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For many international travelers, death never looked so lively. Bring some marigolds to share, find a local to paint your face, and encounter this wholly unique, UNESCO-recognized celebration of Mexican heritage.
These little helpers bring peace of mind while you’re on the move.
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Set sail with Norwegian Cruise Line to the world’s most romantic places.
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Celebrating Day of the Dead in Mexico > Safe and Sound > Flavors of Austin: Michelin Dining for Every Budget > 5 Romantic Autumnal Getaways to Book This Year >
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Find Your Vegas Adventure Outside the Casinos > San Diego’s Outdoor Splendor > Dear RCI > How to Make the Most of Last-Minute Travel > Experience a Portal to the Past in Porto, Portugal >
RCI Magazine is published quarterly by RCI. ©2025 RCI, LLC. All rights reserved. CORPORATE OFFICE 6277 Sea Harbor Drive, Orlando, FL 32821 EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Kylee Krizmanic PROJECT EDITOR Allison Vancura GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Ruby Pierce, Maddy Lickteig CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Austin Cannon, Erin Gifford, Gary Thompson, Hilary Braaksma, Natalie Mechem, Tree Meinch COPY EDITOR Diane Penningroth RCI EDITORIAL TEAM Anna Reinert, Leslie Johansen, Jenny Rains To Our Subscribers: The annual subscription cost of RCI Magazine is $109USD or $143CAD for RCI Weeks® members and $134USD or $176CAD for RCI Points® members. Send your renewal together with your name, address, telephone number, email address, and RCI member ID to: RCI Magazine Subscriptions, P.O. Box 2099, Carmel, IN 46082-2070. For address changes, subscription inquiries, or cancellations, call an RCI Travel Guide. RCI Weeks members, please call: United States: 317-805-8000 or 800-338-7777 Canada: 800-338-7777 (English) 800-527-5219 (French) RCI Points members, please call: United States: 317-805-9941 or 877-968-7476 Canada: 877-968-7476 (English/French) No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from RCI, LLC (or its affiliates). RCI Magazine® and Design and RCI® and Design are trademarks of RCI, LLC (or its affiliates), and are registered in countries throughout the world and may not be used without permission. For editorial and advertising inquiries, email magazine@rci.com. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial advertising matter and accepts no responsibility for advertising content or the damage tht may arise from these advertisements. Publisher assumes no responsibility for the return or unsolicited manuscripts or art. Unsolicited manuscripts and art will not be returned unless accompanied by return postage and envelope. In no event shall such material subject this magazine to any claim for “holding fees” or similar charges. Merrill #022022400.
Fewer than 1 in 10 children born into extreme poverty overcome it without help. Christel DeHaan, co-founder of RCI and founder of Christel House—dreamed of changing that.
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CHRISTEL’S DREAM. THEIR FUTURE.
Fewer than 1 in 10 children born into extreme poverty overcome it without help. Christel DeHaan, co-founder of RCI and founder of Christel House—dreamed of changing that.For 27 years, Christel House has been redefining what’s possible for children living in poverty.Now, we’re expanding her vision: five new schools by 2028, reaching two new countries and strengthening our work in India, Mexico, and South Africa.Once fully implemented, our expansion will more than double our impact—serving over 18,000 students each year with not only quality education, but also healthcare, meals, social services, and career coaching.Because Christel believed every child deserves the chance to break the cycle of poverty—and together, we’re making it possible.
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It’s time for a refresh. No matter where you're headed, RCI connects you to more destinations and more ways to stay, plus service that makes every trip feel like a one-of-a-kind experience. Plan a romantic fall getaway in the U.S., celebrate Day of the Dead in Mexico, experience a portal to the past in Portugal, and use these stories as inspiration to make the most of this spectacular season.
A diverse mix of barbecue, Tex-Mex, and global cuisines, Austin’s food scene has earned Michelin Guide recognition for many restaurants — including plenty that won’t break the bank.
Retreat to the scenic corners of the United States this fall, where treasured moments await atop mountains, along shorelines, or beneath the changing leaves.
For your next (or first) Las Vegas vacation, think outside the slots. Let this fun interactive quiz serve as a mini travel concierge, recommending a travel theme based on your answers.
Experience San Diego’s sun-soaked charm with a weekend of outdoor adventure. Kayak La Jolla’s sea caves, hike desert slot canyons, bike through historic neighborhoods, and visit iconic attractions like the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park. Along the way, savor SoCal’s vibrant sunsets, oceanfront dining, and relaxed atmosphere.
