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From New York slices to Chicago deep dish and unexpected regional creations, discover the 30 states with America’s best and most unique pizza styles—and where to try them yourself.

For years, scientists wondered how Neanderthals managed to survive some of Europe’s harshest Ice Age conditions. Now, new genetic research suggests the answer may have involved a surprising European “safe zone.” Without that refuge, Neanderthals almost certainly would have disappeared far earlier.

Americans were asked where they’d retire if cost didn’t matter, and these are the top 25 states they chose. And while some very predictable favorites showed up, there are more than a few states on this list that might surprise you.

Airline policies vary on whether passengers can leave their assigned seats to move to an empty seat.

It feels like a trap when an airline app fails and the airport desk still asks you to pay to print a boarding pass. For many travelers, the obvious question is whether that fee is really their responsibility. The short answer is that it depends on the airline’s rules, the airport, and whether the airline gave you a reasonable way to check in before you arrived.

You arrive with bags in hand, only to hear an unwelcome surprise. The host says you must hand over a cash security deposit before getting the keys, even though nothing like that appeared in the Airbnb listing. If that happens, treat it as a serious red flag and pause before you step inside.

You land, stretch your legs, and wait beside the baggage carousel while everyone else grabs their suitcases and heads out. Then the belt stops moving, and your bag never appears. It is one of the most frustrating moments in travel, especially when airline staff can't even tell you where the luggage went. The good news is that passengers often have stronger rights than they realize.

I came home from an incredible trip through Europe feeling relaxed and accomplished Then my phone bill arrived, and the shock nearly sent me straight back into vacation panic mode. A few days of using maps, uploading photos, and replying to messages overseas had quietly piled up hundreds of dollars in roaming charges, and it turns out I'm far from the only traveler who has learned this lesson the hard way.

You land, head to baggage claim, and watch the carousel stop. Then the airline tells you they will give you $75 for “essentials,” which barely covers a shirt and socks in many airports. The big question is whether they are required to pay more, and the answer depends on where you flew and what kind of baggage problem this is.

If your bag is delayed and you are only on a 3-day trip, “eventually” is not a very helpful answer. The good news is that in many cases you may be able to get paid back for basic essentials, at the very least.

Few travel moments ruin the mood faster than standing at baggage claim while the carousel stops and your suitcase never appears. If the airline is telling you it may take weeks to locate it, you need to switch from waiting passively to documenting everything. The good news is that U.S. and international rules give passengers important rights, and the sooner you act, the better your chances of getting reimbursed.

Tips for getting a reimbursement from the airline when they lose your luggage.