California
Motels have existed for 100 years. I visited six of the originals
Over the past century, motels have become shorthand for affordable travel both in the US, their country of origin, and in Australia, too.
- Jamie Lafferty
Seven of Disneyland’s lesser-known, must-do highlights
Think you know Disneyland? These new and lesser-known attractions are worth adding to your ride schedule.
- Julie Miller
I spent a day trying Disneyland’s oldest, ‘politically corrected’ rides
Although Disneyland is known for cutting-edge technology, some of its rides are 70 years old. And some have recently been updated for politically correct reasons.
- Julie Miller
Even if you know nothing about US natural wonders, you know this one
Towering granite cliffs, impressive waterfalls, giant sequoia trees – here are seven must-see highlights of one of the world’s most famous national parks.
- Ben Groundwater
Disneyland is about to turn 70, and it’s pulling out all stops
Almost a billion visitors have walked through the gates of the beloved Southern California park since it opened in 1955.
- Julietta Jameson
The modest shack where Hollywood stars eat before they’re famous
The famous Route 66 ends at a modest cafe that’s been frequented by the likes of Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison and Quentin Tarantino.
- Paul Chai
This roasting-hot national park may be America’s most underrated
Death Valley is the hottest, driest and lowest national park in the US – and arguably the most visually arresting.
- David Whitley
- ★★★★★
- Hotel reviews
If you have a big budget, this luxury US hotel is a real treat
One of the most talked-about US openings of 2024 pushes boundaries for Santa Monica luxe beachfront hotels.
- Kristie Kellahan
- ★★★★
- Hotel reviews
This Old Hollywood hideaway still has plenty of glam after facelift
Monroe’s favourite room was 104, Frank Sinatra stayed in 114, and Joan Crawford booked 507, where she always demanded a fresh baguette and seven packs of cigarettes.
- Louise Goldsbury
Ten years ago I would have said ‘no way’ to this. Now it feels amazing
At several points during a desert “sound bath”, I feel completely disconnected from my body. My friend, meanwhile, feels like she is being abducted by aliens.
- Rob McFarland