For most of us, big airports are among the world's most hostile environments. Crowds, noise, long lines, inadequate seating, and garbled announcements are the norm. Fortunately, even occasional travelers can avail themselves of the road warriors' refuges: VIP airline lounges. Mostly, you'll have to pay, but an oasis of calm can be worth a few bucks.

Tight budget? No problem! European travel expert Rick Steves shares 15 tried-and-true ways to shave hundreds of dollars off your next trip—and have an even better experience while doing it.

You may not have an activity planned for the day, but here are 11 ways to celebrate the spirit of 11/11/11 in the coming months.

You have two new rail promotions to consider. VIA Rail Canada extends its systemwide sale, while Eurostar combines a 20 percent discount with a gift card.

Tip for this service and not for that. In this country and not there. Ed Perkins irons out the tipping-etiquette wrinkles.

Finding a cheap flight? That's easy when you follow guest blogger (and Airfarewatchdog founder) George Hobica's 15 ways to get the upper hand in your search for the lowest fare.

Patricia Magana has all the salacious details, and six pointed questions for the airline—and passengers—interested in adult videos at 30,000 feet.

Travel expert Ed Perkins dispels common myths and misconceptions about consolidator fares, and provides guidelines for buying such tickets.

Got better things to do than wait out a flight delay? Then avoid these airports at all costs! Plus: The 10 best airports for on-time flights.

London dazzles year-round, but for a true "back door" experience, follow Rick Steves' expert tips for making the most of (and spending a lot less on) your trip.

And you thought your last trip to the airport was bad? These three tales of people (and animals) are legit contenders for worst layover ever.

It uses the latest, most fuel-efficient engines, featuring less noise and fewer emissions than current engines. The 787 has an extremely long range. And for the passenger, Boeing claims some important innovations in comfort.

These days, when so many wireless phones have cameras, documenting a potential problem is easy. Yes, that phone can sometimes save you real money: When in doubt, take a picture.

From sunny beaches with dark secrets to farm houses full of strange noises, hear about readers' most unnerving travel experiences.

American, Delta, JetBlue, and United-Continental are among the carriers now connecting Americans to Cuba on a charter basis.

Rick Steves offers readers a delicious slice of local living, Paris-style.

Two fare hikes in one week? That doesn't bode well for holiday travelers. But there's a real chance that, at least this time, the price increase won't stick.

Waiting until the last-minute might just save you money this year. Find out why—and how to take advantage.

Eileen Ogintz raves about Aulani, Disney's newest resort and its first in Hawaii. What's to love? Just about everything, says Ogintz.

Become the ultimate bargain hunter on your next trip! These tried and true tactics will have you haggling like a local—and saving a bundle on that must-have souvenir.

Ed Perkins on a new website, and a few new tools, that make "blind buying" a piece of cake.

Rick Steves returns to the Italian villages he helped make famous, and still finds plenty to love in this haven of natural and cultural wonders.

Big changes are in the offing at the TSA. But will a new initiative fix the problems ... or just add to them? Ed Perkins takes a serious look at the future of airport security.

Ed Perkins on the carriers most likely to be the target of a merger. Is your favorite airline atop the list?

After 30 years of travel, Rick Steves knows what it takes to stay healthy when on the go. He shares his top tips here.