Some of America’s favorite holiday spots can be found in cities and coastal towns from east to west. Families and friends spend summer vacation at the coasts or in some of the most popular destinations across the US map. Most Americans fly south for the winter, but others find the best holiday celebrations in the city during the cold winter months. Some of the top American holiday destinations can be found on our list:

 

1. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

One popular east coast beach vacation destination is none other than Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. Myrtle Beach is a spring break favorite for college students, and it also draws a family crowd during the summertime. Some people like to get together with family and friends to rent a beach house for the week with the sandy Atlantic shores right out the back door. The waters here are warm for swimming, and the sunrise is incredible!

 

2. Atlantic City, New Jersey

Atlantic City is a one-of-a-kind place to gamble all your worries away with slots machines and cards at the casinos. The boardwalk is just as famous as the town itself with street names and places found in the popular board game Monopoly. That’s because it’s based on Atlantic City with a real life Park Place to compliment the Boardwalk. Atlantic City is situated along the Jersey Shore with fabulous ocean views and late nights out on the town.

 

3. Orlando, Florida

Between Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld—what’s not to like about Orlando? Many Americans love to spend summer vacation with the family in the sunny weather with some of the most entertaining theme parks in the world. That is because these monumental parks draw an international crowd that come to see favorites such as the Hogwarts Castle at Universal Islands of Adventure or Disney’s Epcot Center and Animal Kingdom. Rides, shows and islands of fun can all be found in Orlando.

 

4. New York City, New York 

Many Americans cannot resist a chance to see the Big Apple lit up at night. The theater performances, comedy clubs and nightlife in NYC only scratches the surface of what this metropolis has to offer. Some like to see the stunning skyscrapers like the Empire State Building and Lady Liberty at the edge of bay. Others cannot resist the many art museums such as ‘the Met’ or the Museum of Modern Art. But Rockefeller Center at Christmas and Times Square on New Years Eve stun the crowds with vibrant lights and lively celebrations.

 

5. Napa Valley

For those of you who consider yourselves wine connoisseurs, taste your heart away in Napa Valley just outside of San Francisco! Napa Valley is California wine country—home to a range of vineyards and tours that offer wine tasting. Just outside of San Francisco, there are many ways to see the vineyards with the wine train, bus tours, and bicycling the trails, while you learn about what goes into each and every bottle.

 

6. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is the life of the party every year during Mardi Gras—also known as the Carnival season or ‘Fat Tuesday’. This city goes all out and throws the biggest celebration on the block throughout the bars and clubs of Bourbon Street. New Orleans is home to live jazz music, Cajun cuisine and stunning architecture all year round. The charm of New Orleans is in its delicious and fresh seafood, colorful streets and rich history that draw many visitors to its place along the Gulf of Mexico.

 

7. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana and Idaho

Yellowstone National Park is the location of America’s first national park and the largest collection of geysers on the planet! Many Americans come to this park to see Old Faithful—a giant geyser with a timely eruption period. There is no better place to explore the great outdoors than with a little camping and hiking along the trails here at Yellowstone. A trek through the forest is also worth it with flourishing wildlife and cascading waterfalls throughout the park.

 

8. The Grand Canyon 

The most clique family vacation in American history has to be the Grand Canyon. We’ve seen it on National Lampoon’s Vacation and can’t help but wonder if or own vacation to the Grand Canyon can ever be that hilarious. It’s sure to be memorable either way with a close look at the colorful geologic layers etched into the earth from on the back of a donkey down the canyon. Just north of the Grand Canyon is the famous Horseshoe bend of the Colorado River that makes for a stunning sight!

 

9. Southern California

Southern California has it all—the gorgeous beaches, the amusement parks, and the nightlife and entertainment. From San Diego up to LA, Americans love to vacation in sunny SoCal. When it comes to San Diego, the endless stretch of sandy beaches meets rock cliff coves creates the most amazing sunset scenery. In Anaheim, families spend summer vacation at Disneyland and California Adventure. Los Angeles also has its fair share of beaches, museums and unique nightly entertainment at the clubs and theaters. The best part—fresh avocados and cheap authentic Mexican food!

 

10. The Hawaiian Islands

Who could resist the tropic breeze, the swaying palms and the lush flora that paints the volcanic islands of Hawaii? Americans escape to Hawaii to enjoy the island lifestyle and sunny weather all year round. The crystal clear waters are great for surfing or scuba diving, and by night the entertainment is hot. When in Hawaii, be sure to experience a luau with a feast of food and dancing island girls by the fire. Hawaii is a great place for exquisite chocolates, Hawaiian BBQ and fresh fish at dinnertime.

