Easter baskets aren’t just for kids. Just because Easter egg hunts, multi-colored jelly beans, baskets full of chocolate bunnies are traditionally considered to be kid stuff doesn’t mean adults can’t get in on the Easter fun. Of course, not every adult is looking to stuff themselves with chocolate… not all the time, anyway. So if you’re packing an Easter basket for a grown up, you might want to get a little more creative and chock it full of some spring-inspired goodies that are just as festive as a Cadbury egg.
We have a serious appreciation for all things creative, like these plus-size Halloween costumes, and we have a hunch you’ll love some of our newest finds, too. Afterward, if you still haven’t decided on which costume to wear this Halloween, gather your group of besties and get their opinion — or, better yet, pick out a group Halloween costume, and you can all dress up together! Here are 40 of the most curve-lovin’ (and seriously hot) plus-size Halloween costumes you’ll find out there this season.
Yandy
Cruella de Vil
Cruella de Vil will always hold a special place among our most-feared villains, right alongside Voldemort and Ursula. After all, she’s going after puppies! But on Halloween, the celebration of the gruesome and morbid, this evilness equates to fabulousness, and we’ll more than forgive you for dressing up like her… just this once.
Walmart
Maleficent
Channel your deepest, darkest powers and channel your inner Maleficent this Halloween. “So you see, the story is not quite as you were told.”
Amazon
Cozy Deer
Wait, so we can look cute *and* be toasty-warm?! We’re sayin’ yes to this fuzzy zip-up.
Yandy
Sexy Stewardess
Get ready for liftoff in this flight attendant costume. If you’re a travel-lover, this is the perfect way to bring your passion into your costume.
Brit + Co
DIY Jessica Rabbit Costume
This has to be the ultimate curvy bombshell character to channel on Halloween. The dress, gloves, hair, and makeup are bold and will definitely put your bangin’ bod front and center. (via Brit + Co)
Amazon
Sexy Kitty
Frisky attitude not included. This plus size Halloween costume might look simple, but it’s anything but basic.
Amazon
Flapper Girl
There’s nothing as fun — and a little dangerous — as the glitz and glamour of the ’20s. Throw on a long string of pearls or do your makeup to look like a ghostly flapper for that extra creative edge.
Brit + Co
DIY Ursula Costume
We’ll always be a sucker for classic Disney costumes. And if you want to give Ursula that extra-special take, you can follow this relatively simple DIY for the costume contest win! (via Brit + Co)
Halloween Costumes
Sea Siren Mermaid
This is — hands down — one of the best mermaid costumes we’ve ever seen. From the form-fitting metallic mermaid “tail” to the bustier top, this is for sure a look to emulate if you want to flaunt your curves.
Yandy
Storybook Alice
Down the rabbit hole you go this Halloween. You never know what’s going to happen when you channel this fairytale classic!
Halloween Costumes
Sea Siren
You had us at gold, sequins, and tulle. Oh, and we’re always down to rule the sea!
Amazon
Beauty And The Beast Belle
We’ll always love our classic Disney princesses, especially this beauty.
Amazon
Minnie Mouse
You don’t need a Mickey to look fly as heck in a retro-inspired Minnie Mouse getup.
Amazon
Empress Divine
One of the best reasons to dress up as an ancient Egyptian is obviously the cat-eye makeup.
Amazon
Goth Red Riding Hood
Pay homage to one of your favorite fairy tales with a sexy twist. Plus, if you haven’t worn a cape before, you truly haven’t lived.
Amazon
Flirty Cop
It may be illegal to impersonate a police officer, but no one ever said a flirty cop was off-limits!
Halloween Costumes
Cinderella Fairy Godmother
We could all use a fairy godmother, albeit notthis scheming one from Shrek. Still, this is a hilarious costume, and we’re definitely eyeing that wand and wig combo.
Amazon
Harley Quinn
We’re impressed with the mismatched thigh-highs and color-coordinated armbands on this plus-size Halloween costume.
Amazon
Cozy Bat Costume
The name of this costume says it all. If you’re in the mood to prioritize comfort, you’ll feel extra-snuggly in this cozy bat costume.
Amazon
Ghostbuster
If you loved the all-female Ghostbusters as much as we did, grab your friends and go as the whole crew. The best part? On Halloween, there will be plenty of monsters to bust, which makes a great conversation-starter!
Amazon
Queen Bee
Everyone at this year's Halloween party will be buzzing about you in this flattering bee costume. You are the queen, after all!
Amazon
Oktoberfest Fraulein
The beer maid costume is always a safe choice. It’s cute and classic, and you get to wear pigtails.
