I Got a Manicure Based on My Horoscope. This Is What Happened.

There’s a certain amount of anxiety that comes with choosing a nail polish at the salon. You stare at all the pretty options on display for what feels like an hour (actual time: 10 minutes) engaged in an internal debate as you hone in on the ideal hue. Recently, I decided to take all the guesswork out of choosing a nail polish by letting my horoscope decide my mani color for me. Yes, seriously.

At Enamel Diction, located in Mid-City LA, the stars quite literally align to reveal the the perfect polish for you. When you walk into the salon, you can’t help but be drawn to the nail polish display, which showcases shades organized by sign. Baby blues and seafoam greens are aligned with Pisces, navy and silver with Scorpio, and pale pinks and nudes with Libra. This curated collection of colors is enough to make an indecisive gal breathe a sigh of relief, but this is just the beginning.

With a bit more information about your birthday, Enamel Diction’s resident astrologer, Rose Theodora, can look up your natal chart and determine your unique colorscope. Your natal chart is based on your birth date, time and location, and it maps exactly where celestial bodies (the moon, the sun and the planets) were located when you were born. It is specific to you, so your colorscope is just about as personalized as it gets. According to the location of the planets on your astrological chart, colors signify certain traits, such as creativity, resourcefulness and confidence.

So what does nail polish have to do with all this? Rose, who also has a background in neuroscience and art history, explains how nail art can be used to reap the benefits of your colorscope. “Nail art is a new way of accessing a color’s energy because when you paint your nails, it lasts for two weeks. If I say, ‘wear yellow’ and you wear a shirt for a day, it’s not going to be very effective. This is a tangible way to incorporate color and astrology into your life.”

As Rose examined my natal chart, she began filling out my color prescription sheet, leaving notes next to colors of significance. I learned that black is a good go-to color for me, that gold is my career color and that I should opt for neon pink nails in the summer. She also noted that baby blue is my publishing color, so a laptop case in that shade would be a good way for me to incorporate the hue into my life in a meaningful way.

Rose explained that right now is the calm before a social engagement storm, so she wanted my manicure to keep me balanced. Then she explained her vision of nude nails with black french tips to the nail technician. The very talented nail technician who worked her magic on my nails, Noemi Diaz, is also a Leo, and we just so happen to share the same rising sign (how cosmic is that?). She has also manicured the likes of Shonda Rhimes, Kelly Rowland and Aimee Song, so I knew my hands were in very good hands.

I don’t have much experience with astrology aside from reading my horoscope in the backs of magazines, which it turns out, I was reading incorrectly (don’t forget to read for your rising sun!). Colorastrology was an illuminating experience, and I highly recommend trying out this new mani methodology, especially if you’re a skeptic like me. Walking out of the salon with my minimalist mani and a fresh take on my horoscope, I felt empowered to incorporate color into my life in a more meaningful way.

If you’re not based in LA, you can still experience colorastrology. E! Online has partnered with Enamel Diction and Rose Theodora to bring mani horoscopes to the masses. You can also visit Enamel Diction’s website and read Rose’s weekly colorscopes for additional horoscope mani inspiration. And if you really want that personalized experience, you can schedule a virtual colorscope reading with Rose and then take her nail art recommendations to your local salon.

Would you ever get a mani based on your horoscope? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

October 31 may seem light-years away, but if last-minute Halloween costumes stress you out, then you know it’s never too early to start planning for a killer getup. Makeup and hair are a given, but the perfect costume isn’t complete without an amazing mani. This year we’ve pulled out all the stops with a mega-roundup of the scariest, spookiest, and all-around amazing Halloween nails ever. From black-cat French tips to pumpkin-face nail art to the most stellar sugar-skull nails we’ve *ever* seen, here are 40 manicures that are basically costumes for your nails.


DIY Halloween Nail Art To Try

Brit + Co

Snakebite Nail Art

Okay, technically these have a little bit of red on them. But we think you’ll forgive us and our favorite nail artist SF Party Nail AKA Taylor Watson.

