How To Have The Best Weekend In NYC, According To A Local

Case #1: You Have Total Control Over The Experience

Group trips often come with compromises — everyone has different interests, budgets, and energy levels. A solo vacation allows you to design the perfect itinerary that fits your needs, whether you want to spend the day hiking in a national park, sipping coffee at a café in Paris, or simply reading a book by the beach, it’s all on your terms.

Solo Travel Idea: Spa Weekend In Sedona, AZ

Located two hours north from Phoenix, this small town is a destination for brides-to-be who want a bit of rest and relaxation and a nature-inspired spiritual boost. As soon as you arrive in town, you're struck by the intense beauty of the legendary red rock buttes that surround the town. There are forests filled with pine trees, junipers, and cacti, as well as a stunning canyon and peaceful creek. While Sedona is known for its natural beauty, it's also a hotbed of activity. There are hikes, bike rides, wild jeep tours, spa treatments, spiritual readings, and a delicious sprinkling of restaurants. Check out Mii Amo for an all-inclusive wellness getaway. Here you’ll find casitas with private balconies, in-room fireplaces and soaking tubs, as well as a new restaurant called Hummingbird. The Hummingbird menu includes items like salmon ceviche, duck breast, poulet rouge, and gluten-free and vegan selections. Daily guided meditations and special presentations and ceremonies (Canyon Bathing, anyone?) create an ideal environment to slow down and refocus. At the Enchantment Resort next door, you’ll find additional amenities you can use while exploring the surrounding 400 miles of trails.

Case #2: Enjoy A Moment Of Solitude Before Marriage

This is an exciting time as you prepare to start a new life with your partner, but a solo vacation gives you one last opportunity to focus entirely on yourself. Use this time to reconnect with who you are as a person, separate from the roles and responsibilities that come with marriage and growing a family.

Solo Travel Idea: Kiss A Stingray On The Cayman Islands

From chic hotels and villas to luxury wellness experiences, this destination is the prime spot for a solo bride-to-be to unwind. Stay at the Palm Heights Hotel, a picturesque beachfront stay located on Grand Cayman's Seven Mile Beach, one of the Caribbean’s most visited stretches of white sand. Enjoy pool time under the iconic yellow umbrellas at Tillie’s, and visit the Garden Club spa next door for everything from rejuvenating facials to body care and massages. You can also opt for Hotel Indigo, which is just steps away from Seven Mile Beach and features a rooftop bar, Pom Pom. Take a leisurely morning horseback ride or swim with Spirit of the West. Kiss a stingray for seven years of good luck at Stingray City, and make time for some R&R at VIDA through rooftop yoga sessions, spa treatments, organic cooking classes, paddle boarding, and more!

Case #3: No Friend Drama

Bachelorette weekends often involve managing group dynamics, which can be stressful and take away from the fun. Drama, misunderstandings, or conflicting schedules can make the trip more about managing others than celebrating you. By going solo, you can enjoy peace and quiet, focusing on your personal joy and relaxation without distractions.

Solo Travel Idea: Take A Chocolate Tour In Vancouver, BC

Vancouver, Canada is the solo trip destination for brides-to-be looking to experience a little bit of everything, from breathtaking nature and wildlife to music festivals and incredible dining. Stay at the Granville Island Hotel, a beautiful boutique hotel located on the waterfront of Vancouver's artisan district: Granville Island. Explore Granville Island Public Market, a bustling market with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and gourmet treats. Take a guided tour by a master chocolatier. Don’t miss local favorites like Lee's Donuts, the seafood at The Lobsterman, and artisanal cheeses at Benton Brothers Fine Cheese. Visit the Federation Gallery or Eagle Spirit Gallery for Indigenous art, and watch glassblowing at the New-Small & Sterling Studio Glass. Vancouver International Wine Festival takes place each spring. British Columbia is also home to seven National Parks, and you can find the city’s live music scene offers everything from alt-country to old-fashioned rock ‘n roll, and experimental jazz.

Case #4: Stay on Budget

Bachelorette parties, especially destination ones, can get pricey when factoring in group accommodations, meals, and activities. A solo vacation allows you to better manage costs, as you can choose exactly what you want to splurge on or save on. You could opt for a luxe hotel stay with a massage, or go for a budget-friendly backpacking trip — either way, the trip is curated entirely to your preferences and budget.