Amazon
Snow White
If you’re going to wear this outfit out on the town, you’ll definitely have at least seven admirers following you wherever you go.
Amazon
Pinup Sailor
Sail the open seas with this cute and comfy sailor costume. This retro getup is all about the accessories!
Yandy
Miss Muerte
Another way to celebrate Halloween is to celebrate the dead. Do it in style with this awesome costume.
Amazon
Cozy Skeleton
If you’re into traditional bones, this comfy number will surely scare the living dead out of you.
Amazon
Grease Pink Lady
This is the perfect Halloween costume for when you don’t really want to dress up. Flats? Check! Awesome jacket to keep you warm? Double check!
Walmart
Supergirl
No one is going to mess with you in this costume, and you just might feel faster than a speeding bullet.
Halloween Costumes
Spanish Senorita
With plenty of sass and a whole lot of ruffles, this costume will have you dancing for joy.
Amazon
Mrs. Incredible
Be your own superhero with this sleek Elastigirl costume. You would look totally incredible in it.
Amazon
Dark Alice
We wouldn’t drink the tea that this Alice serves. While we do love the original blue that Disney’s Alice wears, we are really digging this all-black dress too.
Amazon
Batgirl
Trick-or-treat in the name of justice! Grab Superman and bring him along too, because you two are friends now, remember?
Amazon
Hippie
Keep this Halloween totally tubular by donning this adorable retro dress with go-go boots and a fun '70s eye makeup look!
Amazon
Friday The 13th Miss Voorhees
If you’re team Jason, then you need to buy this sexy number. While we’re not sure who would ultimately win this fight, we’re sure this outfit is already winning our hearts.
Walmart
Justice League Wonder Woman
While Superman is cool and all, we are particularly fond of Wonder Woman. She’s a badass chick that we are ready to represent. Flying an invisible jet doesn’t hurt, either.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
"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!
Halloween is supposed to be full of spooky surprises, freaky frights, and twisted thrills – but even though we really do love ALL the scary Halloween costumes, we also enjoy killing the disguise game in hilariously original, pun-filled get-ups. This year, consider swapping out that “pretty” look for some much-needed humor to any and every spooky gathering. Scroll on for 85 of the most hysterically ridiculous Halloween costume ideas — guaranteed to help you bring the funny and keep the Halloween party laughing all night long.
Brit + Co
Thing 1 and Thing 2
Get joined at the hip like these iconic Dr. Seuss characters in simple blue wigs and red maxis. “Today is your day. Your mountain is waiting!” (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Wrecking Ball
That’s right; we turned Brit’s belly into Miley’s wrecking ball. Miley's signature face and tongue are optional.(via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Broad City
We give all our "yesses" to Broad City and the two kweens that are comedy geniuses – Abbi and Ilana. If you haven’t seen this episode intro yet, you HAVE to. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Bowie Emojis
It’s officially time to put on your red shoes and dance the blues, baby. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Lisa Frank and a Unicorn
Be sure to hit up your local Goodwill store for all the inspo. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Sue Surprise
ICYMI, the SNL skitfeatures Kristen Wiig in one of our all-time favorite roles. First, do your homework (AKA watch the clip) and then have a field day with this kooky character. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
The Revenant
This movie is so intense we think it’s worth recreating for years to come. And whether you’re Leo or the ferocious bear, you’re sure to have an epic Halloween holiday. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
The Simple Life
We still can’t get over the fact that these two once had a show where they entered the blue-collar world and worked among the rest of us. Recreate this throwback costume and make sure to bring the ‘tude. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Egg
This punny costume is fun because of the whole “egg” thing but also because it takes a matter of minutes to put together! Just add felt! (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Hipster
Our favorite — but at the same time our least favorite — type of man. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
LaCroix Boy
We know you want to. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Abbi and Ilana from Broad City
From season three’s “Game Over” episode where Abbi competes in the Soulstice Games and Ilana loses her job at Deals! Deals! Deals!, this costume pairing just might be two of the show’s most iconic looks. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Ghostbusters
You’ll never believe it, but the secret behind this funny Halloween costume is Tupperware containers! (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
’80s Andre Agassi and a Tennis Ball
This goofy couple’s costume is really cute, even sans bump. It’s time to win an ace on that contest – match point, y’all. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Forrest Gump and Lieutenant Dan
Channeling your inner Gary Sinise and Tom Hanks for the duo to end all duos. Run, Forrest, run! (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Hocus Pocus
We love this witchy twist! “I put a spell on you, and now you’re mine.” (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Cher and Dionne from Clueless
If you’re totally buggin’ over what costume to wear, why not bring out your inner Cher from this classic ’90s film? Or, whatever. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Pokémon
Pikachu and Ash are always a popular duo during Halloween, so be as creative as possible when dressing up your pets. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Target Lady