 

11. Seattle

Seattle is the sleepy city on the water with stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and the Puget Sound in the distance. This favorite destination of the Pacific Northwest paints a picture perfect skyline with the Space Needle and mount Rainier to the eastern horizon. Many like to visit popular city favorites such as the venders at Pike Place Market and art at Seattle Art Museum. Just outside of Seattle, families enjoy camping, hiking and kayaking in Washington’s many forested parks.

 

12. Alaskan Cruise 

Some Americans would rather flock to some place warm in the south while on vacation. But, there is something irresistible about the sights from a boat on the Pacific Ocean with an Alaskan Cruise. See the  ice-capped mountains and gorgeous Alaskan landscape along the coast. These cruises leave from Seattle and take you around Glacier Bay to witness magnificent snow and ice features, as you make your way up to Alaska.

 

13. Key West, Florida

Key West is the bottom of America, and the closest thing to the Bahamas in the US! You won’t get any nearer to that tropical island feel than when you are in Key West. This chain of land situated at the edge of the Caribbean is one of the most amazing beach destinations in Florida. Key West has it all, the white sand, the turquoise waters the palm trees and Sunset Festival—a unique celebration each night when the sun goes down.

 

14. Washington DC

A trip to Washington DC is filled with museum hopping, monument stopping and unique sightseeing  across streets of polished architecture. There’s so much to learn between the Smithsonian Museums, National Monuments and War Memorials that it would take days to see it all!  Some favorites are the Lincoln Memorial with reflecting pool and Washington Monument—a giant obelisk towering over the scenery. Of course, it’s difficult to resist a peek at the President’s home, so stop by the White House while in DC.

 

15. Las Vegas

Las Vegas remains one of America’s most treasured vacation destinations. That is because, what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. This place is rightfully named ‘Sin City’ and has seen more shotgun weddings, than any other place in the US. The casinos, shows and nightlife are sure to keep you entertained for days on end. It’s also a great idea to choose wisely where you stay—there are so many themed hotels with attractions on-site. There need not be an occasion for any American to go to Vegas—only a reason to get out and enjoy the party!

 

16. Miami, Florida

Miami is the place to find all the beautiful sunbathers of Florida lying along the beaches. The famous Southbeach draws many Americans here for vacation, while the city itself heats up with bumping music in the clubs at night. Miami is home to an eclectic mix of Art Deco-stye architecture and sculptures along the city streets. The Little Havana district of Miami also offers visitors a look inside Florida’s Cuban influence with restaurants and specialized boutique shops.

 

17. The Outer Banks, North Carolina

Both the Outer Banks and Nag’s Head along the North Carolina coast make the perfect vacation destination for easterners. Americans love to get together with family and friends to rent out a beach house with stunning balcony views along these Atlantic shores. Here at the Outer Banks, there are opportunities for horseback riding and sightseeing at elegant estates at water’s edge.

 

18. Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is a Northern California favorite vacation destination for it’s unique activities and entertainment all year round. Here at Lake Tahoe you will find skiing, hiking the trails, swimming and snorkeling along the shore. One of the most unique things to do in Lake Tahoe is trek to the top of the hill to see the the elegant architecture of Vikingsholm. Lake Tahoe is a world class ski resort, and many Americans come here to enjoy a nice lodge vacation with plenty of time on the slopes.

 

19. Orlando, Florida

What would a Christmas be without spending at least on December 25th at the most magical place on earth.

 

20. Santa Claus, Indiana

Yes, really. There really is a town called Santa Claus and it happens to have one of the coolest and most inviting theme parks in all of America! Really, it does!

From coast to coast, there are many great destinations proving that this country truly is America the Beautiful. The endless list of exciting things to do in the U.S. includes natural wonders, amazing restaurants and impressive buildings. Whether you’re a history buff drawn to a city’s unique architectural charms, an urban trend-seeker looking to check out next-gen coffee and record shops, or someone in need of a first-class getaway packed with cool adventures and sweet places to stay, consider the most beautiful cities in the U.S.

Why are these cities the best ones to visit in the U.S.? Heavy-hitters like New York and Los Angeles are obvious: a melting pot of cultures, unique architecture, world-renowned restaurants, top museums and cutting edge style. Colorful Las Vegas and Miami stimulate the senses with glitz, glamour, world-class restaurants and extreme experiences. In New Orleans, every day is a celebration of culture and music (and the architecture is fantastic). Other cities like Nashville and Charleston may not be on your list, but they offer history, entertainment, dining and more, all in a pretty package.

When planning your next domestic trip, check out this list: you can’t go wrong with these visually-stimulating cities that offer plenty of vacation-worthy options to explore.