Solo Travel Idea: Cul-indulge in Singapore

Singapore was recently rated as the #1 safest city in the world, making it the perfect destination for brides looking to travel alone before their big day! Brides-to-be can feel secure while exploring the city in nature, getting pampered at top-ranked holistic spas, shopping and trying new cuisines. Stay at the Capella Hotel, rated the #1 best hotel in Singapore and winner of Travel + Leisure World’s Best Award for 2024. Give yourself a full pre-wedding revamp through holistic therapies, such as the Eu Yang Sang TCM Clinic, which provides the ancient remedies of Traditional Chinese Medicine with the balms and tonics sold at Eu Yang Sang. Get some fresh air by exploring the city's parks and gardens, such as the stunning Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is the perfect spot for a picnic, a jog or a reprieve from the buzz of the city. There are also outdoor trips such as Pulau Ubin, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, and Henderson Waves Bridge. Michelin also awarded more than 50 Singapore restaurants with MICHELIN Stars this year. Try Candlenut, where Chef Malcolm Lee serves up flavors inspired by his grandmother's traditional Peranakan dishes; Labryinth, specializing in New Singaporean cuisine; or Born, offering a blend of classic French cuisine and bold Chinese influences housed in a building that dates back to 1903.

Case #5: Escape The Stress

Bachelorette parties can be super fun and a great way to bond with your girlfriends, but they can also be exhausting and stressful. A solo vacation can offer quiet moments of reflection and adventure that will create memories that are unique to you.

Solo Travel Idea: Holiday Shop In Paris

Here's a bride-to-be getaway, Emily in Paris style. Holiday shop along the Champs-Élysées, where trees are lit up in spectacular red LED lights. While there, grab lunch and a macaron at Ladurée. The cooler temps and smaller crowds make it an ideal time to visit famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower (catch a great view of it in the Christmas village at Trocadéro), the Louvre, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, where you'll find a Christmas market for the season (also check out the one at the Tuileries Gardens). Parisian cafés and bistros are enticing with warm and comforting dishes like onion soup, coq au vin, and decadent pastries. Sip a café au lait at Café Charlot in Le Marais or dig into the stunning bûche de Noël at the Butterfly Pâtisserie in the Hôtel de Crillon.

Case #6: Break Out Of Your Comfort Zone

Traveling solo pushes you out of your comfort zone. You learn to navigate new places independently, solve problems on your own, and meet new people (easier than you would if you're in your comfort zone with friends). Whether it’s learning a new skill, finding your way through a new city, or gaining confidence in your own company, solo travel can be a truly transformative experience.

Solo Travel Idea: Take A Photography Class In Santa Fe

B+C founder Brit Morin hosted a creative trip to Santa Fe, and it was the perfect weekend. She started the trip with a photography class at Santa Fe Photographic Workshops and explored the city behind the lens. She stayed at the Inn of the Five Graces — think maximalist style and comfort with a Santa Fe twist. Ofc, you cannot visit Santa Fe without a stop at the Georgia O’Keefe’s Home at Ghost Ranch. Some of Brit's personal highlights: Soaking in the Japanese-inspired tubs at Ten Thousand Waves spa and shooting cowboy photos at Mortenson’s Ranch where celebs like Tom Hanks have filmed movies. "We packed in quite an adventure taking in the art, color, food and natural beauty of the city, all while upping our Instagram game. I cannot wait to go back," she said.

Solo Travel Idea: Fall In Love With A Great Book In Portland, OR

Portland is also a great escape for the "bookworm bride-to-be" with Powell's Books, the largest independent new and used bookstore in the world. Plus, the cozy coffee shops around every corner. For the romance reader, stay at the Heathman Hotel in Downtown Portland, which you'll recognize from 50 Shades of Grey. Surrounded by dense national forests with Mount Hood peeking over the city skyline, Portland also offers a serene urban wilderness escape. Explore the exotic Japanese Gardens, museums, and unique downtown. Book a stay at Cascada, Portland's first underground thermal springs and spa and sustainable sanctuary. The eco-friendly property offers on-site dining and group fitness classes. Outside its doors, Cascada is located in the popular Alberta Arts District known for its lively street fairs, hip artisan shops and vibrant mural art scene. From James Beard restaurants, award-winning wellness facilities to urban wineries there is no shortage of itinerary highlights to complete a solorette itinerary. Kann by Gregory Gourdet and OX Restaurant by married couple in the kitchen Chefs Greg and Gabrielle Quiñónez Denton are a must-try. Visit the chic tasting room at the female-owned Division Winemaking Co, book a deep tissue massage at Blooming Moon Wellness Spa, acupuncture at Dragontree Holistic Day Spa or mini Hawaiian retreat atKanani Pearl Spa. Portland is a haven for unique boutiques and vintage shops, including women-owned storefronts like Wildfang and Freeland Spirits.