Bellacures

Red Blood French Tips

Your decision to dress as Jason Vorhees for Halloween won't be complete with these red blood french tips. They're the perfect complement to the faux bloody machete you'll be carrying.

Brit + Co

Golden Ratio

Perfect for the lazy-girl nail artist who wants to hit two holidays with just one mani. Do this on Halloween day and then carry it all the way into the New Year!

Brit + Co

Cute Cat Ear Tips

This is a great mani option for anyone and everyone who wants to be on the couch with their cats at any given moment. Just use a thinner brush to make the triangles for the ears. You can use another brush or even the tip of a bobby pin to dot on the eyes!

Bellacures

Burgundy Nails With Gold Flecks

Craft a sweet witch's brew to match your burgundy nails with gold flecks.

Keiko Lynn

Black + White FTW

We’re loving this multimedia version of *all* the Halloween themes.

Bellacures

Black With White Spider Nail Design

If you don't have a fear of spiders, let this white spider design help you craft the perfect Halloween treat.

Depois Dos Quinze

Stitch of Lilo & Stitch

Let these Hawaiian nails add some fun to your Halloween costume. Don’t worry, they won’t cause as much havoc as you think.

Bellacures

Black and White Spooky Halloween

Your scary Halloween costume won't be complete with this black and white nail design.

Bellacures

All That Glitters

If you love all things glam, you don't have to wait until New Years to go crazy with the glitter. Pick darker colors to make this mani extra moody.

Halloween Nail Art Inspo

www.instagram.com

Liza Waitzman on Instagram: "I hope these skeletal nails helped with her anatomy exams 🤣🤣🤣🤣 💀💀💀 • • • #anatomynails #anatomy #skeletalnails #skeletonnails #skeleton #lizawaitzman #dasnailhaus #nailgamestrong #ntnaliza #sandiego #sandiegonails #nails #nailart #dopenails #nailsonfleek #love #ilovemyjob #notd #nailsdid #nailsifinstagram #nailsmagazine #nailsmag #allhandpainted #handpaintednailart"

Bony Gal

Keep your Halloween digits looking eerie with a skeleton design scattered along your nails. A matte black and red polish underneath looks even more appropriate for the holiday.

www.instagram.com

• B R I T N I E S U E • on Instagram: "Natural almond shaped nails. Yes... NATURAL! Files By Less keeps the integrity of your natural nails in mind at all times! . . . Model: @j_me_katherine 🕷🕷 . . . Use code: brit05 at checkout for an additional 20% off PLUS FREE SHIPPING! #nailsbybritnie #handpainted #utahnails #naturalnails #marblenails #spidernails #gelpolish #blackout #dualcoat @nailpromagazine @unitednailcommunity @filesbyless"

Feelin’ Spidey

Scare the ish out of all the arachnophobes with your spooky spider nails.

www.instagram.com

Ashley Cristobal on Instagram: "👻"

Spooky Minimalist

A ghostly manicure instantly puts you in the Halloween spirit. Plus, if you’re more of a minimalistic gal, this simple design will ring true.

www.instagram.com

Cactus Blossom Nail Studio on Instagram: "Client #nailie! Nails for the Sturgis Rally! #gelpolish #gelmanicure #sturgis #sturgisrally #skullnails #bikernails #chrome #chromenails #floralnails #stripenails"

Sweet Skulls

Even if you’re not a fan of Halloween, these designs let you take part in October fun without the spook factor. This manicure is trendy and colorful and will match any outfit you pair it with.

www.instagram.com

Brittney aka Nailgazms ✨ on Instagram: "My client decided to change up her shape and go BOLD! #nailgazms #halloweennails #halloween #mattenails #nailfoil #pointednails #stilettonails #nails #nailart #nailtech #nailsmagazine October.23.2016"