Lisbon tends to get a lot of love from international travelers. But if you’re heading to Portugal, might we suggest a detour to Porto?
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Set sail with Norwegian Cruise Line to the world’s most romantic places. Relax on the palm-fringed beaches of the Caribbean, explore Mexico’s cenotes and ruins, wander through Europe’s storybook castles, or take in Alaska’s natural wonders. Wherever your hearts lead, there’s a deal for that. Book with RCI Cruise or RCI Cruise Exchange for the lowest prices, exclusive savings, and up to $1,500 to spend on board, just for you.
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Each October, Mexico’s sparkly Caribbean coastline of dreamy beachscapes, cenote swimming holes, and Mayan ruins gets an extra festive treatment. Head to Xcaret Park October 30–November 2 for an immersive take on the artistic altars, music, cuisine, and history of Dia de Muertos. This year’s Xcaret Festival of Life and Death Traditions pays tribute to the state of Michoacán and its gastronomy-rich culture. Expect mouth-watering carnitas, innovative corn dishes, and primo avocados. Nearby Playa del Carmen’s Janal Pixán Dia de Muertos celebration infuses Mayan traditions within the national holiday. Schedule your activities around Playa’s stunning Parade of Catrinas to witness the ancestral roots intertwine with fashion genius and live performance.
Join the celebration! Start planning your visit to Mexico today.
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Follow the sounds of mariachi bands and other live music through the cobblestone streets of historic downtown. Last year’s Remember Me Festival (Festival Recuérdame, October 30–November 3) placed the Guinness World Records-recognized tallest Calavera Catrina figure, standing more than 90 feet tall, above the oceanfront. The celebration in honor of those who have passed draws guided cemetery tours and Bread of the Dead (traditional sweet bread) tastings. Boutique galleries host specialized Day of the Dead exhibits in addition to the elaborate outdoor altars, food stands, and artisan wares for sale in the open air. Many resorts and venues serve up specialized programming for an unforgettable experience.
Double down on the unique possibilities and festive flair by hopping between the twin cities of San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas in Baja California Sur. In historic San José, localized events feature flower arrangements, decorations, and baked goods. San Lucas’ one-of-a-kind Altares en el Mar Festival showcases a parade of private boats decked out in lights, flowers, candy skull accessories, and other Dia de Muertos expressions. Visitors and locals congregate around the Marina Cabo San Lucas to take in the boats in costume and a long line of dockside altars created by local businesses. Don’t miss the Giant Catrinas and Catrines contest at Amelia Wilkes Plaza on November 2.
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There’s nothing quite as thrilling as getting lost in a new city — that is, unless your personal items get lost as well. Affix these tracking discs onto keys and wallets, or drop them into backpacks, camera bags, and luggage to keep tabs on precious cargo from your iPhone’s Find My app.
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) makes travel easier than ever via tap-to-pay, hotel key cards, and more. Unfortunately, it can also leave you open to security concerns. This sleek leather holder prevents unauthorized access to passports and credit cards with RFID chips, and includes three card slots and two stash pockets.
Worried about losing your items while sightseeing? This scarf has a secret self-locking zippered compartment to tuck away all of your important personal effects. The 8.5x11-inch stash pocket has plenty of room, and the scarves come in multiple color and pattern options to fit any personal style.
Vacationing with traditional self-defense tools like pepper spray and Tasers can be a hassle. This pocket-size device can go anywhere — carry-on bags included — and has Bluetooth connection for around-the-clock access to emergency support. Use the button to call for assistance and share your location, or pull the top pin for alarm activation.
Tourists can be a target for bag thieves, especially in crowded travel destinations. Carry your items worry-free in this anti-theft bag, which has a sleek cross-body design that’s easy to wear under jackets and loose clothing. It also has lockable zippers, RFID-blocking material, and wire-reinforced straps that can’t be cut.
Fuel up for the day with a no-frills Tex-Mex brunch from Joe’s Bakery & Coffee Shop. This family-owned spot in East Austin has been serving up all-day breakfast for more than 75 years. Order a hearty plate of migas (crispy corn tortillas mixed with scrambled eggs) or huevos rancheros, or choose from a wide selection of breakfast tacos. And don’t miss out on the twice-fried bacon — it’s dredged in flour, chilled overnight, and cooked flat on a griddle for a delightfully crispy texture. Joe’s offers a full bakery case of fresh, fluffy pan dulce, so be sure to try the pink cake or conchas for a sweet treat before or after your meal.