WalletHub first compared the 50 states across 30 key indicators of happiness, with a date set that ranged from the depression rate and the share of adults feeling productive to income growth and the unemployment rate. Hawaii has the lowest share of adult depression, which is 2.3 times lower than in Tennessee, the state with the highest. New Jersey has the fewest suicides (per 100,000 residents), which is 3.7 times fewer than in Montana, the state with the most. Utah has the highest volunteer rate, which is 2.6 times higher than in Florida, the state where the rate is the lowest. Volunteerism is another way people find purpose and joy in life.

In order to determine the happiest cities in America, WalletHub compared 182 of the largest cities — including the 150 most populated U.S. cities — across three key areas:

• Emotional & Physical Well-Being
• Income & Employment
• Community & Environment

“When individuals have a high sense of community...well-being increases, and stress, anxiety, and depression decrease. Neighborhoods with high walkability scores that are also safe and near things like parks or trails help sustain our physical and mental health, which are key factors in determining happiness,” adds Dr. Longmire-Avital.

Here are the top 20 happiest U.S. cities, many of which score high on the nature and family-friendly aspect. Ready for a new start or planning local travel this season? Check them out!

Fremont, CA

According to the WalletHub report, Fremont, CA, located in the San Francisco Bay Area, is the happiest city in America, and one reason why is income: the city has the highest share of households with an income above $75,000, at nearly 80 percent. Studies have shown that increasing your income also increases your happiness up to $75,000 (but not beyond). With a rich history tied to the California Gold Rush, Fremont has evolved into a hub for the tech industry, including Tesla's Fremont Factory. The city offers excellent schools, a wide range of cultural experiences, and outdoor spaces like Mission Peak. People in Fremont also have a high rate of life satisfaction, a low depression rate, and a long lifespan on average. It also has the lowest share of adults who report having mentally unhealthy days, so people in the city seem to be doing the self care needed to keep themselves happy.

Overland Park, KS

Overland Park, KS, has earned its spot as the second-happiest city in the U.S., thanks to several key factors that contribute to its residents' well-being. With the lowest poverty rate in the nation at just 4.2 percent and an impressively low unemployment rate of 3 percent, it's clear that financial stability plays a huge role in their happiness. The city also boasts one of the lowest food insecurity rates, meaning more families have what they need to thrive. Residents of Overland Park also enjoy a lot of leisure time each week, which many spend participating in sports — one of the top ways to stay emotionally and physically healthy. Overland Park boasts a rich cultural scene, including the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art, and a variety of dining and shopping options. People in Overland Park tend to get more sleep than those in most other cities, a crucial factor for maintaining a positive mindset.

San Jose, CA

Not far from Fremont is the third-happiest city: San Jose, CA, in the heart of Silicon Valley and home to tech giants like Adobe and eBay. San Jose has a diverse food scene, art galleries, and beautiful outdoor spaces, including nearby hiking trails in the Santa Cruz Mountains, which you can enjoy year-round. The city has the longest average life expectancy in the country. It also has one of the lowest separation and divorce rates and scores the best on the health and wellness company Sharecare’s Community Well-Being Index, which measures how much residents like where they live, feel safe and have pride in their community. It also scores extremely well on Sharecare’s Life-Satisfaction Index, which measures people’s health risks based on various physical, financial and social factors.

Madison, WI

Nestled between lakes Mendota and Monona, Madison offers stunning waterfront views, beautiful parks, and a ton of Midwestern charm. The University of Wisconsin-Madison brings in some of its youthful energy while the city boasts a strong local food, music, and art scene. It's also a great place to live, work, and explore.

Irvine, CA

Irvine, California in sunny Orange County is known for its family-friendly vibe, excellent schools, and thriving economy. Home to the University of California, Irvine, the city offers a mix of culture and nature with great parks, bike paths, nearby beaches and the Irvine Spectrum Center, a popular shopping and entertainment destination.