Mixed Finishes

You don’t have to deck out your digits in skulls and ghosts to be festive. A fancy orange and black mani gives you just the right amount of edgy flair.

www.instagram.com

Rebecca McParland on Instagram: "I see you 👀 #handpaintednailart #handpaintednails #orangenails #summernailart #summernails #nailtrends #shortnails #coffinshapenails #shortcoffinnails #eyes #eyenails #eyenailart #weirdnails #cutenails #creepynails #lovenails #nailartist #nailartqueen #nailart #naildesigns #nailideas #bestnailtechs #bestnailsalon #awardwinningsalon #blueeyes #nailstyle"

Orange Evil Eye

The evil eye can mean a curse in many cultures around the world. What better way to celebrate the spooky holiday than with protective nails featuring these talismans?

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Madeline Poole on Instagram: "@sally_hansen cuticles :)"

Twist on a French

Pair your black polish with a simple white to elevate and invert this classic, yet very Halloween-appropriate, finish.

www.instagram.com

Shimmer and Spiders

Statement nails featuring sparkles and spider webs turn the dial up on Halloween glam. Balance it out with a neutral gray shade as your base color or keep it negative with a bare nail layered with a top coat.

www.instagram.com

✨ on Instagram: "In Loveeeeee ✨ #biancascantina #chicagonails #chicagonailtech #littlevillagenails #nailsofinstagram #cateye #purple💜 #nailed #nails💅 #nailart #nailporn #nailswag #naildesigns #nailsonfleek #nailsaddict #nailgasm #ombre #ombrenails #blacknails #blackombrenails #blackandnude"

Scratch It Up

Destroyed ombre nails feel spooky but still stylish. Achieve this jagged mani look by coating your nail with black and using a scratcher tool to uncover the natural hue underneath.

www.instagram.com

Sarah Berry on Instagram: "Super cute black cat 🐱 Halloween nails for Lisa! I couldn't find the artist's name, but the inspo was found on Pinterest! 😽 #berrygoodnailz #nailart #freehandnailart #nails #blackcat #blackcatnails #halloween #halloweennails #halloweennailart #catnails #catnailart #cateyes #gelish #harmonygelish #blacknails #opiproducts #opi #gelnails #naturalnails #portland #portlandmaine #maine"

Spooky Kitty

Instead of opting for the scary nail art route, go spooky. Cute, pointy-eared kitties are purrfect for Halloween.

www.instagram.com

Chillhouse on Instagram: "For the inner artist in you 🎨 Tier II Design “Matisse” by @dawasnailart."

Squiggly Black Lines

Start off with a neutral base coat, then get funky with dark and random squiggly lines.

www.instagram.com

𝖛𝖆𝖑𝖔𝖗𝖎 𝖇𝖔𝖘𝖘 on Instagram: "Blood in water for Ciara💉♥️ . . . #gaudyoctopusnails #thenailroomslc #bloodynails #bloodnails"

Bloody Nails

This spine-tingling nail art will give you all the holiday feels this October. Drip polish down from your cuticles, and clean up your skin with a nail polish remover-soaked cotton swab. Done and done.

www.instagram.com

Moody and Matte

Feel like sporting your artsy side? Paint an entire creepy scene onto your nails for a unique mani. Adding a matte top coat lets the designs be seen even better.

www.instagram.com

Marble Print

This looks tough but is actually fairly easy. Begin by using black nail polish and a small brush dipped in acetone, draw on lines with the polish and then blur them by swirling with the brush.

www.instagram.com

Paintbox on Instagram: "This graphic, black + white mani is a minimalist’s dream."