Watch and learn in this SNL skit starring Kristen Wiig, who deserves a Halloween character every single year. Hot chicken! (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Netflix + Chill
This is the ultimate couple’s costume that will have all your friends saying 'yassss.' Netflix and chill probably win for hilarious yet kinda sexy slang, and this outfit is so easy to DIY, too. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Throwback Snapchat Filters
These Snapchat filters are easy to DIY with some face paint and perseverance. Learn how to do a puppy, bee, or flower crown filter for the Halloween makeup tutorial win. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Treasure Troll
The key here is getting that wig just right. It’s like backcombing on steroids. The other key? You’ve gotta completely own this look. Like we said, it’s a bold move for anyone to wear what is basically a nude suit, so make sure you have fun with it.(via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Mean Girls
Pay homage to the ultimate Mean Girls movie by dressing up as the clique. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Kristen Wiig as Dooneese
This SNL character wears all kinds of outfits, so find the craziest dress at a thrift store to channel your best Dooneese. The key piece is, of course, the tiny hands! (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Grace and Frankie
So you’ve already tried Cher and Dionne and Thelma and Louise. Next on the list with your BFF: these two sassy women are from our fave Netflix hit, Grace and Frankie. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Real Housewives
Grab a glass of rosé, a Grey Goose with lots and lots of lemons, or even a bottle of skinny margarita mix and work it on Halloween night as a quotable, fearless star of Bravo’s iconic series. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Saved by the Bell
You pretty much have to dress like a cast member of this show at least once in your life. Halloween is nothing if not an excuse to enjoy all of our favorite throwback styles. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Gangnam Style
Remember how this video went crazy viral?! We sure do. And TBH, it doesn’t really ever get old. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Beetlejuice
Eyeballs and serious DIY mask-making skills are required for this monster version of the couple stuck in the attic in one of our favorite spooky flicks. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
David S. Pumpkins and the Skeletons
If you’ve yet to see this SNL‘s skit that this costume is based on, then TBH, you haven’t really lived. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Waldo and Wenda
You can never go wrong with classic picture book characters like these two. But can you pick them out of the party crowd? (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Gay Royalty
Fellow peasants, thou princes have arrived to rule the land and look dang good, too. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Bananas in Pyjamas
Let’s be real — the showBananas in Pyjamasis pretty bizarre. But since we love eating bananas and we love wearing comfy pajamas, it kind of works, right?! (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Dino Duo
Quickly transform you and your bae or bestie into prehistoric creatures with this simple felt DIY, and you’ll be getting your roar on in no time. Be sure to practice that perfect dinosaur walk. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Andy Warhol and Marilyn Monroe Pop Art
We think Marilyn said it best: “Give a girl the right pair of shoes and she’ll conquer the world.” And she’ll conquer the costume contest, while she’s at it. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Operation and Surgeon
Bringing this classic board game to life delivers comfort for the both of you, a hint of sexy, and without a doubt a buzzing nostalgia. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
David Bowie and Prince
These two next-level musicians will always hold a dear place in our hearts. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Daria and Jane
All we have to say is: “You’re standing on my neck.” These two teens were never very impressed, but that somehow made us love and laugh with them even more. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Wisdom Teeth Abbi and Co-Op Ilana
From two different Broad City episodes – but perfect for pairing – this simple and non-basic costume will keep you feeling silly and shouting “yasss queen” to each other all night long. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Carpool Karaoke
Is it just us, or is James Corden’s Carpool Karaoke series one of the greatest gems of the internet? Try it out and pick your funny Halloween costume from any of our favorite guests — like the always groovin’ Justin Timberlake. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Nerd
This fail-safe costume always comes through when you’re in a bind. You might want to bring your Good Grammar Is Sexy tote for carrying all the candy you’re going to score.(via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Sriracha
Now you can dress as everyone’s favorite bottle with a green cap! But also, feel free to think outside the box. Use your imagination to be a “hot mama” if you’re expecting, “hot and bothered” with your BFF, a “hot ticket” if you’re on the prowl or (for your pooch perhaps?) a “hot dog.”(via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Sushi
Yum! Why not grab a few friends and dress up as your favorite roll? Sushi roll, that is. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Uber and Lyft
We turned these two rival transportation companies into a very driven couple. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Step Brothers
This is SUCH a classic. Whether you’re partners, friends, or actual stepbrothers, it’s sheer comedic genius every time. (via Brit + Co.)
