Talia Avakian

Talia Avakian is a lifestyle reporter with nearly a decade of experience writing digital and print content for noted national and international travel publications. She began her career in travel reporting at BBC Travel, where she covered news and features of global destinations, later working as a travel reporter at Business Insider and as a digital news reporter for Travel + Leisure. During her time at Travel + Leisure, she has covered airlines, hotels, new product launches for travelers, natural phenomena travelers can witness, new experience launches, and more. Her work has also appeared in The Independent, Time, Food & Wine, Fortune, Essence, and Departures, among others.

Talia is currently a freelance lifestyle reporter in Los Angeles, where she covers content ranging from outdoor getaways, hotels, and transportation to food and experiential offerings at destinations across the globe. She has gone behind the scenes with airlines to learn about flight attendant training, scaled remote mountainsides at far-flung hotels, gone inside the inner workers of Air Force jets, shared the history of Frank Sinatra's favorite New York restaurant hideaway, documented what life is like inside the world's largest residential airpark, and more. She loves discovering unknown perks travelers can access and adventures they can take part in no matter where they go, sharing inside looks at offerings from around the world to help every traveler get the best out of each journey.

* 9+ years of experience working as a travel reporter
* Stories published and syndicated across over 50 national and international publications
* Appeared as a travel expert on Cheddar to discuss emerging travel trends
* Received a master's degree in multimedia reporting from the Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute at New York University

Japan's Wisteria Tunnels Are Even More Magical Than Its Cherry Blossoms

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Here's where to see the best blooms in April and May.

America's Most Beautiful Lake Has a Sunken Forest Beneath Its Crystal-clear Waters

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The waters of this Oregon Lake are so clear, you'll feel like you're in a swimming pool.

16 Affordable Family Vacations to Take This Summer

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From laid-back islands to charming small towns and bustling cities — here are some of the best family summer vacation ideas.

22 Best Travel Apps Every Traveler Should Know About

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From tracking flight delays, finding last-minute accommodations, or even locating the nearest public restroom, these apps are the most helpful downloads to get before you travel.

13 Ways to Save Money on Hotels During the Holidays

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Traveling during the holidays doesn't have to mean spending a ton of money.

20 Romantic Adults-only Hotels Around the World

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These adults-only hotels are perfect for your next romantic trip.

16 Best Swimming Holes in the U.S.

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Take a dip in the best swimming holes nature has carved out.

Richard Branson's Ski Chalet Is One of the Most Luxurious Ways to Visit Switzerland

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This is the life.

15 Places You Can Stay for Free Around the World

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Traveling the world can get pricey, which is why it’s great when you can find free accommodation. Whether you’re looking to hike through America’s national parks or score a night at a luxury hotel, there are some ways you can do it all for free. From owl-shaped cabins to art-centric hotels, here are 15 places around the globe that offer a free stay.

16 Best Swimming Holes in the U.S.

Article

Take a dip in the best swimming holes nature has carved out.

Richard Branson's Ski Chalet Is One of the Most Luxurious Ways to Visit Switzerland

Article

This is the life.

15 Places You Can Stay for Free Around the World

Gallery

Sleep in the Heart of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in These Stunning Hotels

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Some locations across the world are renowned for their stunning natural beauty, cultural contributions, and examples of ancient days they still present to travelers. Many of these locations have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites over the years, with travelers from around the world heading to the famed locations to catch a glimpse of the glory. While staying near such locations can give you quicker access to the sites, there’s nothing quite like waking up in the heart of them to find yourself immersed in immaculate history and nature everywhere you turn. At these properties, you’ll often find exclusive entrances and extended hours for guests, while exceptional attention is paid to each detail to ensure your stay is as luxurious and mesmerizing as the setting you’re surrounded by. For that reason, you’ll find that many of the properties included are members of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, which recognizes boutique hotels with one-of-a kind experiences that guests won’t find anywhere else, and will never forget. Below, you’ll find a selection of 18 properties that will put you in the midst of magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

15 Festive Train Rides You Can Take for the Holidays

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Taking a train ride with Santa and his helpers or scoping out magnificent winter scenery can make for a festive way to celebrate the holiday season. Whether you're a family looking for a playful way to provide children with holiday memories they won’t forget, or adults in search of magnificent ice adventures and mesmerizing views coupled with Christmas-themed meals and drinks, there’s a winter train ride to fit the bill. We’ve put together a list of 15 train rides to take for the holidays. Some of the trains are inspired by Chris Van Allsburg's famed book “The Polar Express,” while others include schnapps-spiked hot chocolate, views of the Northern Lights, and getting to cut your own Christmas tree to take home. Related:Best Places to See the Northern Lights