Art Dark-O

One small black line from top to bottom of your nail bed makes for an artsy addition to a skeleton-inspired Halloween look.

www.instagram.com

Candy Corn

It’s easy and it’s a classic. Just a warning: You may have to resist the urge to nibble your fingers!

www.instagram.com

Natalie Pavloski on Instagram: "Lewks for @_toandfrom_"

Shattered Nails

Give your fingers some sharp angles to give the illusion of jagged nails.

www.instagram.com

Natalie Minerva on Instagram: "MATTE + GLOSS by @natalieminerva 💅🏼✨✌🏼to book an appointment with Natalie at NAIL SWAG #dtla please call/text 213-458-5989 or book online at NAILSWAG.COM #gelnails #nailart #nailswag"

Matte and Glossy Meet

Spice up the typical matte nail with a glossy French tip.

www.instagram.com

Delia on Instagram: "It’s Summertime for the Monsters! I’m still feeling the Halloween manis with a summer spin, so what do the monsters do in the off season? Wear pastels and eat ice cream, of course! I was SO inspired by @superninjaflyingmonkey’s recent pastel pop art Frankenstein mani that I immediately started planning my own version. Since I do not have the fantastic Frankie eating ice plate Jolene used, I had to get creative. This mani was so fun to do! The down side is that I literally spent my entire day yesterday working on it! I’m quite proud that I managed to use a completely different color combo on of my 10 fingers! That probably had a lot to do with how time consuming it was! 😅Not to mention the tiny details in the ice cream and popsicles almost killed me! And a double layered reverse stamp, too. You better believe I’m keeping these on ALLLLL week, ha. I will try to get some help taking pics of my right hand later. Anyway I hope you guys like my Frankie and his bride pastel pop art mani! #frankensteinnails #popartnails #uberchicbeauty #BMS201 #essieblossomdandy #chinaglazelimeafterlime #chinaglazewhipitgood #fingerpaintshueknew #salonperfectbellini #sallyhansenpinkblink #summernails #halloweennails #everydayishalloween #reversestamping #advancedstamping"

Frankenstein Stitches

We’re already haunted by this funky, yet totally appropriate Frankenstein pop art.

www.instagram.com

shoreditch nails on Instagram: "Loooving these Picasso inspired nails for @francescasaffari #shoreditchnails"

Picasso Line Art

Halloween doesn’t have to be all about zombies and mummies. Instead, try a fine-art approach that’s still wacky enough for the holiday.

www.instagram.com

Olivia Gordon on Instagram: "#nightmarebeforechristmasnails #nightmarebeforechristmas"

Halloween Collage

Can’t decide which Halloween fave to go with? Use a different nail for each October 31 icon so no one misses out.

www.instagram.com

Maddie Paulson on Instagram: "It’s a classic. And it’s my favorite. #jackskellingtonnails #mattenails #nailsarefriendsnotfood"

Jack Skellington

We love this black, white, and sparkly tribute to a Halloween classic.

www.instagram.com

Disney Princesses

If you can’t decide which Disney princess you want to be this year, then just be all of them! This mani shows off their goofy side because even a Disney princess knows how to have fun too.

Halloween Nails You Can Buy

Dashing Diva

Dashing Diva Glow Potion Gloss Palette

Add some magic to your nails with a glow-in-the-dark set that features all your favorite Halloween motifs with a fun color palette.

Etsy

Black Bat Halloween Nails

Switch up your base color every time you add one (or multiple) of these stickers, and you'll get a different look every single time!

Etsy

Black Spider Web Press On Nails

The coolest part about these Halloween nails is the two-in-one finish they have. Even though they're monochromatic, the glossy and matte textures provide some unexpected contrast. (via LilyNailsArt/Etsy)

Etsy

Ghost Nails

The detail on these tips stand out against the simple base, and add a spooky touch to all your fall outfits!

Glamnetic

Lady Web

Give your spidery web nails a cute update with these press-on nails! The glitter will make them less spooky as you brew one of your famous Halloween cocktails.

Walmart

Salon Perfect Matte Checkered Cat Nails

Witchy nails are meant to be as chic as they are thrilling. Lucky for us, Salon Perfect understood the assignment when they created these cute matte checkered cat nails!

Walmart

Salon Perfect Black Moon Ombre Nails

Dressing up as a mysterious and sexy tarot reader for Halloween? Don't forget to add these black moon ombre nails to your costume.