A diverse mix of barbecue, Tex-Mex, and global cuisines, Austin’s food scene has earned Michelin Guide recognition for many restaurants — including plenty that won’t break the bank. These Michelin-recommended eateries offer a taste of Austin at every price point, including affordable eats, once-in-a-lifetime dining experiences, and options that strike the balance in between.
Grab your knife and fork — a delectable culinary journey awaits in Austin.
Tex-Mex Comforts at Joe’s Bakery & Coffee Shop
For a simple, delicious taste of Mexican cuisine, stop by this East Austin food truck, a Michelin Bib Gourmand honoree. Cuantos Tacos specializes in Mexico City street-style tacos, which are made with small corn tortillas and topped with cilantro and diced onion. The meat here is cooked in a traditional chorizera pan, just like those found at taco stands in Mexico. They offer barbacoa, brisket, carnitas, and even grilled mushroom tacos — and at $2.75 a piece, the price can’t be beat. Order a few, grab a shady picnic table, and enjoy a fresh, laid-back meal.
Food Truck Fare at Cuantos Tacos
A 2024 Michelin Bib Gourmand Award recipient, this vibrant, creative eatery is all about infusing familiar favorites with new ideas. Nixta Taqueria keeps things casual with an approachable, easygoing atmosphere. It’s the imaginative menu and high-quality ingredients that make it worth spending a little more here. Nixta is aptly named for the nixtamalized heirloom corn used to make tortillas in-house. Traditional techniques are paired with unexpected ingredients in dishes like duck carnitas tacos with watermelon radish and beet “tartare” tostadas with salsa macha. Pair your meal with a cactus fruit margarita or ube horchata, and for something sweet, a seasonal paleta (ice pop).
Inventive Mexican Eats at Nixta Taqueria
La Barbecue's irresistible smoked brisket earned it a Michelin star in 2024. Located in a simple, colorful space, it offers the perfect relaxed atmosphere to dig into great barbecue. A huge, custom-built pit in the backyard is where all the meaty magic happens. Locally sourced beef is cooked low and slow over Texas post oak for a melt-in-your-mouth brisket. The brisket is a must-try, but you’ll also find a tempting selection of pork and beef ribs, house-made sausages, and pulled pork on the menu. The sides are tasty, too, including mac and cheese, chipotle slaw, and a variety of pickled-in-house veggies.
Texas-Style ‘Cue at La Barbecue
Named after the Greek goddess of the hearth, Hestia offers a contemporary menu focused on live-fire cooking. Almost everything at this Michelin-starred restaurant is wood-fired or smoke-scented, and a custom-built, 20-foot hearth puts fiery cooking techniques on display in the open kitchen. For the full experience, opt for the multicourse tasting menu, a curated selection of inventive, flame-inspired dishes, including Texas Wagyu ribeye with chanterelle mushroom and grilled spring onion, scallops with grilled green tomato, beef tallow, and mushroom gelée, and roasted figs with marigold ice cream and “ash meringue." Hestia also has an extensive wine program, with more than 400 selections available, and the tasting menu includes a curated wine pairing.
Flame-Kissed Cuisine at Hestia
Craft Omakase’s 22-course tasting menu is a culinary journey you won’t soon forget. This Michelin-starred Japanese eatery in Rosedale offers an elevated fine-dining experience in a warm, intimate setting. As the name suggests, the restaurant offers a meticulously crafted menu. Nigiri (hand-pressed rice topped with raw fish) and other bites are prepared by expert sushi chefs with fresh, high-quality ingredients, most of which are sourced from Japan. Dishes like pink shrimp aguachile (raw shrimp marinated in a lime-chile sauce) and shima aji with shiso and ume (striped jack with bright herbs and pickled plums) are all about allowing the fish to shine — with just a touch of creativity and modern flair.
Japanese Fine Dining at Craft Omakase
Let the majesty of Shenandoah National Park’s dramatic overlooks, thriving wildlife, and vibrant foliage provide the ultimate autumn backdrop for a weekend romantic escape. For 105 miles, the quintessential Skyline Drive winds beneath the Blue Ridge Mountains as multihued leaves float toward the ground. Feel their crunch underfoot during the Hawksbill Summit hike, a moderate hike that ascends the highest peak in the park. The reward: gazing out over the Shenandoah Valley, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the surrounding Virginia Piedmont region from the 360-degree viewing platform. Dine with similarly arresting views just a few miles north at Skyland Resort’s Pollock Dining Room. Indulge in a sweet treat by ordering Skyland’s signature blackberry ice cream pie, made with graham cracker crust, blackberry ice cream, a meringue top, and blackberry compote.
