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3 weeks ago | 
luxebeatmag.com | Jean Chen Smith
“Beauty for Ashes” read the marquee sign in front of Living Water Family Fellowship church, as we drove through the town of Blue River on a cloudy day earlier this year. The barren landscape was littered with standing dead trees, otherwise known as snags. Although the Holiday Farm Fire of 2020 was over four years ago, remnants of its force remain scattered throughout this region of the McKenzie River Valley. Towns devastated by the fire included Blue River, Finn Rock, Nimrod, Vida, and Leaburg.
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3 weeks 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.
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3 weeks 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 …
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1 month 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.
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2 months 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.
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2 months 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.
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2 months 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.
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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.
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Feb 24, 2025 | 
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.
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Feb 24, 2025 | 
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.