Want more Halloween nail art and beauty inspiration? Be sure to check out our Pinterest page!

This post has been updated.

"What would you do if your entire family, and your hometown, set you up to find love?" That's the question Ashley Williams poses in the first Small Town Setup trailer, coming to Hallmark+ in 2025. And if anyone has the answer, I have no doubt it's Hallmark — if anyone knows about warm, cozy, and sappy romance it's them! Even if you're not a huge reality dating show fan (or if you couldn't stop watching Reese Witherspoon's Love in Fairhope) this is one January TV show you won't want to miss.

Here's everything we know about Hallmark's dating show Small Town Setup, hosted by Ashley Williams.

'Small Town Setup' puts you right in a Hallmark movie.

All six episodes of Small Town Setup premieres on Hallmark+ on Thursday, January 2, 2025, and is hosted by Ashley Williams, who you'll recognize from movies like Falling Together and Two Tickets to Paradise as well as How I Met Your Mother.

Just like your favorite Hallmark movies are all about finding love, Small Town Setup focuses on singles coupling up. The show will follow a single who "has made it in the big city, but has yet to find love." And their concerned parents (definitely a Hallmark trope and an IRL trope...) get the whole neighborhood involved in finding three potential matches.

"When the singleton arrives home for a visit, they are presented with dating options curated by their hometown. After three dates, will they find love in their hometown? Or head back to the big city? All is revealed at a big town hall event, full of heart, warmth, and a few laughs along the way."

Okay, getting the entire town involved in my love life sounds crazy, but the whole community coming together for a town hall event sounds exactly like the kind of sweet and sappy event my life needs. (Listen!! Dating as a 20-something in the city is harder than I expected...)

Throughout the trailer we see our singles looking for love around their hometown, going on small town dates, and finding connection in the most unexpected places. Yeah...I'll be tuning in — especially since Small Town Setup is totally giving Gilmore Girls.

Check out the 11 New January 2025 Movies Viewers Will Adore — and you'll want to add to your calendar ASAP!

My French manicure has overstayed it's welcome, but it's only because I've been so busy saving fall nail ideas to my Pinterest board for next season. I've officially checked out of summer because there's almost always a daily heat wave or run-in with a pesky mosquito that thinks it's discovered liquid courage within my legs' veins. I'm over it, and more than ready for fall!

Do you need some new autumnal options too? Good, then get in because we're going shopping! Get ready to take as many screenshots as your phone can handle because the fall nail ideas are going to make sure you're ready for cozy weather and spooky season.

Stylish Fall Nail Ideas

KISS

Kiss Voguish Fantasy Press-On Nails (Unbroken Love)

Whether you've got fashion week or pumpkin spice season on your mind, these nails have fall written all over them. Okay, they technically have 'love' and cute French chrome accents on them, but you get what I mean.

They're subtle enough to match fall's cozy vibes without fading into obscurity and it's the type of thing I love. I'd personally wear this nail idea as soon as fall starts to show my gratitude for my favorite season.

They serve as the perfect transition between two seasons so you could actually get them a few days before summer ends!

Jasmine Williams

Black And White Abstract Nails

Don't count abstract nails out because there's still a way to make them work for fall. Opt for a black and white color palette to serve as your base while letting the hand drawn designs do most of the talking.

This is still one of my favorite sets to date because it went with everything outfit I chose to wear. Athleisure? No problem. Cowgirl status? You bet!

Bellacures

French Metallic Nails

Love the first couple of fall nail ideas, but want to focus on a chrome French manicure? You've come to the right place!

Similar to the first idea, these nails can be transitional because they're ambiguous and aren't beholden to any rules. You can request these at your nail next appointment or you can wait to debut them after fall's been around for a month.

They'll go with plenty of the fall fashion ideas you're saving to your Pinterest board.