Ready to sweep your partner off their feet? Book a romantic getaway now.
Fall’s fiery palette and cooler temperatures are Mother Nature’s romantic gestures. Take a leaf out of her book and extend date night into a full-fledged autumnal getaway filled with panoramic lake cruises, open-air rail rides, and scenic drives in these five destinations.
The San Juan Mountains surrounding Durango are the playground for couples who relish exploring in the fresh mountain air. Follow the singletrack through the old-growth forest along Hermosa Creek during an excursion with Durango Mountain Bike Tours — which also rents out e-bikes to make climbing a little easier. Stay on two feet in San Juan National Forest, where the Cascade Creek Trail leads to the scenic Engine Creek Falls and Cascade Falls. If you want to give your legs a break, snag a seat in the open-air car on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The steam- or diesel-powered engine rumbles to and from Silverton, up mountainsides, across creeks, and through canyons on tracks that were laid in the late 19th century.
Take the cooling fall temperatures around Lake Tahoe as a sign to (figuratively) chill with your partner. So don your sunglasses and snag a beach chair on the third deck of the M.S. Dixie II before the paddlewheeler sets off on its Daytime Scenic Cruise. The 2.25-hour voyage visits Emerald Bay, an inlet where cobalt waters, verdant forests, and towering peaks form a natural masterpiece. Stick to the relaxation theme and schedule a visit to ZenAkari Wellness Studio for a massage with heated jade stones or a zen foot-soak ritual. If food is your love language, let happy hour extend into dinnertime at Chart House. From high above the lake, tuck into some prime rib or shrimp linguine before sharing some chocolate lava cake for dessert.
If you’re keen to relive some first-date nostalgia, take a hand-in-hand stroll down Atlantic City’s world-famous seaside boardwalk. Walk a few steps off the hallowed wooden planks to impress your partner with putts at Atlantic City Miniature Golf, or amass enough tickets to win your sweetheart a prize at Central Pier Arcade & Speedway. For a little more quiet, choose one of Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge’s hiking trails that wind past freshwater ponds, woodlands, and coastal wetlands. Climb to the top of an observation tower for a close-to-the-action view of migrating birds against the backdrop of the Atlantic City skyline. Return downtown for dinner at Angeline by Michael Symon and feast on Italian favorites from the James Beard Award-winning chef.
A romantic coastal escape in the Midwest? Indeed. With Green Bay on one side and Lake Michigan on the other, this peninsula features more than 300 miles of shoreline. Look down on its rugged outcroppings and fiery leaves from the Eagle Tower at Peninsula State Park. The observation deck sits 253 feet above the water, making it one of the best spots to watch a sunset with your special someone. Indoors, spend quality time together at Lautenbach's Orchard Country Winery & Market, where you can sample flights of wine and hard cider made with fruit grown on-site. And don’t head home before taking in a traditional Door County fish boil. Watch the flames fly high as the Old Post Office Restaurant staff boils the traditional Scandinavian feast of Lake Michigan whitefish, onions, and potatoes.
Mid- to late October
Peak Leaf-Peeping
Late September to mid-October
Late October
Mid-October
Where to Stay
Ted Lasso, Last Chance U, and The Last Dance Alone, Survivor, and Yellowstone The Crown, The Great British Baking Show, and Abstract Glee, RuPaul’s Drag Race, and The Voice
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Remember the Titans Into the Wild Amadeus Hamilton
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The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown The Comfort of Crows by Margaret Renkl Girl with a Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier The Woman in Me by Britney Spears
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Watching my favorite team Hiking or biking the trails Checking out a new art exhibit or gallery Going to a concert or play
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Ball cap Puffer vest Oversized linen button-down shirt Faux leather pants
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Athletic shoes Hiking boots Sandals Platform boots or strappy heels
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Back in Black by AC/DC i,i by Bon Iver Come Away with Me by Norah Jones Renaissance by Beyoncé
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Pardon My Take The Dirtbag Diaries The Lonely Palette Las Culturistas
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Kick off your weekend with a two-hour Early Bird Downtown E-Bike Tour from Another Side of San Diego Tours. Setting off at 9:30 a.m., this guided ride rolls through the Gaslamp Quarter, East Village, and Little Italy, offering a fun, informative intro to the city’s history and culture. Afterward, refuel at GARAGE Kitchen + Bar, a buzzy hangout in a historic carriage house. Plan on craft burgers, brunch staples like avocado toast, and bottomless mimosas. TIP The Bob’s Burger with fries is just $6 between 11 a.m. and noon. (It’s normally $16.)
