The Traveler's Journal

With ATMs now ubiquitous nearly everywhere in the world, getting currency in distant places is nearly as easy as getting it at home. Unless of course, it isn't. We offer a few tips about how to anticipate and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Thessaloniki, the port city in northern Greece, was once the epicenter of an empire that extended to western India. Today, it's also known as a very hip place to be.

Although the 8.75 million acres of Brooks Range wilderness in north central Alaska that have been set aside as Gates of the Arctic make it America's second largest national park, they are inaccessible to all but determined travelers.

There are many other candidates, of course, but Alberta Provincial Route #93 may be North America's most beautiful highway.

Even in this somewhat cynical modern age, many travelers still put faith in personal talismans and lucky charms to give them confidence that the journey will go smoothly.

While it's not Dublin, the city of Limerick and its environs have plenty to offer visitors, not least of which is easier access to both Shannon Airport and Ireland's scenic west coast.

You don't have to scale Yosemite's El Capitan solo without ropes to enjoy rock-climbing. Excellent opportunities beckon across America. Here are a few faces of particular note.

Fremantle, the port in Western Australia that serves the Perth area, is known for its maritime history, Victorian architecture, and remnants from its days as a British penal colony. It's also earned a more modern reputation as a great place for a beach party.

This strategic hilltop in what is now SE France was first fortified around 600 BC, but the ramparts that remain today date only from the 12th century.

Unlike America, railroads can be a quick, comfortable, reliable way to travel from city to city. A rail pass can make it even more affordable.

All across the country, rehabilitated rail lines provide day-trippers with the experience of moving under steam power

Southern Utah has numerous dramatic vistas. For example, Canyonlands and Arches National Parks, near Provo.

The hilltop home of architect Frank Lloyd Wright, Taliesn remains a testament to his revolutionary vision

Sometimes, a slow boat to China is a very interesting way to travel.

This is the time of year when Finland's capital really blossoms.

Most people know that Mt. Everest is the highest point of the planet. Technically speaking, most people are wrong. We correct several geophysical misconceptions.

Know before you go. Will the health insurance you have here provide coverage if something happens when you are there?

Although people have been crossing borders for thousands of years, passports are a relatively recent development.

More laid back than its better known cape, Cape Ann has its own seaside charms.

The capital of Chile, Santiago is both South America's most European city and its most modern.