funhouse and a psychedelic art house. Museum Fiasco is a sound and light spectacle that brings you into the experience.

FlyOver Las Vegas

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FlyOver Las Vegas is a fun flying ride that’s picture-perfect for a solo excursion. It’s designed to help you feel as though you’re flying passenger-side in a helicopter. The ride is called “The Real Wild West,” and it takes you over 22 awe-inspiring destinations. It’s presented in 8K resolution on a 52-foot screen.

You start by relaxing into the flight-motion seats that are designed to dip, turn and swoop as needed throughout the ride to give you the most exciting, authentic experience. The ride also uses mists, incredible scents and wind to bring the outdoors into the ride. The entire ride experience lasts under half an hour, so you can fit it into any day in Las Vegas.

10Best is a part of the USA TODAY Network, providing an authentically local point of view on destinations around the world, in addition to travel and lifestyle advice.

Leave behind stress and crowds at these secluded luxury properties

With the “new normal” changing the way we travel, we’re often opting for more private and personal stays when available. Hotels and resorts may no longer be just a place to stay, but actually the destination themselves.

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With the “new normal” changing the way we travel, opportunities can be a bit more limited, not to mention that travelers are becoming more discerning, often opting for more private and personal stays. Hotels and resorts may no longer be just a place to stay, but actually a destination in and of themselves.

With this in mind, here are some once-in-a-lifetime destinations from which to pamper yourself silly, truly escape the crowds and perhaps even actually enjoy being “locked down.”

North Lodge at Coworth Park – Ascot, U.K.

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Part of the Dorchester Collection, the North Lodge at Coworth Park features a private restored gatehouse cottage set in an idyllic country garden, set just a stone’s throw down the road from Heathrow Airport. The property here has an illustrious history, built in 1776 for a merchant of the East India Company, later occupied for three generations by aristocrats, and then home to Lord Stanley for 50 years before being restored and turned into an elegant and refined stay.

This prestigious home is suitable for a large family or group of friends, and boasts three en-suite bedrooms, a state-of-the-art kitchen and a roll-top copper bathtub, along with a beautiful private garden to picnic or barbecue in. Throw in personal spa treatments in your own room or a private chef for a masterclass and you’ve got all the trappings of royalty.

Beverly Hills Hotel – Beverly Hills, California

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The Beverly Hills Hotel predates Los Angeles, built in 1912 as a place for people to stay while looking for property in the yet-to-be city. Its Polo Lounge and swimming pool became fixtures on the Hollywood star and deal-makers scene, and now the legendary hotel has been restored to feature 23 private and exclusive bungalows, designed to feature elements inspired by their most renowned guests, such as Marilyn Monroe, Charlie Chaplin and Howard Hughes.

If you opt for Bungalow 1, this was Marilyn’s fave, and the elegant trappings even come with a library of her films and books. This bungalow features a gold-leafed ceiling, sumptuous soft linens, curved silhouettes and, perhaps most befitting a Hollywood prima donna, a champagne bubble bath and Chanel N°5 amenities in the marble-floored bathroom.

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You can also opt for exploring Los Angeles with a Ride and Seek experience, where a car key for a Bentley GTC Mulliner Edition, the evolution of Marilyn’s prized ’56 Thunderbird, is hidden somewhere in the bungalow. Those in need of a clue to its whereabouts can receive one in exchange for a charity donation of $250, which will benefit the Covenant House, a non-profit organization that assists over 4,700 youth affected by homelessness each year.

Mandarin Oriental, Villa del Lago – Lake Como, Italy

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For the perfect lakeside escape, why not head to Italy and settle in at serene Lake Como, where the Mandarin Oriental’s Villa del Lago offers you a three-bedroom villa spread out over four floors. The villa here comes with a verdant garden, a terrace with an open-air whirlpool tub and a private dock to go with the enchanting lake views. Both kids and adults are catered to with a games room, table football and wet bar, and there is even a library with a fireplace to go along with the private kitchen and almost 4,000 square feet of living space.

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Villa del Lago is set in a centuries-old botanical park, and besides the luxurious personal trappings, the resort offers lakeside dining, spa treatments and even private bespoke experiences, such as renting a vintage 1959 Alfa Romeo Giulietta, boating on the lake, learning how to mix the perfect Negroni or even bake a real Neapolitan pizza. Stay any longer and you’ll be a dapper local in no time.

Kocatas Mansion Suite – Istanbul, Turkey

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History and hospitality combine with luxury where East meets West at the Six Senses’ striking Kocatas Mansion Suite. It’s set in the prestigious Sariyer district on Istanbul’s European side, overlooking the famed Bosphorus as it heads toward its final curve into the Black Sea. The Kocatas Mansion was built in the Ottoman era and named after its former owner, who was the Minister of Justice and founder of Kocatas Water.

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The suite here features Ottoman interior design and includes high ceilings, a working fireplace, mesmerizing wall murals, a tub in the marble bathroom and even modern amenities like Marshall speakers and a Smart TV. Best of all, you get your own private GEM, Guest Experience Maker, who looks after you throughout your stay. It may be hard to tear yourself away from the dreamy Bosphorus views and personalized service, but the rest of Istanbul also does await.

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Whether it be Asia, Europe or the Americas, these world-class suites in once-in-a-lifetime destinations are sure to fill a few travel fantasies and cravings, get you away from the crowds and assure some well needed escape and rest.

10Best is a part of the USA TODAY Network, providing an authentically local point of view on destinations around the world, in addition to travel and lifestyle advice.