Set between dramatic sandstone cliffs, La Jolla Cove is a small sandy beach that boasts gentle, clear waters, salty breezes, and arresting scenery, making it an ideal spot for a swim with a picturesque backdrop. A guided 1.5-hour tour with La Jolla Sea Cave Kayaks explores the marine ecological reserve and the sea caves. Watch for sea lions and pelicans lounging near the Point La Jolla sea lion rookery, and leopard sharks and rays in the pristine waters below, at this protected slice of paradise. The last tour departs at 5 p.m.
Morning
Afternoon
La Jolla
Perched above La Jolla Cove, George’s at the Cove is a multitiered restaurant that affords guests sweeping Pacific Ocean views from all three levels. It’s a popular La Jolla sunset dining experience, so make reservations in advance, especially if you’re visiting on a weekend. After your meal, stroll Ellen Browning Scripps Park, one of San Diego’s most photographed spots. On the first Friday of the month, check out the First Friday Art Walk from 4 to 7 p.m., featuring local art galleries and pop-up exhibits.
Evening
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Wind down at Peohe’s on Coronado Island. This breezy waterfront restaurant serves fresh seafood, sushi, and tropical drinks with front-row views of San Diego Bay. Ask for a table on the patio. It’s the perfect low-key spot to relax after a day spent in the desert. Don’t miss the signature coconut crunchy shrimp—it’s a fan favorite for a reason. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade past the Coronado Ferry Landing to Centennial Park. Catch a vibrant sunset, then watch as the twinkling skyline lights up the night.
On the drive back to San Diego, carve out time for the Warner-Carrillo Ranch House in Warner Springs, open Saturdays and Sundays from 12 to 4 p.m. This beautifully restored 1857 adobe once operated as a Butterfield Overland Stage Station, a stagecoach mail stop linking the state all the way to St. Louis. Now a National Historic Landmark, the site offers a glimpse into early California ranch life. Docent-led tours explore the house, sharing stories along the way of the thousands of westward-bound emigrants. Watch the clock, the last tour departs at 3:45 p.m.
Start your day with an early breakfast, then make the two-hour drive to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California’s largest state park. Your adventure begins at the visitors center, where an easy 0.4-mile-loop hike rewards with sweeping desert views and placards describing area flora and fauna. Next up: a popular 2.2-mile loop trail that winds through The Slot, a narrow, curving siltstone canyon. Arrive early — parking can fill up quickly — and be ready for light scrambling and tight squeezes. After your hike, head into Borrego Springs for lunch and ice-cold margaritas at Pablito’s Mexican Bar & Grill.
Don’t wait to feel the sun on your face and the wind in your hair. Plan your San Diego weekend today!
Balboa Park
Pick up a latte or cold brew at James Coffee Co., known for house-roasted beans and delicious pastries and bagels, then make your way to the world-famous San Diego Zoo. This impressive facility houses 12,000 residents, including elephants, polar bears, and koalas. Arrive early for first-come-first-served timed tickets to see the beloved giant pandas, Yun Chuan and Xin Bao. Afterward, wander the lush gardens of Balboa Park, such as the famous Japanese Friendship Garden and the Veterans Memorial Garden. The Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden, which features more than 1,600 roses, is in bloom from March through December. Admire striking Spanish-style architecture, pop into a museum or two (such as the San Diego Natural History Museum and the Timken Museum of Art) and stroll The Prado, the park’s central promenade.
Morning/Afternoon
What are travel packages and how do I book one?
Travel packages are a stress-free way to vacation. We create a thoughtfully curated itinerary, combining fantastic accommodations with VIP experiences, such as an exciting UTV excursion in Glacier Mountain, a wine tour in Napa Valley or train tour in Sedona, or even a concert at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. Members can simply book a package at one flat fee and let us handle all the details. Local attraction tickets and fantastic accommodations all in one - that is what Travel Packages are all about!
