Three Pennsylvania amusement and water parks listed in new ranking of the best in the U.S.
Knoebels, Splash Lagoon, and Hersheypark all landed inside the new ranking of the top 20 parks, which were compiled and ranked by Tripadvisor.
The list of best amusement and water parks is part of Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice Awards Best of the Best, which they say are awarded to places that "receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period."
Knoebels Amusement Resort, which is located in central Pennsylvania, was ranked No. 3 on the list of best amusement and water parks, is the largest free-admission amusement park in the country. The park is slated to celebrate its 100th season next year.
Recognized for its roller coasters, kid-friendly rides, swimming, campus, and golf course, Tripadvisor says "the accommodating staff, clean facilities, and fun attractions make for a memorable family-friendly visit" at Knoebels.
Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park Resort, a popular Polynesian-themed water park in Erie, was ranked No. 15 on the list
Tripadvisor said that Splash Lagoon is warm and inviting, even in the winter, and noted its slides, pools, lazy river, extreme rides, laser tag, and more.
"Don't miss a visit to nearby Lake Erie, which adds to the family-friendly fun," Tripadvisor said.
Hersheypark, which is located outside Harrisburg in Hershey, landed in the No. 18 spot on the list, was founded in 1906 for the employees of the Hershey Chocolate Company, and now over 100 years later, it's one of the best parks in the country.
"It's still a sweet escape, with thrilling rides and lots of treats," Tripadvisor said. "Clean facilities, attentive staff, and affordable prices add to the appeal."
Not far from Pennsylvania in nearby Ohio, Cedar Point, which is known for its 18 roller coasters, landed in the No. 16 spot on the list.
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Travel + Leisure
an hour ago
- Travel + Leisure
Shay Mitchell and Gap Just Dropped Your New Favorite Travel Capsule Wardrobe—and Pieces Start at $34
Lounging across a baby blue sofa in a chic black jumpsuit, Shay Mitchell is the picture of style. That we were there to discuss her new Gap x Béis collaboration (and her current outfit could fold down to convert into a pair of lounge pants) only confirmed what I was already beginning to suspect: Mitchell has just dropped the perfect travel capsule collection. After launching Béis back in 2018, the actress and entrepreneur quickly gained status as a celeb whose business ventures actually align with their personal interests, a fact which became stunningly clear as Mitchell lit up telling Travel + Leisure about her limited-edition collection with Gap. 'I'm so passionate, I'm so excited, I would never pretend to play too cool,' she gushed. 'This is insane.' As for her inspiration for the drop, which includes five stunning denim-inspired luggage pieces and an array of mix-and-matchable wardrobe staples designed to be the only things you need to pack, Mitchell explained, 'I thought about how I travel—not even getting on a plane, just on the go—and I want to be comfortable.' And after nailing the comfort factor, she was able to turn to her other priority: 'Looking good at the same time.' The rapidly selling-out line is crafted with the same quality and attention to detail that both Gap and Béis are known for, and Mitchell had no shortage of insights to give on her favorite picks from the drop ('How much time do we have?' she joked). Keep reading to find more highlights from the collection, including a cozy sweatshirt-turned-neck pillow, effortlessly cool barrel jeans, and an upgraded carry-on rolling suitcase—starting at $34. The Gap x Bèis collection is rich with thoughtfully designed travel apparel that mirrors the caliber of traditional Béis bags, so it should come as no surprise that many items in this new line boast hidden features, like the travel pillow built into the hood of the Heavyweight Travel Hoodie. Mitchell shared that all it takes is a few breaths to blow up the hood for a boost of cushioning, and you'll find it easy to deflate upon landing. Outside of that, the iconic sweatshirt is fitted with a special AirPod pocket on the arm along with two side pockets—and each pouch is secured with a zipper because, as Mitchell explained, 'When you're sitting on the plane, you don't want things falling out.' As we spoke, Mitchell lounged comfortably in the Convertible Bandeau Jumpsuit (which she made sure to stress was wrinkle-resistant)—another piece that speaks to the versatility and quality of the new collection. 'Every single item has functionality to it, which is the same thing that we do at Béis with all of our bags,' Mitchell said. This can be seen in the multifaceted design of the jumpsuit that features a stretchy knit material and can be worn as an outfit of its own or folded down to create a pair of wide-waistbanded pants that will put your favorite pair of airport sweats to shame. While Mitchell styled her outfit with a chic pair of heels for the collection launch, the under-$100 jumpsuit can just as easily be worn with sensible sneakers to optimize both style and comfort during your travels. Plus, you can leave the portable steamer behind, since it's made from a forgiving rayon-nylon blend. Even Gap's denim pieces (a staple the brand famously excels at) have been optimized for travel comfort. The High-rise Barrel Jeans are a testament to that fact, thanks to their loose, breathable fit that's actually comfortable enough to sit in for long periods of time—in fact, they're one of Mitchell's favorite pieces from the collection. In addition to the relaxed cotton construction and multitude of pockets, Mitchell noted, 'There's a little D ring on the belt loops, just in case you want to put your keys on it.' If you're someone who likes to put together a proper outfit for the airport, these barrel jeans are the perfect base. Even pieces like simple wardrobe basics were given an upgrade for the new Gap x Béis collection, with the Organic Cotton VintageSoft Crop Graphic T-shirt as the prime example, with the phrase 'Plane White Tee' subtly embroidered across the front. But that was Mitchell's aim all along: to put her own spin on pieces guaranteed to get plenty of use in your day-to-day life. 