Thebe Magugu’s ideas of clothing designs came from a dark place, unlike many other fashion designers. Whenever Magugu had a bad dream, his mother would ask him to take notes about the dream. It is here from where Magugu got his inspiration for his dark-themed dresses.

His unconventional method paid off when he showed the results during his fall 2019 show in Johannesburg in October by showcasing a black mesh blouse, a full circle skirt spliced with white duchess satin printed with segments of text.

Magugu’s clothing brand Magugu was founded in the year 2016, imbibes in the cultural complexities of the womanhood in South Africa. Each set of clothing contains subtle political explanations; while his basic dresses and forward-looking fitting are complimenting and frequently highlight nipped-in midriffs and components of corsetry, there is likewise a lot of abnormality and asymmetry. Magugu isn’t hesitant to investigate the obscurity under the surface. In Home Economics, his accumulation for fall 2018, for example, he insinuated a progression of exceedingly advanced femicides that occurred in South Africa in 2017 and 2018, including that of Karabo Mokoena, who was murdered by a previous beau in Johannesburg. He utilized hues that brought to mind cleaning synthetics — sulfuric yellows, antacid pinks, and purples — yet gave them new power by joining them with rakish lopsided fitting and belted frocks with utilitarian work-wear references. The gathering sang of things to come pulling against the past; warrior ladies bracing themselves to guarantee space and impact in a changing South Africa.

A doctor shares how to prepare your mind, body, and soul for your next getaway.

Travel is a beneficial activity for your mind and your soul. However, the act of getting on a plane or heading out for a long car ride can do a number on your body. That’s why medical professionals like Kristin Wright McKitish, MD, who specializes in preventative medicine and concierge care, make sure to prep their bodies before heading out on vacation.

“People often overlook how stress can negatively affect the body,” McKitish shared with Travel + Leisure. “Planning, coordinating, and packing for a trip can be more stressful than you think, so make sure to give yourself adequate time to prepare and, in turn, actually enjoy your travels.”

Here are five other things McKitish said she does before traveling to ensure she’s physically prepared for the journey that you should do, too.

Drink lots of water.

According to McKitish, getting the right amount of water is critical for overall health, especially before travel.

“Staying well hydrated by drinking roughly two to three liters of water per day will help your immune system perform optimally,” she said. “Every cell, tissue, and organ needs water to function properly — immune system included. Water helps support the barriers that protect areas inside your body — think nose, esophagus, lungs, and stomach. Water also makes up a key component of your lymphatic fluid, which is responsible for transporting cells that help fight infections.”

Flying, she noted, is particularly dehydrating, so remember to drink water throughout your flight. And, sorry coffee lovers, McKitish recommended avoiding highly caffeinated drinks and alcohol, as both will cause dehydration.

Check in on your supplements.

McKitish recommends her patients look into an immune-boosting supplement before travel to ensure their system is in tip-top shape.

“I recommend all my patients take immune-boosting supplements for three to five days leading up to travel and continue to do so throughout their trip,” she shared. “Specifically vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, and probiotics.”

Get enough sleep.

Prepping for a healthy and happy trip also means ensuring you catch enough Zs before you go.

“Sleep is absolutely critical and, unfortunately, often takes a back seat leading up to travel, whether it be from the planning, stress, or excitement of the trip,” McKitish said. “Your body does its most important work while you’re sleeping, specifically strengthening your immune system. When traveling, you have the potential for exposure to viruses, bacteria, and other illnesses, depending on your destination. Therefore, make sure you’re getting seven to eight hours of sleep every night so your immune system is optimal for your trip.”

Sneak in a pre-travel workout.

You’ll likely be getting a fair amount of steps in on your journey and may be carrying some heavy bags, which is why McKitish recommended getting in a few workouts leading up to your trip and one right before you depart to help ease any stress.

“Getting in a workout right before traveling is very important to me personally,” McKitish said. “This helps to relieve nerves and stress, but also gives my immune system an immediate boost.” She even takes it one step further by incorporating a visit to a concierge doctor for an IV drip packed with vitamins post-workout. “This ensures adequate hydration and floods the system with electrolytes, vitamins, amino acids, and peptides for the ultimate immune enhancement.”

Actually enjoy the process of planning a trip.

Finally, it’s important to lean into the joy of planning your getaway, as this, too, will lower your stress levels and leave you feeling great for the journey to come, according to McKitish.

“If you’re fortunate enough to take a long vacation, enjoy it,” she shared, adding that any new healthy habits you pick up while prepping for a trip could pay dividends if you keep them going once you return. “While it’s important to remember that the days leading up to a vacation are crucial, taking care of your body and immune system on a regular basis will provide sustained health.”