Getting answers about your benefits is easy: just ask! Arm yourself with advice from RCI’s expert Travel Guides so you can travel smoothly — and memorably.
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— Amber Dickman, RCI Project Specialist Since 2013
— Mel Doss, RCI Travel Guide Since 2011
Las Vegas, Nevada offers a dazzling array of romantic experiences for couples, whether you're looking for luxury, adventure, or something truly unique. Glide along the Grand Canal at the Venetian while being serenaded by your gondolier, enjoy panoramic views from 460 feet up, followed by dinner at the Eiffel Tower Restaurant, watch the choreographed water show with music and lights — especially magical at night at the Bellagio, or take in the Sphere experience, just to name a few. Shenandoah National Park is ideal for adventurous couples who enjoy hiking, camping, and scenic drives along Skyline Drive and wine tasting at the local wineries. Albufeira, Portugal allows you to kayak through sea caves, hike cliffside paths, and relax on golden beaches. Watch extreme surfing in the largest waves on the planet. Hike through laurel forests, relax in lava pools, and take scenic cable cars. Guanacaste, Costa Rica is a romantic paradise for couples, offering a blend of serene beaches, luxurious resorts, and nature-filled adventures. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico is great for sailing along Banderas Bay with champagne in hand, watching the sun dip below the horizon. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico lets you sail past El Arco and sea lion colonies as the sun dips below the horizon. Ride horseback along quiet shores during golden hour for a romantic and scenic experience.
What are some great romantic getaway options?
— Angela Fox, RCI Travel Guide Since 2022
Mexico celebrates Día de los Muertos every year Nov. 1-2, honoring loved ones who have passed. In many regions, festivities begin as early as Oct. 31 and can last through Nov. 3. It’s a colorful, cultural celebration you won’t want to miss.
When does Mexico celebrate “Day of the Dead” and what is there to do?
• See vibrant ofrendas (altars) in plazas, homes, and cultural centers. • Visit cemeteries by day as families decorate graves with flowers, candles, and offerings. • Join lively daytime parades with giant puppets, dancers, and music. • Taste seasonal treats like pan de muerto, tamales, and hot chocolate at bustling markets. • Try a Catrina makeup session or craft workshop (sugar skulls, papel picado, marigold garlands). • Shop artisan markets for authentic decorations and keepsakes. • Explore museums and special exhibits dedicated to this tradition. • Enjoy live music and folk-dance shows in public squares. • Take guided nighttime cemetery tours or join local storytelling about ancestral traditions. • Visit nearby villages for intimate, authentic celebrations.
This is more than a holiday. It’s an unforgettable cultural immersion. Book your amazing Mexico trip today with RCI and be part of one of the world’s most beautiful celebrations.
Ready to craft your ideal getaway on short notice? Keep an eye on the calendar, consult some experts, and consider these simple yet effective strategies to optimize your time away.
There's still time! Start planning your trip today.
January 1–4 (New Year’s Day) January 17–19 (Martin Luther King Jr. Day) February 14–16 (President’s Day) April 3–5 (Good Friday) May 23–25 (Memorial Day) June 19–21 (Juneteenth) July 3–5 (Independence Day) September 5–7 (Labor Day) October 10–12 (Indigenous Peoples Day) November 26–29 (Thanksgiving) December 24–27 (Christmas)
Even last-minute travel needs a little bit of preplanning. Because you never know when you might be inspired to take a trip, keep this list of 2026 holiday weekends in the back of your mind. Most won’t even cost you a day of PTO, and you can always decide to take some additional time off to keep the vacation vibes going.
2026
A spur-of-the-moment trip is a lot smoother when travel time is minimal. Our advice? Look for a destination within a 200-mile radius, which is about a three-hour drive, to maximize your time relaxing, exploring, and enjoying. Check out RCI’s resort directory to see what new adventures you can find in your region.
The only thing you know for sure is you’re ready to pack your bags and travel somewhere new. But are you hitting island beaches? Hiking in the mountains? Touring historic cities? Consult RCI’s Featured Destinations to help brainstorm your next destination.
When you suddenly have a free weekend and want to get away, leave the heavy lifting or planning to someone else. Enter RCI’s selection of all-inclusive resorts, where one fee usually covers your entire stay.
Once you know where you’re headed, consult the current and past issues of RCI Magazine to learn all there is to know about your vacation destination. Since 1974, RCI has been assisting travelers, delivering valuable insight and inspiration to those looking to explore every corner of the globe.