Honolulu, HI

This tropical paradise and state capital, located on the island of Oahu, is famous for its stunning beaches, including the iconic Waikiki Beach, and its rich cultural heritage. Honolulu offers world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment alongside scenic landscapes like Diamond Head and lush rainforests. Home to landmarks like Iolani Palace and the Pearl Harbor Memorial, Honolulu is known for its warm aloha spirit.

San Francisco, CA

Hop on a cable car ride in San Francisco, the #7 happiest city on the list. It's year-round mild climate and stunning hilltop views remind us just how stunning this city is. From the Golden Gate Bridge, Crissy Field, and Presidio Tunnel Tops to bustling Fillmore Street in Pacific Heights, Valencia Street in the Mission, and Hayes St. in Hayes Valley, there's tons to explore from a world-class food scene to indie shopping to museums and coastal views.

Pearl City, HI

Pearl City is a charming suburban community located on the island of Oahu, just west of Honolulu. The nearby Pearl Harbor National Memorial and surrounding waters with scenic views hold both historical significance and recreational activities like boating. The city itself has a peaceful close-knit community and is family-friendly with excellent schools, parks, and shopping centers.

Columbia, MD

Located between Baltimore and Washington, D.C., Columbia is known for its diverse neighborhoods, excellent schools, and many green spaces with parks, lakes, and over 90 miles of walking and biking trails. Columbia’s town center features shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including the Merriweather Post Pavilion, a renowned concert venue. With a strong sense of community, access to major cities, and a focus on sustainability, Columbia is not surprisingly in the top 10 happiest cities in the U.S.

Scottsdale, AZ

Stunning desert landscapes, including hiking trails at Camelback Mountain and McDowell Sonoran Preserve, make Scottsdale a destination for nature lovers. Rounding out the top 10 happiest cities, Scottsdale is famous for its wellness resorts, golf courses, and thriving arts scene, including galleries, museums, and events like the Scottsdale ArtWalk. With a growing economy, delicious dining options, and a warm, sunny climate, Scottsdale is a popular destination for tourists and locals looking for a southwestern lifestyle.

Here are the remaining top 20 happiest cities.

11. Sioux Falls, SD

12. Huntington Beach, CA

13. Minneapolis, MN

14. Garden Grove, CA

15. San Diego, CA

16. Fargo, ND

17. Portland, ME

18. Seattle, WA

19. Lincoln, NE

20. Bismark, ND

Did your city make the cut? Check out the full list of Happiest Cities in America in 2024 at WalletHub.

Talking to Vanity Fair for her newest film Lee, Kate Winslet revealed one project she wishes fans asked about more is Iris. The 2001 film stars Kate as a young Iris Murdoch against Judi Dench's older counterpart. And for Kate, nothing was more terrifying than working with such a wonderful actress.

"People don’t really ask me about Iris. It’s such a delicate film," she says. "It was the first thing I had done after having my daughter. Going to work with a baby, I’m playing Iris Murdoch, looking to Judi Dench’s older Iris Murdoch — I was sh—ting myself."

Considering how nervous I get when I meet my heroes, I can only imagine what it was like to meet Dame Judi Dench. Talk about a dream! Another film Kate loves is Revolutionary Road, and not just because she got to reunite with Leonardo DiCaprio.

"The thing that people say is, 'You got to work with Leo again.' Then they go off on the whole Leo tangent, which I totally understand," she says of the film, which follows an ambitious couple who find themselves trapped in the reality of 1950s suburbia. "But Revolutionary Road — f—king hell, it just knocked us all sideways. Unbelievably difficult material. I was very proud of that film and what Leo and I were able to create as Frank and April. It was so brutal."

The process for getting Lee into the world sounds equally brutal, considering Kate started working on it over a decade ago. As producer, Kate tells Vanity Fair she doesn't mind the fact she's done more for the film than if she only had an acting credit. "That has felt very necessary for this film. But it’s also just really important to me," she says. "It’s important to me that people know that it’s out there and might feel compelled to go and see it."

Because it turns out, commercial success or stardom on its own doesn't actually help your movie get made! "It doesn’t matter who you are," she says. "No one’s going to go, 'Oh, I’ll just back that pony because she was in Titanic.' It doesn’t happen that way, and I never expected that. That’s really important to say."

"I've gotten older and I’ve learned more and felt more confident in myself about whether or not I could actually do it," she adds. "It’s not something I would’ve done had I not felt so passionately about the subject, and Lee was just—she wouldn’t let me go."