Hi Reader, As we close out 2025, we've been looking back at the most popular travel guides from the year. From deep dives into where to stay in specific regions to timing your trips just right, these five guides became your go-to resources for planning trips to some of the world's most beautiful destinations. Whether you're already sketching out next year's travel calendar or just daydreaming about your next escape, these are worth bookmarking. Where to stay in Paris (without the guesswork)...
9 days ago • 3 min read
Hi Reader, Ski season has been painfully slow to start here in the States. We're taking it as our cue to book a European ski trip instead! Here's the thing about European ski resorts, they're not purpose-built mountain villages. These are actual towns with centuries-old bakeries, cobblestone streets, and food scenes that rival the skiing. If you've been eyeing the Alps, here's where to point your skis this winter. Val d'Isère, France: Party Capital The French Alps don't mess around with...
16 days ago • 2 min read
Hi Reader, The best parties happen when you're actually present at the party, not stuck in the kitchen assembling some elaborate appetizer from Pinterest that seemed genius at 2 AM. So we did the work for you. We've rounded up 37 cocktail party appetizers that are as elegant as they are doable. And here's the best part: most can be made ahead. Spicy Citrus Pickled Shrimp (dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free) Make-Ahead Magic Spicy Citrus Pickled Shrimp? Make it two days ahead. Those Pear...
23 days ago • 3 min read
Ciao Reader, Picture this: snow-dusted peaks of the Dolomites rising behind wooden market stalls, the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread drifting through a medieval piazza, and artisans selling hand-carved nativity figures. This is Christmas in Italy, and it's far more magical than most travelers realize. While Germany and Austria get all the Christmas market glory, Italy's mercatini di Natale are criminally underrated. The best ones aren't in Rome or Florence. They're tucked into the...
about 1 month ago • 3 min read
Hi Reader, Is there anything that says "holidays" more than a kitchen counter covered in flour and cooling racks filled with cookies? After years of testing (and taste-testing), we've pulled together 23 of our absolute favorite holiday cookie recipes. What Makes The Cut? Great holiday cookies are beautiful, flavorful, sturdy enough to ship, and not so fussy you need a culinary degree. Nearly all of these can be made ahead and frozen (except the delicate meringues), so you can spread the...
about 1 month ago • 2 min read
Hi Reader, Let’s talk about the drinks. Because while everyone’s focused on perfecting their turkey and sides, the right cocktail can set the tone for the whole celebration. We’ve spent years testing fall cocktails, and these five are the ones that actually make it into our regular rotation. They’re balanced, not too sweet, and work whether you’re making one drink or batching for a crowd. For The Pear Lovers Our Ciderhouse Pear Cocktail is basically autumn in a glass. The secret? Reducing...
about 1 month ago • 2 min read
Hi Reader, Last week, we shared our go-to Thanksgiving mains and sides. Now it's time to talk about the part of the meal everyone’s secretly most excited about: dessert! Pumpkin pie is classic, but it’s not the only option. Here are eight alternatives that are sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving table. When You Want Something Lighter Our Pumpkin Ricotta Cheesecake Bars are tangy, airy, and feel way less heavy than traditional pumpkin pie. The ricotta is an Italian trick that keeps things...
about 2 months ago • 3 min read
Hi Reader, Thanksgiving is just around the corner, so we're sharing the mains and sides that make it onto our tables year after year. Whether you're hosting the whole crew or keeping things low-key this year, these recipes have you covered. The Main Event Doing a smaller Thanksgiving this year? Skip the giant bird and go for our Pear Gravy And Herb-Orange Roasted Turkey Breast. It's got a California twist with loads of fresh herbs and citrus, plus a sweet-savory pear gravy that'll have...
about 2 months ago • 2 min read
Hi Reader, The 2026 Winter Olympics are coming to Cortina d'Ampezzo, and we're officially jealous of anyone heading to the Dolomites. But here's what you might not know: the food in this corner of Italy is completely different from what you'd expect. Sud Tyrol was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire until after World War I, so the cuisine is Italian-meets-Austrian-meets-Hungarian. Think bread dumplings, smoked ham, and torn pancakes instead of pasta and pizza. Heavy, hearty, and perfect after...
2 months ago • 3 min read