Target

Chillhouse Chill Tips Nail Art Press On Fake Nails (Gone Glamping)

I know you plan to go glamping this fall, so let your nails match nature with a pop of forest green! It's arguable whether you should wear press-on nails in the great outdoors, but no one said you had to do any of the heavy lifting.

If you plan to keep existing in your soft girl era, these press-on nails from Chillhouse are a cute fall nail idea to take on your overnight trip in the forest.

Paintlab

PAINTLAB Tortie Press-on Nails

If you don't buy these press-on nails, I surely will! I love anything tortoise shell — I'll run up the hill towards it every time. It's this close to replacing my love for leopard print, but that's TBD. The point is, these nails are another great fall staple to have.

The only fall rule I have is that varying shades of brown and black together create the best fall neutral. Once you pair it with a rounded almond nail shape, you have one of the best fall nail ideas out there.

I could tell you to stop scrolling because you don't need anymore options, but there's still so much more to explore!

Cozy Fall Nail Ideas

Target

Olive & June Press-on Oval Medium Fake Nails

If you're taking a break from nail art, focus on getting basic nail colors! You can still wear press-on nails this fall, but you'll look like a chic Editor from Runway magazine with these oxblood nails.

You'll be able to secure them with non-toxic and on-damaging glue which is a relief. No one said anything about cute fall styles and damaged nails!

Londontown

Londontown Posh Forever Metallic Nail Polish

Give yourself a gorgeous gel manicure at home with Londontown's metallic nail polish! Thanks to the amazing formula of proprietary kur care, you'll receive a nice dose of strength, moisture, and cute fall nails with each brush stroke.

Also, it's obvious that this nail polish is a must-have for anyone who's been counting waiting to order their drink from the Starbucks fall menu. As you can see, it looks gorgeous against a cream rib knit sweater! You can also pair it with neutral matching sets while you're at it.

Ella + Mila

Ella + Mila Bags Are Packed Blue Nail Polish

Jewel tones are so fall, so go for a true blue nail polish like this one by Ella + Mila. It doesn't contain any animal-derived ingredients which is great for anyone who prefers vegan beauty products. It also dries really quick and claims to be chip-resistant. That's a great feature if you use your hands a lot!

Bellacures

Peek-a-boo Black Nail Polish

Classic black nails will always be in. You can call these nails moody, but it doesn't change the fact they're going to be the most versatile idea you wear this fall.

Since there's no additional rhinestones or nail designs associated with this idea, you can actually recreate this at home. It can be your way of saving money so you don't have to choose between toilet paper and wine à la Shonda Rhimes.

Spooky Fall Nail Ideas

Glamnetic

Glamnetic Sandworm Press-On Nails

"Look! You've been to Saturn! I've been to Saturn! Whoa, sandworms, you hate ’em, right" is one of my favorite unhinged quotes from Beetlejuice that match these press-on nails perfectly.

Since we're finally getting a long-awaited sequel to the cult classic, it feels fitting that I include these beauties in the fall nail ideas roundup. They mix a bit of the sandworms' design with the classic Beetlejuice suit I love to see Michael Keaton wear so I think this means you just discovered your Halloween costume. 👀

Walmart

Salon Perfect Halloween Press-on Nails (Orange Pumpkin)

The first movie I think about when I see these nails is Scream. That's one of my favorite teen slasher films that I still watch to this day so I love how these designs seem to pay homage to Ghostface.

The pumpkins and orange crochet lines are an added touch that takes the edge off the 'killer' aspect which may make some people feel more comfortable looking at your nails. Then again, it doesn't really matter if other people don't get them.

Bellacures

Spooky Spider Nails

Undoubtedly someone doesn't have a fear of spiders and I applaud you for having the courage I don't. So, if you're trying to think of your next spooky Halloween costume, let these nails be your guiding light.

They're deliciously witchy and seem like you can conjure pumpkins to break out in a jubilated song.

