The Galápagos: Nature’s Laboratory

Why the sea lions, blue-footed boobies and more are so docile at this ecologically significant archipelago

While snorkeling along the rocks of Devil’s Crown, a volcanic crater that protrudes from the equatorial waters off the coast of the Galápagos’ Floreana Island, I find myself nearly nose-to-nose with a native sea lion. He seems just as eager to check me out as I am him. Yet right as we’re about to fully nuzzle, I flinch and shriek into my mask, unaccustomed to …

Photo Essay: From Fjord to Farm in Norway

Exploring the Nordic nation’s rich diversity from haute architecture to rugged waterways

On a recent visit to Norway, we toured the country from Oslo to the home of Jarlsberg to the western fjord lands, stopping at dairy farms along the way. After a remarkably sunny day in Oslo at the Snøhetta-designed Operahuset, we headed for the country. On the west coast of Norway, the road will only take you so far. As you drive the meandering mountain …

4th of July Blues

Keep red and white to wines, and find summer party decor in this everlasting hue

Hold the urge to decorate your house and yard with red, white and blue; it only works for one weekend anyway. With long-term enjoyment in mind, we’re sticking with the blues this upcoming holiday weekend. In a year in which politics are especially important—and emotions are running at all-time highs on all sides—it’s especially important to to keep a level of patriotic hope alive. Enjoy …