DIVE RIGHT IN

These 10 lakes go to all the right extremes—highest, deepest, clearest—and showcase nature at its most spectacular. Soak up the views from a boat, a cable car, a trailhead, or a castle tower. read more

FROM OUR BLOG: THIS JUST IN

For centuries, the battle between man and beast has played out in Spanish arenas, with about 13,500 bulls killed yearly. But a recent vote from local parliament will block the sport from taking place in Barcelona and the rest of northeast Catalonia as of January 2012. What's your take: Is bullfighting a cultural treasure, or a cruel blood sport? post a comment

TRIP COACH

The upside is huge—free lodging in a home anywhere in the world—but that doesn't mean house swapping is for everyone. We'd like to help you avoid problems and get the best experience possible. So send us your questions, and we'll address the best topics in an upcoming Trip Coach column. ask us

EXIT INTERVIEW

San Diego resident Jessica Beattie and her cousin Emily Peterson spent two weeks traveling through Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an on the lookout for tailored clothes, tea, and authentic food. read more