Although Porto has much more to offer than its namesake fortified wine, a tour and tasting can teach you a lot about the city and its signature drink. Porto proper is located on the northern bank of the Douro River. Stroll across one of the bridges to enter the city of Vila Nova de Gaia, and you’ll discover more than a dozen different port wine caves to pop into for a tour or tasting. Notable labels like Sandeman, Graham's, and Taylor's explain how port wine is made (brandy is added to wine during fermentation), then offer mini flights. This is an opportune way to learn more about one of the most impactful exports from this city and to discover if you prefer ruby, tawny, or white port, so you can order accordingly during the rest of your trip.
Lisbon tends to get a lot of love from international travelers. But if you’re heading to Portugal, might we suggest a detour to Porto? This picturesque coastal city is home to more than 200,000 residents, more than 10 different port wine houses, and countless opportunities to savor the flavors of the Mediterranean. Consider these experiences to make the most of your time in this dramatic yet approachable destination.
Your port experience in Vila Nova de Gaia is like meeting the parents. To visit the “kids” as they grow, head east to the Douro Valley, where the grapes are grown, fortified, and placed in oak barrels before being delivered to the Porto area wine cellars you just toured. Take a train ride (about two and a half hours) or drive just under two hours from Porto inland to arrive at Pinhão for lunch. (Bomfim 1896 with Pedro Lemos is Michelin-recommended, and deservingly so — and it’s just a 2-minute walk from the train station.) Then pick a winery or two to visit before making your way back to Porto to rest your head. Many Douro Valley wineries welcome walk-ins to enjoy the views and the vino.
Evening is when the colorful neighborhood of Ribeira really comes to life. After work, locals and visitors convene at riverside terraces to start the evening with a beer and petiscos (Portugal’s answer to tapas), then continue on to a seafood feast for dinner. Once you’ve fueled up, take a post-dinner stroll through the small square, Largo do Terreiro, to its serene Fonte Taurina fountain. From there, make your way to the illuminated Dom Luís I Bridge. Built in 1881 by a colleague of Gustave Eiffel (of Eiffel Tower fame), the metal viaduct has two levels, both of which are pedestrian-friendly and picturesque.
Now that you’ve explored Porto by land, it’s time to do so by sea. Six unique bridges span the Douro River to connect Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia: Arrábida, Dom Luís I, Infante, Maria Pia, São João, and Freixo. Spy them all on an hour-long excursion on a traditional Rabelo boat. During the cruise, scout the waterfront and pinpoint places you’d like to dive deeper into later on during your trip. TIP Feeling adventurous? Arrábida is one of only five bridges you can climb in the world, and the only one in Europe. While trekking to the top of the world’s largest concrete bridge (clipped in and equipped with a harness, of course), you can get a bird’s-eye view of the river, the cities that line it, and the Atlantic Ocean in the distance.
If you’re an art, design, or gardening enthusiast, make a sojourn to The Serralves Foundation, or Parque de Serralves. This cultural hub includes a contemporary art museum, cinema house, sculpture garden, and Serralves Villa, an Art Deco icon—all on the 45-acre property. Stroll through the park, then step inside the 1930s villa designed by architects José Marques da Silva and Charles Siclis. Inside its showy pink facade, the interior is full of eye-catching surprises around every turn. TIP Before your trip, check the event calendar, as the Parque de Serralves occasionally hosts public events like concerts, workshops, and movie screenings.
Porto’s old-world charm and Mediterranean flavors are worthy of your next passport stamp. See what’s in store.
When you’re in the city center of downtown Porto, it’s hard to miss the Bolhão Market. Originally launched as an open-air market in the 1830s, this block-long gathering space is not only a market for, but also a living monument in tribute to, Portugal’s fresh produce. Restored over the course of four years and reopened in 2022, Bolhão is a destination for food-lovers around the world. In addition to more than 70 fresh produce stalls on the ground level, the market hosts nine restaurants and 33 shops that sell perfume, shoes, tea, and much more.
Must-Try Local Recipes
Bacalhau This cured, dried cod is the national dish of Portugal. Try it in Pastéis de Bacalhau (cod and potato croquettes), Bacalhau com Nata (with onions, potatoes, and béchamel sauce), or Bacalhau à Zé do Pipo (with mashed potatoes and mayonnaise).
As you make your way through Porto, take your taste buds on a tour of these regional specialties.