'All the little puns, you can't notice them unless you get up close because they're subtle. But there's functionality to it,' she said. A gorgeous layering piece that can be styled with every bottom in the collection (and really anything in your closet already), this basic white tee is made from 100 percent organic cotton with a thick, soft knit and a crewneck fit you'll love. There's nothing 'plane' about it. It wouldn't be a Gap x Béis collection without new luggage, and the Carry-on Roller is a stunning pick that's been given the Gap treatment. Seeing as the brand is known for its timeless denim, this trusty suitcase now comes in a stunning baby blue shade, and Mitchell added, 'We did a little bit of a twist with the denim and teal blue [shade]. Even the actual suitcases have a little bit more of a texture to them, like a denim jean.' The hardside suitcase is fitted with four smooth 360-degree rolling wheels and a TSA-friendly lock to keep your belongings safely stored inside, and it's built with an expandable design to offer more packing space in a pinch. The interior contains compression straps that keep your clothing neatly folded and in place throughout your travels, and it even features a handy AirTag pocket for tracking on the go. Just like the rest of us, Mitchell is focused on achieving maximum comfort at the airport, but according to her, 'comfort doesn't just mean a sweat suit.' We tend to agree, which is why the Knit Denim Baggy Shorts are a true highlight from the collection as they're made from a sweatpant-like material that's as cozy as your favorite loungewear with a slightly more tailored fit. 'It looks like denim, but they're actually soft and comfortable—you would never know,' Mitchell raved. Shoppers were so smitten with the Knit Denim Baggy Jeans that they've already sold out in several sizes. But while you're waiting for a restock, these breathable shorts are an excellent alternative for the summer months that'll help you channel Mitchell's cool girl style into your own airport outfit. Best of all? They're unisex. An oversized button-down will always be a valuable, versatile addition to your travel wardrobe, which is exactly why Mitchell included the striped Poplin Dolman Big Shirt in the new collection—especially when paired with the Poplin Boxer Shorts. The loose-fitting button-down works as a comfy in-flight layer or a stylish top for a nice dinner or event, and it's made from a soft cotton fabric that'll remain gentle against your skin, even if you're just styling it over the $38 Seamless Logo Sports Bra. 'Being comfortable was always number one for me,' Mitchell shared, adding that the secondary priority was 'looking good while you travel.' This relaxed button-down will help you achieve both goals, not to mention it's perfect for all-season wear. Your new go-to travel backpack just dropped, and per Mitchell's unique design instruction, it's made of a soft yet durable denim material that'll hold up well through everything on your itinerary. Well-suited for adventuring and day-to-day life, the surprisingly spacious bag is crafted with thoughtful details like a padded laptop pocket, a built-in key leash, and a handy trolley sleeve at the back. While Mitchell touts the shopper-adored Weekender Bag as her favorite piece of luggage—'I just love everything about it and it makes everything so great to travel with,' she said—this best-selling backpack is a great alternative that easily slides under the airplane seat, holds everything you might need for in-flight use, and looks great with every outfit. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Associated Press
an hour ago
- Associated Press
Best Prepaid SIM Plans for Travelers (2025): Lyca Mobile Ranked Top Pick for International Coverage and Value by Expert Consumers
New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - August 5, 2025) - In its latest report, has named Lyca Mobile as the top choice for travelers seeking a reliable and flexible prepaid SIM plan in 2025. The ranking is based on an evaluation of international calling features, network coverage, ease of use, and cost control, making Lyca Mobile a practical option for those who need dependable mobile service while on the move. As international travel continues to grow, mobile access has become a core requirement. Whether managing remote work, navigating new cities, or staying connected to family abroad, travelers increasingly expect seamless and affordable communication options with plans starting at just $5/mo. Expert Consumers' analysis highlights how Lyca Mobile meets this demand by focusing on contract-free plans, broad global reach, and user-friendly setup. Prepaid SIM Plans for Travelers International Communication Without the Extra Steps [ This image cannot be displayed. Please visit the source: ] One of the most significant features contributing to Lyca Mobile's ranking is its inclusion of unlimited international calling to over 100 countries. This benefit is available across most of the provider's monthly plans, allowing travelers to make direct calls to both landlines and mobile numbers worldwide. Destinations span North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, helping users avoid reliance on Wi-Fi or third-party calling apps. This kind of built-in global access supports not only tourists and casual travelers, but also international students, digital nomads, and professionals working abroad who need a consistent way to communicate across time zones. Nationwide Network Backed by 5G Lyca Mobile uses T-Mobile's nationwide network to deliver 4G LTE and 5G coverage throughout the United States. This infrastructure ensures that