The current season isn't over yet so check out 33 summer nails we love!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Header image via Bellacures

Tourism can be a blessing for the economy of many cities around the world, but it often comes at a price. Destinations like Venice and Bali are iconic for a reason — they’re unique, breathtaking places that lure travelers from around the globe. But when a travel destination becomes too popular, it risks losing its charm and overcrowding can strain infrastructure, inflate costs for locals, and disrupt the peace and quiet of small, serene towns.

Here are 12 destinations that have struggled with overtourism. The good news? Many are implementing smart strategies to balance tourism with sustainability. Planning to visit? Consider booking during the off-season for a more authentic and enjoyable experience or try these hidden gems.

Pixabay

Venice, Italy

Cruise ships and swarms of tourists have overwhelmed this picturesque city, leading to overcrowded canals, damaged infrastructure, and skyrocketing prices. The local population is dwindling as Venetians leave due to the city’s unsustainable tourism boom. Last spring, in an effort to manage the influx, the city put into effect an entry fee for day-trippers and has limited cruise ships docking its shores.

Oleksandr P

Bali, Indonesia

Once an idyllic paradise, Bali now suffers from traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and overcrowded beaches. The island’s resources are strained under the weight of mass tourism, but there are efforts underway to promote sustainability like putting a moratorium on new hotels.

Willian Justen de Vasconcellos

Machu Picchu, Peru

Overtourism has led to erosion and damage to this ancient Incan citadel. A quota system and mandatory guides are helping preserve this popular South American destination.

Darren Lawrence

Tulum, Mexico

Once a tranquil paradise known for its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and eco-chic vibe, Tulum has become a cautionary tale of overtourism. The surge in popularity, fueled by Instagram-worthy scenery, has brought overcrowding, environmental strain, and rising costs. The Guardianreported that locals are being pushed out by developers and despite the thinking that tourism helps local communities, poverty nearly doubled between 2015 and 2020. Local ecosystems, including fragile mangroves and coral reefs, are threatened by unchecked construction and pollution too. The local ruins have implemented stricter rules like no food or drink to limit trash and environmental impact from tourists.

Jimmy Teoh

Santorini, Greece

Instagram fame has turned this once-serene island into a tourist hotspot. Narrow streets are perpetually clogged, and locals are struggling with soaring costs of living due to tourism demand. The government has since capped the number of daily cruise ship visitors to keep overtourism at bay.

Chait Goli

Cinque Terre, Italy

Known for its colorful cliffside villages and breathtaking coastal views, these once-quiet fishing towns now see millions of visitors annually, way more than they can handle. To combat issues like congestion and cruise ships, local authorities have introduced visitor caps and encourage sustainable travel to protect Cinque Terre’s charm.

Rudy Kirchner

Reykjavík, Iceland

Is there anyone not going to Iceland these days? A small country with breathtaking landscapes, Iceland has been overwhelmed by tourists flocking to Instagram-famous sites like the Blue Lagoon and Diamond Beach. It's best to travel during the off season (November to April) and travel to lesser known spots like the Sturlungalaug hot spring.

youseflns

Maya Bay, Thailand (Phi Phi Islands)

This iconic beach, popularized by the DiCaprio film The Beach, suffered ecological devastation from hordes of visitors and anchored boats. Coral reefs were destroyed, and the beach was closed for years to allow recovery. It has since reopened after a huge revitalization project, but they have introduced visitor caps.

Pixabay

Kyoto, Japan

Traditionally quiet streets of this ancient capital city now teem with tourists during peak season. An increase in litter from tourists has required the city to install more trash bins to handle the crowds, and peaceful geishas are often chased down for photos. To mitigate the problem, Kyoto is considering running special buses to popular sites to reduce overcrowding, and temples and shrines are encouraging visitors to come early in the morning.

Prabin Sunar

Mount Everest, Nepal

The ultimate challenge for adventurers, Mount Everest has experienced overcrowding on the slopes and at base camps, leading to dangerous conditions, with litter and human waste piling up on the mountain. Permits are now harder to get, and stricter regulations for climbers are being enforced.

