J. Clarke articles

Winter is one thing. Surviving it in these cities is another. From frozen lakes to biting winds that could humble an Arctic explorer, these places don’t just get cold—they live cold. Here’s a definitive ranking of the 20 frostiest US cities, starting with the least miserable of the bunch and ending with the absolute Arctic kingpin.

From Texas brisket to Maine lobster rolls, some states simply have culinary swagger baked right into their soil (and deep fryers). Here’s how foodies rank the top 20 states with the best local cuisine—from smoky Midwest barbecue to coastal shellfish dreams.

Some people read to escape reality. Others read to plan their next trip. For those who prefer their travel with a dash of literary magic, the world offers countless destinations that seem plucked straight from the pages of our favorite books. From Agatha Christie’s mysterious landscapes to Hemingway’s tropical haunts, here are 22 must-visit destinations for readers who want to walk where their favorite characters once lived.

There are few things more universal than the shared misery of being stuck behind a never-ending line of taillights. Whether it’s that soul-crushing crawl on the morning commute or the standstill that makes you miss your exit (and your will to live), traffic is the great equalizer. But some cities take gridlock to Olympic levels—where every merge is a gamble, and every honk is a cry for help.

Once upon a time, vegan dining meant settling for a side salad and maybe—if you were lucky—a baked potato. Fast forward to today, and America’s cities are bursting with plant-based innovation, from soul food without the soul (literally) to tacos that could trick even the most carnivorous uncle. Grab your oat milk latte and let’s dig in.

There’s something magical about museums. They’re like time machines, but with gift shops. In one visit, you can stand beneath a T rex skeleton, wander through ancient temples, or stare at a Van Gogh that looks way better in person than on your high school poster. America has no shortage of incredible museums, but if you want to make your cultural passport truly sparkle, these 25 icons belong on your ultimate bucket list.

The Zuni call their homeland Halona Idiwan’a—“the Middle Place”. It’s not just a poetic nickname; to them, this pueblo in western New Mexico is the very center of the world. That sense of rootedness has kept their culture thriving for thousands of years.

The Sherpa people have made a home where most people couldn’t imagine living, high in the Himalayas. Journey through their life of strength, spirituality, and survival through this collection of photos.

Want to live forever—or at least past 85? The latest data from the United Nations, visualized by Visual Capitalist, reveals where on Earth people are defying the clock. From microstates with elite healthcare to island nations with anti-stress cultures, these 25 countries offer the best shot at adding candles to your cake (and maybe even to the neighbors' cakes too).