users can expect reliable data and voice service in most urban centers, suburban communities, and many remote areas. For travelers unfamiliar with local connectivity options, having access to a well-established national network is essential for activities like navigation, rideshare coordination, and emergency communication. It also supports hotspot use, which is included in several of Lyca's plans. No Contracts and Simple Plan Options A key reason behind Lyca Mobile's appeal is its prepaid structure. All services are paid in advance, giving users the flexibility to start, pause, or change plans without penalties or long-term commitments. There are no activation fees, credit checks, or hidden charges. This is especially useful for short-term visitors, seasonal workers, or those managing travel across multiple countries. Users can select from a range of plans designed to match different data needs, whether for occasional messaging or for streaming and work. Quick Setup and Management Getting started with Lyca Mobile is designed to be straightforward. Users can order a physical SIM card online or purchase one in-store. For supported devices, eSIM is also available, allowing travelers to activate service without inserting a physical card. After selecting a plan, customers can activate it online in just a few minutes. During this process, they have the option to keep their existing number or request a new one. Once activated, service begins immediately, and users can manage their account or monitor usage via Lyca Mobile's website or mobile app. Flexible Plans with Frequent Promotions Lyca Mobile offers a range of plan types, each suited to different levels of usage. All plans include unlimited talk and text within the United States and international calling to 100 countries. The main differences lie in the amount of mobile data included and whether hotspot usage is supported. To appeal to a broad audience of travelers, Lyca Mobile regularly runs promotional pricing on its most popular plans. These discounts are often available to new customers or those opting into auto-renew, helping stretch mobile budgets without compromising on service quality. Lyca is running some great promotions at the moment - they have a $5/mo plan that includes unlimited talk, text, and 5GB of data in addition to free calling and texting to 100 countries. They also have a $12.25/mo plan with unlimited data, texts, and calls. It also includes a 10GB hotspot in addition to free calls and texts to 100 countries. Reflections on the 2025 Travel Landscape The Expert Consumers report notes a growing demand toward prepaid options in the post-pandemic travel market. Flexibility, transparency, and control are now seen as essential, particularly by travelers who are cost-conscious or managing unpredictable schedules. With its combination of broad international support, a strong U.S. network, contract-free plans, and straightforward activation, Lyca Mobile has adapted well to meet this new standard. The report suggests that providers focusing on real-world travel needs rather than just pricing are more likely to maintain relevance in this space. Read the full report at About Lyca Mobile Lyca Mobile is a global prepaid mobile provider known for its international calling capabilities and contract-free service. Operating on T-Mobile's nationwide network, Lyca Mobile offers fast 4G LTE and 5G coverage across the U.S. All of its plans include unlimited domestic talk and text, and most include international calling to more than 100 countries. With options for both physical SIM and eSIM activation, Lyca Mobile is a convenient choice for travelers seeking flexible, reliable connectivity without long-term commitments. About Expert Consumers delivers news and insights on consumer products and services. As an affiliate, Expert Consumers may earn commissions from sales generated using links provided. Contact: Drew Thomas ( [email protected] ) To view the source version of this press release, please visit
New York Times
an hour ago
- New York Times
How to Create a Family ‘Bleisure' Trip
Many parents who have flexibility to work remotely are stitching together summer family travel with work trips. This combination of business and leisure travel — known as 'bleisure' — targets the mismatch of parents with limited time off and kids who are out of school. A Deloitte 2025 summer travel industry study found that one-fourth of American workers traveling with kids said they planned to work during their longest trip of the summer — and they plan to extend those trips by an average of three days. Balancing work responsibilities with a change of scenery and activities for kids can offer respite from the daily grind, and it doesn't have to cost a fortune. Some people extend business trips, catching up with family after meetings. Many travelers crash with loved ones to cut costs, while others sublet their homes while they're on the road. Here are tips on managing work while getting away with family. Set expectations with your employer First, check your organization's remote work policy. Many companies have adopted norms, including dedicated work-from-anywhere periods, and 'summer Fridays' that employees can use to lengthen a weekend trip. Ask colleagues who have worked from the road for tips. Speak with your manager about your plans, including the working hours you'll be keeping. Come prepared to discuss dates, the duration of the experiment if it's a new one for your workplace, and your manager's priorities and concerns. Be prepared to make some trade-offs, as these more flexible ways of working can require concessions from both sides. Before the trip, try to set up meetings at your destination. If you work for a large organization, see if you can get face time with colleagues in the area. And you should make your availability and whereabouts clear to colleagues through Slack updates and out-of-office responses if you're taking weekdays off. Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
