Author: Lauren Mulvey

Lauren Mulvey is a freelance writer based in upstate New York who specializes in regional travel, culture, and sustainability across the Hudson Valley and beyond.

Did you know that Vrbo, the seemingly new competitor to Airbnb’s efficient and business model, has been around since 1995? Maybe you just started seeing their tempting commercials where the perfect family vacations in the perfect mansion on the perfect beach, and you thought hm? Where did this come from? Or at least that’s what I thought.  Regardless of whether or not you’ve seen the commercial, Vrbo and Airbnb are quite different, so here’s what you might want to consider when you’re booking for your next trip.  Airbnb is the hub for one night stays, week long vacays and staycation…

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The changing of seasons is not to be missed in the Northeast where you can watch the leaves on the trees transform from their luscious green to brilliant yellows, oranges, and reds as the weather chills. Just an hour or two drive from NYC are troves of farms, wineries, and orchards that are just waiting for your arrival. Here’s a list of some of the Hudson Valley’s most scenic and cozy autumnal destinations.  TWIN STAR ORCHARDS, New Paltz, New York Take the thruway north and find yourself in the quaint yet gorgeous village of New Paltz in Ulster County, where college…

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From Parc Guell and the Sagrada Familia to LGBTQ nightlife and nude beaches, Barcelona has it all. Known for its unique architecture made famous by Antoni Gaudi, Barcelona is a city of intricate and colorfully crafted buildings and landmarks. Discover the city’s distinctive look while visiting one of its beautiful neighborhoods, traipse through the Gothic Quarter, or head for Parc Guell, one of the city’s largest green spaces with views that are not to be missed.  When it comes time to eat, indulge in the city’s culinary offerings with a great selection of tapas from family-owned spots like La Pepita,…

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Airports can be a headache, and in 2022 the situation got worse for many travelers. Actually, it’s gotten much worse, with airport lines stretching outside, passengers missing flights, and airlines losing patience. What’s all the hubbub? For most European airports, labor shortages are to blame for a hefty increase in delay and cancellation rates. Here are five airports you might not want to fly in and out of on your next European trip according to the most recent report from online travel agency, Hopper Inc.  Amsterdam, Netherlands – Schiphol Airport (AMS). Schiphol airport is big and shiny and…kind of chaotic.…

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We’ve all seen cafeterias and food courts alike, but now cuisines of all sorts can be found in one trendy and aesthetically pleasing place in New York City’s food halls. These glorified food halls have been cropping up in urban areas around the country. And in New York they’re all the buzz – where architecture and design meet all the flavors your heart desires. Read on for the city’s best.    MANHATTAN Chelsea Market Occupying the former site of a 19th Century Nabisco factory, where, reportedly, the Oreo cookie was born, Chelsea Market helped transform the once seedy Meatpacking District…

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