If your idea of the perfect beach vacation includes more than lazing in the sun, these destinations deserve a spot on your bucket list. From hidden coves and historic landmarks to wildlife encounters and cooking classes, they offer experiences you’ll remember long after your tan fades.
In 2026, many industry experts say luxury travel is less about doing or spending more, and more focused on quality of the experience and how the vacationers feel after the trip. While some travel predictions just point to places that look good on a map, a new hotel opening, a rare solar eclipse, or a growing culinary scene could be enough to move a destination onto travelers' short lists.
PAUL WISEMAN and CHRISTOPHER S. RUGABER, AP Economics Writers
Updated
WASHINGTON — Compare unemployment rates, and America’s job market looks much stronger than Europe’s. The U.S. rate for August, being released Friday, is expected to be a near-normal 6.1 percent. In the 18 countries that use the euro currency, by contrast, it’s a collective 11.5 percent.
Local AFS exchange students will be presenting on their home countries and sharing their experiences abroad with the community at the Wasco County Library at 722 Court Street in The Dalles on Wednesday, Apr. 16 at 7 p.m.
