Five Tips for New RV Campers

For folks considering a purchase of a new camper, here are the five top things I lucked into or wish someone had told me before I started out camping—and before investing a lot of money into an RV!

Atmos Elite: Choice Earning on Alaska and Hawaiian in 2026

The Alaska Airlines Atmos reward and elite status program introduced major changes in 2024 and 2025, reshaping how flyers earn Elite Status Points. With the new “Choose How You Earn” options launching in 2026, here’s a breakdown on maximizing miles and points when the new program launches.

Outtake: Oktoberfest 🇩🇪 🍻

When it comes to travel in Europe, Oktoberfest is an iconic experience unlike any other and with gay events like Rosa Weisn and Prosecco Weisn, it’s a great LGBTQ event too. Here’s what I knew—and wish I knew before going.

Weekend: Chicago

Chicago is one of my favorite cities—especially in summer. From vibrant neighborhoods and lakefront strolls to LGBTQ events and street festivals, there’s always something happening. With friends in the city, I get to experience it like a local and play tourist when I want to.

Weekend: Honolulu

A weekend in Honolulu offers the perfect mix of culture, beaches, and island buzz (and otherwise rare gay nightlife in Hawaii) before heading off to quieter escapes.

Weekend: San Francisco

“I left my heart in San Francisco” isn’t far from the truth. I love to share tips (both obvious and obscure ones) for friends traveling to the city I lived in for a little over a decade, and I try not to miss my own chances to spend a weekend (or longer) in the city I adore.

Weekend: Portland, Oregon

Playing tourist in my own city for a weekend in Portland is always a good time—it’s the perfect way to stumble upon new spots or fall back in love with old favorites. Warning: this post has a long list of personal faves!

Weekend: Madrid

Madrid is a vibrant, bustling city that fully embraces the art of eating, drinking, and living well. Spending a weekend in Madrid for my second visit, here are my tips for ways to embrace a city that knows how to charm visitors year-round.

3 Days: Porto

A weekend in Porto surprised me in all the best ways—affordable, walkable, and full of charm. Portugal’s second-largest city packs vibrant LGBTQ and mainstream nightlife, scenic views, and warm hospitality into a not-too-big package. It quickly became one of the most budget-friendly and enjoyable spots I’ve visited in Europe.

Atmos Status: Elite Levels and Perks for 2026

Alaska Airlines unveiled its new Atmos Rewards program in August 2025 folding together Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines frequent flyer programs. As the calendar turned over to 2026, updates and higher thresholds for some tiers took effect. Read on for fresh updates.