Francesinha Similar to a Portuguese twist on the French croque monsieur, this meaty, cheese, tomato sauce-doused sandwich definitely qualifies as a meal.
Tripas à Moda do Porto Also known as dobrada, this cozy, classic Portuguese beef, bean, rice, and vegetable stew is perfect to warm your bones on a crisp day.
Miradouro da Vitória Miradouro, Portuguese for “viewpoint,” gives you a clue into the photo opportunities at this free attraction. Walk to the bottom of the street marked Rua de São Bento Vitória, and you'll be treated to panoramic views of rooftops, bridges, and the sparkling river below.
Jardins do Palácio de Cristal Verdant shrubs, rainbow-hue flowers, and bubbling fountains await at this hilltop park. Keep your eyes peeled for peacocks strutting around the garden.
Dom Luís I Bridge Swing by this quarter-mile-long bridge at sunset and stroll along the pedestrian walkway on the upper deck. There, you can witness postcard-worthy Porto as the sun casts a golden glow on the landscape.
Epic Photo Ops
Keep your camera ready to capture these breathtaking scenes from around the city.
YOUR RESULT!
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Have a ball with a sports-theme vacation in Las Vegas. Fall is football season, and that means the NFL’s Raiders are back at Allegiant Stadium, where the Men in Black play home games on a retractable grass field beneath a translucent roof. Can’t score game tickets? Call an audible and take a tour of the futuristic venue. Fall also has the NHL’s Golden Knights sharpening their skates for another hockey season at T-Mobile Arena — the puck drops for their home opener October 8. An übertheatrical pregame production stokes the crowd into a fevered state. If the movie F1 has you feeling the need for speed, take a lap around Grand Prix Plaza, North America’s largest Formula One attraction. Enjoy interactive exhibits, racing karts, simulators, and a restaurant-lounge. If the movie F1 has you feeling the need for speed, plan your visit around the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, which takes place in November on a course that includes the Las Vegas Strip.
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No need to roll the dice. Your next Las Vegas adventure is a click away.
It’s in your nature to prefer an outdoors-oriented getaway. Start with Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, about 25 miles west of Las Vegas. Get an overview of the nearly 200,000-acre site on a 13-mile scenic loop drive, then lean into the scenery on trails for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. Climbers choose from more than 2,000 routes through the burnt sienna sandstone. About 25 miles east of Vegas, Lake Mead National Recreation Area beckons with mountains, canyons, and inviting water for swimming, boating, and fishing. Formed by Hoover Dam, Lake Mead is the largest reservoir in the U.S. Paddlers love to explore its Emerald Cave in the Black Canyon area. Need more room to roam? The Desert National Wildlife Refuge about a two-hour drive north of town is twice the size of Rhode Island (plus 250,000 football fields). It protects species like the desert bighorn sheep, Nevada’s state animal.
Picture yourself on an arts- and culture-centered vacation. Las Vegas is a crucible of creativity, exemplified by Arte Museum Las Vegas, an immersive digital-art experience. Lose yourself on a virtual beach, in a multidimensional garden, or amid a forest with glowing animals and infinite waterfalls. The Las Vegas Arts District, aka 18b, is an 18-block area that explodes with art galleries, antiques shops, boutiques, cafés, and bars. The neighborhood hosts First Friday, a monthly festival that draws thousands for food, drink, live music, visual performances, and art displays. It follows Preview Thursday, a quieter time for browsing and mingling with artists. The Neon Museum tells the story of Las Vegas through signage dating back to the 1930s. Check out the outdoor Neon Boneyard, the North Gallery’s audio-visual experience where nonworking signs are brought to life by projection mapping, and a visitors center inside the historic La Concha Motel lobby.
Cast yourself in the lead role of a live entertainment-based vacation. Vegas knows shows, and you can choose from world-class performers like the bald, painted mimes called Blue Man Group, who have their own theatre at Luxor Hotel and Casino. If you’ve never seen their act, it’s art, music, comedy, nonverbal nonsense, and spectacle — like drumming with paint. Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino is a thriller. The tribute to the King of Pop syncs dazzling visuals, choreography, and to reimagined versions of his greatest hits. You don’t have to go inside Sphere to see a show — the ever-changing LED exterior display of the world’s largest spherical structure is visible all over town. Inside, an enormous wraparound screen creates a one-of-a-kind concert experience. This fall, that screen is showing The Wizard of Oz like it’s never been seen before.