Mateusz Popek

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Game of Thrones effect brought an influx of fans to this medieval city. Overcrowded streets and cruise ship arrivals have made it difficult to appreciate its beauty. The local government is taking steps to limit daily visitors and impose stricter cruise ship regulations.

Helena I

Lisbon, Portugal

Short-term rentals dominate the housing market now, thanks to affordable flights and the digital nomad craze. This has led to skyrocketing rents and displaced locals. Historic neighborhoods are inundated with tourists, making them less charming too. Everything from public transport to waste management struggles to keep pace with the influx. I went in December and it still felt a bit like Disneyland. Douro Valley and Madeira might be more favorable destinations any time of year.

Cure your wanderlust in 2025! Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more travel ideas!

Heaping plates of Christmas cookies are synonymous with the holidays. It seems that nearly every country around the globe has their own variation on the holiday classic. In fact, some of these regions have been making their version of Christmas cookies for literal hundreds of years.

If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with your heritage, or maybe just want a little baking inspiration, check out our picks for the yummiest Christmas cookies from around the world.

The Noshery

Mantecaditos con Guayaba

These may look like ordinary thumbprint cookies, but these almond shortbreads from Puerto Rico are filled with a special guava marmalade. (via The Noshery)

Broma Bakery

Meringues

French meringues are a classic crumbly egg white cookie with a chewy interior. These get an extra European twist with the addition of Nutella. (via Broma Bakery)

Pretty. Simple. Sweet.

Alfajores

Deeply flavored dulce de leche, a caramel made from whole milk commonly found in Spain and many Latin American countries, is the key ingredient in these super pretty sandwiched Christmas cookies. (via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.)

Fancy Peasant

Melomakarona

These Christmas cookies that hail from Greece get their sweetness from a generous soaking of fresh honey! (via Fancy Peasant)

Very Eatalian

Baci di Dama

The name of this Italian treat translates to “lady’s kisses” — how adorable is that? These bite-sized cuties are made with ground hazelnuts and filled with a dollop of dark chocolate. (via Very Eatalian)

Cooking Classy

Linzer Cookies

These Austrian Christmas cookies are typically made with raspberry jam, but feel free to get crazy with a filling of your choice. Plus, the gorgeous windowpane look will make them a prize takeaway at your next cookie exchange. (via Cooking Classy)

Olivia’s Cuisine

Basler Brunsli

If you’re hanging out in Switzerland around Christmas time, you’ll definitely see these chocolate treats around. They’re often described as Swiss brownies due to their deliciously chewy texture. Perfect with a cup of eggnog or coffee! (via Olivia’s Cuisine)

Cilantro Parsley

Buñuelos

These tender miniature fritters from Mexico are a mix between a donut and cookie. Whatever you want to call them, they’re delicious. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Chef Lindsey Farr

Apricot Kolachys

The Hungarians definitely know what’s up when tart apricot jam gets wrapped in a blanket of flaky pastry. They’re a bright spot on a cold Christmas day. (via Chef Lindsey Farr)

Life, Love and Sugar

Cutout Sugar Cookies

In the United States, a plate of these festively decorated sugar cookies is just what Santa ordered. (via Life, Love and Sugar)

Saveur

Polvorones

You’ll find these simple pecan shortbread cookies all over Mexico around this time of year. The coating of powdered sugar and canela, a type of Mexican cinnamon, really bring the flavor to the next level. (via Saveur)

A Healthy Life for Me

Pignoli

These Italian Christmas cookies are made of a chewy almond base and topped with pine nuts. (via A Healthy Life for Me)

Fancy Peasant

Kourabiedes

These Greek Christmas cookies feature a buttery biscuit topped with mass amounts of powdered sugar. (via Fancy Peasant)

Does your family have a traditional cookie recipe for the holidays? Tag us @BritandBo in your Instagram photos and let us know!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Lead image via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.