Westways | Winter 2025

Dotonbori neon signs
A journey deep into the heart of Kyoto and Osaka

These two popular Japanese cities are a beguiling odd couple: close geographically but worlds apart culturally.

 
Vaduz Castle
10 underrated European cities

Escape the tourist masses and embrace the understated pleasures of these buzzworthy destinations, from Aarhus to Zürich.

Viking Star cruise ship
Cruising into retirement aboard the Viking Star

A couple test the waters of retirement during a two-week cruise from Canada to Florida.

Illustration of person standing in front of a reflection of their past self with a map.
How cruise ships are becoming more sustainable

Learn how the cruise industry is tapping into new technology to reduce its environmental footprint.

Illustration of things to do in California.
Fun things to do in Southern California

An editor-curated list of the best fairs, festivals, events, and other things to do in Southern California and beyond.

Nailgun
4 ways to safeguard your home

Reduce your risk of loss and possibly save money on your insurance bill with these home improvement tips.

Illustration of a rideshare driver
My SoCal Life

A reluctant rideshare driver spills the tea on his most memorable fares, and what he learned from the experience. 

 

Ask the Traveler

Illustration of traveler walking through a shorter airport security line.
Do I need TSA PreCheck or Global Entry?

It depends on how often you fly and if you frequently travel abroad.

Illustration of travelers in an airport.
How do I make sense of travel advisories?

When the State Department's risk assessment level on a country is murky, you'll need to do your own research. 

Illustration of a traveler reclining his airplane seat.
Is it okay to recline my airplane seat?

The real question isn’t whether you can tilt back, but whether you should.

 

Bon Appétit Restaurant Reviews

Willie's Modern Fare butternut squash ravioli
Willie’s Modern Fare, Rancho Mirage

This restaurant emphasizes white-glove service in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Moo's Craft Barbecue food spread
Moo’s Craft Barbecue, Lincoln Heights

For exquisitely done Texas-style barbecue, head to this Lincoln Heights eatery.

Bello by Sandro Nardone margherita pizza
Bello by Sandro Nardone, Newport Beach

Bello may be pricey, but its food is more progressive and thoughtful than most.

Na Na Thai lumpia and pad thai
Na Na Thai, Buellton

What started out as a series of pop-ups has evolved into a wildly popular restaurant.

Quixote huitlacoche tamal
Quixote, North Park

With a moody space and dramatic food, Quixote is redefining the hotel dining experience.

Pez Coasta Kitchen steelhead trout rillette beets with burrata
Pez Coastal Kitchen, Pasadena

This seafood spot blends elements of a New England oyster bar and a French bistro.

 

Day Trips

Highland Park's York Blvd
Highland Park

This resurgent Los Angeles neighborhood is shaped by rich heritage and contemporary appeal.

Vertigo Books in North Park.
North Park

This once-sleepy San Diego neighborhood has hit peak hipster haven.

Agua Caliente Cultural Center
Palm Springs

The desert is a great backdrop for new beginnings. These days, Palm Springs is awash in them.

 

Automotive

Buick Envista Avenir
Car review: Buick Envista Avenir

Buick's Envista Avenir is cool and contemporary, but has some power limitations.

Hyundai Kona Limited AWD
Car review: Hyundai Kona Limited AWD

Thanks to a significant growth spurt, the Hyundai Kona is now better than ever.

Hybrid plug in hybrid keys illustration
Should you get a hybrid or a plug-in hybrid?

Hybrids and plug-in hybrids both save gas and reduce emissions, but which one is right for you?

How to lower car insurance premium illustration
How can I lower my car insurance premium?

The first step is to reexamine your policy, from the deductible and coverage levels to the amount of miles you drive.

How a car's color affects resale value illustration
Could a car's color affect resale value?

The answer is good news for people who own vehicles with the least popular car colors.

 

Digital Extras

6 SoCal holiday light garden displays

These light displays are sure to brighten your nights this holiday season.

10 afternoon tea spots

Elevate your gatherings and special occasions at these tea spots in Southern California.

4 ways to plan a national park vacation

Learn how to craft a national park trip that will fit your travel style and budget.

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