travel
travel on Wazzu: a running collection of 3 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on travel in some way — the news, the analysis, the deep dives, and the occasional surprise find. Washington State University (WSU) is a leading public land-grant research university in Pullman, WA, known for its strong programs in agriculture, environmental science,… New stories are added to this page as we find them, so check back if you want to keep up with what is happening around travel, or subscribe to the RSS feed to get them as soon as they are published. Browse the collection below, or head back to the homepage to see everything Wazzu is covering right now.
10 Labor Day weekend things to do in the Seattle area
## 10 Ways to Make the Most of Your Labor Day Weekend in Seattle Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial end of summer, and the Seattle area is buzzing with activities to send it off right. Here's a ranked list of ten things to do, balancing classic end-of-summer vibes with unique local experiences. We’ve focused on providing a mix of indoor and outdoor options, catering to different interests and budgets. **Top 5 Experiences:** 1. **Washington State Fair (Puyallup):** Flying stunt dogs, livestock shows, and classic fair food – it's a quintessential Labor Day tradition. Expect crowds but embrace the energy. 2. **Last-Minute Hiking:** Take advantage of the lingering warm weather for a final hike. Rattlesnake Ledge or Discovery Park offer accessible and rewarding views. 3. **Seattle Center Festal:** Enjoy a vibrant celebration of arts, music, and culture at Seattle Center, with performances and activities for all ages. 4. **Kayaking/Paddleboarding on Lake Union:** Rent a kayak or paddleboard and soak in the city skyline from the water. 5. **Explore Pike Place Market:** A Seattle staple! Enjoy fresh produce, local crafts, and the iconic fish throwing. **Rounding Out the List:** 6. **Museum Hop:** Seattle has fantastic museums – MoPOP, the Seattle Art Museum, and the Museum of Flight all offer engaging exhibits. 7. **Ballard Farmers Market:** Stock up on local goods and enjoy the lively atmosphere. 8. **Ferry Ride to Bainbridge Island:** Enjoy stunning views of the Seattle skyline and explore the charming town of Winslow. 9.
6 natural wonders you won’t find in a national park
## Beyond the Park Gates: 6 Natural Wonders Worth Exploring National parks are incredible, but they aren't the only places to experience America's breathtaking natural beauty. Numerous stunning landscapes exist on other U.S.-owned public lands, offering equally awe-inspiring experiences without the usual crowds. Here’s a ranked list of six natural wonders you won’t find within a national park boundary, guaranteeing a sense of discovery and adventure. **1. Antelope Canyon, Arizona:** This slot canyon consistently tops lists for its otherworldly beauty. Sunlight filtering through the narrow sandstone walls creates vibrant, shifting displays of color – a truly unforgettable sight. **2. Carlsbad Caverns National Monument, New Mexico:** While technically a National Monument, Carlsbad Caverns offers a dramatically different experience than a national park. Explore vast underground chambers and intricate formations, showcasing the power of geological processes over millennia. **3. Lava Beds National Monument, California:** This monument preserves a remarkable volcanic landscape. Visitors can explore over 700 caves, formed by flowing lava, offering a unique and adventurous exploration. **4. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon/Washington:** This dramatic river gorge boasts towering cliffs, waterfalls (including the iconic Multnomah Falls), and diverse ecosystems. It’s a prime destination for hiking, windsurfing, and appreciating the raw power of nature. **5. Watkins Glen State Park, New York:** Carved by glaciers, this state park features a dramatic gorge with 19 waterfalls cascading over moss-covered cliffs. The gorge trail offers a close-up experience of this remarkable geological formation. **6.
Detentions of International Scholars at Airports Raise Alarm
## Increased Scrutiny: International Scholars Face Airport Detentions, Sparking Concerns Recent incidents involving the detention of international scholars at U.S. airports are raising serious alarms within academic circles. A Johns Hopkins University researcher’s recent experience – detained and subsequently released by immigration officials – highlights a growing trend that’s making travel increasingly precarious for foreign academics and researchers. These detentions aren't isolated; reports suggest a pattern of heightened scrutiny and questioning, impacting scholars across various disciplines and institutions. Experts cite potential contributing factors, including increased border enforcement and evolving interpretations of national security protocols. The chilling effect on international collaboration is undeniable. Scholars are now weighing the risks of travel against the vital need to present their research and engage with colleagues. This situation directly threatens the open exchange of ideas—a cornerstone of higher education and scientific advancement. While the exact number of detentions remains difficult to quantify, the anecdotal evidence and shared experiences are compelling. It's crucial to understand that these scholars are often contributing significantly to American research and innovation. Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach: clear guidelines for immigration officials, increased transparency regarding detention protocols, and robust advocacy for the rights of international scholars. For more insights into related campus discussions, see our recent article on “Tuskegee University Dress Code Sparks Debate.”