Jalyn Robinson

Editorial Assistant

It's a fresh new week and a new opportunity for you to book the vacation of your dreams! I just disembarked from Royal Caribbean's newest cruise ship, the Wonder of the Seas, and nothing was harder than adjusting back into normal life and not being able to get free pizza on demand. This ship has everything you love about Royal Caribbean and more, including a brand new, Southern-inspired restaurant, a novel Suite neighborhood for those who like to vacation in luxury, and three amazing onboard productions: an ice-skating spectacle, a show in the aqua theater, and a concert showcasing some of the most beautiful voices at sea.

If you're a cruiser, which I suddenly have found myself to be, then it might be time to get yourself booked on your next sea-faring adventure. But be aware—if you have plans to visit Russia via cruise ship, you might have to readjust. Several of our favorite cruise lines have canceled their Russia sailings in a response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. If that leaves you feeling down, you could always schedule your next trip to the happiest country in the world—hopefully, some of that joy is contagious. We covered both of those stories and more this week. Bon voyage!

On Our Radar

I Sailed on the World's Largest Cruise Ship. Here's What It Was Like

Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas is as big as it is impressive.

This Is the Happiest Country in the World

Can you guess which one it is?

All the Cruise Lines That Have Canceled Russia Sailings

Poseidon Expeditions is the latest addition, canceling seven itineraries.

Destination of the Day

Mexico City

Mexico City is a huge and vibrant megalopolis with a fascinating history dating back to the time of the Aztecs. As one of the world's largest cities by population, Mexico City can be intimidating, but it's a vibrant, engaging place with an abundance of attractions and services for travelers of all types. Spring is arguably the best time of year to visit, as the weather is pleasant and the jacaranda trees are in bloom throughout the city. Read on to start planning your trip to this multi-faceted destination.

Things to Do

There is much more to do in Mexico City than you will have time for, but there are a few activities that are absolute must-dos. Start by visiting the Historic Center, one of four UNESCO World Heritage sites in the city, making stops at the Palacio Nacional to see murals by Diego Rivera, the Templo Mayor archaeological site, and the Metropolitan Cathedral, Latin America's largest and oldest cathedral. Later, walk on the sacred grounds of the ancient people of Teotihuacan, at one time the largest city in Mesoamerica, and climb the Pyramid of the Sun before relaxing at the oldest urban park in America: El Bosque de Chapultepec.

What to Eat and Drink

From taco stands to gourmet restaurants like Pujol and Quintonil (considered among the world's top 50 restaurants), you're bound to eat well here. If street food intrigues you but you find it intimidating, take a street food tour to get an introduction so you'll know what to order when you venture out on your own. As for drinks, don't leave without sampling tequila and mezcal, which you can enjoy at one of the city's stylish cocktail bars. Some of the most iconic places to grab a drink include La Ópera and Miralto bar on the 40th floor of the Torre Latinoamericana, which overlooks the Palacio de Bellas Artes.

Where to Stay

There are endless options for accommodations in Mexico City including Airbnbs, boutique stays, and luxury hotels. Decent economical options abound in the historical center and Colonia Tabacalera (near the Revolution Monument). Stay at Zócalo Central Hotel or Downtown Mexico for a home base in the center of town with nice views. If you'd rather be a bit further away from the hustle and bustle, check out boutique hotels in La Condesa and Roma neighborhoods such as the Red Tree House or La Valise. Looking for luxury? You can enjoy an upscale stay at St. Regis or the Four Seasons on Paseo de la Reforma, or Las Alcobas in the swanky Polanco district.

Vacation Like a Pro

On Mondays, most museums (but not all!) are closed, as is the first section of Chapultepec Park, so plan alternative activities if you're in town on a Monday. Some ideas: go shopping, visit churches, go to Tlatelolco archaeological site (which doesn't have a museum), or visit the floating gardens in Xochimilco.

Suzanne Barbezat
Contributing Writer

Your Packing List

In the springtime, daytime temperatures may reach 80 degrees F; during the afternoon, you'll probably be comfortable with lightweight pants and a T-shirt.

Pack a hat if you'll be out walking for extended periods during the day.

The temperature drops at night, however, and it can still be a bit cold. Be sure to carry a warm sweater or jacket for the evening.

The rainy season begins in May; if you're coming at the end of spring, bring an umbrella or light rain jacket with a hood.

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Get Inspired

On the entire Eastern Seaboard, only New York's Long Island is larger than Maine's Mount Desert Island, which is famously home to the majority of Acadia National Park's 47,000 acres. This rugged New England island is like no other, with its eclectic mashup of sandy shores, ocean-smoothed boulders, sheer cliffs, pine forest, and granite peaks including Cadillac Mountain: the highest point on the East Coast.

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