Jean Chen Smith

Oregon

Columnist, Writer and Journalist at Freelance

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Articles

Snow Peak Campfield brings Japanese-style glamping to Washington

4 days ago | 10best.usatoday.com | Jean Chen Smith

AdvertisementOn a balmy summer’s eve, my husband and I, along with our two pups, watched the sun go down from the deck of our Jyubako suite at Snow Peak Campfield. Nestled on Long Beach Peninsula in Washington state, this luxury glamping destination invites guests to connect with nature as reimagined through the lens of Snow Peak, a Japanese outdoor gear company best known for its high-end, minimalist camping equipment, accessories, and clothing.
Japanese-style glamping in the PNW: Why we love Snow Peak Campfield

4 days ago | flipboard.com | Jean Chen Smith

1 day agoIn the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, India’s image as a regional hegemon has frayed. On May 10, United States President Donald Trump announced a “full and immediate” ceasefire between India and Pakistan brokered by his administration. US media reported that, alarmed by intelligence signalling …
Events to Honor AAPI Heritage Month 2025

2 weeks ago | aarp.org | Jean Chen Smith

May commemorates Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Featured events include a mahjong discussion at a museum and a festival featuring dancers. AARP (Getty Images, 2; Travel Oregon) Facebook Twitter LinkedIn In May, the nation recognizes Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month.
Live like royalty at these 5 amazing castle hotels in the US

1 month ago | 10best.usatoday.com | Jean Chen Smith

AdvertisementThere are approximately 1 million castles in the world, and 316 of them are here in the United States. While each has a storied past, some of these fairy-tale properties operate as luxurious castle hotels that transport their guests to another place and time. Ready for the royal treatment? Here are five castle hotels in the U.S. where you can be queen (or king!) for as many days as you please.
11 Best Golf Courses in New Mexico

1 month ago | worldatlas.com | Jean Chen Smith

New Mexico is dramatic. From its spectacular mountains with piney ridges to desert valleys dotted with silver-green sagebrush, it is something to experience. Luckily, if you are a golfer, designers here have utilized the natural beauty of the land to create venues for you to both test your skills and be awed by your surroundings. Read below about the 11 best golf courses in New Mexico and start planning for which one you will visit first.
8 dog-friendly national parks to visit any season

1 month ago | 10best.usatoday.com | Jean Chen Smith

AdvertisementAs a frequent flier and dog owner, I love bringing my pups on trips, whether for work or vacation. National parks are my favorite ways to enjoy the great outdoors with my teacup shih-tzus, Tonka and Paisley. However, it’s not always easy because not all national parks are dog-friendly. Knowing which parks allow pets allows you to relax and enjoy time in nature with your four-legged pals. Here's what to know, including our favorite national parks to enjoy with dogs.
New Hampshire's 8 Best Retirement Towns Ranked

2 months ago | worldatlas.com | Jean Chen Smith

New Hampshire offers retirees the best of New England without the hustle and bustle of the cities and much of the coastal areas. You will find charming towns, breathtakingly scenic nature, four seasons, and history and culture to spare. New Hampshire also boasts a low crime rate, excellent medical care, and favorable state tax laws regarding retirement income. One downside is the cost of living is generally high compared to the national average, so make sure to factor this into your planning.
Why we keep coming back to Crater Lake, one of the country’s least-known national park

2 months ago | usatoday.com | Jean Chen Smith

Crater Lake National Park, formed from the now-collapsed volcano Mount Mazama, is a must-see destination in Oregon. Visitors can enjoy over 100 miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and boat tours to Wizard Island. Accommodations include Crater Lake Lodge, two campgrounds, and nearby resorts like Running Y Resort. The first time I laid eyes on Crater Lake National Park was eight years ago when my husband and I had just finished our big move from the East Coast to the Pacific Northwest.
New Mexico's 7 Best Retirement Towns Ranked

2 months ago | worldatlas.com | Jean Chen Smith

New Mexico is nicknamed the Land of Enchantment, and retirees have been discovering it is an enchanting location to spend their golden years. It boasts a mild climate, 300-plus days of annual sunshine, low living costs, deep cultural traditions, and a dramatic landscape. It is no surprise New Mexico has the fourth-highest number of seniors over the age of 65 in the nation. To discover if the Land of Enchantment will cast its spell on you, look below at the seven best towns to retire in New Mexico.
Why a Pilates workout should be every runner's secret weapon

2 months ago | 10best.usatoday.com | Jean Chen Smith

— Our editors and readers independently select what you see on 10Best. When you buy through a link on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Pilates and running are complementary workouts — Photo courtesy of Photology1971 / iStock Via Getty Images PlusI've been running for daily exercise since I was 22. I’m no stranger to logging miles in snowstorms, below freezing temperatures, and even the day after I had three wisdom teeth removed.