Studio DIY
Croquembouche
If you’re not familiar with this type of French wedding cake, it’s made from dozens of tiny cream puffs. So cute *and* delish! (via Studio DIY)
Brit + Co
The Breakfast Club
“So I guess we are who we are for a lot of reasons. And maybe we’ll never know most of them.” (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Twins
Let’s journey back to 1988 when the world accepted the idea that Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny DeVito could be… twins? Wait, what? (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Juno
Next, we have everyone’s favorite pregnant teen, Juno! Channel a little bit of attitude and apathy, grab an empty Slurpee cup, and you are well on your way. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Party Animals
Let’s turn the clocks back to an imaginary New Year’s Eve party in the ’50s! (via Brit + Co.)
Studio DIY
Googly Eyes
If you’re looking for something big and dramatic for Halloween photo time, these googly-eye balloons would make for some great party decor and a costume photo prop. (via Studio DIY)
Brit + Co
Dumb and Dumber
“Oh look, frost!” (via Brit + Co.)
Studio DIY
Bowl of Cereal
Since pool floats are in — and pool noodles are out — why not turn ’em into a bowl of Fruit Loops? Re-purposing props are the green goddess’ way of keeping things fresh every Halloween. (via Studio DIY)
Brit + Co
Emoji Couple
Since we’re talking emoji here, here’s another adorable emoji couple costume that is sure to go viral. Plus, it’s really easy, considering you can make this costume using what’s already in your closet. (via Brit + Co.)
Studio DIY
French Fries
This costume is hilarious and, not to mention, it’s a DIY. The fries can be made using upholstery foam. (via Studio DIY)
Brit + Co
Trainwreck
This costume is definitely a potential rock-directly-from-your-closet look. Since this one is a little more understated, it will require you to play the part with your partner throughout the night. Don’t forget to brown bag it! (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
#TheDress
This debate was one that divided families, ended friendships, and made you question your relationship. And now, the optical illusion is a totally wearable and nostalgic Halloween costume. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Pancakes and Syrup
They say that breakfast is indeed the most important meal of the day. Grab your sidekick and rep this very special meal in full stack and sticky syrup form. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Takeout Night
A t-shirt that doubles as a costume? This is every procrastinator’s dream! (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Minions
When in doubt, you can always turn to animated movies for a little funny Halloween costume inspo. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making an adorable homemade Minion costume. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Tight White Pants
No idea why this is hilarious? It’s definitely a deep cut, straight from Jimmy Fallon’s archive on The Tonight Show. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
John Lennon and Yoko Ono
Channel your inner rockstar(s) by becoming these two legends this Halloween. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Gilly and the Teacher
If you haven’t seen the SNL skitfeaturing Kristen Wiig, you’re overdue. “Her name is Gilly and she’s at it again, causing lots of ruckus like a barnyard hen. She’s always making trouble, her hair is like a bubble. Knock, knock, who’s there? It’s Gilly.” (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
The Grand Budapest Hotel
In true Wes Anderson fashion, this movie castis all kinds of quirky-strange, perfect for a funny Halloween costume. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Brawny Man
This is officially the easiest DIY costume ever, but it’s original enough that it still works. The Brawny Man is all kinds of handsome, so prepare to have a little arm candy by your side all night. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Sizzling Bacon
Halloween just might be the only day of the year when wearing this dress would be remotely appropriate. Or, take the opportunity to channel Lady Gaga’s epic meat gown. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co/NBC
Garth and Kat
Thanks to the regular SNL skit, our two favorite songwriters are welcome to crash any of our holiday parties! (via Brit + Co.)
Studio DIY
Raining Men
David, Josh, Leo, George… the gang’s all here! Pick your fave studs and follow along with the instructions for one hunky rainstorm we’d all like to weather. (via Studio DIY)
Brit + Co
Zoya the Destroya and Liberty Belle
You’re destined to have a *knockout* Halloween when you dress up as this dynamic GLOW duo. We’re always in it to win it! (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Denim Horses
Horseheads are a thing, and we happen to have two. So, if you really have no idea what to be this Halloween, just Amazon Prime a pair and get ready to get creepy all night long. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Windblown Man
We’ve all had those bad umbrella days… (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Spice Girls
Though we’re all about bringing back Sporty, Scary, Baby, Posh, and Ginger, go the unexpected route and simply dress up as your favorite spices. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Hawaiian Punch
How ’bout a nice Hawaiian punch? This punny couples costume is part Hula Girl, part Rocky Balboa. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Bun in the Oven
Maternity costumes FTW! Dress your bump up as an actual bun in the oven. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Hall and Oates
Yep. We went there. You really do make our dreams come true. (via Brit + Co.)
With these funny Halloween costumes, we've got your next idea waiting.
Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
This post has been updated.
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.
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.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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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.